Top Free Dispersed Camping near Baileys Harbor, WI

Looking for the best dispersed camping near Baileys Harbor? The Dyrt provides you with a diverse selection of places to camp, from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. From secluded to easily reachable, we offer dispersed campsites near Baileys Harbor just for you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Baileys Harbor, WI (1)

    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Point Lighthouse Access Road - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Point Lighthouse Access Road - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Point Lighthouse Access Road - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Point Lighthouse Access Road - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Point Lighthouse Access Road - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Point Lighthouse Access Road - Dispersed

    1. Peninsula Point Lighthouse Access Road - Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    18 Photos
    84 Saves

    Dispersed camping is allowed on Hiawatha National Forest lands except developed recreation and administrative sites, campgrounds and designated campsites. The following restrictions apply: Your stay is limited to 16 days. After this period, your camping equipment and all persons must move to another site at least one mile away, for an additional stay, not to exceed 16 days. Do not block any roads or restrict access to National Forest lands by others. Follow “Leave No Trace” principles (See https://lnt.org/why/7-principles) so that public lands will remain clean and attractive for others to enjoy. Camping in areas posted closed is prohibited. Camping within fifty (50) feet of a body of water is prohibited, unless otherwise posted. (Exceptions include Grand Island National Recreation Area (100 feet from water, cliff edge, private property, trails, other campsites, special use recreation residences or recreation developments) and Big Island Lake Wilderness (200 feet from water). Do not camp at boat launches. Permits are required for these sites: Bass Lake, Bear Lake, Camp Cook, Carr Lake, Chicago Lake, Cookson Lake, Council Lake, Crooked Lake, East Lake, Ewing Point, Gooseneck Lake, lronjaw Lake, Jackpine Lake, Lake Nineteen, Leg Lake, Lyman Lake, McKeever Cabin, Minerva Lake, Mowe Lake, Steuben Lake, Swan Lake, Toms Cabin, and Triangle Lake. On lakes with designated campsites, you may not set up your campsite within 400 feet of the shoreline anywhere on the lake.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Baileys Harbor

3 Reviews of 1 Baileys Harbor Campgrounds


  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Point Lighthouse Access Road - Dispersed
    Sep. 21, 2023

    Peninsula Point Lighthouse Access Road - Dispersed

    A beautiful location when I went!

    Stayed for 6 nights and loved all of it. I was in the camp more south on the left. I can confirm that there is a trailhead, national campground, private campgrounds, and boat launches down this road. Another review mentioned a site, that now has a no camping sign on it. I believe that was the site, but there is 2 sites. Some very light traffic as there is a lighthouse/ restrooms down the road from both of these. Not really walking distance for most, but manageable in any form. Caught northern lights, Milky Way, and glorious sights every day.

  • evi L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Point Lighthouse Access Road - Dispersed
    Aug. 28, 2021

    Peninsula Point Lighthouse Access Road - Dispersed

    Beautiful but very limited camping sites

    This area is gorgeous, it's surrounded by lake superior, and there is a really neat old lighthouse with pit toilets at the end of the road.. It's a one lane road btw, with multiple cutouts in the road for passing. I stayed here 2 nights in what appears to be an established campsite (with a fire ring, on the right side of the road heading towards the lighthouse) before meeting a local ranger this morning, who informed me that there are only 2 dispersed campsites available here, and both are on the left side of the road (heading towards the lighthouse.) But she did say that you are allowed to stay up to 14 days at either of those sites, before asking me to promptly gtfo. I would have rated 5 stars if there were more sites available, but if you manage to snag one of the permitted ones, lucky you!



Guide to Baileys Harbor

Camping near Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Nature Trails: There are many trails around the area. One camper mentioned, "With rugged shorelines and over 26 miles of gorgeous trails to explore, I can't wait to go back to Newport State Park." This is a great spot for those who love to hike and enjoy nature.
  • Beach Access: Many campgrounds are close to the water. A visitor at Newport State Park Campground said, "Campsite 10 offered plenty of space to pitch a tent or two. This site also had a food locker, campfire ring, and a bench. Located right on the waterfront, Lake Michigan served as a scenic centerpiece."
  • Local Attractions: Don't miss out on nearby attractions. One reviewer noted, "Make sure you walk down the road to the bakery for cinnamon rolls in the morning," highlighting the local charm just a short drive away.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms. A review for Wagon Trail Campground stated, "The shower, while a bit on the small side, had nice hot water and plenty of hooks to hang clothes and toiletries. They were clean."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A visitor at Baileys Woods Campground shared, "The sites were big and level. Lots of trees. Plenty of firewood in stock."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds often have amenities for kids. One camper mentioned, "There is a nice playground," making it a good choice for families.

What you should know:

  • Busy Seasons: Expect crowds during peak times. A reviewer at Potawatomi State Park noted, "Camped for two nights in the northern loop. The camp store is fantastic... but this is a popular campground."
  • Limited Hookups: Some campgrounds may not have electric hookups. A camper at Newport State Park Campground mentioned, "Potable water is only offered at the Park Office and over near Parking lot 3."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. One camper humorously shared, "My wife was scared the first night because she heard noises in the woods, turned out just to be some porcupines."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. A visitor at Tranquil Timbers said, "We love this place. Quiet. Lots to do for kids. Pool, mini golf, game room."
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or check for local dining options. One camper mentioned, "We had lunch at Mary’s on the beach and the crabcakes were awesome."
  • Pack for All Weather: Be ready for changing conditions. A reviewer at Tennison Bay Campground noted, "Despite it being a little cold and rainy we enjoyed hiking and exploring."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at J.W. Wells State Park Campground said, "The views are beautiful but all the camping spots are grass, we instantly sunk the second we tried to park!"
  • Use Dump Stations Wisely: Familiarize yourself with dump station locations. A visitor at Daisy Field Campground mentioned, "There is a dump station and water fill near this campground."
  • Stay Connected: Be aware that cell service can be spotty. A reviewer at Baileys Woods Campground noted, "Cell service was good, and their clubhouse area was cute."

Camping near Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors with family and friends. With a variety of campgrounds and activities, there's something for everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions