Camping options within 30 miles of Birnamwood, Wisconsin include a mix of county parks, river-adjacent sites, and private campgrounds scattered across the region's mixed hardwood forests. The region ranges from 1,150 to 1,300 feet in elevation with sandy loam soil that provides good drainage during wet seasons. Winter temperatures regularly drop below 10°F with summer highs averaging in the mid-70s.
What to do
River adventures: Access fishing spots and swimming holes along the Embarrass River at Tilleda Falls Campground. A visitor described it as having a "lovely small cascading falls and swimming area" with "nicely maintained grounds." Swimming, fishing, and exploring the riverside are popular activities during summer months.
Hiking trails: Connect to the Ice Age Trail from the Dells of the Eau Claire Park Campground. According to one camper, "The hiking trails are great and go all the way out to the Ice Age trails. It goes along the river. Very scenic." The trail system features moderate difficulty routes with rocky terrain and river views.
Rock formations: Explore the unique geological features at Marathon County Dells of the Eau Claire Park. Visitors can climb on rock formations during low water periods, with one reviewer noting, "In the summertime you will see people all over the rocks swimming/sun bathing/having picnics/weddings/photo shoots." The rock formations create small waterfalls and swimming areas along the river.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Find privacy at Embarrass River Campground and ATV Park where campers appreciate the "big secluded sites" with "plenty of shade." Sites along the river are particularly popular, with one visitor noting it's "relaxing and comforting listening to the fast moving stream especially at night."
Water activities: Splash pads and swimming areas at Pine Grove Campground. One camper reported, "Has a nice sand beach with clear water for swimming, as well as a pool area that are both great for the kids." The campground offers multiple water features including a lake with swimming access.
Seasonal events: Halloween festivities start early at some campgrounds in the area. At Pine Grove Campground, one visitor experienced "a screening of The Nightmare Before Christmas and loads of cool decked out campsites." The campground hosts themed weekends throughout the camping season with outdoor movies and decorating contests.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Reception varies significantly between carriers at campgrounds around Birnamwood. At Dells of the Eau Claire Park Campground, a camper noted, "Poor cell coverage." Another visitor at the same park mentioned service was "spotty" even when signals were detected.
Seasonal water conditions: Spring brings high water and ice breakup at Marathon County Dells of the Eau Claire Park. A regular visitor explained, "Spring time the water is usually high and the breakup of ice happens, it's amazing to see. It's crazy loud too!" Water levels impact swimming safety throughout the season.
Weekend crowding: Expect busy conditions at waterfront sites during summer weekends. One regular visitor observed at Marathon County Dells of the Eau Claire Park, "The weekends are busy there all summer long." Weekday stays offer considerably more solitude and easier site selection.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Find campgrounds with dedicated children's activities. Pine Grove Campground offers "mini-golf to the lake" and has areas specifically "for kids to drain some energy." One visitor described it as "excellent for young families" with numerous amenities.
Playground access: Look for sites near On The Rocks Family Kampground which features "lots of stuff for little kids to do" and "a nice little man-made swimming hole." The campground has 200 sites spread across the property.
Budget considerations: Factor in extra costs for activities at some private campgrounds. A visitor to Pine Grove Campground noted families should "be prepared to bring a lot of extra spending money" as "just for the kids to be able to use the equipment you have to purchase a wristband."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose campsites carefully at Dells of the Eau Claire Park Campground. One RVer noted, "Sites were small, not well maintained, some of them backed up to the highway." Studying campground maps before arrival helps identify the most suitable locations.
Hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer electric-only sites with central water access. At Mohican North Star RV Park, visitors find "easy to get to" sites that are "a little open but good sized." This campground operates seasonally from April 1 to November 1.
Level sites: Tilleda Falls Campground provides well-maintained, accessible camping spots. A recent visitor mentioned the campground is "excellent" and "well maintained and easy to maneuver around." The sites offer "enough sun and shade for everyone" making them suitable for various RV types.
