Eau Claire area campgrounds offer accessible water recreation and dense forest camping. Both state and private campgrounds provide access to the Chippewa River watershed. Seasonal considerations affect campsite availability, with May through October being the primary camping months for most facilities.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing access points: Brunet Island State Park Campground features multiple water entry options for paddlers. "Most of the sites have canoe or kayak access to the water, which can easily be followed out to the river," explains Sandy C. Some visitors use their sites as launching points: "Loved that it was tucked in the back of the camping area and was able to put my canoe in the water at my spot," says Christina H.
Hiking through varied terrain: At Coon Fork Campground, trails connect to a small, motor-free lake. "Coon Fork is a county campground with a nice lake with two beaches and a boat landing, but only non-motorized crafts allowed," notes debe K. Another visitor adds, "There was plenty of area nearby to hike or go swimming and there was a cool water run off that you can walk down the side of."
Fishing opportunities: Fish from designated areas at several campgrounds. "There are multiple fishing piers at this location, one at the South Campground and one at the north Campground, and there is a lot of good fishing in the area," according to Jay W. Shore fishing access points are available at most sites.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Pine Harbor Campground receives consistent praise for cleanliness. "Nice bathroom and showers if you need them," says Cody S. Another visitor stated, "Asked to be near the facilities and they did not disappoint. Guy at the desk had some good recommendations for dinner and was very friendly and helpful."
Natural creek features: O'Neil Creek Campground offers a unique water feature beyond standard swimming areas. "The natural creek that doubles as a lazy river is great," writes Darren L. Another camper added, "Really enjoyed the experience! It's beautiful and good mix of quiet and lots of activities. Can tube down the creek, very shallow so even littles can do it too."
Privacy between sites: Campers frequently mention the generous spacing at several locations. "The sites are very generous with a lot of green between spaces. You are not on top of your neighbor," reports Amy G. about Coon Fork Campground. Similarly, at Pine Harbor, a visitor noted, "Site was a nice size, we have a smaller pull behind."
What you should know
Seasonal insect considerations: Wisconsin's wooded campgrounds experience heavy mosquito activity in summer months. "Mosquitoes, gnats, and bugs galore," warns one camper. Another recommends, "The trails are loaded with mosquitoes (given the location and amount of water)."
Beach conditions vary: Water access points aren't uniform across campgrounds. "The beach is not very clean and there are ground bees on the trail," reports Delanie F. At Brunet Island State Park Campground, "One downside would be the swimming beach, which was very rocky."
Noise levels: Campers report varying noise conditions. "Lots of boat noise from the lake and plane noise from a nearby airport. Close to Chippewa Falls for restaurants and stores. A great family destination, not so great for a peaceful couples weekend," says Donella L.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly water features: Stoney Creek RV Resort offers multiple water recreation options. "There is a pool, skate park, sand volleyball, pond and concessions. The roads were perfect for our kids bikes," reports Erica H. Another family mentioned, "This place is great for group camping- we had a mix of cabins and campers and they were able to accommodate all of us."
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain play equipment. "Great for kids! Way more fun later in the summer so you can go swimming. Although, children don't seem to notice cold water anyway!" says Hannah E. Another campground offers "a large reservable shelter and field for playing sports on."
Family-specific amenities: Campground facilities often cater to younger campers. "There are so many different planned activities for both the children and the adults to participate in," notes Jen A. At Harstad Park, one camper mentioned the "great shallow creek for kids to explore."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions and hookup options: Several campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles. "Camping is not available during events so check the Fairgrounds calendar. Being on the campground and amidst the buildings and tents makes for an interesting camping experience," notes Carol W. about Fair Hill County Campground.
Reservation considerations: Peak season demands advance planning. "The campground has a RV focused and a tent focused camping loops," explains one camper. At Eagle Ridge Campground, one visitor mentioned it was the "Only campground that had open availability at the last minute."
Dump station and water access: Most established campgrounds offer sanitation facilities. "The sites are huge with plenty of room between you and your neighbors. You can rent a golf cart to get around the campground," according to Jen A. at Stoney Creek RV Resort.
