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V. S.
Scout
ScoutPonderosa Pines Campground
Satisfying and simple
Relaxation at its finest. Nice small size campground. Clean spots, play equipment, showers. Beach, fishing, grills, bathroom a short walk away.
Camping near Nekoosa, WI
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Campers near Nekoosa, Wisconsin can find a mix of different camping styles throughout the area. Wisconsin State Park has both tent spots and spaces for RVs of various sizes. Devil's Lake State Park stands out for its hiking trails that wind through some impressive rock formations. Many people head to Wildcat Mountain State Park when they want to get on the water for some kayaking or catch fish. Families tend to pick Ice Age Campground because the sites aren't cramped together and kids have room to play. If you're in an RV and need hookups, Fremont RV Campground has water, electric, and sewer connections at their sites. The summer months fill up fast around Nekoosa, so you'll want to book your spot well before your trip. Most of the campgrounds take reservations online or by phone. You'll find the basics like drinking water, bathrooms, and shower buildings at most places. The camping around Nekoosa works well whether you're bringing a tent or driving up in an RV.
Best Campgrounds near Nekoosa (157)
1. Petenwell Park
"I have been going to this campground for years, walking around, going to the beaches, launching the family pontoon and fishing in Lake Petenwell. Everyone is always so friendly upon arrival."
"A nice camping option with a more peaceful, spread-out lake feel."
2. Wilderness Park (Juneau County)
"A great campground with out of this world lake views. Most sites come with amazing lake views. Great for watching the sun rise up over the lake. Great swimming, fishing and playing."
"Some sites with electric can be found with lake access. Plenty of space between sites. Very quiet campground with a play area, beaches and other nice features. "
from $17 - $23 / night
Check Availability3. South Wood County Park
"Some waterfront sites on lake Wazeecha. Great hiking and biking trails. Self serve firewood available. Lake has water ski shows in the summer. Price $20 -$28."
"This is a nicely wooded and well-kept park right on the shore of Lake Wazeecha. We were lucky and snagged a lakefront site."
from $20 - $30 / night
Check Availability4. Lakeside Fire Campground & Waterpark
from $50 - $65 / night
Check Availability5. Pineland Camping Park
"Good place for 4 wheeling, plenty of trails. Home made pizza and Bloody Mary's"
6. Buckhorn State Park Campground
"If you’re looking for a campsite that transports you away from the usual Midwest fare, this is the place to be! The site we stayed at was beyond perfect."
"Gorgeous campground in the middle of no where Wisconsin! Perfect place to camp if you like to climb at Necedah! There are a few lake entrances and at one of them we saw a couple large gorgeous cranes!"
from $24 - $90 / night
Check Availability7. Roche A Cri State Park Campground
"Chill and relaxing camp ground in Roche A’ Cri Wisconsin State park. Sites surrounded by old growth pines and adjacent to park’s name sake, Roche A’ Cri mound."
"Loved how the trails were located right off the campground loop. The 303 stairs to the top lookout is a workout and worth the trip for the view."
from $20 - $37 / night
Check Availability8. Dexter Park
"It is right next to a beautiful river and lake. Very quiet and campers are very respectful. I would absolutely recommend this spot. It was $36 for one night. They also have a place to do laundry."
9. North Wood County Park
"Nice options to tent at and nice to walk around and do things"
"We stayed at site 59 which stretched down to a paved trail and then one of the lakes. We were close to the suspension bridge, which is a fun attraction."
10. Moonlite Trails Campground
"Very peaceful and full hookup available with sewer dump near. Ice and wood in property. Very nice hosts and helpful when we needed wood."
Drive Time
- 59 min from Wausau, WI
- 1 hr 25 min from La Crosse, WI
- 1 hr 28 min from Oshkosh, WI
- 1 hr 32 min from Appleton, WI
Recent Camping Photos near Nekoosa, WI
187 Photos of 157 Nekoosa Campgrounds
Jabin W.
Petenwell Park
Jeff S.
North Wood County Park
Tyler J.
Vista Royale Campground Ltd
Courtney H.
Roche A Cri State Park Campground
Saraj B.
Buckhorn Campground Resort
Tracy F.
Buckhorn State Park Campground
Adrienne L.
Dubay Park Campground
Rico R.
Jordan Park
Makayla B.
Coloma Camperland
C N.
Lake Emily Park
Lucille W.
Kennedy County Park
Nicole H.
Big Eau Pleine Park Campground
Recent Reviews near Nekoosa, WI
422 Reviews of 157 Nekoosa Campgrounds
- HHannah P.
