Friends of Rock Island State Park, Inc.

11/02/2026

Hope everyone had spooky fun this past Halloween weekend! ICYMI - here are some haunting tales from the island featured in the Peninsula Pulse Newspaper. 😲

“The island tells its story as it feels necessary, and to whom it feels necessary to tell its story too, so the more time you spend up there, the more you learn, the more you experience.” - Tina Jacoby, FORI Board Member.

HAUNTED TALES FROM ROCK ISLAND

The Pottawatomie Lighthouse is a hotbed for spooky experiences, according to Friends of Rock Island President Tina Jacoby, especially for those tour guides and maintenance workers who are on the grounds long after visitors have returned to the mainland or their campsite for the night.

The original structure was built in 1836 and replaced just 22 years later in 1858, and while it has been restored, the Friends group has never added electricity or plumbing, giving the entire area a real old-world feel.

To read the full story, click HERE>>doorcountypulse.com/haunted-tales-from-rock-island

10/22/2026

As one season closes, we are already planning ahead for the next. 📅
Applications for Lighthouse Docents and Campground Hosts close December 31st! See all the details and apply 👇
https://fori.squarespace.com/volunteer-opportunities

Or, simply support from afar by becoming a member of FORI 😀 and get in on our newsletters and updates about the island.

10/22/2026

A pretty accurate representation of RISP for those that wish to know what it's like getting there and experiencing the Pottawatomie Lighthouse, the Thordarson Boathouse and the beach.

Door County has FIVE state parks—and every one offers a completely ...

10/16/2026

The final weekend of the season has come and gone 🍂
We are reflecting on another wonderful summer and are thankful for all the volunteers that helped get the island ready for winter. 👏 Mark you calendars for opening weekend: May 28, 2027!

10/13/2026

🌅 The sun has officially set on another season on Rock Island.

We are very thankful to all our volunteers, supporters from near and far, and for all the visitors this season! 👏

Until spring, if want to show your support for our group, please consider donating or joining as a member for as little as $15 / year.

Learn more here: https://fori.squarespace.com/

📸 Photos by visitor Alexis B.

10/13/2026

Karfi: goodbye for now & thank you for your safe passages to and from Rock Island! We look forward to seeing you in spring. 🛥

Thank you to everyone who traveled to Rock Island this season with the Rock Island Ferry! The ferry will be ending service for the winter, ready to run again in the spring! ⛴️

10/06/2026

❓ Did you know? Rock Island has a rich history of occupation amongst native tribes including Ottawa, Huron, Petun, and Chippewa but primarily the Potawatomi. Artifacts date back to the 1600's and tell a tale of a hunting, fishing and safe refuge on the island. See the timeline of tribes on the informational signage and visit the boathouse to see artifacts in person.

10/01/2026

What a beautiful month on the island September was! 🦋
Take a look at some of our visitor's photos. From moonset's to spider webs to owls, foxes and butterflies - there's endless views to take in.

09/29/2026

⛺ CAMPER POLL ⛺
Tell us: when you're camping, what's your favorite way to pass time while at the campsite? 🧐