Best Campgrounds near Ladysmith, WI

Camping near Ladysmith, Wisconsin takes place in the northern region of the state, where the terrain features a mix of hardwood forests, river valleys, and small lakes created by various flowages. The area sits within the Chippewa River watershed at approximately 1,150 feet elevation, with most camping options located within 30 miles of Ladysmith. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F, with higher humidity levels creating conditions favorable for mosquitoes near water features.

What to do

Kayaking on the Chippewa River: Access the water directly from campsites at Brunet Island State Park Campground, where most sites have canoe or kayak access. "There are electric sites close to the beach and picnic areas, but we prefer the more primitive sites which are in a different area. Most of the sites have canoe or kayak access to the water, which can easily be followed out to the river," notes one camper.

Hiking forest trails: Multiple campgrounds offer trail systems through diverse habitats. "We went on a 5-mile hike through fern and pine forests, prairie and grassland habitats, and an abandoned beaver pond," reports a visitor to Lake Wissota State Park Campground.

Fishing from shore or dock: Several lakefront campgrounds have designated fishing spots. At Pine Point County Park, "nearly all of the campsites are on the water and several even have boat docks," making it convenient for anglers who want direct access from their site.

What campers like

Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds in the area offer well-spaced, wooded sites. At Perch Lake Campground, "Sites are well spaced, private, and treed," according to one reviewer who visited during fall when "the colors were amazing."

Clean facilities: Bath houses and toilets receive regular attention at most established campgrounds. A visitor to Lake Wissota State Park mentioned, "The single family bathroom on the South side of that bldg helped us feel more comfortable using facilities during this physical-distancing time."

Wildlife viewing: The quiet settings provide opportunities to observe local fauna. At Audie Lake County Park, campers report that "your alarm clock is a beaver slapping its tail or a loon calling its mate."

What you should know

Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds in the region have limited or no connectivity. Audie Lake County Park is described as "truly a campground to disconnect, 0 cell service."

Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds close after October or with the first substantial snowfall. Audie Lake County Park operates from "May 1 to Dec 1," while Thornapple River Campground is open "May 1 to October 1."

Mosquito preparation: The wooded, waterfront settings that make the area attractive also support insect populations. One camper at Lake Wissota State Park mentioned "mosquitoes, gnats, and bugs galore," particularly during warmer months.

Tips for camping with families

Beach access: Several parks offer swimming opportunities. Lake Wissota State Park has "a nice beach that is a walkable distance from the sites" and "a seperate beach area for your leashed dog," where one visitor's "little terrier learned how to swim."

Game rentals: Check if the campground office loans recreational equipment. Lake Wissota State Park provides "free yard games that can be checked out at the visitor center," along with boat rentals.

Fishing-friendly sites: Consider waterfront locations with dedicated structures. At Chippewa County Pine Point Campground, "If you can book lakefront with a dock those are the best," according to one visitor who found the park "tucked away in neighborhood" settings.

Tips from RVers

Size restrictions: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. At Chippewa County Pine Point Campground, sites are "quite small and tight for big rigs," though "their measurements on their website are accurate."

Hookup availability: Electric service is common, but full hookups are limited. Thornapple River Campground offers "electric and water service available" with a unique service where "the hosts will pump your tanks for a $10 fee."

Campsite selection: Look for sites with specific features suited to your needs. At Lake Wissota State Park, one RVer recommended "site 87 for two separate tents, 2 vehicles, and an EZ-up over the table," noting it was "very private with a nice hook in the clearing in the woods."