TravelerMill Bluff State Park Campground
Expensive but fine for 1-2 nights
Stayed hear on a very hot 90+degree day during a road trip, easy to reach from I90/94. Midweek, we were the only overnight guests. -Occasional loud noise from the road and train tracks. -At first was wary of paying for no showers and pit toilets for the price, but pit toilets were actually clean with no odor. -Spring fed swimming pond was good for a dip once you found a cool spot, but there are spots that felt like a hot tub. Beach is very nice sand, and there’s a playground for the kids. -Definitely check out the short hike up to Mill Bluff if you can tolerate steep rocky stairs, the view is beautiful. -Tried to check out the other trail near Camel Bluff but it was too overgrown to continue. -Electrical box is in the middle of the campsite near the picnic table, so power cables will need to be at least 30 feet long to comfortably reach your rig. -National Parks Pass is accepted for vehicle admission (separate from camping fee in WI) as this is part of the Ice Age National Scientific Reserve! -Sites 20/21 are great for proximity to swimming pond and toilets
Chasing RV D.ScoutBig Eau Pleine Park Campground
Big Eau Pleine RV Camp and park
I have been A South side CAMPGROUND Host for 6 years now. My review may be a BIT biased for that reason, but I'll give my take. We do everything we can to make this campsite a home away from home for all our visitors. We pride ourselves on keeping everything natural. We pick up trash and garbage anywhere we find it. We try to greet as many guests we see. We are always trying to make our pit toiĺetsas presentable as we can considering what they are. We have someone come in and do what they call deep clean every toilerepaint jobst at least once a week. Some of them are due for a painting which should happen in the next year we are hoping. We are in the process of reworking picnic tables throughout the park now. We ask campers to please let us know if they see one needing repairs. Please come give us a try. My wife and I are host's on the South Park admin sight. Stop and say hello.
- C
Caroline G.TravelerPigeon Creek Campground — Black River State Forest
Great time for the kids
We loved how well spaced out the sites were and traveled on a busy June weekend. Our kids loved taking their scooters on the campground road and to the lake swimming. The kids loved the playground and path, beach. We had one person that was blaring their music and there was no ranger around. Finally someone must have called the police and they shut off their music
- KKelly M.
GuideNorth Wood County Park
Water Everywhere!
North Wood County Park is a hidden gem. Many of the sites have a view of water and several even have water access right from your site. There are several loops that range from paved with electric to rustic and non-electric. We stayed at site 59 which stretched down to a paved trail and then one of the lakes. We were close to the suspension bridge, which is a fun attraction. There is also a low roadway that goes over the water that is absolutely beautiful and sometimes floods. There are several dams and it makes for a great kayak or fishing spot. Most of the campground is paved, which is awesome if you have an ebike or e scooter. They sell wood at a decent price ($7), but nothing else. You also have to book your site online with a $10 fee for using the online booking. It does make arrival super easy, you just pull in and set up camp. Overall I would highly recommend spending a few nights here.
- ccurtis B.Guide
North Wood County Park
Great place!
Very quiet layed back place, lots to explore and see.
Kelly S.GuideNature's Touch Campground
Maybe an off day?
First, the staff was very accommodating, and we appreciated it. We made a last minute booking over the phone and requested a late check-in, and they were wonderful about making it happen for us.
Once we arrived, everything seemed to go wrong. It appears there’s been a recent change in ownership. The campground was marked with a different name and we weren’t sure we were in the right place. Then, the sites and the hookup numbers don’t match, so again we weren’t sure we were in the right place. Once we found our spot, the site next to us had spread into our space, so we had to wait to pull in until they moved their stuff out of the way. Even so, the lots were very tight. The women’s bathroom was unkept - hair and bugs in the sink, and no toilet paper. A half-drunk bottle of Fireball was in the men’s room.
We also woke to a cracked windshield. Not necessarily the campground’s fault, but just added to the experience.
It worked for a one night stop-over, but wouldn’t have chosen it for a lengthy stay.
HollowayFamilyOutdoorsGuidePetenwell Park
Relaxed and Refreshing
We wanted to visit family in the area at the last minute, and pulled up to see if they had any spot available. They gave us a list of available options, we drove through, and picked a site with the perfect spot to watch the sun set. Amenities are clean, theres a pool table and games in the office area.
Athan D.GuidePigeon Creek Campground — Black River State Forest
Pleasant place to stop, with a few wrinkles.
If you want a stop on a drive, or a home base for exploring the local tourist attractions (look up toilet on the side of the road,) this is the place for you! Think about bringing your own drinking water, though, the water from the pumps is a dark red-brown color, either from rust or from tanin.
The bad:
- No showers/dishwashing/handwashing area.
- A bit buggy- in late May mosquitos were manageable with spray, but watch out for ticks if you venture into the woods.
- Some sites can be noisy, with a road running 20 feet behind.
- Not much to do if there's rain.
The good:
- Overall, a well maintained place.
- clean sandy beach with warm water
- beautiful trees & underbrush make sites very private and shaded
- a short drive from some nice towns, trails, lakes, rivers to enjoy.
- close to the highway, and cheap.
Guide to Nekoosa
Camping sites near Nekoosa, Wisconsin offer access to central Wisconsin's unique sandstone formations and the state's second-largest lake. The area sits within the Central Sand Plains ecological landscape with sandy soil and elevations around 960-1,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F with high humidity, making water recreation particularly popular at nearby lakes and rivers.
