Council Grounds State Park offers primitive glamping sites within a wooded setting 25 miles northwest of Gleason, Wisconsin. Sites provide direct access to both Alexander Lake and the Wisconsin River with two distinct beach areas for swimming. The forested campground maintains 52 sites across several loops with varying terrain and privacy levels.
What to do
Hike through dense forest trails: Council Grounds State Park features several interconnected trails that wind through tall pine forests. These paths offer varying difficulty levels with some trails connecting directly to the beach areas. As visitor Joel N. notes, "There are 2 beaches, trails, beautiful wooded sites, and the lakes water is as clear as advertised."
Kayak on multiple connected lakes: Glamping close to Gleason allows for paddling experiences across several interconnected waterways. Clear Lake Campground in the Northern Highland State Forest provides access to a chain of lakes with minimal motorized traffic. One camper mentions, "The lake is one of the cleanest I've ever been on. Campsites are reasonably far from each other for privacy. Two swimming beaches are within a 2 minute walk from all campsites."
Play beach volleyball: Sara Park provides sand volleyball courts adjacent to their waterfront glamping sites. The park includes "two sand volleyball courts, boat launch, and park across the dead end road," according to one reviewer. The $30 daily fee includes electricity and water access at all sites.
What campers like
Quiet, wooded settings: Cunard Lake Campground was officially designated as a "Quiet" campground in 2019, prohibiting generators, radios, TVs and other noise-producing devices. A recent visitor explained, "the quieter experience there has become a favorite of many who appreciate the peaceful atmosphere. It is an older, more rustic property - and could use some updates (ie new toilets), but if you're looking for that serene Northwoods experience - Go!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Glamping sites near Gleason provide excellent wildlife observation chances, especially around water features. At Birkensee Campground, a camper reported, "We had a fun time fishing too! We even got to see some otters in the pond." The campground includes a small on-site bar with pool tables and games.
Spacious group sites: Several luxury glamping locations accommodate larger groups with dedicated facilities. Amanda G. described Council Grounds: "Group sites A and B each have concrete pads for 3 campers and TONS of space to spread out and/or set up tents. Non-flush toilets in between the two sites on opposite side of the campsites. Each have electric for each pad, and there is water that can be pumped on each group site."
What you should know
Reservation timing requirements: Popular glamping destinations near Gleason require advance planning. At Clear Lake Campground, a visitor advised, "You will need to reserve your site 11 months in advance because it fills up fast. If you have a lot of people there are no group sites but there are some double sites that work great."
Campground noise levels: Train tracks run near several glamping areas that might affect light sleepers. At Sara Park, a camper warned, "Trains do go by at different times of the day. Heard one at 2:30 this morning." The campground provides free showers despite its vault toilet facilities.
Beach congestion patterns: Public beaches at some glamping locations experience heavy usage during peak times. According to Matthew K., "It is a popular campground so it can be busy and hectic but is nice for families. A lot of locals come to the swimming beach on the weekends." Some premium glamping sites offer private water access to avoid crowds.
Tips for camping with families
Beach amenities for children: Boot Lake Campground offers family-friendly glamping with a dedicated swimming area. One visitor discovered, "There is a trail that goes along the lakeshore and if you follow it going clockwise, you'll find a rope swing for jumping in to the lake." The campground typically operates from May through November.
Equipment rentals: Several glamping areas offer on-site equipment rentals for families wanting to try water activities. Tate T. noted at Council Grounds, "We enjoyed being able to rent kayaks and paddleboards and relax on the beach. We also liked the proximity to the pit/vault toilet and water pump."
Weather preparation: Northern Wisconsin glamping sites experience significant temperature fluctuations, even in summer. Kevin T. advised, "The weather is unpredictable so bring extra layers just in case. They do provide a water pump and has a place for you to rent equipment such as kayaks."
Tips from RVers
Electrical system limitations: West Bay Camping Resort has reported electrical capacity challenges during peak usage periods. Charles M. observed, "Most are fairly level or it doesn't take much to make your camper level. Very little grass at site but you get a picnic table and a fire pit. Wood must be bought at the store but pay attention to the hours as they close early."
Dump station access: RVers glamping near Gleason should note varying dump station availability and costs. At Sara Park, a camper reported, "There is a dump station nearby behind the city garage for $10. There are vault toilets with free showers." Cedar Falls Campground includes a convenient on-site dump station with water and electric hookups at most sites.
Site spacing considerations: Many RV glamping sites offer varying degrees of privacy between units. According to Stephen M. at West Bay Camping Resort, "The campground was peaceful. A little dated and the websites amenities were a little stretch. Beautiful lake access with small beach."
