Best Campgrounds in Wisconsin

With the well-known water borders of Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, and Mississippi River, and the natural wonders of The Dells, stunning island sea caves, and the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, the hardest part about camping in Wisconsin is deciding where to go.

There are over 5,000 campsites in the state park system, and many more options for remote rustic camping, family campgrounds, and wilderness cabins. It’s important to think about what kind of experience you want. Trust that the Badger State will live up to its outdoor recreation reputation – but for those looking for a tame trip camping in Wisconsin’s forests, hopefully not its nickname.

Factoid: Wisconsin got its nickname, The Badger State, because of lead miners in the 1800s that often lived in tunnels burrowed in the hillsides to shelter in the winter. The miners were nicknamed “badgers.” Actual badger encounters are incredibly rare in Wisconsin.

For those who might be mildly disappointed by the lack of badger action, you’re probably the type looking for a rustic wilderness experience. Some of the best options for more remote camping in Wisconsin include Bagley Rapids Campground, Kettle Moraine State Forest, Rock Island State Park, Big Bay State Park, and the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.

One of the most visually stunning and unique places to experience in Wisconsin is the Apostle Islands archipelago off the southern shore of Lake Superior, with camping available on 19 of the 21 islands. Great options are available for all levels of tent or wild camping, with traditional sites, group campsites, and remote backpacking zones. One of the main attractions is the sea caves. They’re best viewed by a kayak, and unless you know the area, it would be smart to get a guide or take part in a tour to find the best spots, and more importantly, stay safe amongst the spectacular geological formations, sculpted by the same unpredictable water that needs to be respected when visiting the area.

If you’re looking for the true family fun experience while camping in Wisconsin, that doesn’t necessarily require wilderness survival skills, check out the Wisconsin Dells. This 5-mile glacially formed gorge is carved in sandstone on the banks of the Wisconsin River, with incredible naturally formed sculptures and canyons. The area has become one of the primary destinations in the state for outdoor recreation and family fun. There are a multitude of Wisconsin Dells cabins available for a memorable trip to “The Waterpark Capital of the World.”

When you’re looking for Wisconsin Dells cabins to rent, there are several cabin resorts boasting nearby outdoor activities, access to the Dells, and comfortable accommodations. Pay attention to the actual distance between your accommodations and The Dells, and be aware of the wide ranging term “cabin”, as some might not fit your definition. Just remember, go for the scenic views and natural beauty, stay for the water slides and food.

When camping in Wisconsin, it’s hard to go wrong with the state or national park system, with so many options and levels for all types of campers. With state’s like Wisconsin that have such variety, stick with us at The Dyrt for on-the-ground information about the region.

Best Camping Sites in Wisconsin (975)

    1. Willow River State Park Campground

    59 Reviews
    Hudson, WI
    Website
    +1 (715) 386-5931

    "There is a newly filled lake after the reconstruction of the dam. This is a non motorized lake for paddling, swimming and fishing."

    "Fun to play in the water, go behind the waterfall and a good hike up 200 steps to view the falls from above!"

    2. Wyalusing State Park Campground

    57 Reviews
    McGregor, WI
    Website
    +1 (608) 996-2261

    $15 - $35 / night

    "Located on the far western edge of Wisconsin this state park offers a little of everything - hiking trails connected to the camp grounds, boat access to the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers, overlook of"

    "This is an amazing park on the Wisconsin/Iowa border, overlooking where the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers join. I usually try to get in at least 1 trip a year, if lucky enough 2-3."

    3. High Cliff State Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    Sherwood, WI
    Website
    +1 (920) 989-1106

    "This was my first time camping in a Wisconsin state park and I thought it was great! Our site backed up to a trail along the cliff which was awesome for a family that loves to hike."

    "Another spacious Wisconsin State Park site. #2 is level and listed as full shade but we had enough sun to recharge our Jackery everyday. It helps that it was blue skies each day!"

    4. Quartzite Campground — Devils Lake State Park

    44 Reviews
    Baraboo, WI
    Website
    +1 (888) 947-2757

    "There is something for everyone at Devils Lake State Park."

    "One of the best in Wisconsin. Great place for swimming and hiking."

    5. Kohler-Andrae State Park

    44 Reviews
    Oostburg, WI
    Website
    +1 (920) 451-4080

    "We were in route to visiting Green Bay Wisconsin and found this campground on Lake Michigan."

    "Nice long stretch of soft sand beach and cool board walk hikes through sand dunes. The sites are pretty typical, nice, wooded, maybe a little squeezed together but over all not bad."

    6. Ice Age Campground — Devils Lake State Park

    43 Reviews
    Baraboo, WI
    Website
    +1 (608) 356-8301

    "Much to do at Devil's Lake and surrounding area. features multiple campgrounds and multiple areas for swimming. A beach at the North and South of the lake."

