Camping opportunities abound within a 25-mile radius of Cornell, Wisconsin, situated in the heart of Chippewa County at an elevation of 980 feet. The area features a mix of northern hardwood forests and river valleys with summer temperatures typically ranging from 65-85°F. Winter camping is limited, with most glamping facilities and campgrounds operating from May through mid-October when conditions are optimal for outdoor activities.
What to do
Hiking trails: Lake Wissota State Park Campground offers diverse hiking experiences through varied ecosystems. One camper shared, "We went on a 5-mile hike through fern and pine forests, prairie and grassland habitats, and an abandoned beaver pond."
Fishing opportunities: Chippewa NF Campground provides access to fishing in a serene setting. According to a visitor, "The fish cleaning house is nice and there were many pan fish caught by our group. There are very few houses on this flowage as it primarily belongs to the national forest."
River activities: Big Falls County Park offers unique water features for exploration. A camper noted, "Very secluded/primitive. Outhouse only. Nice campsites & the river is gorgeous. Nice walking & exploring trails."
Winter camping: While most glamping close to Cornell closes for winter, several campgrounds like Lake Wissota remain open year-round for cold-weather enthusiasts willing to brave the elements.
What campers like
Private campsites: Lake Wissota State Park Campground earns praise for its separation between sites. One reviewer mentioned, "Beautiful shaded campground with semi private sites. Nice beach that is a walkable distance from the sites. Lots of walking, biking and horse trails that are full of wild berries."
Clean facilities: Facilities at Wedges Creek Hideaway receive positive feedback. A camper described, "One of the largest, cleanest bathrooms I've seen. Women's had 2 sinks with a large vanity area, about 3 stalls (very large - you don't have to squish into them) and two very large shower stalls with full doors - not shower curtains."
Quiet atmosphere: Eagle Ridge Campground offers a peaceful environment. A visitor shared, "Nice spot! Alot of room for the campsite. Full hook up, and firepit conveniently located. Nice walking path to the river. Staff was friendly, and the grounds were super clean!"
Access to water: Many campgrounds feature direct water access, with Thornapple River Campground noted for its river proximity. "The Thorneapple River is a sleepy, winding river. There are campsites right on the river. You can float or wade in it; it's shallow and refreshing."
What you should know
Seasonal challenges: Some campgrounds face specific seasonal issues. At Chippewa NF Campground, a camper warned, "This memorial weekend was horrible! Tent worms had infested the campground! Dropping from the trees and landing on you and all your belongings!"
Shower facilities: Many campgrounds have varied shower systems. At Chippewa NF, "Flush toilets with token operated showers" are available, while some glamping sites near Cornell offer no shower facilities at all.
Cell coverage: Connectivity varies widely across the region. At Eagle Ridge Campground, one visitor noted, "If you've been anywhere in Minnesota or Wisconsin, you know about all the trees! This campground has a large grassy area - that gives a 100% clear obstruction for Starlink."
Reservation requirements: Most glamping options require advance booking, especially during peak summer months (June-August) when occupancy reaches 75-90%.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Eagle Ridge Campground offers recreational spaces for children. A visitor noted, "Bathhouse clean...decent rec area for kids including sand volleyball court."
Beach access: Lake Wissota provides dedicated swimming areas. According to a camper, "Nice beach that is a walkable distance from the sites. Lots of walking, biking and horse trails that are full of wild berries. Several stairways down to the lake."
Pet considerations: Pet policies vary significantly. At Lake Wissota, there's "a seperate beach area for your leashed dog!" while most glamping sites near Cornell prohibit pets entirely.
Noise factors: Some locations have unexpected noise sources. A visitor to Lake Wissota mentioned, "Lots of boat noise from the lake and a plane noise from a nearby airport. Close to Chippewa Falls for restaurants and stores. A great family destination, not so great for a peaceful couples weekend."
Tips from RVers
Site sizes: Chippewa County Pine Point Campground has specific space limitations. One RVer advised, "Others are quote small and tight for big rigs. Their measurements on their website are accurate. We arrived and didn't think we would fit bit did."
Hookup options: Campgrounds offer varying levels of service. At K and C Country Air Campground, a camper noted, "great place water sewer electric sites. very quiet campground."
Solar considerations: Forest cover affects power options. At Chippewa NF, a reviewer warned, "All sites are heavily wooded in all the loops so solar is not a good option here."
Parking configurations: Site layouts vary between campgrounds. At Lake Wissota, "We selected site 67E online based on the campsite map and photo provided on the online reservation site. While al of the sites were very private - lots of trees and underbrush between, this one and 65E were ideally situated for dual sites."
