Camping near Tomahawk, Wisconsin offers sites ranging from lakeside primitive spots to fully equipped campgrounds. The area sits on the edge of the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest with elevations around 1,500 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-80°F during day and 55-60°F at night, making it a comfortable camping destination despite higher humidity levels.
What to do
Fishing access: Horn Lake Camping provides free primitive sites right on the water with a boat landing. "Great spot right on the water. There are 2 camp spots with stone rings... It's a beautiful spot. Very quiet," notes Charles N.
Hiking trails: Camp New Wood County Park sits directly on the Ice Age Trail. "The park includes the scenic Wisconsin River Segment of the Ice Age Trail," mentions Amanda K., who found the park peaceful when other campgrounds were full.
Swimming and beaches: Council Grounds State Park Campground offers a beach area alongside boating options. "What a gorgeous state park! From the moment you enter, you are in awe of the landscape. Trees tower above you as you drive through the park... Water was refreshing and there is a small beach area," reports Amanda G.
Boating opportunities: Sara Park provides immediate river access from campsites. "It's a small campground just 10 sites along a road but the back of each site has a small clearing to the water, there is a boat launch down the road which we utilized," explains Delanie F.
What campers like
Affordable options: Primitive campers appreciate sites like Horn Lake Camping that don't charge fees. "As a primitive camper who hates paying to sleep on the ground somewhere, this is my new favorite spot. Two sites, fire rings, no bathroom, water, electric," says Jarrett G.
Privacy between sites: Terrace View Campsites offers spaced-out sites with paved access roads. "Welcoming, clean and charming old fashioned camping & RV'ing. Nice paved road coming in. Friendly owner on site," shares Debra R.
Clean facilities: Many campers mention well-maintained bathrooms and showers at Clear Lake Campground. "Love our site. It's big, neighbors are not on top of us… and it's quiet! Great firewood… only 5$ per bundle. Clean showers. Friendly staff," notes Stacey N.
Water quality: The lakes around Tomahawk are known for clarity. "The lake is one of the cleanest I've ever been on. Campsites are reasonably far from each other for privacy," mentions Braden H. about Clear Lake.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Temperatures can change quickly, requiring extra planning. Kevin T. advises about Northern Highland: "The weather is unpredictable so bring extra layers just in case."
Reservation timing: The best places to camp near Tomahawk book quickly, especially waterfront sites. "You will need to reserve your site 11 months in advance because it fills up fast," warns Joel N. about Clear Lake Campground.
Primitive options: For those seeking true dispersed camping, Underdown Campground offers a back-to-basics experience. "No running water, no bathrooms, no crowded plots. It's as primitive as can be. Very ample space except near the water. Multiple small lakes around the area," explains Wade W.
Campground services: Research exactly what each site offers. "The pit toilets are not in the best shape and have no lighting so bring a flashlight. There are no showers but that didn't bother us for the 2 nights we were there," Kendra N. says about Camp New Wood County Park.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Birkensee Campground offers kid-friendly pond fishing and wildlife viewing. "Our campsite was just in view of the pond on the campground. Everything was clean... We had a fun time fishing too! We even got to see some otters in the pond," shares Elizabeth.
Group sites: Some campgrounds have specific areas for multiple families. "We reserved group sites A and B. They each have concrete pads for 3 campers and TONS of space to spread out and/or set up tents," notes Amanda G. about Council Grounds.
Kid-friendly activities: Many campgrounds offer recreational opportunities. "There are 2 beaches, trails, beautiful wooded sites, and the lakes water is as clear as advertised," Joel N. mentions about Clear Lake Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Keep eyes open for local animals. "The woods around the campgrounds have plenty of wildlife, so hang your food or keep it in sealed containers," advises Elizabeth about wildlife sightings.
Tips from RVers
Electrical considerations: Check amperage options before booking. "Campground has 10 sites for $30 a day, all with electricity and water. There is a dump station nearby behind the city garage for $10," explains Sharen about Sara Park.
Site specifications: RV campers should verify site dimensions. "Some sites are tight/close and others you could turn around in. Most are fairly level or it doesn't take much to make your camper level," notes Charles M. about West Bay Camping Resort.
Seasonal availability: Most Tomahawk area campgrounds operate May through October. Stephen M. notes about West Bay: "Has heated swimming pool but was closed for season. Does have a wildlife school across the road with free trails you can walk."
