Marshfield and central Wisconsin camping options tend to be most active from May through October when temperatures typically range from 50-80°F. Many campgrounds in this region have a mix of forested and waterfront sites along flowages and rivers with sandy beaches. Campsites generally cost $18-25 per night, with most locations offering electrical sites and basic amenities during the main camping season.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Big Eau Pleine Park features a scenic wooded course as part of its recreation options. According to one reviewer, "Firewood permits are required and only sold from 8am - 8pm. The permit lasts for one day and can only be purchased from one location... Heads up there is a daily fee for disk golf course."
Swimming areas: While many campgrounds offer water access, water quality varies throughout the season. At Big Eau Pleine Park Campground, one camper noted, "The water quality suffers from green algae almost the entire season. Fishing can be good. No longer good for nocturnal carp due to water."
Hiking trails: Many campgrounds in the region connect to trail systems for different skill levels. A visitor to Dubay Park Campground shared, "A beautiful, full forest Park with great sites. Lots to do: mountain biking, swimming, hiking. Dog friendly. Nice beach area, Sandy."
Boat access: Most waterfront campgrounds provide boat launches for accessing flowages and rivers. One camper at Dubay Park commented, "There is a nice dock that is a good spot to watch the sun set over the river if you can stand the bugs."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Despite campgrounds often having many sites, spacing provides reasonable privacy in most locations. A visitor to North Wood County Park mentioned, "You have plenty of room between campsites and if you're lucky enough to get a water front one it is just beautiful in the fall especially with the geese hanging out in the water and the sound of the water running over the dam."
Quiet atmosphere: Many campgrounds in this region are noted for their peaceful settings, especially during weekdays. One North Wood County Park camper shared, "When we first pulled up to the camp grounds, we could tell it would be a spot we would stay again. In October, it's not so populated to where the closeness of the sites would be bothersome."
Clean facilities: Bathrooms and shower facilities are well-maintained at most established campgrounds. A visitor to Dexter Park praised, "There was a private bathroom/shower room that made the experience feel luxurious. It is right next to a beautiful river and lake. Very quiet and campers are very respectful."
Scenic views: Waterfront sites are particularly prized in this region. A Dubay Park camper noted, "We only got to stay one night here. The spaces seem close to neighbors but our site was pretty large in the back. Easy to back into. Really quiet and the lake views are serene."
What you should know
Campground opening limitations: Most central Wisconsin campgrounds operate seasonally. In Dorchester Park & Campground, one visitor noted, "Great little city park in the town of Dorchester Wisconsin. We're just doing a quick overnight but we have 30 Amp and water hookups. Also, we scored a pull thru! All for just $22/ night! ($25 for full hookups)."
Insect activity: Being near water means dealing with bugs during summer months. A Dubay Park visitor warned, "On the Wisconsin River, there are four 'loops' of campsites, with some on the river side of the road and some off the river... The good thing about that is that the dust from the ballfield seemed to keep the deer flies at bay, which was not the case on the riverside sites."
Rules enforcement: Some campgrounds strictly enforce regulations. One Big Eau Pleine camper cautioned, "Been coming here for years. But the rangers and camp hosts will give you tickets for EVERYTHING. I was profiled for fitting the description of a vehicle they had an issue with the week prior and I got a $50 ticket!"
Site conditions: Quality can vary between sites at the same campground. A Big Eau Pleine visitor reported, "My campsite was filled with nails and wood staples and the coals in the fire pit were overflowing. There's no guest parking anywhere near the campsites and they'll write you a ticket if you park by the bathrooms or have more than 2 cars in your site."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Many of the best places to camp near Marshfield, Wisconsin feature play areas for children. At Dubay Park, a camper mentioned, "Nice little playground too. The site managers were really friendly and helpful. I would love to come back so we could enjoy the site more!"
Swimming considerations: Verify water quality before planning water activities. A Big Eau Pleine visitor noted, "Not sure about swimming in the water as there was neon green (greener than Chicago River on St. Pats) stuff washed up on the beach."
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer opportunities for kids to observe wildlife. A North Wood County Park camper shared, "If you're lucky enough to get a water front one it is just beautiful in the fall especially with the geese hanging out in the water and the sound of the water running over the dam."
Off-season benefits: Shoulder season camping (May and September) often means fewer crowds but cooler temperatures. One visitor noted at North Wood County Park, "In October, it's not so populated to where the closeness of the sites would be bothersome. There's on site laundry and showers. Electrical hook up. And being out of season, was a little cheaper."
Tips from RVers
Accessibility varies: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger RVs. A visitor to River's Edge Campground observed, "Some tight spots for big campers, family fun activities, kind staff."
Hookup availability: Electric sites are common, but full hookups are limited. Another River's Edge camper added, "Most sites are very roomy some are little tight for the larger campers. Lots of activities to do and for the kids to do. Themed weekends throughout the season."
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer sanitary dump stations. At Big Eau Pleine Park, a visitor mentioned, "I have camped with a club in the group site for years. Electric sites. No water. You now pay to dump your waste."
Cell service varies: Coverage can be important for those needing to stay connected. A Big Eau Pleine camper noted, "For those requiring cell service, I had 3 bars LTE with Verizon at my site."
