Seasonal campgrounds near Land o Lakes, Wisconsin provide options for RV and tent camping from spring through fall in the Northwoods region. Most campgrounds in the area close by late October due to harsh winter conditions, with average temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Elevation throughout the region ranges from 1,600-1,700 feet above sea level, creating varied terrain that supports diverse wildlife populations and water recreation opportunities.
What to do
Waterfront activities: Franklin Lake Campground offers excellent swimming opportunities with crystal-clear water that's perfect for cooling off during summer months. "The water is crystal clear and there's a beach that can be used if you don't have a lake site," notes Hannah I. from Franklin Lake. Many campers enjoy fishing directly from their campsites at Franklin.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk provide prime wildlife viewing across the region. "Loons are always on the lake... Despite this there actually is a building with flush toilets!" shares Selah S. about Franklin Lake. Deer sightings are common throughout area campgrounds, with some guests reporting bears in more remote locations.
Hiking trails: Land o Lakes serves as a gateway to numerous hiking opportunities. At Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground, visitors find exceptional trail systems. "Gorgeous hikes nearby (hiking around Clark lake is an 8-10 mile trek that's gorgeous the whole way," reports Ellery K. The trail systems connect multiple lakes in the wilderness area.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently mention the spacious, well-separated sites as a highlight. "Shady private sites with ample mosquitoes. We were in a tent so did not appreciate the asphalt, but this site would be great for a small trailer," writes Kay K. about Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground.
Rustic atmosphere: The northwoods experience remains relatively undeveloped. "If you want a quiet, secluded campground where you can just sit back and enjoy being out in the woods(we had deer walk through the back of our campsite at night), then you will enjoy this campground," explains Luis about Moen Lake Campground & RV Park.
Natural beaches: Water access ranks highly among camper preferences. "Beautiful campground had site 45 one week and site 72 the next both fcfs. Campground was quiet and clean," shares hesselinkj about Franklin Lake. Many campgrounds feature sandy beaches with clear, clean water suitable for swimming.
What you should know
Bug situation: Mosquitoes can be intense, particularly in early summer. "LOTS of mosquitos. Hoped to stay a few nights, chased out by mosquitoes after first one," warns Sue B. from Franklin Lake. Pack plenty of repellent and consider screened shelters for eating areas.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies widely between campgrounds. "Cell service is horrible, you can get service kind of by the lake depending on your provider, but don't count on it," notes Hannah I. regarding Franklin Lake. Some campgrounds offer charging stations in central shelters.
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require travel on gravel or forest roads. At Sparrow Rapids Campground, access requires planning: "The one lane dirt road that heads here is almost 5 miles long. With the road closed just after the campground, people only come out here on purpose," explains Art S.
Weather considerations: The Northwoods experiences significant weather variations even in summer. Early mornings can be cool with heavy dew, while thunderstorms develop quickly over the lakes. Plan for temperature swings of 30+ degrees in a single day.
Tips for camping with families
Beach selection: Families with children should prioritize campgrounds with designated swimming areas. "Beautiful campground had site 45 one week and site 72 the next both fcfs. Campground was quiet and clean. For those with out power there is outlets in shelter in middle of campground to charge batteries," notes hesselinkj about Franklin Lake.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer nature programs. "Beautiful buildings built by the CCC. There is even a small nature center. My family loves the nature trail that takes us through bogs and past maiden hair ferns," shares Kay K. about Franklin Lake.
Site selection: Request sites away from water for younger children or choose those with gradual water access. "Private sites, great beach, beautiful buildings built by the CCC. There is even a small nature center," explains Kay K. about Franklin Lake. Front-country sites typically provide easier supervision than more remote options.
Tips from RVers
Electrical considerations: RV camping near Land o Lakes requires attention to electrical needs. At Land O' Lakes Nature RV Resort, "This unique RV Resort is adults only but doesn't follow the typical 55+ rule and is available for younger adults as well!" notes Jake C., highlighting an important demographic restriction.
Seasonal availability: RV camping options diminish significantly after early October. At Borderline RV Park, "Great community in the park for summer/early fall living. Numerous lakes nearby for fishing; a boat ramp into the Wisconsin River for canoes/kayaks is just across 45," explains Susan T., who stays seasonally from April through October.
Size restrictions: Larger RVs face limitations at many area campgrounds. "The sites aren't that big. The small campground nestles sites in close but still gives some privacy on most of them," explains Art S. about Sparrow Rapids. Before booking, verify site dimensions for units over 30 feet.
