Camping sites near Drummond, Wisconsin place visitors within the pine-dominated hills of Bayfield County, at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,400 feet. The area receives approximately 32 inches of rainfall annually, creating a lush forest environment with numerous small lakes and streams. Winter temperatures can drop to -30°F, while summer nights typically cool to the low 50s even after warm days.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Drummond area provides access to multiple fishing lakes with varying species. At Namekagon Lake Campground, anglers can access both the lake and nearby river. "Boat Landing is great, boats can be pulled up on shore and left there safely. Fun sandbar to party on," notes camper Cathy J.
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds offer swimming options during summer months. Two Lakes Campground provides "3 swimming beaches" according to Peggy M., who adds "North Country Trail hiking trail cuts through the park and a 1 mile hike around Bass Lake would be perfect for kids."
ATV/UTV trail access: The region contains extensive off-road vehicle trails connecting multiple camping areas. Drummond Lake Campground accommodates this popular activity with "spacious sites with grass and trees" and is "ATV/UTV Friendly!" according to Tonya B.
What campers like
Lake views: Many campsites provide direct water access. At Perch Lake Recreation Area, "The sites are relatively private, some have little pathways connecting them. Our site was flat but gravel. Had direct access to the water, which made this site perfect for Kayaking," reports Hayli B.
Privacy between sites: Forest settings create natural separation at most campgrounds. At Top O' the Morn Resort & Campground, visitors appreciate that "The site was so spacious and treed for hammocks or tents or trailers," according to Angie G.
Wildlife viewing: Campers frequently mention wildlife encounters. One visitor to Perch Lake noted, "When it's quiet, it's QUIET. Loons on the lake can be quite entertaining except at 3:00 AM," while another mentioned "the sounds of loons in the AM and evening."
What you should know
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have issues with their water systems. At Two Lakes, a camper observed "potable water was brown but clear," while at Namekagon there is "potable water at the campground (per note at spigot water is safe to drink but will leave rust residue)."
Seasonal insect activity: Mosquitoes remain a significant consideration. Peggy M. reported at Two Lakes in late May: "No ticks or mosquitos today!" but conditions change rapidly, with Makayla B. noting at another site that "mosquitoes were out in number."
Cell service inconsistency: Network coverage varies significantly. Copper Falls State Park Campground has "very spotty cell service" according to one reviewer, while at Perch Lake a camper noted "No T-mobile cell service within 20 minutes."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer specific amenities for children. Two Lakes provides "a 1 mile hike around Bass Lake would be perfect for kids" and multiple swimming beaches, making it suitable for families with varied interests.
Playground access: Some sites include dedicated play areas. Drummond Lake Campground is "located next to the town park, library, and visitor center" according to Makayla B., providing additional entertainment options for children.
Educational opportunities: Delta Lake County Park offers nature observation opportunities with "great site spacing" and proximity to wildlife viewing areas, though one camper warned about "tons of bugs as some of the sites are next to 'swampy' areas."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain. At Wanoka Lake Campground, a reviewer noted "Some sites are pull through. A few are level, but most would be difficult for us to get level enough to be comfortable."
Access limitations: Forest roads can present challenges for larger vehicles. At Hayward KOA, "there are a lot of trees that make it very challenging for larger rigs. There are a handful of sites that would be easy to access, I recommend calling first," advises Sheila H., who has a 43-foot fifth wheel.
Hookup availability: Electric options are limited at most forest service sites. Drummond Lake Campground offers electric hookups but many surrounding campgrounds don't. At Perch Lake, Hayli B. notes there are "pit toilets, which were clean and maintained" but no showers, requiring campers to "drive a while to find some."
