Dog-friendly campgrounds near Ashland, Wisconsin cluster around the Lake Superior shoreline with water temperatures averaging 40°F even in summer months. The camping season typically runs May through October, with most facilities closing during harsh winter conditions when temperatures can drop below zero. Overnight camping fees range from $25-$40 per night depending on location and hookups.
What to do
Paddle Lake Superior: Apostle Islands offers excellent kayaking opportunities with rentals available seasonally. "Went kayaking out here and the caves are awesome!!!! So much fun and lucked out having a nice still day!!!" shares a visitor to Apostle Islands Area RV park and Camping.
Hike forested trails: Copper Falls State Park features multiple waterfall views accessible via well-maintained hiking paths. A camper notes, "You can hike here and see 3 different waterfalls or take a short drive to numerous others in the area. The Sites are large, facilities clean. We love to camp here in the fall when the leaves are changing and hike to see the fantastic views."
Visit artesian wells: Fill water containers at natural springs known for exceptional quality. At Thompson's West End Park, a camper mentions, "Artesian well has nationally recognized quality of water on campground."
Explore downtown murals: Take a short trip into Ashland to view historical murals. "Take the history walk in Ashland and see all the murals!" recommends a visitor to Copper Falls State Park Campground.
What campers like
Lakeside views: Many sites offer direct views of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands. At Dalrymple Park and Campground, "There are 28 sites surrounded by canopies of trees and there are wooded fences along the sides next to Lake Superior. It was a perfect spot to settle in for camping."
Wooded privacy: Several campgrounds offer tree cover for shade and separation between sites. A camper at Big Bay State Park Campground notes, "Sites are fairly large and have lots of trees and woods surrounding them, though you may likely still be able to see your neighbors a bit and will definitely be able to hear them."
Ferry access: Island camping requires boat transportation, adding to the adventure. "Take the ferry to Madeline island and spend a weekend away from it all! Rent scooters to cover the whole island in a fun way!" advises a visitor to Big Bay State Park.
Overflow options: During peak season when campgrounds fill, alternatives exist. "This is a first come first serve campsite, self pay. We arrived around 6 after changing flat tire and there were no sites available," notes a camper at Kreher RV Park, but found "Thompson's West End Park maintains an overflow camp area if campsites are full."
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others operate first-come, first-served. "First come first served park. We were able to find a spot before 1pm but the park filled up by 3-4pm. There was steady traffic of disappointed RVs driving through the grounds till 6-7pm," reports a Kreher Park visitor.
Limited shower facilities: Not all campgrounds offer full amenities. At Memorial Park Campground, "Showers are pay showers and not reservable, first come, first served."
Bug protection essential: Mosquitoes can be intense, especially in wooded areas. A camper at Namekagon Lake Campground warns, "Mosquitoes galore."
Water activities require temperature tolerance: Even in summer, Lake Superior remains cold. At Big Bay Town Park, a camper observed, "There were people swimming in the bay, a little too cold for me."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several pet-friendly campgrounds feature play equipment for children. At Memorial Park Campground, "There is a nice beach, playground and pavilion too. They were maintaining it when we stopped by."
Educational opportunities: Visit the nearby visitor center for area information. "Day trips to Ashland and the Northern Wisconsin Visitor Center are always on the list of things to do," advises a Copper Falls visitor.
Beach activities: Sandy shorelines provide water play options. At West End Thompson Park, a reviewer mentions the park has "a playground. It's right next to lake superiors and is a nice place to swim, kayak, and paddle board."
Island exploration: Madeline Island offers unique family adventures. "The park has beautiful hiking trails along the coast, a swim beach (water is cold!!), Kayak and SUP rentals for bay paddling," notes a Big Bay State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds limit RV length due to tight turns and narrow roads. At Dalrymple Park, a camper advises, "I would not recommend this campground for anything larger than a pop up or teardrop. The sites are close together and hilly. The road to the back area where we stayed was narrow."
Early arrival crucial: During peak season, secure sites early. "Thinking it was a Tuesday, and they're wouldn't be a lot of people I got in around 5pm, and every place I went to was booked," reports a Thompson's West End Park visitor.
Leveling required: Prepare for uneven terrain at most sites. At Kreher Park, "Some leveling will be required at most sites, but not much."
Limited dump stations: Plan accordingly for waste management. "There is not a dump station but we have taken it up to the Red Cliff casino and they have a dump station there. There's a charge but it's minimal," notes a Dalrymple Park camper.
