Campgrounds near Manitowoc, Wisconsin offer diverse options beyond traditional RV parks. Located along Lake Michigan's western shore at an elevation of 600-650 feet, the Manitowoc area experiences cold winters with lake-effect snow and mild summers with average July temperatures around 70°F. The camping season typically runs from April through October, with fall color viewing opportunities in late September through mid-October when nighttime temperatures regularly drop into the 40s.
What to do
Beach access and swimming: 10-minute walk from Scheffel's Hideaway Campground to Lake Michigan beaches. "This campground is right next to Point Beach in Two Rivers, Wisconsin," notes a visitor. "It's along part of the Ice Age Trail that leads to the Lake Michigan Beach."
Sand dunes exploration: 1-mile boardwalk trail at Kohler-Andrae State Park runs parallel to Lake Michigan. "Hiking trails are great, especially the ones through the dunes," reports one camper. Another states, "This park has it all... spacious campsites, sand dunes, trails, beach, gorgeous sunsets!"
Caving: Seasonal guided tours available at Maribel Caves near Devils River Campground. "The New Hope Cave is only open to tour 1 weekend of the month. It is usually the 3rd Saturday," explains one reviewer. "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!"
What campers like
Heated indoor pool access: Available year-round at Village Inn on the Lake. "The indoor pool is so nice! It's a saltwater pool and they have a separate hot tub," shares one visitor. "They have a small Mini Golf Onsite! Location is great!"
Immaculate grounds: Scheffel's Hideaway Campground receives consistent praise for cleanliness. "They have been in business here for 10 years and it looks like everything is brand new," notes one camper. Another adds: "Very clean, and well cared for! Nice playground and aesthetically pleasing!"
Swimming pond: Devils River Campground offers a chemical-treated swimming area. "A few years ago they tore out the old small swimming pool and put in a large chemically treated swimming pond. The swimming is pretty good and there is now plenty of space," notes a regular visitor. Another camper mentions, "One of the season campers had some giant inflatable climbing/bouncing things for the pond, so that kept the kids and some adults occupied."
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: At Plymouth Rock Camping Resort, site quality depends on location. "I didn't like our site no trees I felt like I was in my front yard," reports one camper. Another mentions, "The park is mostly seasonal and the short term sites are literally over a mile of tight, windy road to get to them."
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds report proximity to roadways or racetracks. "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," mentions one camper about Plymouth Rock Camping Resort, though they note it's "really close to a racetrack."
Site limitations: Many rv parks in Manitowoc, Wisconsin area have size restrictions or crowding issues. One visitor to Apple Creek Campground notes, "My wife and I usually do not like being so close to other campers... but we decided to stay here cause it's close to my in-laws." At Devils River Campground, a camper reports, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Check for swimming options: Kohler-Andrae State Park offers natural beach swimming. "Gorgeous place to camp! Everything was beautiful, this park has it all... there is a large open area and play area for kids to run around walkable from the camping, lots of little paths to explore!" notes one family camper.
Consider rainy day activities: Apple Creek Campground provides a pool but limited on-site activities. "Peaceful quiet campground with a nice pool, well stocked fishing pond for catch and release. Only downside, there is nothing to do at this campground, and you have to drive 30 minutes to the city," reports one visitor.
Plan for mosquito protection: Bug pressure can be significant in summer months. One camper at Devils River Campground warns, "The only negative with our stay (which the campground can't help) were the mosquitos, flies, and bees. So bring bug spray!!!"
Tips from RVers
Satellite signal challenges: Tree cover varies between Manitowoc rv parks. At Kewaunee RV & Campground, one RVer notes, "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."
Power management: Most Manitowoc area campgrounds offer 50-amp service for larger RVs. At Apple Creek Campground, one RVer reported, "We stayed 6 nights in our 36 ft motor home with tow. Even though we were on a hill the campsite was level. We had plenty of room for rv and tow... good water pressure and power worked great."
Site leveling: Terrain varies across the region. At Stop-N-Dock Marina & RV Park, one visitor recommends, "Get site 1 if possible," suggesting some sites may be preferable for leveling or positioning. The campground features "Water, sewer and electricity setups. Close to amenities."
