Northeastern Wisconsin's camping options surrounding De Pere are situated in the gently rolling terrain of the Lake Michigan basin, with elevations ranging from 580 to 800 feet above sea level. Most rv sites near De Pere, Wisconsin operate seasonally from April through October due to the region's cold winters, with average summer temperatures reaching 78-82°F. Campsites in this area typically feature grass or gravel surfaces rather than paved pads.
What to do
Hiking at Potawatomi State Park: Access the park directly from Tranquil Timbers Camping Resort in Sturgeon Bay. "We were able to ride bike out of campground and directly only to state park trail," notes one camper. The park features several miles of wooded trails with elevation changes along the Niagara Escarpment.
Fishing at local ponds: Apple Creek Campground offers a stocked fishing pond for catch and release fishing. "Well stocked fishing pond for catch and release," mentions one visitor who stayed at the campground, adding it provided a peaceful experience despite limited activities.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds maintain pools for summer recreation when lake temperatures remain cool. At Kewaunee RV & Campground, visitors appreciate "swimming pool, volleyball, game area, large park like setting to walk your dogs" with convenient access to Lake Michigan just minutes away.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Bay Shore Park offers generous campsite dimensions with good separation. "The tent sites are a great size and semi private (you can have a conversation and not be heard at other sites)," reports a camper who appreciated the layout. Sites include additional parking areas across from them.
Family-friendly amenities: Numerous campgrounds cater to families with playgrounds and recreation areas. One Bay Shore Park visitor noted, "This is a great spot for kids..although there isn't swimming there are 2 playgrounds and lots of space to play frisbee or run around."
Sunset views: Waterfront camping at various locations provides evening scenery. A Bay Shore visitor mentioned the campground sits "on the Niagara escarpment" with "nice sunset views" despite the rocky beach area. Many sites feature direct or nearby water access for scenic views.
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Most RV parks and campgrounds near De Pere operate from April/May through October, with limited or no winter camping available. Plymouth Rock Camping Resort runs from "April 13 to October 15," while Kewaunee RV & Campground operates "May 1 - Oct 1."
Site variations: Campground terrain ranges from open fields to wooded areas. A Kewaunee RV visitor noted "The sites are open but enough space for privacy as well, if you do the end sites. The middle sites are pretty open so there isn't a ton of room for privacy."
Weather considerations: Spring rains can affect camping conditions at some locations. At Bay Shore Park, one camper observed the "ground was a sandy-dirt, which wasn't too bad at first, but after an overnight rain it was a muddy mess."
Tips for camping with families
Recreational options: Fremont RV Campground provides organized activities for children. "Great waterfront camping. Great outdoor waterpark. Fun dance for kids on Saturday night," shares a visitor who found multiple entertainment options.
Swimming facilities: Pools provide safer alternatives to lake swimming for children. At Tranquil Timbers, a visitor appreciated "a pool for kids both older and small" and noted "it was very peaceful and quiet."
Playground access: Many campgrounds maintain playground equipment. Bay Shore Park receives praise for family-friendliness, with reviews noting multiple play areas and open spaces for activities, making it ideal for children who need to burn energy.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: At some parks, utility connections may be inconveniently placed. One Bay Shore Park visitor reported "The electric and water hookups were on opposite sides of the site, and we had to keep adjusting the travel trailer to get both to actually hook up."
Economical options: Village Inn on the Lake Hotel and RV Park offers unique amenities at reasonable rates. A visitor appreciated access to "Indoor Saltwater Pool and Hot Tub" and "Pool Restrooms with showers available for Campers" as part of the stay.
Dump station availability: Not all parks provide this service. At Countryside Motel & RV Sites, a visitor warned about limitations: "Water and electric only. I thought they had to have a dump station by law to be an rv place. They said in 2018 they were working on it."
