Marathon County offers equestrian camping opportunities within a diverse hardwood forest ecosystem where elevation ranges between 1,200-1,400 feet. Campers can expect warm summers with temperatures typically reaching 75-85°F in July and August, making it ideal for water activities at local flowages and rivers. Winter camping is limited as most facilities close from late October through early May.
What to do
Hiking trails: Marathon County Dells of the Eau Claire Park offers unique geological formations along the Eau Claire River. "The most epic part of the place is the Eau Claire river with the rocks and mini water falls. Spring time the water is usually high and the breakup of ice happens it's amazing to see. It's crazy loud too!" shares Raechel S.
Fishing opportunities: Big Eau Pleine Park Campground provides multiple fishing access points near the entrance and along three boat landings. According to Lori S., "Fishing can be good. No longer good for nocturnal carp due to water."
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds maintain designated swimming beaches. At Marathon County Dells, "In the summertime you will see people all over the rocks swimming/sun bathing/having picnics... There is a beach area but sometimes it gets washed out pretty bad."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer generous site dimensions for camping equipment. At Wild West Campground & Corral, Dave S. notes, "Being able to watch the horses was very calming. We would recomend this place to others and we would go back."
Quiet atmosphere: Campers consistently mention the peaceful environment. "Not our typical type of campground but absolutely no complaints. Very friendly atmosphere and more comfortable sized sites than we expected considering what we typically look for," reports Glenn T. about Lakeside Fire Campground.
Natural surroundings: Hartman Creek State Park Campground offers sites under mixed forest canopy. Jen E. describes their experience: "Our site was located overlooking Allen Lake, right in the tall pines. It was a great location, enough trees for kids to hang hammocks for a little relaxation."
What you should know
Water conditions: Algae blooms affect some water bodies during summer months. At Big Eau Pleine Park, a reviewer notes: "The water quality suffers from green algae almost the entire season."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially for weekend dates. Sites at Underdown Campground cannot be reserved and operate on a first-come basis.
Facility limitations: Bathroom facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "No running water, no bathrooms, no crowded plots. It's as primitive as can be," explains Wade W. about Underdown Campground.
Park regulations: Some parks enforce strict rules. One camper reported: "The rangers and camp hosts will give you tickets for EVERYTHING. 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
Beach access: Lakeside Fire Campground & Waterpark offers family-friendly water activities beyond natural lakes. "Ice cream Shop in hot Dog," mentions Chi M., highlighting additional amenities for children.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple parks provide opportunities to observe local animals. "We seen deer while riding through the trails," shares Matthew J. about the Embarrass River Campground.
Recreational activities: Hartman Creek offers diverse options for families. Sara K. explains: "Enjoy bringing the family's bikes and love the single trail bike paths through the woods. Has a nice small lake to bring your own kayaks and SUPs or rent on site."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Wedges Creek Hideaway offers full-service sites with electric, water and sewer connections. According to Jeff V., "Wedges Creek Hideaway is on a double dead end road with several miles of hiking trails, electric hook up, cabins, fully furnished houses, and lots of stars."
Site selection: Look for level, accessible sites when booking. At Big Eau Pleine Park, Debra notes: "I camped on the handicap site as I am disabled. The site is near the bathroom which is good it's a nice big site. It was big enough for an camper and a tent."
Alternative accommodations: Several equestrian camping facilities near Mosinee offer cabin options for those who don't want to bring an RV. Amy G. describes Wedges Creek: "This is a sawmill that has it all - they run the mill when needed, but also have primitive cabins (where we stayed), full cabins with in house bath, electric RV/tent camping and more."
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