Tent campsites near Mason, Wisconsin range from primitive backpacking sites to established campgrounds with basic amenities. The region experiences varying conditions with average summer temperatures of 75-80°F during day and 55-60°F at night. Winter temperatures can drop below 0°F with heavy snowfall, typically limiting most camping to May through October when Lake Superior waters reach their warmest temperatures.
What to do
Kayak to remote islands: Access Sand Island by sea kayak from Little Sand Bay, approximately 13 miles northwest of Bayfield. Bring appropriate equipment for cold water conditions. "It's important to have a sea kayak or a motorized boat. If using a kayak make sure you have a wet suit! The water can be difficult and cold," notes Sand Island visitor Amber W.
Lighthouse exploration: Hike to historic lighthouses on the Apostle Islands. "There's also a lighthouse that you can hike to. It's really cool because it's on a huge rocky part of the island. It was locked but still cool. There were some signs to read with history there," reports a Sand Island camper.
Fishing opportunities: Big Rock Campground provides direct access to trout streams. "Great location on a river and was there when no one else was. Stayed two nights and moved to a site further into the woods the second night," writes Lesley R. from Big Rock Campground.
What campers like
Secluded camping options: Many campsites offer significant privacy from neighboring sites. "The sites were all mowed. There were 24 in total. All were very unique, no two were the same. Some very small for a tiny tent and privacy and a few others more open for bigger tents," describes Amy G. from Point Detour Wilderness Campground.
Free amenities: Some campgrounds provide unexpected benefits. "Fun fact: free firewood! Or at least there was a large pile of it when we were there. Free for the taking, so that was a nice surprise," notes a Point Detour camper.
Beach access: Stockton Island offers tent sites near Lake Superior beaches. "Kayaking to this site and camping for a few days was one of my favorite trips ever. Sites were divided by natural vegetation, the trails were nice," shares Don M. from Stockton Island.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: While some sites require advance booking through recreation.gov, others operate differently. "The reservation set up is a bit odd since you have to make it with the casino/hotel front desk and check in there, but the campground is about 9 miles away. Once you get to the campground, then you call the front desk to let them know what space you are in," explains a Point Detour camper.
Site availability fluctuates: During peak summer weekends, campgrounds fill quickly but midweek often has openings. "We were there on July 4th. Even so, there was still availability. The reservation set up is a bit odd since you have to make it with the casino/hotel front desk," notes a visitor.
Maintenance conditions: Site upkeep varies considerably between campgrounds. "Some sites had grass which had not been cut in quite some time and would make it really difficult to camp, others had the grass cut. Sites had a fire pit and picnic table. The outhouse was a bit messy, but usable," reports Brittany M. from Point Detour Wilderness Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible options: Stockton Island provides facilities suitable for diverse needs. "A stellar handicapped accessible platform campsite is adjacent to the ranger station, the best and most accessible I've ever seen and would be perfect for a family member of mine with special needs and mobility issues," shares Janet R. from Phipps Landing.
Group camping considerations: Certain sites accommodate larger family gatherings. "Site-A is where it's at for group camping (8-24 people)," advises Kurt S. about camping options.
Security awareness: Monitor belongings at less populated campgrounds. "A concern for me was a notice up about frequent car break-ins and campsite vandalism there. We ended up not staying here because no one else was at any of the campsites and we wondered about security. Might be a good spot if you wanted to come as a group," warns a visitor about certain locations.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV amenities: Most tent campsites near Mason accommodate only small RVs without hookups. "You can drive in and park at this site, or canoe down the Namekagagen and pull up. There are 2 small sites with fire pits near the parking & landing, and one large group site with fire pit to the far back of the site," explains Arctic D. from Brule River State Forest Backpacking Sites.
Water access points: Locate water sources before arrival as many campgrounds lack onsite water. "There's a great water source in Ashland next to the lake. We would fill our jugs here," advises Eric from Big Rock Campground.
Shower alternatives: Though most primitive sites lack showers, some offer creative solutions. "There ARE showers available, but not at the campground. You can sign up for a time slot at the casino front desk and then go there and take one. They are quite clean. So while not terribly convenient, they are free and it is a nice shower," notes a Point Detour camper.
