Best Campgrounds near Appleton, WI

Camping near Appleton, Wisconsin, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

• Hiking and Climbing: High Cliff State Park Campground is perfect for those who love to hike. One visitor mentioned, "A lot of great walking and hiking spots," making it a great choice for outdoor activities.
• Fishing and Boating: At Kohler-Andrae State Park, you can enjoy fishing and boating on Lake Michigan. A reviewer noted, "There’s a nice lake and a dock for fishing, which we loved!"
• Nature Trails: Mauthe Lake Campground offers access to scenic nature trails. One camper shared, "The rustic roads made for good cycling," highlighting the area's beauty.

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained amenities. A visitor at Kohler-Andrae State Park said, "The amenities were very clean and well taken care of."
• Spacious Sites: Many campers enjoy the spaciousness of sites at Hartman Creek State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "I felt for a state park most of the sites were spacious."
• Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Hickory Oaks Campground are known for their welcoming vibe. A camper noted, "Very nice place to camp. Quiet and friendly."

What you should know:

• Seasonal Availability: Many campgrounds, like Hartman Creek State Park, are open from April to November, so plan your trip accordingly.
• Fees for Non-Residents: If you're not from Wisconsin, be aware that some parks charge higher fees. A visitor at Hartman Creek State Park mentioned, "It cost me $30 ($15 if you're from WI)."
• Limited Swimming Areas: While some parks have beaches, the swimming conditions may not always be ideal. A camper at High Cliff State Park Campground noted, "Even though there is a beach, it is not a very nice one."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Kohler-Andrae State Park, which offers activities for kids. One parent said, "Plenty of activities for the kids, nice staff, and friendly campers."
• Plan for Privacy: Some sites at Hartman Creek State Park offer good privacy. A camper advised, "Research your spot before booking as some are wide open and others have privacy."
• Pack for Bugs: Depending on the season, bugs can be an issue. A visitor at High Cliff State Park Campground mentioned, "Picnic areas can get buggy."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Size: RV campers should pay attention to site sizes. A reviewer at Mauthe Lake Campground noted, "The full electric sites here are pretty small and tightly packed."
• Look for Amenities: Facilities like showers and laundry can make a big difference. A camper at Kohler-Andrae State Park appreciated, "There’s also laundry here, such a nice perk for full-timers like us!"
• Plan for Peak Times: If you're camping during busy seasons, be prepared for crowds. A visitor at Kettle Moraine North - Mauthe Lake mentioned, "I ended up leaving halfway through my second day because I just didn't want to deal with the noise and traffic."

Camping around Appleton, Wisconsin, has something for everyone, from serene nature trails to family-friendly activities. Make sure to check out these campgrounds for a memorable outdoor experience!