Top Free Dispersed Camping near Merrill, WI

Camping near Merrill, Wisconsin, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, it’s a perfect spot for families, friends, and solo adventurers alike.

What to do:

• Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails around the area. One camper mentioned, “There are many different hiking and biking trails to explore,” highlighting the variety available at places like Musky Lake Campground — Northern Highland State Forest.
• Fishing: Cast a line in the local lakes. A reviewer at Bagley Rapids NF Campground said, “The short stretch of the Oconto River provides mainly brook trout and brown trout fishing.”
• Swimming: Enjoy the water at nearby beaches. One camper at Franklin Lake noted, “The water is crystal clear and there’s a beach that can be used if you don’t have a lake site.”

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Council Grounds State Park Campground said, “Tall trees, peaceful, quiet, new fire pits, good bathrooms.”
• Privacy: Campers enjoy spacious sites that offer a sense of seclusion. One reviewer at Big Eau Pleine Park Campground mentioned, “Sites were large and private.”
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Many campgrounds cater to families. A family at Chute Pond Park shared, “Very children and family oriented, some shorter trails, fishing area, playground, beach.”

What you should know:

• Reservations Recommended: Popular campgrounds fill up quickly. A camper at Clear Lake Campground — Northern Highland State Forest advised, “You will need to reserve your site 11 months in advance because it fills up fast.”
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the conveniences. A visitor at Jordan Park noted, “The campground is cute and small but the people working at the park then were awful.”
• Wildlife: Be prepared for encounters with local wildlife. A camper at Boulder Lake mentioned, “Leave the loud pets and noisy illegal motorbikes at home.”

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites for more room to play. A family at Musky Lake Campground enjoyed, “We stayed at a great site with plenty of privacy, but lots of space for the kids.”
• Plan Activities: Keep kids entertained with nearby attractions. A camper at Fischer Chute Pond Memorial Park said, “There’s lots to do the whole weekend whether you want to go hiking, fishing, boating.”
• Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep everyone happy. A visitor at Big Eau Pleine Park Campground mentioned, “Firewood available at the campground.”

Tips from RVers:

• Check Hookups: Make sure your chosen campground has the right hookups for your RV. A reviewer at Council Grounds State Park Campground noted, “Sites were spaced nicely.”
• Arrive Early: Get to the campground early to secure a good spot. A camper at Franklin Lake shared, “Mostly empty but you can see it is heavily booked for the Fourth of July weekend.”
• Explore Nearby Attractions: Take advantage of local attractions. A visitor at Dells of the Eau Claire Park Campground said, “The rock formations/cliffs and waterfalls were truly amazing.”

Camping near Merrill, Wisconsin, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, whether you're with family or friends. With so many options, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your next adventure!