Best Campgrounds near La Pointe, WI
Camping on and around Madeline Island near La Pointe, Wisconsin centers on its location in Lake Superior within the Apostle Islands region. Big Bay State Park Campground and Big Bay Town Park provide established camping options with both tent and RV sites, while Apostle Islands Area RV Park and Camping offers additional accommodations including cabins and glamping opportunities. The island location creates a distinctive camping experience accessible primarily by ferry from Bayfield, with most campgrounds situated within a 6-mile radius of La Pointe, the island's main settlement.
Access to camping areas requires transportation planning, as the ferry service from the mainland is the primary means of reaching Madeline Island. "Big Bay State Park is on Madeline Island in Lake Superior and is one of the Apostle Islands. The only way to arrive is by ferry boat. It is pricey to bring your RV," notes one camper who found the experience worthwhile despite the logistics. The ferry cost varies by vehicle size and passenger count, with RVs incurring higher fees than standard vehicles. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from May through October, with limited or no services available during winter months. Cell service is generally reliable near developed areas, while more remote sites may have spotty coverage.
Waterfront access and natural scenery represent primary attractions for campers visiting the area. Several visitors mentioned the proximity to Lake Superior as a key feature, with opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and beach access available at multiple locations. One camper described their experience: "Pretty nice campground that you have to take a 20 minute ferry from the mainland. Then you drive through the small harbor town to the campsite. Nice, clean showers and bathrooms." Beyond the immediate campgrounds, the island community offers additional amenities including restaurants, art galleries, and equipment rentals in La Pointe. Nearby mainland locations like Bayfield provide alternative camping options for those seeking proximity to the Apostle Islands without the ferry crossing, while still maintaining access to water recreation and scenic landscapes.