Camping options near Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin range from lakeside state parks to secluded glamping retreats throughout this west-central Wisconsin region. The area sits at approximately 840 feet above sea level in the Chippewa Valley, characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and numerous waterways including Lake Wissota and the Chippewa River. Summer temperatures typically reach 80°F with nighttime lows around 55°F, creating comfortable camping conditions from May through October.
What to do
Hiking varied terrain: The 6-mile trail network at Chippewa NF Campground offers diverse landscapes. "There are tons of sites across three loops, spaced apart with picnic tables, fire pits, and plenty of room. The lake is very close with a trail to a beach and dock," reports Amy E.
River activities: The Chippewa River provides excellent tubing opportunities at Myron County Park. A visitor noted, "Great camp hosts, relaxed helpful and fun." The park connects to a tubing setup on the river, making it convenient for water-based recreation.
ATV trails: Russell Memorial Park offers direct access to local ATV routes. "We stayed with a group for Memorial weekend. Our site was a little hard to get into. The back sites are ATV/UTV sites. They have good access to the trails," explains Juliana R.
What campers like
Lake access: Waterfront sites at Russell Memorial Park provide direct water access. Robert W. shares, "The campground has a lot of long term sites on the waterfront so getting on one usually gets you into spring camping. The waterfront has mostly electric only sites."
Private wooded sites: Campsites at Lake Wissota State Park Campground feature natural separation. "Very woodsy! Mosquitoes, gnats, and bugs galore. Beach is nice, even better that they have a separate beach area for your leashed dog," notes Hannah E.
Walking paths: Eagle Ridge Campground offers scenic trails. Ben M. describes, "Walking path to an area that overlooks the Chippewa River was nice." Another camper adds, "Nice walking path to the river. Staff was friendly, and the grounds were super clean!"
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate from May through October. At Lake Wissota State Park, mosquitoes and bugs are common during summer months. "Very woodsy! Mosquitoes, gnats, and bugs galore," warns Hannah E.
Reservation planning: Popular waterfront sites fill quickly, especially at Russell Memorial Park where "getting on one usually gets you into spring camping."
Amenities vary widely: Some campgrounds offer full facilities while others are more basic. At West Arbutus County Park, "Make sure that you bring cash with if the office is closed people self-register campsites," advises Megan R.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly beaches: Lake Wissota State Park has designated swimming areas. "Nice beach that is a walkable distance from the sites. Lots of walking, biking and horse trails that are full of wild berries," shares Donella L.
Playground access: Wedges Creek Hideaway provides family-friendly amenities. "This is a sawmill that has it all - they run the mill when needed, but also have primitive cabins, full cabins with in house bath, electric RV/tent camping and more. Even wood fired pizzas with homemade crust most nights of the week and sometimes live music!" writes Amy G.
Fishing opportunities: Russell Memorial Park offers shoreline fishing. Stacey N. reports, "Our site is right on the water... so calm and peaceful. Family friendly. Nice and clean."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At Eagle Ridge Campground, site layout varies significantly. "Only campground that had open availability at the last minute. Everyone was very friendly and campground was clean. They were flexible on the check out time," notes Anna.
Level sites: Consider leveling needs when booking. At the Hixton - Alma Center KOA, "We had to use boards to level our rig. The sides are a little close together and are gravel," reports Cheryl W.
Large rig accessibility: Some campgrounds can accommodate bigger setups. Russell Memorial Park has varied site sizes. "We stayed at site 116 with a 40 ft 5th wheel. I would recommend booking early to get a better spot for a big rig. That spot would be easier to get our 30 ft travel trailer into," advises Juliana R.
