The Haugen area of northwestern Wisconsin features several campground and RV parks nestled among dense pine forests and proximity to numerous lakes and rivers. The region sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation with a typical camping season running May through October due to Wisconsin's seasonal climate patterns. Winter temperatures typically render many campgrounds unsuitable for camping from November through April.
What to do
Fishing on local waterways: Thornapple River Campground provides direct river access for anglers. "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 Amanda W.
Boating opportunities: Wolf's Den RV Campground Resort & Tavern offers boat-in access. "Beautiful lake right by, would definitely be a huge draw," notes Judy B. in her review.
Water recreation: Treeland Farm RV Resort provides complimentary non-motorized watercraft. "You can also use peddle boats, kayaks, canoes, etc. for FREE!! Or rent a boat or pontoon, which we did," explains Kim L.
What campers like
Natural surroundings: The pine forests create a distinctive atmosphere at many campgrounds. Kim L. from Treeland Farm RV Resort mentions, "Step out of your RV in the a.m. and smell the pines! Large pull through sites. Wooded, concrete patio, picnic table, fire pit. Very quiet."
Space between sites: Country Quiet RV Park and Campground offers more spacious accommodations than some alternatives. "Sites are fairly spread out. Easy loop system makes this campground very easy to navigate through," according to Judy B.
Distance from urban areas: Some visitors appreciate the sense of remoteness. Mikala D. notes about Treeland Farm RV Resort, "Go here if you want good food, drinks, amazing fishing, and NO service. That is the best part. This place takes you away from everything. Welcome to real camping."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most RV parks in the Haugen area operate on a limited schedule. Thornapple River Campground runs from May 1 to October 1, while others like Wolf's Den operate from April 15 to October 1.
Tank service availability: Some campgrounds offer additional services for longer stays. "The hosts will pump your tanks for a $10 fee," notes Amanda W. about Thornapple River Campground.
Grocery access: Many campgrounds are located several miles from shopping. "Stores are about 7 minutes away," reports Amanda W. regarding Thornapple River Campground's location.
Tips for camping with families
Check for playground amenities: Some parks offer specific facilities for children. PJ F. mentions at Treeland Farm RV Resort, "There is a playground & heated pool, but it's just far enough away to not be heard at all but a quick walk to get to if you so desire."
Consider the campground atmosphere: Wolf's Den RV Campground has a different environment than other options. "This campground isn't really a campground, it is more like a summer community. A majority of sites are taken up with permanent RV set ups... Very very busy though," explains Judy B.
Look for pet-friendly options: Many families travel with pets, and some parks are especially accommodating. PJ F. notes about Treeland Farm, "The dogs were welcomed with open arms too! There were plenty of trails & things for them to see & do."
Tips from RVers
Book early for holiday weekends: Availability can be limited during peak times. "After an unfortunate start to a holiday weekend at a KOA site we blindly booked, were left with our camper, 3 anxious dogs & nowhere to go... It was a Saturday on Memorial Day weekend," reports PJ F., who was fortunate to find a cancellation at Treeland Farm.
Consider privacy needs: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of seclusion. Country Quiet RV Park and Campground is described by Judy B. as "definitely not the most private campground, so if you're looking for rustic quiet I would look into some of the smaller county campgrounds."
Site selection matters: Look for campgrounds with appropriate site configurations. "Tucked away from our neighbor just enough to have plenty of space for us & the pups but without being completely segregated," notes PJ F. about her experience at Treeland Farm RV Resort.