Camping spots near Iola, Wisconsin feature sandy soil terrain in the mixed coniferous and deciduous forests of central Wisconsin. The region sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Most campgrounds in this area are situated near small lakes and waterways that form part of the Wolf River watershed system.
What to do
Hiking on the Ice Age Trail: Hartman Creek State Park has multiple hiking opportunities including access to the historic Ice Age Trail. "I spent a few nights camped in the very large and spacious group site while doing trail maintenance on the Ice Age Trail. There are lots of hiking trails in the park," notes one visitor.
Kayaking and water activities: Hartman Creek State Park Campground features options for paddling enthusiasts. "The lake was a smaller lake, but nice for swimming. They do a great job of keeping the beach and swimming area clean," wrote one camper. Another noted, "There is now a rental building available with kayaks, paddle boats, SUP, etc to rent. We rented kayaks for an hour and a very reasonable price."
Cycling on varied terrain: Both paved and off-road cycling paths are available at several campgrounds. "Paved roads and great off road cycling access," mentions one visitor about Hartman Creek. Another camper at Lake Emily Park noted, "hiking, fishing, bike trails. Tent sites 19.00 per night electric sites 25.00 no full Hookup."
What campers like
Secluded sites with nature access: Jordan Park offers walk-in camping with waterfront access. "I was in one of the three canoe/walk in sights and they were right on the water. All three sights were separated from the rest of camp and are tent sites," shares one camper about Jordan Park.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high standards for restrooms and showers. "Very clean showers and bathrooms," reports a visitor to Lake Emily Park. Similarly, at Wolf River Campgrounds, a camper noted, "One of the biggest highlights was how clean the bathrooms were. You can tell they stay on top of maintenance and cleanliness."
Kid-friendly amenities: S'Mores Campground offers numerous features for children. "Amazing cabins, amazing setup, they all have picnic tables and benches on porch," shares one visitor. "Right next to the pool was a huge and brand new kids play area. They also have rock mining for kids located by the pool which the kids loved."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds require booking well in advance, especially for unique sites. "If you do want a walk-in, make sure to book it well in advance as they fill up," advises a Jordan Park visitor.
Site privacy varies significantly: Research specific sites before booking as privacy levels differ greatly between and within campgrounds. Some sites at Wolf River Campgrounds "lack privacy due to little to no tree cover," according to one camper, who added it "works perfect when you book several sites in a row with friends and family."
Noise considerations: Train noise affects some campgrounds like Lake Emily Park. "Only downfall is an active train going through at night," mentions one visitor. At Jordan Park, a camper noted, "Highway 10 and the train runs right near this park, so not quiet at night."
Non-resident fees: Wisconsin state parks charge additional fees for out-of-state visitors. A camper at Hartman Creek State Park observed, "There's an upcharge for out-of-staters. Easy access to trails, lakes, and a short jaunt to beautiful downtown Waupaca."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with planned activities: Fremont RV Campground offers organized events for children. "Great waterfront camping. Great outdoor waterpark. Fun dance for kids on Saturday night," shared one visitor.
Consider cabin options: Several campgrounds offer cabin alternatives to tent camping. At S'Mores Campground, cabins come equipped with "three beds, fridge, air conditioner, two windows, plenty of plugs in," according to a visitor.
Scout playgrounds and beaches: Multiple campgrounds feature kid-friendly swimming areas and playgrounds. A visitor to Hartman Creek State Park commented, "Allen Lake has a fishing pier that the kids loved fishing from. Good catches early in the morning!"
Tips from RVers
Check hookup availability: Waupaca S'more Fun Campground offers various site options. "Park has several types of sites available, some rustic, some full service and some in-between," notes one camper.
Consider site size and terrain: Many campgrounds have varying site dimensions. A camper at Hartman Creek State Park mentioned, "Hartman Creek has pretty spacious sites, though they can range from very big to just big enough. The only thing I didn't like was the sandy soil."
Plan for dump station usage: Several campgrounds offer dump stations but not all sites have full hookups. At Waupaca S'more Fun Campground, which was previously called Waupaca Camping Park, visitors noted the availability of sanitary dump facilities separate from individual sites.
