Kenosha Dunes
Explore where migrating dunes meet Lake Michigan's shoreline and discover rare plants that thrive in the shifting sands in Chiwaukee Prairie State Natural Area’s most northern unit. The Kenosha Dunes is a Southeastern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission Natural Area of Statewide Significance.
This half-mile stretch of open and stabilized dunes offers unobstructed views across water that once stood twenty feet higher, when glacial Lake Michigan carved these ridges 10,000 years ago. A 2-mile loop trail, which may be adjusted for restoration and boardwalk installation, winds through gently undulating sand prairie dotted with horsemint and creeping juniper, past marshy ponds surrounded by cattails and hills overtopped by mature black oaks. Wander into landscapes that shift between sun-baked dune and cool woodland shadow.
Owned and Managed by:
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) in partnership with the Chiwaukee Prairie Preservation Fund (CPPF)
Where It Is
Kenosha Dunes address:
8228 7th Avenue, Pleasant Prairie, WI 53158
Trailhead at South Entrance:
3rd Avenue and 85th Street, Pleasant Prairie, WI 53158
Southport Park Parking Lot:
Please walk down the trail south to the Dunes
7825 1st Ave, Kenosha, WI 53143
Stay on Designated Trails to Protect these Fragile Dunes: Despite facing coastal erosion, innovative restoration efforts are underway to construct nature-based shoreline protection. Boardwalks will also be installed and utilized to prevent damage to this fragile ecosystem
Ticks: Lake Plain Natural Areas have a significant tick population active from April through November. Take precautions: wear long pants tucked into socks, use insect repellent, and check yourself and pets thoroughly after visiting.
Limited Infrastructure: Many Lake Plain Natural Areas are overall purposely maintained in their natural state. Come prepared for a true natural area experience, and abide by all park rules and regulations.
Fragile Ecosystem: The globally rare plant communities here require careful stewardship. Stay on visible paths, avoid walking through wetlands, and never pick plants, dig roots, or collect seeds. Leave no trace.
What You Should Know
Kenosha Dunes is a unit of Chiwaukee Prairie State Natural Area, owned and managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources in partnership with Chiwaukee Prairie Preservation Fund. For the most up-to-date information on allowed activities, rules, permits, or visit WDNR for the most up-to-date information and activity availability by area.
Recreation
Outdoor Education
Scientific Research
Trapping
Street Parking
Hiking
Birding
Wildlife Viewing
Wild Edibles
Field Trips