Camping sites near Appleton, Wisconsin range from small family-run operations to larger recreational facilities, typically located within a 30-60 minute drive from the city. The region sits at approximately 790 feet above sea level and experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F from June through August. Most Appleton area campgrounds operate seasonally with the primary camping season running May through October when overnight temperatures remain above freezing.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: At Mauthe Lake Campground, trails connect to the larger Ice Age Trail system. "We've been camping here for years and love the beautiful lake for swimming and watersports. No motor boats so nice and quiet. There is a crushed gravel trail running from here to Long Lake that is great for running/walking/biking," notes camper Sarah L.
Fishing access: Several local lakes offer good fishing prospects without traveling far from camp. According to a visitor at Calumet County Park, "There is a marina if you have a boat, and the fishing is supposedly excellent. Lots of bird life to observe on the water and deer in the wooded areas." The park provides both shoreline access and boat launch facilities.
Water recreation: Beyond swimming, paddling opportunities exist at multiple campgrounds. At Wolf River Campgrounds, tubing is particularly popular. "The river is fantastic for tubing and kayaking with your family. This is a fun social campground," explains Nathan K., highlighting the organized river trips available.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many reviews emphasize well-maintained bathroom and shower facilities. One Hickory Oaks visitor noted, "Bathrooms are well maintained, showers are free, and there is ice cream and some camping stuff for sale in the office." This attention to cleanliness appears consistent across multiple campgrounds in the region.
Spacious sites: Calumet County Park receives praise for its site layout. According to Susannah B., "Excellent county campground with some of the largest sites we've come across. Things we look for in a campground: space from neighbors, shade, and quiet. This park checked all the boxes!" She specifically recommends sites in the upper campground area.
Wildlife viewing: Many campers report wildlife sightings as a highlight. At Hickory Oaks Campground, Hannah H. shared, "We saw so much wildlife! Chipmunks, ducks, a great horned owl, and countless birds to name a few." Morning and evening hours typically offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Spring camping can involve uncertain water availability. At High Cliff State Park Campground, "Only gripe is the uncertain schedule they have for turning on water for the season. First week or two of may is a safe bet, but no promises. They have pit toilets open year round whatever the case," advises Brandl B.
Site selection matters: Not all sites are created equal, even within the same campground. At Calumet County Park, Susannah B. specifically recommends: "Harbor area: sites are well spaced, lovely trimmed grass sites with fire pits - but mixed shade. Site 10 would be the best/most private in this section since it backs up to the forest and is HUGE."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Appleton require advance bookings, especially for weekend stays from May through September. Sites with electrical hookups often book several weeks ahead during peak summer months, with holiday weekends filling months in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities: Fremont RV Campground provides organized water activities. "Great waterfront camping. Great outdoor waterpark. Fun dance for kids on Saturday night," shares Lucas S. These structured activities can help keep children entertained throughout your stay.
Playground access: Many campgrounds include playground equipment. At Hickory Oaks, one camper mentioned, "Nice beach/swimming area, bike path, and playground for the kids." Similarly, High Cliff State Park has "two playgrounds for the kids as well," according to Kaylyn C.
Food storage: Proper food storage is essential when camping with children who might leave snacks unattended. One Kettle Moraine camper warned about raccoons being "a pest and beg for food!" Wildlife encounters are common, requiring secure food storage practices throughout your stay.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: At Osh Vegas Palms, RVers appreciate the level sites. Carol W. reports, "Grass Sites with easy entry for our 42 ft motor home without disconnecting our tow vehicle. 50 amp, water. And this small campground has great WiFi!" The level sites eliminate the need for extensive blocking.
Power options: Most campgrounds offer either 30-amp or 50-amp service, but rarely both. At Omro RV Park, "Is 30 and 50 amp available," notes Doug S., making it suitable for various RV electrical systems. However, many smaller campgrounds offer only 30-amp connections.
Dump station access: While full hookups are limited, dump stations are widely available. Doug S. explains that at Omro RV Park, "Dump station and water available, but not at your site." This arrangement is common throughout the Appleton area, with most campgrounds providing central dump stations rather than individual sewer connections.
