B
Bill G.
Traveler
TravelerEagle Point Park
Beaver dam lake
Very hard to get level spot on the upper lake side sites I’m at site 21 I had a great time there was a band playing on the lake during the day
Best Campgrounds in Wisconsin
SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Wisconsin state parks offer diverse camping experiences, from lakeside sites to forested retreats. Established campgrounds like Willow River State Park near Hudson provide amenities for both tent and RV campers, while High Cliff State Park in Sherwood features cabin options for those seeking more comfort. Kohler-Andrae State Park along Lake Michigan combines traditional camping with glamping opportunities. Many campgrounds throughout the state include electric hookups, drinking water, showers, and reservable sites, with most offering year-round access.
State park camping requires vehicle admission stickers in addition to campsite fees, with reservations strongly recommended during summer months. Most campgrounds feature a mix of reservable and first-come, first-served sites. Accessibility varies considerably, with some parks offering paved roads suitable for larger RVs while others have more rustic conditions. Wisconsin's weather can impact camping experiences significantly, with summer humidity and occasional storms, followed by spectacular fall colors and crisp temperatures. Winter camping is available at many locations for cold-weather enthusiasts. "The bathrooms, showers and sites were some of the most clean I've been to, not to mention the landscape and variety of trails is very beautiful and well cared for," noted one visitor about Governor Dodge State Park.
Waterfront camping opportunities abound throughout Wisconsin, with several state parks situated on lakes, rivers, and even Lake Michigan. Devils Lake State Park receives high marks despite occasional crowding, while the campgrounds at Kettle Moraine State Forest offer more secluded experiences with hiking and water activities nearby. Campers consistently praise the well-maintained facilities at locations like Copper Falls State Park and Peninsula State Park. A recent review highlighted that "Dexter Campgrounds was a delight to stay at. There was a private bathroom/shower room that made the experience feel luxurious. It is right next to a beautiful river and lake." Wildlife viewing opportunities are common across Wisconsin's campgrounds, with many visitors reporting sightings of deer, raccoons, and various bird species.
Best Camping Sites in Wisconsin (1,056)
1. Willow River State Park Campground
63 ReviewsHudson, WIWebsite+1 (715) 386-5931$25 - $90 / night
"There is a newly filled lake after the reconstruction of the dam. This is a non motorized lake for paddling, swimming and fishing."
"Fun to play in the water, go behind the waterfall and a good hike up 200 steps to view the falls from above!"
2. Wisconsin Ridge Campground — Wyalusing State Park
53 ReviewsPrairie du Chien, WIWebsite$23 - $40 / night
"Located on the far western edge of Wisconsin this state park offers a little of everything - hiking trails connected to the camp grounds, boat access to the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers, overlook of"
"This is an amazing park on the Wisconsin/Iowa border, overlooking where the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers join. I usually try to get in at least 1 trip a year, if lucky enough 2-3."
3. Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit
52 ReviewsNorth Prairie, WIWebsite+1 (262) 594-6200$26 - $41 / night
"Red Trail, Paradise Trail,Rice Lake are all great hikes. Great views of Lake Ottawa. The close by town of Oconomowoc has a nice place to eat, Burkes Lakeside."
"Site was spacious but very close to your neighbors. Lots to do in the area. Bathrooms and showers were clean. The beach was not clean and very hard to walk on, very rocky."
4. High Cliff State Park Campground
49 ReviewsSherwood, WIWebsite+1 (920) 989-1106$25 - $50 / night
"This was my first time camping in a Wisconsin state park and I thought it was great! Our site backed up to a trail along the cliff which was awesome for a family that loves to hike."
"Another spacious Wisconsin State Park site. #2 is level and listed as full shade but we had enough sun to recharge our Jackery everyday. It helps that it was blue skies each day!"
5. Kohler-Andrae State Park
47 ReviewsOostburg, WIWebsite+1 (920) 451-4080$26 - $70 / night
"We were in route to visiting Green Bay Wisconsin and found this campground on Lake Michigan."
"Nice long stretch of soft sand beach and cool board walk hikes through sand dunes. The sites are pretty typical, nice, wooded, maybe a little squeezed together but over all not bad."
6. Quartzite Campground — Devils Lake State Park
47 ReviewsBaraboo, WIWebsite+1 (888) 947-2757$28 - $53 / night
"There is something for everyone at Devils Lake State Park."
"One of the best in Wisconsin. Great place for swimming and hiking."
7. Mauthe Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit
45 ReviewsCampbellsport, WIWebsite+1 (262) 626-2116$23 - $38 / night
"Mauthe Lake Campground is located in the Northern Kettle Moraine Forest in East/Centreal Wisconsin."
