Cabin camping near De Pere, Wisconsin offers access to Lake Michigan shorelines, dense forests, and waterfront recreation on both Lake Winnebago and Green Bay. The area features sandy beaches along Lake Michigan coastlines and hardwood forests within state parks and natural areas. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from December through February, limiting cabin availability during colder months.
What to do
Hiking the Niagara Escarpment: High Cliff State Park Campground provides access to unique geological features with limestone cliffs formed millions of years ago. "My favorite thing about this park and campground is the hiking. Part of the Niagra escarpment there are plenty of cliffs and fun views along the trails," notes Racheal M. Multiple trails offer various difficulty levels including the challenging Lime Kiln Trail.
Beach activities: Point Beach State Forest offers sand-ridged beaches along Lake Michigan, perfect for swimming during summer months. "The beaches are very clean and great for walking at different points in the day," reports Terry L. The park features a historic lighthouse viewable from the outside.
Family fishing: Apple Creek Campground maintains a stocked pond ideal for beginners. "Nice pool, friendly staff. Well stocked fishing pond for catch and release," explains Lynn N. No fishing license required for the stocked pond, making it accessible for younger children.
Winter camping options: Unlike seasonal facilities, High Cliff State Park remains open year-round with heated cabin facilities. "Great spot, lots of trails, and the bathrooms were clean. Only gripe is the uncertain schedule they have for turning on water for the season. First week or two of may is a safe bet, but no promises," advises Brandl B.
What campers like
Proximity to attractions: Door County KOA Holiday provides cabin accommodations approximately 40 miles from De Pere with convenient access to Door County attractions. "We have gone with groups as well as with just our small 3 person family. We have stayed in a field site as well as wooded sites. The field sites are good for groups and going with friends," explains Andrew C.
Clean facilities: Hickory Oaks Campground maintains well-kept shower facilities and bathrooms. "Sites were clean. The staff were very friendly, respectful and kind. The scenery is beautiful," reports Matthew H. The campground operates from May through November with winter closure.
Peaceful atmosphere: Tranquil Timbers in Sturgeon Bay offers a quiet environment with basic cabin amenities. "It's very peaceful and quiet. I felt we got a lot of rest at night because it was so quiet you could hear a pin drop most nights," shares Katie K. The location connects directly to state park trails for nature access.
Water recreation: Cabins near Kewaunee provide swimming options during summer months. "This site is beautifully maintained with swimming pool, volley ball, game area, large park like setting to walk your dogs," notes Susan M. about Kewaunee RV & Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities require advance bookings, particularly between June and August. Book 3-6 months ahead for summer weekends at popular locations.
Site privacy varies: Potawatomi State Park cabins offer different levels of seclusion. "The sites were a little less secluded than we expected but weren't on top of each other by any means," explains Erin P. Sites with more vegetation typically provide better privacy.
Seasonal availability: Many cabin facilities close during winter months. "Campground will be closed until May 24, 2024 for maintenance on the waterlines," reports Laura M. regarding Point Beach State Forest.
Kitchen facilities: Most cabins provide minimal cooking equipment. Visitors should bring cookware suitable for outdoor cooking over fire rings or grills. Some locations offer refrigerators while others have no kitchen amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Water features for children: Tranquil Timbers offers family-friendly amenities beyond basic cabins. "It has a pool for kids both older and small. I loved that they have a social gathering spot with movies and djs. The pool is small but clean they have a nice 1 foot deep separate pool for the little kids," describes Heather H.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Hickory Oaks provides natural encounters near cabin sites. "We saw so much wildlife! Chipmunks, ducks, a great horned owl, and countless birds to name a few," shares Hannah H.
Recreational options: Consider locations with multiple activities beyond hiking. "Great place to explore with the fam. Hike the trails to see pieces of Wisconsin history throughout. Some trails on the Ridgeline offer vista views and moderate inclines that add to the adventure. There's plenty to do from fishing to hiking mountain biking lookout towers and parks," explains Sam F. about High Cliff State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When booking cabins at Apple Creek, request locations away from common areas for more privacy. "We stayed 6 nights in our 36 fr motor home with tow. Even though we were on a hill the campsight was level. We had plenty of room for rv and tow. We liked being on the hill away from the pool ect," advises Robert O.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some locations. "What wasn't so great was the proximity to the interstate, unfortunately, there is no changing that," notes Scott D. about Apple Creek Campground. Request sites furthest from roadways when making reservations.
