Marathon County offers several established campgrounds surrounding Mosinee, Wisconsin, with diverse camping experiences ranging from lakeside sites to wooded retreats. The region features a mix of county and state parks situated among the Wisconsin River watershed. While summer temperatures typically range between 65-80°F, campers should prepare for occasional thunderstorms from June through August that can create temporarily muddy conditions at non-paved sites.
What to do
Hiking trails: Council Grounds State Park Campground offers 12 miles of scenic trails through mixed hardwood forests. One visitor noted, "We love it here and can't wait to go back and camp again. Trail to river is short and easy to access. Lots of places along river to geocache, walk, or just relax and watch the world go by."
Water activities: Jordan Park provides multiple water recreation options on its small lake. "The canoe camping site is cheaper and much more secluded with view of the lake. Great experience," reports one camper who appreciated the paddling options.
Disc golf: Big Eau Pleine Park Campground features a disc golf course through wooded terrain. A reviewer cautions, "Heads up there is a daily fee for disk golf course," so budget accordingly if you plan to play during your stay.
Wildlife viewing: Marathon County parks offer excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. As one camper at Big Eau Pleine Park Campground mentioned, "Camping sites are very nice and level w majority elec. Wood available for fires an reasonable. Trails for hiking and lots of wildlife. Kids will love it."
What campers like
Private sites: Many campers appreciate the spacious, wooded sites available at certain parks. At Council Grounds State Park Campground, campers note, "Sites are wooded and offer plenty of shade. Well spaced so you feel like you're all alone."
Fishing opportunities: Fishing spots are available throughout Marathon County parks. A visitor to Wild West Campground & Corral enjoyed the peaceful surroundings: "Being able to watch the horses was very calming. We would recomend this place to others and we would go back."
Swimming areas: Most lakes in the area offer designated swimming beaches. One camper described Council Grounds State Park: "Water was refreshing and there is a small beach area. Beautiful hiking trails, but watch out for the biting deer flies as the sun goes down!"
Natural setting: The dense forests surrounding Mosinee provide scenic camping experiences. According to a reviewer at Hartman Creek State Park Campground, "Our site was larger, almost fully shaded under a mix of coniferous and deciduous trees," showing the natural appeal of camping in this region.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many Marathon County campgrounds fill quickly during peak summer months. At Jordan Park, "2 night minimum, 14 night maximum reservation" policies apply to manage site availability.
Bathroom facilities: Facility quality varies between parks. One camper at Big Eau Pleine Park noted, "Kind of crowed, clean, no lights in restrooms or sanitizer," while others reported well-maintained facilities at other campgrounds.
Site privacy: The level of seclusion differs between campgrounds. A Jordan Park visitor advised, "The canoe camping site is cheaper and much more secluded with view of the lake," suggesting walk-in sites may offer more privacy than standard drive-in options.
Seasonal concerns: Monster Hall Campground maintains clean facilities but operates primarily for event camping. A visitor commented, "I really enjoyed the hospitality of the staff. Laundry and showers and facility's were all very clean and well kept."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Beaches provide kid-friendly recreation options. A camper at Council Grounds State Park shared, "From the moment you enter, you are in awe of the landscape. Water was refreshing and there is a small beach area."
Playground availability: Some parks feature dedicated play areas. A Jordan Park visitor mentioned, "There is a playground a little ways away from most of the campsites, and near the beach," making it convenient for families with children.
Nature programs: Several parks offer educational opportunities. At Spencer Lake Christian Center, one visitor recalled, "There's volleyball, basketball, speedball and soccer fields, mini golf, Frisbee golf, and a ton of inflatable and boats on the lake for guests to enjoy."
Noise considerations: Campgrounds enforce quiet hours to ensure family-friendly atmospheres. A visitor noted about Jordan Park, "The only down fall was that you could hear semis on the road very clearly during the evening," which may affect light sleepers.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Most RV camping near Mosinee, Wisconsin offers electric service, but amperage varies. At Wild West Campground & Corral, 30-amp service is standard, while some parks like Hartman Creek provide 50-amp connections.
Site dimensions: Big rig accommodation differs between parks. Council Grounds State Park can handle larger RVs, but some reviewers note that pull-through sites are limited throughout the region.
Seasonal operations: Verify operating dates before planning RV trips. Wild West Campground operates from April 15 through October 15, while other facilities like Mohican North Star RV Park run from April 1 to November 1.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds provide full sewer hookups. A Big Eau Pleine Park camper noted, "You now pay to dump your waste," indicating additional fees may apply for this service at some locations.
