Camping options near Manitowoc, Wisconsin offer varied experiences along the western shore of Lake Michigan, where sandy beaches meet dense woodland. The area's elevation ranges from 580 to 700 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Winter camping is available at select locations, though most campgrounds close from late October through April due to Wisconsin's harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Explore caves and historic ruins: Maribel Caves Park near Devils River Campground offers unique geological formations. "It is fun to go down by the river and explore. One year we caught about 60 crayfish and cooked them on the campstove and ate them," notes a camper. The park also has historical significance: "Sometimes they also give a tour of the old mill that is on the grounds."
Swimming in natural settings: Many campgrounds feature swimming areas beyond Lake Michigan. "They removed the old small pool and installed a large swimming pond. It is a treated pond, so it is murky water, but the open space is nice for a swim on a hot day," explains a Devils River Campground visitor. Another camper adds that "the pond is full of clay at the bottom, with not much sand except for by the beach."
Lake Michigan lighthouse visits: Two Rivers area lighthouses provide cultural excursions. "The Manitowoc Breakwater Lighthouse is on Lake Michigan about 30 minutes away from the campground but we definitely recommend going to see it!" shares one reviewer of Devils River Campground. At Point Beach State Forest, visitors can view "a lighthouse (the lighthouse cannot be toured, but can be admired from the outside)."
What campers like
Indoor amenities during inclement weather: Village Inn on the Lake offers unique features for rainy days. "The indoor pool is so nice! It's a saltwater pool and they have a separate hot tub," notes one camper. Another adds that "Pool Restrooms with showers [are] available for Campers" and that the park has a "Cute Mini Golf Onsite!"
Proximity to multiple recreational options: Location advantages extend beyond immediate campground amenities. "The area is your playground with lots of biking and hiking trails," explains a Village Inn visitor. Another reviewer appreciates that "the hotel is convenient for your family and friends to stay if they don't have a camper."
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Campground cleanliness stands out across reviews. "Scheffel's Hideaway Campground... The grounds are immaculate, as are the restrooms and two laundry rooms, which are handicapped friendly," notes one visitor of Scheffel's Hideaway Campground. Another camper appreciated that "The roads, while unpaved are of a fine shell or gravel and hard packed so these are easy to traverse using a walker."
What you should know
Water quality varies by location: Some campgrounds have issues with drinking water. At Point Beach State Forest, "The drinking water is not good so be sure to pack enough." Another visitor advised that "Water spigots [are] throughout campground, or there's a water fill at the dump station."
Reservation timing matters: Popular campgrounds fill quickly. "Huge campground, and I guess we were lucky to snag a site mid week in August, as there were only two sites left when we arrived in the early afternoon," notes a Point Beach State Forest visitor. For weekend stays at other parks, "you must make a reservation way in advance."
Seasonal closures and maintenance: Check for unexpected closures. Point Beach State Forest will be "closed until May 24, 2024 for maintenance on the waterlines." Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, with typical closing dates in October and reopenings in April or May.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Multiple campgrounds feature facilities for children. At Seagull Marina and Campground, families appreciate the "Great spot that is cheaper than most places nearby" with its "quiet and close to the beach" location. Other campgrounds like Devils River have "a large jungle Jim set near the entrance" with consistent "activity there for the duration of our stay."
Pond safety considerations: Some campgrounds have unfenced water features. At Devils River Campground, "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."
Educational opportunities: Historical and natural features provide learning experiences. At High Cliff State Park Campground, families can "Hike the trails to see pieces of Wisconsin history throughout. Some trails on the Ridgeline offer vista views and moderate inclines that add to the adventure." Another parent notes, "me and my 4year old love going to high cliff. between the beautiful scenery and multiple hiking trails I'd recommend it to anybody."
Tips from RVers
Dump station timing: Plan for potential delays when leaving. "The dump station gets really backed up at the end of the weekend, so heads up," warns a Point Beach State Forest visitor. This is especially important during peak summer weekends when campgrounds reach full capacity.
Site selection for privacy: Research specific site numbers before booking. At Rainbows End Campground, "There are LOTS of full-timers here, but for the most part, their setups are nice, if not elaborate!" Another camper notes "This is a beautiful campground...the grounds have lots of clear grassy areas."
Access considerations: Some sites have challenging access. One camper at Devils River Campground reported: "We have a 30 foot camper and the site we were on, let's just say we had a hell of a time backing up and smashed one of our back windows in the truck that's how tight it was." Before booking, verify site dimensions match your equipment.
