Big Bay State Park Campground, near La Pointe, Wisconsin, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the beauty of Madeline Island. This campground offers a mix of electric and non-electric sites, all well-spaced for a bit of privacy, making it a great choice for families and groups.

The park is known for its stunning views of Lake Superior, with hiking trails that lead you through scenic landscapes and along the shoreline. Visitors rave about the 360-degree views from the cliffs and the peaceful atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure. One camper highlighted, “Camping in the woods is great for families,” and many appreciate the clean facilities, including restrooms and showers.

For those who love water activities, the long beach and nearby nature programs provide plenty of opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Plus, the ferry ride to the island adds a unique touch to your camping experience. Just remember, pets aren’t allowed on the beach, but there are other pet-friendly options nearby.

With its combination of natural beauty and well-maintained amenities, Big Bay State Park Campground is a solid choice for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Whether you're hiking the trails or relaxing by the water, this campground has a little something for everyone.

Big Bay State Park Campground

Join the fun near La Pointe. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Wisconsin camping adventure.

La Pointe

The Best Camping Near La Pointe, Wisconsin

This 2,350-acre campground was well-maintained and is located on Madeline Island (the largest Apostle Island) on Lake Superior. 

  

You need to take a ferry to get there and I took Madeline Ferry and it was easy even with an RV.

  

Big Bay State Park does not allow dogs (pets) on the 1.5-mile long beach which was disappointing, however, there was another campground (Big Bay Town Park) on the Island that had a fabulous pet-friendly beach so I spent time there.    
  
There are several hiking trails and Big View Trail was scenic along Lake Superior.

  

Big Bay State Park experience video:  
[https://youtu.be/LHGZdC6y-A0](https://youtu.be/LHGZdC6y-A0)

Camping on an Island

Lots to do especially for water activities. Long beach, shower house, family sites, State Natural Area, nature programs and more. Took guided kayaking tour to the caves. Town is nearby for any needs. Ferry ride required unless you have a boat.

Large Campground on Madeline Island

Big Bay State Park is on Madeline Island in Lake Superior and is one of the Apostle Islands. The only way to arrive is by ferry boat. It is pricey to bring your RV. Ours is only 26 feet but we had a bike rack and two bikes that brought our total length to 30 feet. If you are a tent camper and traveling in your car, it will be about $27 for your car and$16 for each passenger round trip. www.madferry.com   

The first thing about Big Bay State Park is your RV is on a ferry boat. The ferry is very organized but small and depending on the time of day and day of the week you may need to wait for more than one ferry to depart. Once you get to the park, it is quiet and filled with natural beauty. The campground has both electric and non-electric sites. We visited in mid-July and it was cool and breezy and we did not need our air conditioning. There is no dump station at the park. There is a dump station at the airport about 5 miles away where you can dump. 

This is the first WI State Park I have seen with hose hook up on the water stations. There is a drinking fountain, bottle filler and hose hook up on each water station and there are many of them through out the park. We were able to fill our RV from the hose hook up. There are 60 sites with 7 walk in sites. All sites are well spaced and have a newer picnic table and fire ring/grill. The park is very well kept with 8 trails in distance from.1 to 4 miles. The Boardwalk trail that follows the bay is flat and has many interpretive signs. It connects to the Big Bay Town Park. The beach was not crowded when we visited mid-week and views of Lake Superior where breath taking. When you arrive by ferry you are in the town of La Pointe. There are restaurants, shopping, a laundromat, bike, moped and canoe/kayak rentals. It is six miles from La Pointe to Big Bay State Park.

Was it worth$162 Round Trip to bring our RV to Madeline Island– Yes!

Family of 4, very nice campground. Clean and convenient restrooms. Nice beach and campsites are spread recently apart. 

Clean, quiet island camping 

Amazing

Lake Superior island, board a ferry in Bayfield to get there! Oozing with either romance or budding curiosity for kids. Once there, tons of hiking along the lake, beach, through the woods, swimming, boating, bird watching, fishing and the bridge connecting two islands. Oh my! Camping in the woods is great for families, camp host was helpful. Highlight was the 360 degree view of Lake Superior from the cliff from the back road adventure time. 

Located in the Apostle Islands

Sites are fairly large and have lots of trees and woods surrounding them. You get a handicap picnic table and fire pit with grate at each site. Big rig friendly. Saw a motorhome so you can fit and you can get on the ferry over!! There is one bathroom with showers and the rest are vault toilets. There is a hiking trail right out of the campground and biking is an option too!

Photos of Big Bay State Park Campground

Real photos from real campers