Best Campgrounds near Cornucopia, WI

The northern Wisconsin shoreline near Cornucopia features numerous Lake Superior-focused camping options, with sites ranging from lakeside to forested settings. Herbster Campground, located 7 miles from Cornucopia, offers waterfront camping with recently added shower facilities and dishwashing stations. Little Sand Bay Recreation Area sits strategically between Cornucopia and Bayfield, providing access to the scenic byway and serving as a launch point for Apostle Islands adventures. Campgrounds in this region typically accommodate both tent and RV camping, with many offering electric hookups, drinking water, and basic amenities. The area's proximity to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore makes it popular for paddlers and boaters seeking island exploration opportunities.

Most campgrounds in the Lake Superior region operate seasonally from May through October, with limited services available during shoulder seasons. According to camper Kelley P., "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." Reservations are strongly recommended during summer months, particularly for waterfront sites. Wisconsin state parks and county facilities in the area charge different rates for residents versus non-residents, with additional vehicle entry fees often applying. Mosquitoes can be active in summer months, requiring repellent. Cell service varies throughout the region, with Verizon reported as reliable at Dalrymple Park but spotty in more remote locations. Weather conditions can change rapidly along Lake Superior, with cool temperatures persisting even during summer.

Lakefront sites consistently receive the highest ratings from visitors, though they often lack privacy. One camper noted that Herbster Campground is "right across from the lakeshore but everyone is right next to each other. It reminds me of a parking lot." For those seeking more seclusion, walk-in sites at state parks like Copper Falls offer greater separation and quieter surroundings. The camping experience in this region extends beyond the immediate shoreline, with nearby attractions including waterfalls, hiking trails, and fishing opportunities. Visitors frequently mention spectacular Lake Superior sunsets as a highlight of camping in the area. Supply options are limited in Cornucopia itself, with most campers advised to bring provisions or make the drive to larger towns like Bayfield for groceries and camping supplies.

Best Camping Sites Near Cornucopia, Wisconsin (126)

    1. Herbster Campground

    17 Reviews
    Port Wing, WI
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 774-3790

    $17 - $30 / night

    "If your looking for a place to camp on the shore of Lake Superior, then this is your place. Nothing beats the sunsets! They recently have gotten showers and a place to wash dishes."

    "By late August, direct views of lake is obscured by beach grass but still just as delightful. Sites were close but our neighbors never showed so we lucked out."

    2. Apostle Islands Area RV park and Camping

    23 Reviews
    Bayfield, WI
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 779-3397

    $30 / night

    "Apostle Islands is part of a 21 islands chain at the northern tip of Wisconsin, on Lake Superior. On the mainland, the Lakeshore Trail weaves past cliffs and sea caves."

    "We liked the easy drive through sites with full hookup.  The campsites were tiered into the hill.  This helped sound proof the campsites. "

    3. Gooseberry Falls State Park Campground

    67 Reviews
    Beaver Bay, MN
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (218) 595-7100

    "Well-spaced, secluded sites with convenient access to restrooms, water access, and hiking trails Steps away from the magnificent lake."

    "Stopped at Gooseberry on our way up the coast of Lake Superior on a long weekend."

    4. Dalrymple Park and Campground

    18 Reviews
    Bayfield, WI
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 779-5712

    $30 / night

    "Oh thank goodness, we camped out at Dalrymple Park and Campground in Bayfield, WI as supposed to our original reservation at a boring campground in Cornucopia, WI."

    "There are also some primitive tent walk-up sites. Nice campground, $30/night, can pay online when you arrive. Good cell reception. Most, if not all, sites have 30 and 20 amp service."

    5. Split Rock Lighthouse State Park Campground

    70 Reviews
    Beaver Bay, MN
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (218) 595-7625

    "There are plenty of trees to cool things down and the lake is in sight of all parts of the campground. Trees for hammocks and fire pit for s'mores."

    "Even though it was close to the lot and there weren't really leaves on the trees anymore to offer privacy, the park was quiet and we only heard people when they would walk directly past our campsite."

    6. Little Sand Bay Recreation Area

    9 Reviews
    Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, WI
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 779-5233

    "this was a great little campground with amazing views of Lake Superior. It sits right in between Cornucopia and Bayfield so you have access to a lot of the scenic byway."

    "Tent “lakeside” site is an open court yard setting which is a little strange. All sites can face The lake. Try and avoid the other tent sites as they are behind fish house in the woods."

    7. Big Bay State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    La Pointe, WI
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 747-6425

    "Late spring Wisconsin weather made its presence felt, but we were undeterred. Its hard to be disappointed when faced with the spectacular views of the Apostle Islands."

    "Small but has some decent trails. Lovely to walk by the waters edge and skip rocks."

    8. Memorial Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Washburn, WI
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 373-6160

    "The campground was full when we pulled in at 6 pm but the hosts let us stay in an overflow area, right next to the lake. Lots of small rvs and tents, which we prefer to the big rv parks."

    "Right on the lake. Great place to stop and tour the towns close by. Mostly closed mid-week, but some brew houses and restaurants open."

    9. West End Thompson City Park

    9 Reviews
    Washburn, WI
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 373-6160

    "Self registration is nice and love being on the lake and walking distance to town."

    "Another great little “city” campground right on Lake Superior. This is a first come first serve campground- no reservations."

