Northern Wisconsin camping near Cornucopia offers primitive options beyond standard campgrounds, with both inland forested sites and lakeside locations available for visitors looking to explore this Lake Superior region. Located in Bayfield County, these camping areas typically sit at 600-800 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 70°F days and 50°F nights. Winter camping is available at some locations with significantly reduced services and access restrictions.
What to do
Paddle to sea caves: Launch kayaks from Little Sand Bay Recreation Area to explore the Apostle Islands and sea caves. "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," notes Kayla A. about Apostle Islands Area RV Park and Camping.
Hike forested trails: Walk from campgrounds to connected trail systems. A reviewer at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park Campground explains, "Bring your hiking shoes because, while the State Park itself is pretty touristy (don't tour the lighthouse - not worth it), there is fantastic hiking right out of the park on the Superior Hiking Trail!"
Fish for lake species: Access fishing spots directly from shoreline campgrounds without needing a boat. "Nice supply of quality firewood and pay to spray shower (closed this year probably due to the pandemic). There is a nice, new modern bathroom facility for the Little Sand Bay park right next to the campgrounds," reports Henry B. about shore fishing access.
Biking exploration: Ride between camping areas and nearby towns on county roads. At Big Bay State Park Campground, a camper mentions: "There is a hiking trail right out of the campground and biking into town is an option too!"
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Some campgrounds offer walk-in sites set away from RV areas for more privacy. "There are tent sites on the side road that provide shade and some privacy as well. All sites are first-come (no reservations)," explains Kalene H. about Herbster Campground.
Natural lake access: Many sites provide direct beach access for swimming and paddling. A Memorial Park Campground visitor notes, "This campground is on the north side of Washburn. This campground is more to my liking as it has all types of sites. There are open(meadow) sites as well as wooded tree sites. My favorite part is the lake access."
Shoulder season camping: Lower crowds in spring and fall make for more peaceful experiences. "Camped here July 5th on our way South from Lake Superior and it was empty. Camped right along Lake Superior, practically the entire sandy beach to ourselves," reports Lesley R.
Winter camping options: A few parks remain open year-round with modified facilities. Janet R. at Gooseberry Falls State Park Campground shares, "Unlike many state parks, winter camping starts in October and goes through April and sometimes into May! If you are willing to forgo amenities like hot running water and if you don't mind using outhouses or trekking to the park Visitor Center, then camping here is do-able."
What you should know
First-come availability: Many campgrounds operate without reservations, requiring early arrival for choice sites. "If you want a tent site on the lake and not in the woods, you need to get there early Friday or go during the week," advises a camper at a Lake Superior site.
Weather extremes: Lake Superior creates its own weather patterns with rapid changes. One camper at Herbster notes, "As long as it's July or early August, it will be beautiful here. Watch out for the wind coming off the lake any other time!"
Seasonal closures: Most facilities close between mid-October and May, with limited maintenance during shoulder seasons. "Most of the RV sites are seasonal. Nicely maintained, electric hook ups, large sites 50% shade," explains Jim C. about West End Thompson City Park.
Limited services: The town of Cornucopia offers basic supplies but major restocking requires driving to larger towns. A camper advises, "Bring food with you, the nearest store is 7 miles away in Cornucopia."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. "The campground has a marina and a beach right on Lake Superior... bathrooms were clean," notes Ken W. about a family-friendly site with beach access.
Choose protected swimming areas: Lake Superior has cold water and can have strong currents, so enclosed bays are safer for children. At Dalrymple Park and Campground, "You can access Lake Superior at this campground, but it's not an easy trek to get down to the shore. It is shallow enough to 'swim' there," reports Ryan S.
Consider overflow areas: During peak times, designated overflow areas often provide better spacing for families. "When I arrived all the campsites were booked, but I was able to stay at the overflow lot. It worked out great!" shares Cassie B. about an unexpected option.
Pack for temperature swings: Even summer nights can drop below 50°F, requiring appropriate clothing and sleeping gear. "Bring the mosquito repellent. They are off the charts bad!" warns a visitor to Big Bay State Park.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many campgrounds can't accommodate larger RVs due to narrow roads and small sites. "I would not recommend this campground for anything larger than a pop up or teardrop. The sites are close together and hilly. The road to the back area where we stayed in 25 was narrow," cautions Stephanie J.
Leveling challenges: Uneven terrain requires leveling equipment at most sites. "I think all the sites will require quite a bit of leveling. The sites are small, this campground is best for tent campers or small campers. Some of the roads are very steep," notes one RVer.
Electric options: Most parks offer electric hookups but limited full-service sites. A visitor to Apostle Islands Area Campground explains, "Very clean, good for all sort of rigs and hookup needs. Very friendly and caring hosts."
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds have onsite dump stations, requiring planning. "There is not a dump station but we have taken it up to the Red Cliff casino and they have a dump station there. There's a charge but it's minimal," advises Susan M.