    "It is up and away from the rest of the park a bit and typically almost every site has full shade. This is important in the summer months."

    7. Mauthe Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Northern Unit-Iansr

    41 Reviews
    Campbellsport, WI
    Website
    +1 (262) 626-2116

    $18 - $28 / night

    "Mauthe Lake Campground is located in the Northern Kettle Moraine Forest in East/Centreal Wisconsin."

    "Mauthor Lake is a beautiful state park in Wisconsin. Good for biking, hiking, swimming and fishing. Sites are fairly wooded and private. Most of them seemed to be a decent size."

    8. Copper Falls State Park Campground

    34 Reviews
    Mellen, WI
    Website
    +1 (715) 274-5123

    $20 - $30 / night

    "If your from Wisconsin this sits at the very north of the State. If your looking for areas to visit while camping here you may have a little bit of a drive."

    "Wow, Copper Falls has quickly jumped to my number one state park experience in Wisconsin. I’ve lived in Wisconsin my whole life and did not expect such beauty in this northern part of the state."

    9. Wagon Trail Campground

    33 Reviews
    Ellison Bay, WI
    Website
    +1 (920) 854-4818

    $40 - $150 / night

    "And hallelujah, a playground to get my kids out of my hair, positioned in front of their office/store so it feels safe, too."

    "This campground does offer some season sites so you can walk around and see people with full decks and things, but there is a lot of sites for the every day people."

    10. Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    35 Reviews
    North Prairie, WI
    Website
    +1 (262) 594-6200

    "Site was spacious but very close to your neighbors. Lots to do in the area. Bathrooms and showers were clean. The beach was not clean and very hard to walk on, very rocky."

    "Made my first visit to Ottawa Lake on a mid-March weekend. The facilities were still under their winter setup (only vault toilet, no shower available, pay in an envelope)."

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Showing results 1-10 of 975 campgrounds

Recent Reviews in Wisconsin

3505 Reviews of 975 Wisconsin Campgrounds



Guide to Wisconsin

Camping in Wisconsin offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there's something for everyone in the Badger State.

What to do

  • Hiking and Nature Walks: Many campgrounds, like Buckhorn State Park Campground, have great trails. One visitor mentioned, “Plenty of hiking, canoeing, and kayaking opportunities inside the park.”
  • Fishing and Water Activities: Campgrounds near lakes, such as Coon Fork Campground, are perfect for fishing. A reviewer noted, “Nice beaches and walking trails throughout!!”
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One camper at Hartman Creek State Park Campground shared, “The beauty of this trail is amazing!”

What campers like

  • Spacious Campsites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites. A review from Big Eau Pleine Park Campground said, “Sites were large and private.”
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds have well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Council Grounds State Park Campground mentioned, “Decent bathrooms. Nice little beach area.”
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Campers often feel welcomed. One reviewer at Pigeon Creek Campground stated, “Great overall space! New jungle gym for the kids.”

What you should know

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. A camper at Buckhorn State Park Campground warned, “The only reason I gave this 4/5 stars is because the mosquitoes!!!”
  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy. A visitor at Jordan Park noted, “They had leaf blowers going at 7 am and came right next to our tents.”
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A review for Roche A Cri State Park Campground mentioned, “Nothing too fancy, but it is worth the trip!”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. One camper at Fremont RV Campground said, “Plenty of activities for the kids, nice staff, and friendly campers.”
  • Pack for Bugs: Bring bug spray to keep the mosquitoes at bay. A family at Pigeon Creek Campground mentioned, “Bugs were sometimes bad but it was June in the woods in Wisconsin.”
  • Plan for Quiet Time: Some campgrounds can be loud, so have a backup plan for quiet activities. A visitor at Council Grounds State Park Campground shared, “Quiet. Sites were spaced nicely.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Hartman Creek State Park Campground noted, “If you want to be surrounded by hammock-able trees, I suggest sites 94-99.”
  • Look for Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric sites. A camper at Petenwell Park mentioned, “They also have put in new bathrooms and shower houses around their campground.”
  • Plan for Dump Stations: Not all campgrounds have sewer hookups. A visitor at Coon Fork Campground said, “Some loops better suited for tents, some for large RVs.”

Camping in Wisconsin is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but being prepared can make all the difference!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available in Wisconsin?

According to TheDyrt.com, Wisconsin offers a wide range of camping options, with 975 campgrounds and RV parks in Wisconsin and 27 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground in Wisconsin?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground in Wisconsin is Willow River State Park Campground with a 5-star rating from 59 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping in Wisconsin?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 27 free dispersed camping spots in Wisconsin.

What are the best parks in Wisconsin?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 463 parks in Wisconsin that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.