RV parks near Ladysmith, Wisconsin provide camping options from May through October, with most campgrounds closing during winter months. The area sits in the heart of Rusk County at approximately 1,150 feet elevation, characterized by northern forest terrain with mixed hardwoods and pines. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms during July and August.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing access: At Brunet Island State Park Campground, campers can launch directly from waterfront sites. "You really feels the outside world woes melt away at this island park on the Chippewa River. Large sites, many right on the water to make launching your kayak easy. Lots of slow moving inlets to paddle into and get lost in nature and fishing if you like," notes Linda T.
Swimming options: Most swimming areas in the region have natural shorelines rather than sand beaches. "The 'beach' is not real swimmer friendly. No sand at all, lots of rocks. The boat launch was actually better to swim at," reports Rachel T. about Brunet Island State Park.
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds offer wooded trails that connect to fishing spots. According to Jay W., "There are some hiking trails nothing too challenging or long" at Brunet Island. Most trails in the region are under 3 miles and suitable for all skill levels.
ATV trail access: Chippewa NF Campground connects to nearby ATV routes. Philip M. notes, "ATV trail close by but didn't hear any even on the weekend," making it good for both riders and those seeking quiet.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer wooded separation between campsites. At Thornapple River Campground, Amanda W. describes it as "a small campground, not a lot of campsites... The Thorneapple River is a sleepy, winding river. There are campsites right on the river. You can float or wade in it; it's shallow and refreshing."
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness varies significantly between campgrounds. "The bathrooms are amazingly clean and for some reason the whole place was mosquito free!" reports Rachel T. about Brunet Island State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Many campsites offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. Gerald B. shares about Brunet Island: "What a great place to visit this time of year (Fall). Falling acorns, frogs and chipmunks chirping, turtles basking in sunlight and more. The owls at night were a treat (sometimes even scary) to listen to."
Fishing access: Most campgrounds in the region provide shore fishing or boat launch facilities. Philip M. notes that at Chippewa NF Campground, "Fishing pier and trails to get kayaks in the water are accessible from the main campgrounds."
What you should know
Seasonal insect challenges: Depending on timing, certain pests can impact camping enjoyment. Becky S. warns about Chippewa NF Campground: "This memorial weekend was horrible! Tent worms had infested the campground! Dropping from the trees and landing on you and all your belongings!"
Limited services: Most campgrounds have restricted amenities. Cathy J. explains about Chippewa NF Campground: "There is a dump station here and potable water available. Flush toilet and shower buildings on several loops but No Soap or hand dryer."
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly by carrier and location. Amy E. reports about Chippewa NF Campground: "We had one bar on Verizon." Many campgrounds in forested areas have minimal to no reception.
Site spacing varies: Country Quiet RV Park and Campground offers more open sites. Judy B. notes: "This is a very nice RV Park. There's plenty of sites and they appear to be expanding. Sites are fairly spread out. Easy loop system makes this campground very easy to navigate through. It's definitely not the most private campground."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Wolf's Den RV Campground Resort offers family-friendly features. Judy B. explains: "This campground isn't really a campground, it is more like a summer community. A majority of sites are taken up with permanent RV set ups, and some are super huge and elaborate. Very very busy though. Beautiful lake right by, would definitely be a huge draw."
Kid-friendly water activities: Several campgrounds offer shallow water access suitable for children. Tiffany K. shares about Brunet Island: "This is a nice location for fisherman and kayaks/canoes. There is a small beach to play in the water, playground and ball field."
Group camping options: Some campgrounds accommodate family gatherings with group sites. Cathy J. notes about Chippewa NF Campground: "We had group sites 52 and 53. The group sites are not much bigger than regular sites at many campgrounds I've been to. They are also very picky about the number of 'wheels' on each site."
Noise considerations: Certain campgrounds have permanent residents which affects the atmosphere. As Judy B. observed at Wolf's Den, the permanent setups create a community feel rather than a traditional campground experience.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: At Chippewa NF Campground, Amy E. found: "Most sites are level– we were only staying one night and didn't even need to unhook our pickup."
RV accessibility: Treeland Farm RV Resort receives high marks for RV-friendly design. Kim L. reports: "Large pull through sites. Wooded, concrete patio, picnic table, fire pit. Very quiet. Large outdoor pool and all sorts of things to do!"
Hookup quality: Electric service ranges from 30-amp to 50-amp depending on the campground. PJ F. notes about Treeland Farm RV Resort: "The pull thru gravel driveway at our site was ample & level. All the hook ups were neatly & conveniently ready for lift off. No fuss no muss."
On-site tank service: Some RV parks offer additional services beyond standard hookups. Amanda W. mentions that at Thornapple River Campground, "The hosts will pump your tanks for a $10 fee."
