Door County Wetlands Kayak Tour — Bailey's Harbor Eco Kayak Adventure

Baileys Harbor•easy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1.5–2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; requires basic balance and ability to sit/paddle for up to two hours.

Overview

Glide through Mud Lake and Moonlight Bay on a family-friendly guided kayak tour that focuses on wildlife and wetland ecology. Expect close encounters with herons, eagles and the rare Hine’s emerald dragonfly, plus expert instruction and calm, protected water.

Door County Wetlands Kayak Tour — Bailey's Harbor Eco Kayak Adventure

Other

Kayak

Wildlife

Select participants and date

Date

Thu, Oct 30

Travelers

You push off from a quiet launch on County Road Q and the lake exhales: a flat, mirrored surface broken only by paddles and the slow wake of a two-person kayak. Reiboldt's Creek flows into Mud Lake and then into Moonlight Bay; the water moves with the kind of patience that gives birds time to size you up. Bald eagles wheel overhead, blue herons stand like living sculptures in shallow water, and the guides — steady and low-voiced — draw attention to a flash of white showing the wing-tip of a swan.

Adventure Photos

Door County Wetlands Kayak Tour — Bailey's Harbor Eco Kayak Adventure photo 1

Adventure Tips

Arrive early for wildlife

Morning paddles increase your chance of seeing eagles, herons and active waterfowl before winds pick up.

Wear quick-dry layers

Temperatures on the water can be cooler than on shore; a light windbreaker and synthetic layers keep you comfortable.

Bring insect repellent

Wetland mosquitoes can be persistent in warmer months—apply repellent before launching.

Waterproof your essentials

Use a dry bag or waterproof phone case—guides will help but splashes are common.

Local Insights

Wildlife

Bald eagle
Great blue heron

History

Door County’s shoreline and wetlands were shaped by Pleistocene glaciers and later used by Indigenous peoples and commercial fishermen; small towns like Baileys Harbor grew around maritime trade and seasonal fishing.

Conservation

The area supports rare habitat types and species such as the Hine’s emerald dragonfly; operators emphasize low-impact paddling and shoreline protection to minimize disturbance.