Reconnecting At Rock Island State Park

My wife, Dee, and I have opposite tastes in vacations, but Door County is that rare place that satisfies us both. Our first visit was my wife's ingenuity: an indulgent respite at Landmark Resort in Egg Harbor. We fell in love with this part of the state, and I knew our return trip must include camping on the remote Rock Island State Park near Washington Island.

With some planning and luck in securing a campsite, we set forth on our adventure. Grueling spring schedules left us little time for one another, so we welcomed the drive from Chicago followed by island hopping, as it provided us time to reconnect. We arrived grateful for the peace, quiet and plausible excuse to our coworkers that we were too far out of range to get any work done.

Disembarking from the ferry felt like a step back in time. As only foot travel is permitted from the docks, we set off on the quarter-mile jaunt past the historic Rock Island Boathouse. Our campsite was close, allowing us to tote Dee's creature comforts, but isolated enough for the wilderness experience I craved. Dee giggled as I unloaded generous portions of Island Orchard Apple Lavender Cider. We would not go thirsty while relaxing near the campsite: dipping our toes in the water, skipping stones and settling in for a glorious view of the sunset with cups of her favorite cider in hand.

The second day was devoted to soaking in all the island had to offer. Never ones to turn down a challenge, we hiked the entire 5.2 mile Thordarson Loop Trail. Filled with Lake Michigan views, historic sites and old-growth forests, it's the crown jewel of Wisconsin preservation.

Breaking camp on our last day, we saw a young family captivated by the island's rugged character. The family's preschoolers couldn't have been happier hikers, traversing the trails on a treasure hunt. As Dee and I shared a smile at their joy, and I realized we, too, had found treasure here: renewal of our own bonds in this beautiful, secluded wilderness.

MORE FOR YOUR WISCONSIN WILDERNESS BUCKET LIST

Blue Mound State Park

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Ice Age National Scenic Trail

Experience the extraordinary diversity of Wisconsin's environment on a day hike or backpacking trip on this trail that covers more than 1,000 miles within the state.

Mirror Lake State Park

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Rib Mountain State Park

Home to Wisconsin's largest ski resort and one of the state's tallest mountains. Wausau's Rib Mountain boasts hikes with extraordinary views and glorious fall colors.

St. Croix National Scenic Riverway

Spanning a huge area of northwestern Wisconsin, the St. Croix River is the premier destination for kayak and canoe excursions.

Wyalusing State Park

Paddle the marked, six-mile canoe trail for an up-close view of the flora and fauna of the Mississippi River. Campsites provide an elevated view of the rivers below.