The camping spots near Lake Nebagamon, Wisconsin sit within the dense northern forests approximately 30 miles southeast of Superior. Winter temperatures regularly drop below zero, while summer brings humid 80-degree days to this region's mixed conifer and hardwood forests. The rocky soil throughout camping areas in Douglas County makes tent stake placement difficult, often requiring campers to bring sturdy steel stakes or rubber mallets.
What to do
Swimming in deep, clear lakes: The region offers several swimming opportunities beyond the waterfalls. Top O' the Morn Resort & Campground has "a lake to do your activities. A little lake with swimming area and swim platform, it's a lake so there are small fish, snails and grass in that area," according to Beth B.
Fishing for northern species: Gordon Dam County Park provides excellent fishing access. "Great fishing on the St. Croix river/flowage. Fish cleaning house. Boat launch/landing," notes one reviewer who appreciated the practical amenities for anglers.
Wildlife watching opportunities: Many campgrounds offer chances to spot local wildlife. At Copper Range, you might catch sight of "the cutest red squirrels EVERYWHERE!" as Kalene H. reports, while Lucius Woods campers mention loons calling in mornings and evenings.
What campers like
Accessible waterfalls: Many campers appreciate how easy it is to reach beautiful waterfalls. Margaret R. notes that Amnicon Falls State Park Campground has a "beautiful river with multiple waterfalls and little pools you can soak in if it's warm enough out!"
Camping near water: Sites with direct water access are highly valued. At Boise Brule Campground, Janet R. describes "paddle-in or hike-in campsites along the river, large campsites nestled in tall forest pines that could accommodate fishing or canoeing groups."
Privacy between sites: Many campers mention appreciating the spacing between sites. At Amnicon Falls, one reviewer notes, "Most sites are pretty isolated with foliage and trees," while at Top O' the Morn Resort, Angie G. found their site "so spacious and treed for hammocks or tents or trailers."
What you should know
High costs for non-residents: Wisconsin state parks charge significantly more for out-of-state visitors. Laura M. explains that at Boise Brule, "Cost for non-residents is $21 for the campsite and another $11 daily state park entrance fee. So, $32 for the same type of campground as a USFS at about $15."
Train noise at some parks: At Jay Cooke State Park, located just across the Minnesota border, Krista T. warns, "One of the only things that was obnoxious about this park is that there is a frequently used train track nearby - and the trains really lay on whistle. I slept with earplugs in because of this, but I was still woken up around 4 times that night."
Ticks and mosquitoes: The region has significant insect activity in summer months. At Brule River State Forest, Zachary G. cautions, "The biggest issue however was ticks. Been an outdoor person my whole life and more ticks than I've ever seen before. Pulling 10 or more off an hour."
Tips for camping with families
Look for family-friendly amenities: Pattison State Park Campground gets high marks from families. Jim H. notes it's a "great campground! Most of the sites are perfect for tent camping or glamping. Clean and each site is well separated and lots of trees. Manitou Falls is a short walk away and is incredible."
Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: Some area campgrounds have play areas for children. Lucius Woods County Park is described as "an amazing Campground for the family... with easy access for the lake which is beautiful! For swimming watersports and fishing with an amazing Sandy Beach."
Consider noise levels: Some families recommend checking campground layouts for noise considerations. At Amnicon Falls, Kim H. notes, "This park is really nice and the campsites were very well maintained, but it is very close to the highway so you hear a lot of traffic noise."
Tips from RVers
Check site sizes and access: RV sites vary considerably throughout the region. At Afterhours Meadow, Joni Z. reports, "Easy to get level and ruin for several rigs," though notes it's more suitable for boondocking than extended stays.
Dumping stations are limited: Not all campgrounds offer dump stations. Mark J. notes about Amnicon Falls, "No dumpstation at the campground for RVs but you can use the dumpstation at Pattison SP which is about 30 minutes."
Generator restrictions: Wisconsin state parks have specific generator policies. As Mark J. explains, "Wisconsin is loosing there position on the use of generators in there state parks that do not have electric at sites. You need to get the ok from the DNR staff."
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