    10. Apostle Islands Area Campground

    5 Reviews
    Bayfield, WI
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 779-5524

    $25 - $35 / night

    "Great campground with swimming hole & great access to Bayside for island ferry’s! Complaints: Park is located on the side of a hill—Spots are small but level, roads are all at a slope."

    "Location is great if you're looking to do some exploring. Was very quiet even though it was close to Labor Day weekend, and for the size of the campground."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 126 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Cornucopia, WI

824 Reviews of 126 Cornucopia Campgrounds


  • Di B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Lamb's Resort

    Lake Superior Gem

    Beautiful location on the shore of Lake Superior. Clean restrooms and showers. Friendly hosts. Highly recommend.

  • J
    Oct. 2, 2025

    Carrol Truck Trail

    Wonderful Spot

    Hands down the best spot i have ever camped at, especially here in the midwest. someone who camped here before me left it a bit messy, but other than that it was amazing.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Castle Danger

    Awesome extremely private and primitive camping

    DO NOT COME HERE UNLESS YOU HAVE A HIGH CLEARANCE 4x4. The “road” up to the campsite is basically a jeep trail. But if you can get to it I recommend taking the first right if you have a pickup truck or going immediately left if you have anything else. The spot on top of the hill is a great spot.

  • Lindsey R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Dalrymple Park and Campground

    Lovely spot

    Lakeside sites set above lakeshore. No lake access but great views. All seems to have electric. Vault toilets and city water. Sites 24,25 & 26 best views. 30 sits above them all across from toilets also with a fab view. Campground manager is a lovely woman who also manges the towns parking lots. At $30 a night it's well worth it! Just outside the little charming town if Belfield with ferry to Madaline Island and the Apostle Island tours.

  • TexasRed (.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    State Land Lax Lake Area - Dispersed Camping

    Nice quiet spot

    Nice secluded spot near many cool attractions but a few miles off the beaten path so it’s a lot less busy. The dirt road in was fine, the driveway was overgrown and the clearing has lots of rocks and vegetation so glad I checked it out in the daytime. I left and came back to find some other Dryters who were really cool and let me stay next to them. Had a fun night by the fire talking with the couple and looking at the stars. Overall very cool spot.

  • cThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Kreher RV Park

    I would definitely camp hear again

    Very nice campground host. New showers and bathrooms

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    FlowMama Trail Head Dispersed

    Free parking, no water, no gray dump, no trash.

    This is the trailhead for a very beautiful mountain biking trail and the roads that lead up to this area are incredibly gorgeous especially in the fall. The red building in the pictures is an emergency cabin. You can go in it and look around if you want. It's not at the trailhead, it's about 10 minutes from it on your way in.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Penmarallter Campsite

    Nice campground close to Two Harbors

    The campground owner/hosts were very friendly and helpful during our five night stay. Two Harbors is a good provisioning and jumping off point for exploring the North Shore area south of Grand Marais. Some shade but mostly sunny pull through camp sites worked well in the cool Minnesota evenings. You can save $5 a night if you only need 30-Amp electric and water.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Sullivan Lake Campground

    Wilderness Campground

    This is a campground for small campers only. My 16 foot travel trailer was about the limit for size. Very little access to the lake and river. Overall, this is a primitive site with pit toilets and a pump jack for water.


Guide to Cornucopia

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds in Cornucopia, WI?

The Cornucopia area offers several excellent camping options. Little Sand Bay Recreation Area is highly rated, situated between Cornucopia and Bayfield with stunning Lake Superior views and access to the scenic byway. Herbster Campground is another fantastic choice, offering waterfront tent sites with breathtaking sunsets over Lake Superior. For those willing to venture slightly further, campgrounds in the surrounding region include Apostle Islands Area RV Park, Memorial Park near Washburn, and various options in Bayfield. These campgrounds provide a perfect base for exploring the natural beauty of the Apostle Islands and Lake Superior shoreline while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of Wisconsin's northernmost reaches.

What amenities are available at Cornucopia campgrounds?

Campgrounds around Cornucopia offer varying levels of amenities. Copper Falls State Park Campground provides well-maintained facilities with hiking trails, spectacular waterfall views, and ADA access. Some sites include basic amenities like vault toilets and water access. Copper Range offers a more rustic experience with large, well-spaced sites adjacent to the Brule River, featuring basic latrines and communal water sources but no hookups. Many campgrounds in the area focus on natural beauty rather than luxury amenities, so expect primarily rustic facilities. Some parks offer showers and dish-washing stations, while others maintain a more primitive camping experience. Check with specific campgrounds for reservation requirements, as availability systems vary throughout the region.

Is beach access available from Cornucopia camping areas?

Yes, beach access is a highlight of camping near Cornucopia. Apostle Islands Area RV Park and Camping offers convenient access to Lake Superior's shoreline. Chequamegon National Forest Day Lake Campground provides beautiful lakefront settings with swimming opportunities, though in a non-motorized boat environment. Many campgrounds in the region feature direct lake access, making them perfect for swimming, kayaking, and enjoying Lake Superior's sandy beaches. The Cornucopia area is known for its pristine shoreline and spectacular water views, with several campgrounds offering sites within walking distance of beaches. For the best beach camping experience, consider waterfront sites that offer both convenient access and stunning sunrise or sunset views over Lake Superior.