Camping opportunities near Iola, Wisconsin range from state parks to private RV parks across the central Wisconsin landscape. Situated in Waupaca County at an elevation of approximately 900 feet, Iola experiences warm summers with highs around 80°F and cold winters where temperatures often drop below freezing. Most local campgrounds operate seasonally from mid-April through October, with sandy soil common throughout the region.
What to do
Swimming and water recreation: Lake of the Woods Campground features both a swimming pool and a beach area for water activities. "They have a store, a bar, coin op laundry, a pool, a clean little pond & a great playground... tons to do to keep busy!" notes Laura B.
Mountain biking: The single-track trails at Hartman Creek State Park Campground are perfect for cyclists of all skill levels. Sara K. shares, "Enjoy bringing the family's bikes and love the single trail bike paths through the woods. Has a nice small lake to bring your own kayaks and SUPs or rent on site."
Fishing: Several local lakes offer fishing opportunities, particularly early in the day. A visitor to Hartman Creek mentioned, "Allen Lake has a fishing pier that the kids loved fishing from. Good catches early in the morning!"
Paddling and boating: Many campgrounds provide access to small, no-wake lakes ideal for kayaking and canoeing. At Jordan Park, one camper noted, "Pretty setting, nice little beach area to relax at or great water to kayak in."
What campers like
Family-friendly atmosphere: Many campgrounds in the area prioritize family activities. Emily C. from Lake of the Woods Campground shared, "Nice shady sites, very family oriented a lot of stuff for kids to do, planned events every weekend. Bar has great food."
Affordability: Some sites offer budget-friendly options compared to other regions. At Omro RV Park, Robert P. found, "$15 a night for a site with electric hookup! Dump station and fresh water on site. Large gravel sites are flat but not secluded. Max of 2 week stay."
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Fremont RV Campground, Melissa B. enjoyed the natural setting: "Everything was great overall, but most of all my son was pretty enamored by all of the awesome wildlife we saw on the strip."
Seasonal activities: Many campgrounds host special weekend events throughout their operating season. At Pearl Lake RV Campground, Whistle P. enjoyed their themed weekend: "We stayed for their Halloween celebration and the place was decked out! They had trick or treating and a golf cart parade."
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Shower facilities can differ significantly between campgrounds. At Pearl Lake RV Campground, one camper noted, "The bathrooms are ok but the showers are terrible. You must push a button every 20 seconds to keep the water coming."
Site privacy considerations: Many RV parks in the area feature sites in close proximity to each other. Jeremy B. observed at Pearl Lake RV Campground, "This campground is nestled in a stand of tall red pine trees so shade is found everywhere... The roads connecting the sites are adequately wide. Just know that all of the sites are 90 degree back ins which can be tight with longer rigs."
Seasonal campground operations: Most campgrounds in the Iola area operate seasonally, typically mid-April through mid-October. Wild West Campground & Corral, Pearl Lake RV Campground, and Mohican North Star RV Park all close for winter.
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, particularly on summer weekends. For Hartman Creek State Park's walk-in sites, one visitor advised, "If you do want a walk-in, make sure to book it well in advance as they fill up."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When camping with children, consider sites near recreational facilities. At Lake of the Woods, Laura B. noted their "great playground" while Emily C. added it had "a lot of stuff for kids to do, planned events every weekend."
Water activities for different ages: Jordan Park offers family-friendly water options. Brandon S. shared, "Smaller county park far enough from town to be in the wood, but close enough if you forgot anything. Close to Jordan River, and it's parks, beaches, Pavilion, and playground."
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Several area campgrounds feature paved roads ideal for younger cyclists. Ame G. noted about Hartman Creek, "Paved roads and great off road cycling access."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer chances to observe local wildlife. At Hartman Creek State Park, one family saw "about 3 dozen turtles which was super fun for the kids."
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: RV campers should research site angles before arrival. Jeremy B. cautioned about Pearl Lake, "Just know that all of the sites are 90 degree back ins which can be tight with longer rigs- especially if your neighbor across the road has their vehicle or toys parked right up to the paved surface."
Hookup availability for RV camping near Iola: Options range from primitive to full service. Doug S. shared about Omro RV Park, "Is $15 per night. Dump station and water available, but not at your site. Quiet, clean, well kept. No open fires. Is all pull through sites, they will fit any length rig, 80' long."
Electric service limitations: When planning RV camping near Iola, Wisconsin, check amperage availability. Carl E. noted at Omro RV Park, "The park rental was 25 a night. They did have 30 amp hook ups. Showers and toilets. The sites are gravel, and that's about it."
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise despite rural settings. At Jordan Park, one camper mentioned, "The only down fall was that you could hear semis on the road very clearly during the evening."
