Camping in the eastern Wisconsin forest region typically offers summer temperatures between 75-85°F during the day and 55-65°F overnight. The area surrounding Manitowoc sits on former glacial terrain with gently rolling hills and mixed hardwood forests. Camping options range from rustic tent sites with minimal amenities to fully-equipped glamping accommodations with seasonal availability from May through October.
What to do
Swimming in managed ponds: Devils River Campground features a large chemically treated swimming pond with beach area. "The swimming is pretty good and there is now plenty of space. The only possible downside with small children, as there is no fence around the pond, and there are sites that border the pond," notes one visitor.
Waterfall exploration: The surrounding area offers seasonal waterfall viewing opportunities. "If you go when it is raining you won't be able to go in many of the caves as they become flooded but it does make some really cool waterfalls!" reports a camper who stayed at Devils River Campground.
Outdoor sports facilities: Plymouth Rock Camping Resort provides multiple recreational amenities. According to a visitor: "They have an 18 hole disc golf course and a nine hole soccer ball course. Brand new play ground added."
Cave exploration: Several parks in the area feature accessible cave systems. "There is access to the river and the nearby Maribel Caves park is nice as well. This is a great campground to just relax at and play cards," states one Devils River Campground reviewer.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: The region offers camping with Lake Michigan water access. "Beautiful state park right on Lake Michigan. Sunrises so, so beautiful. This campground has everything! Trails, dunes, marshes, forests, and Lake Michigan," writes a reviewer about Kohler-Andrae State Park.
Wildlife viewing areas: Natural wetlands provide habitat for diverse species. "This It's a small campground south of Green Bay down the 41 freeway. The campground does not offer a ton of amenities," notes a reviewer of Apple Creek Campground.
Clean bathroom facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept facilities. "Bathroom building is old, but mostly clean. The showers are in need of an upgrade. Some were out of order when we were there," comments a Devils River visitor.
Multi-generational appeal: Local campgrounds accommodate family traditions. "I've been going to Devil's River for as long as I can remember on Labor Day weekend. My grandparents used to have a permanent site here, and my family has continued to camp there since my grandparents' deaths."
What you should know
Seasonal water level changes: Water conditions vary throughout camping season. "Went to this campground to specifically use our kayaks but the marshes were drained to replicate drought conditions. Make sure you check if the marsh is filled when reserving this campground," advises a visitor to Broughton Sheboygan Marsh Park Campground.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby attractions. "The great thing about this place is there is a lot to do. They have an outdoor movie, and lots of other activities. It is a bit pricey, but at least you are getting amenities," notes one Plymouth Rock visitor who adds: "The amenities are pretty great, and the campground is decent, but the noise is annoying early in the morning and throughout the day. It is really close to a racetrack."
Site variability: Glamping close to Manitowoc, Wisconsin often means different site qualities. "Really nice state park with pretty good space in between sites. Some easy, limited elevation hikes around the campground, and a nice mix of pine trees/marsh/open space. Just a few minutes walk to Lake Michigan and a nice beach," reports a Kohler-Andrae camper.
Proximity to towns: Most campsites offer access to nearby communities. "Kewaunee is delightful with a lighthouse, stores and eateries. Minutes to Lake Michigan and Door County few miles away and 35 minutes into Green Bay," notes a visitor to Kewaunee RV & Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning for different ages: Many campgrounds offer multiple entertainment options. "We stayed with my family (includes 3 boys) who found fun all weekend long. Swimming lake was very warm and clean. Fishing was available. Very affordable canoe kayak rentals. Mini golf and a little store where if you need it they have it," reports a visitor to Lazy Days.
Nature education opportunities: Several campgrounds provide interactive nature programs. "There is a large open area and play area for kids to run around walkable from the camping, lots of little paths to explore!" according to a Kohler-Andrae camper.
Campfire preparation: Fire regulations and availability vary by campground. "The weekender sites have been made more level in the past few years and are pretty grassy with some trees," notes a Devils River visitor, highlighting the importance of checking site features.
Premium family accommodations: Luxury camping near Manitowoc includes family-friendly options. "Family friendly campground. Plenty for the kids to do. There's a fishing pond (catch and release) arcade, jumping pillow etc. Owners are friendly and helpful. Have events almost every weekend," writes a visitor to Breezy Hill Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: The region's RV sites vary significantly in size and layout. "The sites are open but enough space for privacy as well, if you do the end sites. The middle sites are pretty open so there isn't a ton of room for privacy," advises a camper at Kewaunee RV & Campground.
Hookup accessibility: Water access points may require planning. "One spigot for every four sites for water so 100 foot hose is required," notes a Broughton Sheboygan Marsh visitor.
Leveling requirements: Terrain varies across campgrounds. "Even though we were on a hill the campsight was level. We had plenty of room for rv and tow," reports an Apple Creek camper.
Driving conditions: Some glamping sites near Manitowoc present access challenges. "The park is mostly seasonal and the short term sites are literally over a mile of tight, windy road to get to them. Once there the sites are ok," cautions a Plymouth Rock visitor.