"Wonderful trail around the lake and a variety of different campsites. Plenty of space, very rural. Very wisconsin!"
8. Ice Age Campground — Devils Lake State Park
43 ReviewsBaraboo, WIWebsite+1 (608) 356-8301$28 - $53 / night
"Much to do at Devil's Lake and surrounding area. features multiple campgrounds and multiple areas for swimming. A beach at the North and South of the lake."
"It is up and away from the rest of the park a bit and typically almost every site has full shade. This is important in the summer months."
9. Copper Falls State Park Campground
37 ReviewsMellen, WIWebsite+1 (715) 274-5123$25 - $90 / night
"If your from Wisconsin this sits at the very north of the State. If your looking for areas to visit while camping here you may have a little bit of a drive."
"Wow, Copper Falls has quickly jumped to my number one state park experience in Wisconsin. I’ve lived in Wisconsin my whole life and did not expect such beauty in this northern part of the state."
10. Perrot State Park Campground
37 ReviewsTrempealeau, WIWebsite+1 (608) 534-6409$18 - $110 / night
"Located among driftless Wisconsin, Perrot SP is a great place to camp. The highlight of this park are the hiking trails created by the CCC."
"Can't utilize the water unless you have a boat, kayak, etc but great campsites and some of my favorite hiking in Wisconsin. Beautiful and spacious views."
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Recent Reviews in Wisconsin
3908 Reviews of 1056 Wisconsin Campgrounds
Payden W.
ScoutBirch Grove Campground
Birch Grove Campsite
Very nice campground, only downside is that it has a public boat launch so it gets kinda busy during the day near the lake.
Kicking K R.ScoutLucius Woods County Park
Beautiful campground
Sites are large but can see your neighbors. Beatiful beach with playground away from the campground.
- BBill G.Traveler
Eagle Point Park
Lots of trees hard to find a level spot
Pay shower bathroom cleanish
- rrichard D.
GuideBirch Grove Campground
Wonderful little National Forest service campground
This is my first stay at Birch Grove Campground. It’s a primative campground right between Twin lakes.
Some sites are reservable and some are first-come-first-serve. And, some alternate between FCFS and reservable on different days.
Sites near the entrance tend to have fewer trees and less shade than sites near the end of the road which are more wooded. I saw a fifth-wheel that fit comfortably in a site near the end.
Site 5 seems to be the only pull through. They call it a double site and it costs $30 instead of the usual $15. Site 7 is also a double but not a pull through.
Saw several people fishing in the lakes but don’t know much else about the fishing.
Overall, this place is a gem but the word is out because there were a lot of people here for a Thursday.
Thresa F.ScoutApple Creek Campground
Sub-par campground
This is not a campground, it is an extended stay facility. No sewer hookups, on upper level of camping, no dump station. Air smells like the feedlot just east of the highway.
No tree limbs cleared for tall rigs, and dead limbs sticking out near roadside remain uncleared, to hit side of your rig. Lower campground is scary to drive through! Kids roaming and screaming, broke down cars......
Beware! Not a pleasant place to get in/out or exist.
Dawn S.ScoutMcMullen County Park
Skip the tourist trap and stay here
The camp hosts are kind and friendly. The whole vibe of this llace is peace and quiet. The sites are huge with enough space and trees to be private. Deer came into our site both days. We liked it so nice, we stayed twice. Treat yourself.
- AAnna K.Traveler
Quartz Lake
First time dispersed camping
After scouting different campsites around this area I was really hoping to get to stay here and when we went to set up the spot was available and I was beyond ecstatic. This was a gorgeous campsite with an easy walk from the car to the site. Large area for tent and living space. Fire pit with 2 grill tops to put over the fire. Picnic table as well which was perfectly placed to face the lake. Spot also has a thunderbox for doing your business so that was helpful. The lake access as well directly from the site was awesome and allowed us to keep our canoe there and go out fishing on a private lake. I did not want to leave this place and I will absolutely be back to either this spot or similar spots near
Sally T.GuideBirch Grove Campground
Quiet secluded campground
A lot of people reserve but we could not figure out what they do. Small campground. Small lake. Quiet but about 12 miles off Hwy 13.
Guide to Wisconsin
Camping in Wisconsin offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there's something for everyone in the Badger State.
What to do
- Hiking and Nature Walks: Many campgrounds, like Buckhorn State Park Campground, have great trails. One visitor mentioned, “Plenty of hiking, canoeing, and kayaking opportunities inside the park.”
- Fishing and Water Activities: Campgrounds near lakes, such as Coon Fork Campground, are perfect for fishing. A reviewer noted, “Nice beaches and walking trails throughout!!”
- Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One camper at Hartman Creek State Park Campground shared, “The beauty of this trail is amazing!”
What campers like
- Spacious Campsites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites. A review from Big Eau Pleine Park Campground said, “Sites were large and private.”
- Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds have well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Council Grounds State Park Campground mentioned, “Decent bathrooms. Nice little beach area.”
- Friendly Atmosphere: Campers often feel welcomed. One reviewer at Pigeon Creek Campground stated, “Great overall space! New jungle gym for the kids.”
What you should know
- Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. A camper at Buckhorn State Park Campground warned, “The only reason I gave this 4/5 stars is because the mosquitoes!!!”
- Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy. A visitor at Jordan Park noted, “They had leaf blowers going at 7 am and came right next to our tents.”
- Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A review for Roche A Cri State Park Campground mentioned, “Nothing too fancy, but it is worth the trip!”
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. One camper at Fremont RV Campground said, “Plenty of activities for the kids, nice staff, and friendly campers.”
- Pack for Bugs: Bring bug spray to keep the mosquitoes at bay. A family at Pigeon Creek Campground mentioned, “Bugs were sometimes bad but it was June in the woods in Wisconsin.”
- Plan for Quiet Time: Some campgrounds can be loud, so have a backup plan for quiet activities. A visitor at Council Grounds State Park Campground shared, “Quiet. Sites were spaced nicely.”
Tips from RVers
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Hartman Creek State Park Campground noted, “If you want to be surrounded by hammock-able trees, I suggest sites 94-99.”
- Look for Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric sites. A camper at Petenwell Park mentioned, “They also have put in new bathrooms and shower houses around their campground.”
- Plan for Dump Stations: Not all campgrounds have sewer hookups. A visitor at Coon Fork Campground said, “Some loops better suited for tents, some for large RVs.”
Camping in Wisconsin is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but being prepared can make all the difference!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best tent camping locations in Wisconsin?
What are the best tent camping locations in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin offers exceptional tent camping experiences, particularly at Newport State Park Campground with its hike-in sites that combine outdoor adventure with nearby attractions like wine tastings and drive-in theaters. For a secluded experience, Harrington Beach State Park Campground provides private, wooded sites with clean facilities and easy access to Lake Michigan. Other excellent tent camping options include Wyalusing State Park with its scenic river views, and Sailor Lake NF Campground in the national forest with dedicated waterside tent sites. For those seeking a more rustic experience, the walk-in sites at Kettle Moraine State Forest provide a genuine woodland immersion with basic amenities.
Where can I find campgrounds with cabins in northern Wisconsin?
Where can I find campgrounds with cabins in northern Wisconsin?
Northern Wisconsin offers several cabin options for campers. Lake of the Pines Campground in Flambeau River State Forest provides a rustic cabin experience in a remote, wooded setting near a beautiful lake. North Trout Lake Campground in the Northern Highland State Forest also offers cabin accommodations with excellent lake access. Several private campgrounds in the Minocqua and Eagle River areas provide more amenity-rich cabin options with electricity and running water. Many northern Wisconsin cabins require advance reservations, especially during peak summer months, and typically range from rustic one-room shelters to fully-equipped cabins with kitchenettes and multiple bedrooms.
What are the best family-friendly campgrounds in Wisconsin?
What are the best family-friendly campgrounds in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin boasts numerous family-friendly campgrounds with amenities perfect for children. Wyalusing State Park Campground offers a complete package with hiking trails, river access, playgrounds, and educational opportunities where the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers meet. Rocky Arbor State Park Campground provides a quiet retreat close to Wisconsin Dells attractions while escaping the tourist crowds. Devil's Lake State Park features swimming beaches, gentle hiking trails, and interpretive programs ideal for children. Kohler-Andrae State Park offers dune exploration and Lake Michigan swimming. Many family-friendly campgrounds in Wisconsin include modern bathrooms with showers, accessible playgrounds, ranger-led programs, and spacious sites that accommodate multiple tents, making them perfect for families with children of all ages.
How much does camping typically cost in Wisconsin?
How much does camping typically cost in Wisconsin?
Camping costs in Wisconsin vary based on location, amenities, and residency status. State parks like New Glarus State Park Campground charge approximately $15-30 per night for Wisconsin residents and slightly more for non-residents, plus a required vehicle admission sticker ($8-11 daily or $28-38 annual). County parks such as Mendota County Park typically range from $15-25 per night. Private campgrounds like Fox Hill RV Park have higher rates, often $30-50 for tent sites and $40-70 for full hookup RV sites. National Forest campgrounds offer more affordable options, typically $15-20 per night. Most reservable sites also include a $7.75-10 reservation fee. Discounts are often available for seniors and disabled visitors at public campgrounds.
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