Hayward, Wisconsin campgrounds offer varied camping experiences across the Chippewa River watershed, with over 150 lakes within a 20-mile radius. The area features predominantly loamy sandy soil with pine and hardwood forests, creating a mix of shaded and open camping sites. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during day with 50-60°F nights, while spring and fall campers should prepare for temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night.
What to do
Fishing access points: Thornapple River Campground provides direct river access where campers can enjoy wading in shallow waters. "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," notes Amanda W.
Local attractions: Nelson Lake Lodge offers easy water access with several docks for viewing the lake wildlife. "Had a good time walking the grounds, looking at the lake from the docks and watching the painted turtles who were laying their eggs along the campground's beach," reports Sam C., highlighting the natural observation opportunities.
Water recreation: Treeland Farm RV Resort provides complimentary water equipment for guests. A camper mentioned, "You can also use peddle boats, kayaks, canoes, etc for FREE!! Or rent a boat or pontoon, which we did."
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Sunrise Bay Campgrounds and RV Park offers a peaceful setting on Nelson Lake with convenient amenities. Isaac S. observed it's a "Great place, simple, very friendly and accommodating. Beautiful views of Nelson Lake."
Lake fishing: Sunrise Bay provides boat facilities within the campground itself. Andrea M. shared, "Has a boat launch within the campground and slips to park your boat by your site. The campground sits on Nelson Lake. Fantastic fishing!!"
Amenities for rainy days: Indoor facilities keep campers entertained during inclement weather. "Nice game room for the kids on a rainy day. They also have a small playground. Fish cleaning facility. Nice restrooms and showers," notes a Sunrise Bay visitor.
What you should know
Service availability: Cell coverage varies significantly between campgrounds in the Hayward area. According to Sam C. at Nelson Lake Lodge, "AT&T and Verizon signals were a little weak but could make phone calls (AT&T) and email with my Verizon hotspot for email."
Seasonal populations: Many campgrounds function as summer communities rather than traditional campgrounds. At Wolf's Den RV Campground, "A majority of sites are taken up with permanent RV set ups, and some are super huge and elaborate. Very very busy though," reports Judy B.
Winter access: While most Hayward area campgrounds close for winter, select facilities remain operational year-round. Happy Ours RV Park stays open all seasons, allowing winter camping opportunities when many other facilities have closed.
Tips for camping with families
Game facilities: Country Quiet RV Park and Campground provides spacious sites in an open layout. Judy B. notes, "This is a very nice RV Park. There's plenty of sites and they appear to be expanding. Sites are fairly spread out. Easy loop system makes this campground very easy to navigate through."
Swimming options: Treeland Farm RV Resort offers a heated swimming pool away from camping areas. One reviewer mentioned, "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."
Store proximity: Thornapple River Campground provides a remote feel while maintaining reasonable access to supplies. Amanda W. explains, "Great little secret campground. Stores are about 7 minutes away," making it convenient for families who forget essentials.
Tips from RVers
Site navigation: Wolf's Den RV Campground Resort & Tavern requires careful maneuvering in some areas. Judy B. cautions, "This campground isn't really a campground, it is more like a summer community," suggesting RVers should verify site dimensions before arrival.
Concrete pads: Nelson Lake Lodge provides solid foundations for travel trailers. "The pad was concrete and level, included a nice patio, a picnic table, some nice planters and well maintained grass on the driver's side of our rig," according to Sam C., who stayed with a 35-foot travel trailer.
Reservation flexibility: Happy Ours RV Park demonstrates accommodation for schedule changes. Mindy K. appreciated that the owner was "Very helpful when I called to cancel short notice and had to reschedule!"
