Camping options near Birnamwood, Wisconsin include seasonal campgrounds operating primarily from April through October. The area sits at an elevation of about 1,200 feet within the Northern Highlands region, characterized by glacial topography with numerous lakes and dense forests. Winter temperatures frequently drop below zero, limiting year-round camping operations in most locations.
What to do
Swimming and water activities: Tilleda Falls Campground offers a small cascading waterfall with a swimming area on the Embarrass River. "Beautiful, friendly campground. Swimming area, waterfall, steam, fishing. This camp has it all," writes Kathy S.
Hiking trails: The region connects with sections of the Ice Age Trail. Langlade County Veterans Memorial Park provides trail access with amenities. "This campground is right on Jack Lake and Game Lake. There are a bunch of trails right in and around the campground, as well as opportunities for canoeing on Game Lake," notes Jimmy P.
Disc golf: Athletic campers can enjoy outdoor games at several campgrounds. Nathan R. mentions, "Nice campground with a nice beach area and fantastic disc golf course!" at Veterans Memorial Park.
Whitewater activities: River Forest Campground serves as a base for regional rafting. "There is so much to do in this area, including white water rafting, mountain biking and hiking," explains Ashley F.
What campers like
Beach access: Boulder Lake Campground gets praise for its waterfront. "We had site 18 which is right on the water and across from the shower house. The shore was pretty level and easy to get our kayaks in and out. The shore is shallow and mostly sand. Nice for swimming," writes Julia B.
Kid-friendly amenities: Campers with children appreciate dedicated play areas. At Fawn Lake Campground, "They have a nice pond for swimming and a playground right by it for the kids. Pets are allowed which is great!" reports McKenna R.
Shaded sites: Tree cover provides relief during summer months. "Tall trees, peaceful, quiet, new fire pits, good bathrooms," describes Stacey N. about her stay at Council Grounds State Park.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes provide angling options. "Boulder lake is amazing and is located conveniently close to the Wolf river, which has whitewater rafting and trout fishing," says Christopher R.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: RV campgrounds near Birnamwood, Wisconsin typically operate from April through November. Most close by December 1st due to harsh winter conditions.
Limited sewer hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric and water but lack full sewer connections at individual sites. A camper at Boulder Lake notes, "We stayed in site 18, non electrical but right across from the bath house which was always clean!"
Variable cell service: Connectivity differs by location and carrier. Verizon and AT&T generally perform better in this rural region.
Noise considerations: Natural sounds can affect light sleepers. Julia B. mentions at Boulder Lake: "The first night we did hear a bunch of teens yelling at the shower house around midnight, but they either got kicked out or left because we didnt hear them again."
Tips for camping with families
Look for swimming options: Shallow water areas are safer for children. "The lake is not very deep, which is great for swimming or water recreation," notes Christopher R. about Boulder Lake.
Book campsites near playgrounds: Mohican North Star RV Park offers family-friendly setups. "Easy to get to, bathrooms were decent, places to set up outdoor games. Spots are a little open but good sized campsite," writes Jackie F.
Consider group sites: Larger family gatherings benefit from designated spaces. Amanda G. explains that at Council Grounds, "They each have concrete pads for 3 campers and TONS of space to spread out and/or set up tents."
Bring insect protection: Biting flies can be problematic in summer. "Watch out for the biting deer flies as the sun goes down! Three kids got attacked in one of the trails and had huge welts and lots of tears," warns Amanda G.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Most RV campgrounds around Birnamwood offer reasonably level pads. John G. notes at River Forest: "We arrived with a 34' 5th wheel camper, backing into the spot was tricky but very doable, the site has water and 20 amp electric service."
Electric limitations: Be aware of amperage restrictions. "The site has water and 20 amp electric service, the power is substantial to power the necessities," explains John G. about River Forest Campground.
Parking considerations: Some waterfront sites present access challenges. "Be aware the sites to the east are higher elevation and looked like it was steep to get down to the water," warns Julia B. about Boulder Lake.
Water access for larger rigs: Not all shore sites accommodate big RVs. James R. mentions Fawn Lake has "a long spot with full hookups. Park has a playground, small lake with a beach."
