Camping spots near Custer, Wisconsin occupy transitional hardwood-pine forest terrain with elevations ranging from 1050-1150 feet. Summer temperatures average 78°F during peak camping season while forest density varies significantly between campgrounds. Most seasonal sites operate between mid-April and late October with water systems typically shut down after the first frost.
What to do
Lake activities: swimming and fishing: At Jordan Park, visitors can access secluded canoe-in sites that provide direct water access. A camper noted, "Quiet little campground, I was in one of the three canoe/walk in sights and they were right on the water. All three sights were separated from the rest of camp and are tent sites." Lake Emily Park offers more extensive water activities with a camper mentioning, "The water is still swimmable and it's great for kayaking."
Hiking and biking trails: Hartman Creek State Park Campground provides multiple trail options within walking distance of camping areas. A visitor shared, "There is ample hiking opportunities in the area, some you can walk to from the campground, some requires a small amount of driving." The park includes both wooded paths and paved trails suitable for various activities with one camper adding, "Enjoy bringing the family's bikes and love the single trail bike paths through the woods."
Kayaking and canoeing: Several waterways near Custer support paddling activities. One camper at Jordan Park mentioned the water is ideal for kayaking: "Pretty setting, nice little beach area to relax at or great water to kayak in." Another visitor commented that Jordan Park makes "a good start to a day long paddle down the little plover river."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Lake Emily Park offers spacious sites with varying levels of privacy. A camper noted, "There are a mix of sites that have a little more privacy, and others that are wide open which would be better for group setups." Many visitors appreciate the wooded settings with one mentioning, "Campground has large sites. Many shaded in woods, some open and sunny."
Beach access and swimming: Hartman Creek State Park earns positive reviews for its swimming areas. One visitor commented, "The lake was a smaller lake, but nice for swimming. They do a great job of keeping the beach and swimming area clean." At Jordan Park, visitors enjoy "a nice little beach area" for relaxing by the water.
Quiet atmosphere: S'Mores Campground receives consistent praise for its peaceful environment, with a visitor noting it was "very quiet campground" while another mentioned, "It was, however, very quiet and family friendly." At South Wood County Park, campers appreciate the "clean and green" setting that creates a relaxing atmosphere.
What you should know
Site spacing considerations: Campgrounds vary significantly in site spacing and privacy. At Jordan Park, a camper observed "some sites are very close together" which impacts privacy. Another noted that "the canoe camping site is cheaper and much more secluded with view of the lake."
Noise factors: Several campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation routes. At Lake Emily Park, a visitor warned about "an active train going through at night." Similarly, at Jordan Park, campers reported that "you could hear semis on the road very clearly during the evening."
Bathroom and shower facilities: South Wood County Park offers clean but basic facilities with a visitor noting, "Bathrooms are older, but clean. Be ready for a timed shower - 7 minutes on, and 5 minutes off, which can be very frustrating." Most campgrounds in the area maintain shower facilities from May through October.
Weather considerations: Hartman Creek State Park camping is affected by seasonal conditions. A visitor explained their site was "almost fully shaded under a mix of coniferous and deciduous trees" which helps during hot summer days. Sandy soil conditions exist at several campgrounds, impacting tent stability during rainy periods.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Vista Royale Campground offers extensive recreation options for children. One camper noted, "They have a man-made sandy pond with lots of inflatables and kayaks on it. Also a Pavillion and 'octo-ball' court." Another visitor appreciated that there's "lots of room for kids to bike and play while the parents enjoy the campground."
Beach and swimming suitability: Hartman Creek State Park provides family-friendly water access. A visitor described it as "a gorgeous family friendly campground" where "Hartman Creek is a nice small lake, with no wake." Families appreciate the rental options with one camper noting, "There is now a rental building available with kayaks, paddle boats, SUP, etc to rent."
Special events: Some campgrounds offer structured activities for families. Vista Royale hosts "many theme weekends throughout the season" according to visitors. S'Mores Campground provides additional entertainment with one family reporting, "The kids and I not only used the mining system by the office but we watched a movie by the playground area- it was amazing and free!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer electric service, but full hookups are limited. At Wild West Campground, RV sites include water and electric with 30-amp service. South Wood County Park provides higher capacity electrical options with "30-50 amp electrical. No sewer or water at sites but dump station and drinking water is available."
Site surface conditions: Campground surface types affect leveling and stability. South Wood County Park features varied site surfaces with a camper noting, "There are some sites that are not well defined, with grass pads, and some paved pads." At Jordan Park, most sites have natural surfaces that may present challenges during wet weather.
Maneuvering considerations: Site access varies between campgrounds. Vista Royale Campground features sites "in planted pine trees which is nice as it gives you some separation from neighbors." River's Edge Campground has "some tight spots for big campers" according to visitors, requiring careful navigation when parking larger units.
