What We Do

Mission Statement

Friends of Peninsula State Park Inc. is a 501 (c) (3) organization dedicated to making a meaningful contribution toward the preservation and goals of Peninsula State Park.  The Friends believe Peninsula State Park contains a unique, spectacular wilderness and shoreline, worthy of any assistance they can provide. 

Overview

The Friends support the interpretive, historical, educational and visitor service programs of Peninsula State Park in Fish Creek, Wisconsin by:

  • Recruiting volunteers to help with programs at the Park such as the First Day Hike, Candlelight Ski, and Work*Play*Earth Day
  • Providing financial support for programs, projects, and seasonal staff positions through membership fees, donations, and the sale of merchandise
  • Assisting with the the Door County Fall 50

The Park has over 1 million visitors annually, and over 2,000 skiers use its trails every winter. 100% of all donations and other funds raised by the Friends are used for programs and projects in Peninsula State Park.

 “FRIENDS OF PSP” OBJECTIVES FOR 2024:

  • Provide a variety of educational programs and events at the White Cedar Nature Center. 
  • Seek opportunities to make the Park more accessible to all visitors. 
  • Continue to support biking and hiking trail improvements. 
  • Provide volunteers for special events and ski trail grooming. 
  • Raise funds to expand Nature Center parking and walkways. 
  • Promote membership in the “Friends of Peninsula State Park”. 
  • Encourage tribute gifts and donations to support Park improvements. 
  • Fund seasonal Park employees and support equipment through merchandise sales at the Friends gift shops in the Park.

Past Accomplishments Fueled by Our Generous Donors

  • Raised $750,000 for the new Eagle Tower.
  • Invested $360,000 to complete a Nature Center addition with upgrades to the existing facility.
  • Completed installation of a multi-activity, highly accessible playground at Nicolet Beach. 
  • Raised over $650,000 for phase one of the Mountain Bike Trail project.
  • Provided funding and volunteers for the planting of trees and flowers at the park entrance in partnership with the Friends of Wisconsin State Parks.
  • Provided grants for research projects at the Park.
  • Provided volunteers for ski trail grooming.
  • Entered into a partnership with Nicolet Bay Concessions to receive a percentage of sales which will be used for park projects.
  • Raised over $30,000 to match a state grant for park improvements which provided new orientation signs, fire rings, grills, and picnic tables.
  • Provided funding in partnership with the Raibrook Foundation for a new tracked gator with enclosed heated cab, groomer, track setter, and roller for maintaining ski trails.
  • Provided funding for the preservation of historic documents and photos with support from the Raibrook Foundation.
  • Provided funds to purchase Nature Center program supplies, interpretive material, and equipment.
  • Helped provide funding for a new shelter, bathrooms, furnishings, and landscaping at Nicolet Bay Beach.
The brand new Eagle Tower stands stately against a blue sky and late-summer trees.
The rustic exterior of the White Cedar Nature Center, which sits among trees and plantlife.