The Cable, Wisconsin area sits at approximately 1,400 feet elevation within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, creating a diverse landscape of lakes, streams, and forests. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F, with heavy winter snowfall making seasonal camping availability a key consideration for visitors. Cellular reception varies widely throughout the region, with many camping locations experiencing weak or intermittent service depending on proximity to small towns.
What to do
Paddle the Apostle Islands: Visitors to Apostle Islands Area RV Park and Camping can access premier kayaking opportunities on Lake Superior. "We kayaked to many campgrounds and islands in the national lakeshore, paddling a total of 60 miles we were able to make it to 3 different island campgrounds," reports one camper. The sea caves are a particular highlight for paddlers.
Fish Nelson Lake: The fishing opportunities near Cable are excellent, particularly at Sunrise Bay Campgrounds and RV Park. "Fish cleaning facility. Nice restrooms and showers. They'll bring you a load of wood if needed for a very reasonable price. Overnight sites on the lake or actually a bay. Has a boat launch within the campground and slips to park your boat by your site. The campground sits on Nelson Lake. Fantastic fishing!!"
Explore bike trails: The trail system in and around Cable provides excellent cycling opportunities. "It's connected to a bike trail that you can take to downtown or farther north along the lake. You can follow it all the way to the end of town where you'll find a large beach and (free) artisan well water," writes one visitor about trails in the region.
What campers like
Access to water activities: Many campers appreciate the easy lake and river access at campgrounds near Cable. One visitor to Nelson Lake Lodge noted, "Had a good time walking the grounds, looking at the lake from the docks and watching the painted turtles who were laying their eggs along the campground's beach."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area generally maintain high standards for bathrooms and shower facilities. One camper at Kreher RV Park reported, "This is a great campground. The shower house is very clean and has private rooms. A code is necessary to gain access to the bathrooms/showers."
Wildlife viewing: The Northwoods region offers opportunities to spot various wildlife. A visitor to the Apostle Islands mentioned, "We had a wonderful weekend there and saw a few black bears. And one even meandered through our camp site. And enjoyed the sounds of the waves and hiked a few of the trails."
What you should know
Seasonal operating schedules: Most rv parks near Cable, Wisconsin operate seasonally due to harsh winter conditions. Treeland Farm RV Resort runs from May through mid-October, while Sunrise Bay Campgrounds operates from May 1st to October 1st. For year-round camping, Happy Ours RV Park stays open through winter and accommodates large RVs with full hookups.
Reservation requirements: During peak season (June-August) and fall color periods (late September-early October), reservations are essential. "This is a private campground that fills up quick. It is 1 mile from Bayfield town center. It is close to the ferry dock, restaurants, parks and beaches," explains a camper about Apostle Islands Area RV Park.
Site variety: Cable area campgrounds offer diverse camping experiences. Some provide lakeside sites with beach access while others feature more wooded settings. "Tucked away from our neighbor just enough to have plenty of space for us & the pups but without being completely segregated," noted one visitor about site spacing at Treeland Farm RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several RV parks near Cable offer dedicated play areas for children. Frontier RV Park and Campground provides "Large playground, biking, hiking" according to one reviewer, making it suitable for families with active children.
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with swimming facilities or safe water access. "There is a playground & heated pool, but it's just far enough away to not be heard at all but a quick walk to get to if you so desire," reports a camper about Treeland Farm RV Resort.
Budget-friendly activities: Many campgrounds offer amenities included with your stay. "If you camp here you get free entrance to the gigantic water park. The park caters to little children to big kids," notes a visitor to Frontier RV Park, though they also mention that "If you not part of the campground, pay a small price to get in."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Several campgrounds in the Cable area require some leveling for RVs. "Some leveling will be required at most sites, but not much," reports one RVer about Kreher RV Park. At Thornapple River Campground, campers note the terrain can be variable.
Hookup configurations: RV parks around Cable offer various hookup options. "The pad was concrete and level, included a nice patio, a picnic table, some nice planters and well maintained grass on the driver's side of our rig. We had full hookups. The water spigot was shared with the site behind us but there was already a 'y' connection installed," explains a camper at Nelson Lake Lodge.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds provide full hookups or convenient dump stations. "The dump station is on a hill and with a longer rig our tow vehicle felt in the way of the entrance/exit and the road to the boat launch," warns an RVer about Kreher RV Park. For those without sewer connections, several campgrounds offer pump-out services for a fee.
