Camping opportunities near Haugen, Wisconsin extend throughout Washburn County's 964 square miles, which includes over 150 inland lakes and portions of the Namekagon River. Summer temperatures typically range from 55°F to 80°F, while spring and fall camping seasons see wider temperature fluctuations. Winter visitors should prepare for temperatures that regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
River tubing options: At Camp Namekagon in Springbrook, guests can access onsite kayak, canoe, and tube rentals. "Sites are a little small and not very private. Seemed like a well visited campground with lots of parties if you are into that. There is a restaurant and bar on the site although I didnt use it. They also have a kayak, canoe, and tube rental service on site which was great for easy access to the river," notes one visitor.
Swimming and water activities: Lake Wissota State Park Campground offers water recreation approximately 60 miles southeast of Haugen. "Beautiful shaded campground with semi private sites. Nice beach that is a walkable distance from the sites. Lots of walking, biking and horse trails that are full of wild berries. Several stairways down to the lake, no beach at these spots but good for taking the dog in the water since they aren't allowed on the beach," reports a camper.
Hiking trail exploration: For visitors willing to drive about 40 miles from Haugen, the Old Logging Trail at St. Croix State Park provides extensive hiking opportunities. "This is Minnesota's largest state park and has over 200 camp sites. But where we were, we were secluded from most people. Not from the mosquitos. You had to defend against them. But clean park. Would go back for sure," mentions a reviewer.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Campers seeking seclusion can find it at specific sites. "We selected site 67E online based on the campsite map and photo provided on the online reservation site. While all of the sites were very private - lots of trees and underbrush between, this one and 65E were ideally situated for dual sites," notes a Lake Wissota State Park visitor.
Natural surroundings: The Thornapple River Campground offers a quiet camping experience about 60 miles east of Haugen. "It's a small campground, not a lot of campsites. There is electric and water service available. The hosts will pump your tanks for a $10 fee. The Thorneapple River is a sleepy, winding river. There are campsites right on the river. You can float or wade in it; it's shallow and refreshing," reports a camper.
Cleanliness of facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain clean facilities. At Lake Wissota State Park, a visitor notes, "Clean bathrooms with showers. Lots of boat noise from the lake and a 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."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most glamping close to Haugen, Wisconsin operates within specific seasons. At Hayward KOA, approximately 25 miles northwest of Haugen, the season runs from early May to early October. "One of the nice things is that they can charge everything back to the site so there's no need to carry money. The pool was nice and the waterslide was fun but the river tubing was the best. They shuttle you out and pick you up," a visitor mentions.
Bug preparation: Insect activity varies by season and location. At Old Logging Trail, one camper advises, "The site we had was isolated nicely and the ground was easy for a tent set up. There was some mosquitos, but they disappeared at night which was nice." Another warns, "We had a terrible experience last year trying to camp here, BUT it's not the campgrounds fault! Unfortunately we chose the peak of mosquitos season and camping next to slow moving water is a recipe for disaster."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies throughout the region. At Wild River State Park Campground, a visitor reports, "Cell service was incredibly spotty on Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. Depending on where you're at, you'll get a low signal, but often it was only enough for texting - don't think about using the web or social media or getting any work done while you're here."
Tips for camping with families
Supervised water play: Several campgrounds offer water recreation suitable for children. A visitor at K and C Country Air Campground in Birchwood reports, "Great place water sewer electric sites. Very quiet campground."
Activity planning: Schedule activities around peak usage times. At Lake Wissota State Park, a camper notes, "A great family destination, not so great for a peaceful couples weekend," indicating families will find ample recreation but couples seeking solitude might prefer other locations.
Site selection for family privacy: Choose sites strategically for family needs. At Hayward KOA, a visitor shares, "First time visiting this location. Campground is very clean, the staff is super friendly, and there are lots of things to do! Pool, waterslide, mini golf, playgrounds and so much more! They also have themed weekends for the kids, and plenty of activities!"
Tips from RVers
Navigating large rigs: Some campgrounds pose challenges for larger vehicles. A Hayward KOA visitor cautions, "Love all this campsite has to offer with amenities! Beautiful area as well. But there are alot 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. We have a 43ft 5th wheel."
Hook-up variations: Amenities differ between campgrounds and specific sites. At Treeland Farm RV Resort, a visitor appreciates, "Large pull through sites. Wooded, concrete patio, picnic table, fire pit. Very quiet. Large outdoor pool and all sorts of things to do! Across the road is the Resort with a great restaurant and bar. You can also use peddle boats, kayaks, canoes, etc for FREE!"
Seasonal availability: Most luxury camping and glamping options close to Haugen, Wisconsin operate seasonally. Treeland Farm RV Resort runs from May 1 to October 15, while Hayward KOA operates from early May to early October, requiring advance planning for RVers seeking full hookups.