What to do
Hiking to rock formations: At Roche A Cri State Park Campground, you can climb 303 stairs to a stunning lookout point. "The 303 stairs to the top lookout is a workout and worth the trip for the view. We hiked almost 5.5 miles through this beautiful state park," notes Lisa S. The park features prehistoric petroglyphs on natural rock formations.
Fishing in varied waters: Castle Rock Lake at Buckhorn State Park Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities. "The fishing is fantastic with Striped, Largemouth, and Smallmouth Bass, Walleye, Northern Pike, Musky, and all kinds of panfish," shares Stephen T. Remember that Wisconsin fishing licenses are required.
Water recreation: Lake Wazeecha at South Wood County Park provides options for boating, swimming and water sports. "Lake has water ski shows in the summer," mentions Wendy L. The park features a swimming beach with clean water and trails along the shoreline.
What campers like
Lakefront camping: At Petenwell Park, waterfront sites give campers direct lake access. "We stayed at sites right on the lake and they were hands down the most beautiful sites I've personally ever camped at! We didn't need to leave our site," says Ginny B. Sites 16-20 offer the best lake views.
Privacy between sites: Wilderness Park offers good separation between campsites. "Nice separation from other campers, Great Lake view, boating, swimming, picnic area," states Elizabeth F. The park's layout creates a feeling of seclusion even when the campground is full.
Family-friendly amenities: Pineland Camping Park caters to families with children. "A lot of the activities are designed for 12 and younger. The campground is extremely clean and well kept," says Jeremy W. The park includes a swimming pool and a 175-foot inflatable water slide.
What you should know
Bugs can be intense: Wisconsin's summer brings mosquitoes and ticks, especially near water. "I may be biased because I really hate mosquitoes and ticks but wow! The ticks here are so tiny they're very easy to miss so look out for those. Also the mosquitoes never let up, even in the rain," warns Kalene H. about her experience at Buckhorn State Park.
Distance to supplies: Many campgrounds are remote with limited nearby services. "Great area, nice boat launch, but bring what you need as the closest gas station is 15 miles away," advises Jay about Petenwell County Park. Stock up in larger towns before arriving.
Road noise varies: Some campgrounds experience highway noise despite their natural settings. "Adams County is rather flat and sound carries. You will hear cars on the highway at night in the distance," explains Stephen T. about Roche A Cri State Park, though he notes it's "absolutely beautiful" otherwise.
Tips for camping with families
Try geocaching activities: Buckhorn State Park offers free GPS units for families. "We grabbed one of their pre-loaded GPS units for Geocaching; It's something the park offers for free. They give you a bag, GPS and information book on all the Geocaching sites," explains Liz M. This activity keeps kids engaged while exploring the park.
Look for walk-to beach sites: Several parks offer sites with direct beach access. "Our campsite was secluded and was right next to the water. There were steps leading straight into the water and it was fairly shallow with a lot of sand- perfect if you have kids," shares Brandon C. about his experience at Buckhorn State Park.
Find parks with playgrounds: North Wood County Park provides ample space between sites and additional features. "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," notes Jeff S. The park's suspension bridge is popular with children.
Tips from RVers
Check site surfaces: Some campgrounds have paved RV pads while others don't. "Nice spacious sites. Some are blacktop. 30-50 amp electrical," points out Wendy L. about South Wood County Park. This makes leveling easier for larger rigs.
Plan for water fill-ups: While many campgrounds offer electric hookups, not all have water at individual sites. "No sewer or water at sites but dump station and drinking water is available," explains Wendy L. Be sure your fresh water tanks are filled upon arrival.
Verify site conditions before arrival: Weather can affect campground conditions. "Make sure before you get there your campsite isn't underwater," advises Shannon S. about Pineland Camping Park. Call ahead during rainy periods to confirm site status.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far are campgrounds from Nekoosa, WI for weekend trips?
How far are campgrounds from Nekoosa, WI for weekend trips?
Several excellent campgrounds are within a 30-40 minute drive of Nekoosa, making them perfect for weekend getaways. Buckhorn State Park Campground is approximately 25 miles away and offers spacious, private sites surrounded by trees with both shower facilities and vault toilets. For those willing to drive a bit further (about 45 minutes), Roche A Cri State Park Campground provides a relaxing atmosphere with well-spaced, wooded sites and the park's distinctive mound formation. Other options within an hour's drive include South Wood County Park near Lake Wazeecha and North Wood County Park near Pittsville, both offering water access and basic amenities for weekend campers.
What campgrounds are available in Nekoosa, WI?
What campgrounds are available in Nekoosa, WI?
Nekoosa and the surrounding area offer diverse camping options for all preferences. South Wood County Park is one of the closest options to Nekoosa itself, located near Lake Wazeecha with drive-in access, reservable sites, and basic amenities like water and toilets. For those seeking more amenities, Arrowhead RV Campground is family-friendly with numerous activities including outdoor movies, mini-golf, two swimming pools, volleyball nets, and disc golf. Other nearby options include North Wood County Park near Pittsville and several privately owned campgrounds that cater to both tent campers and RV enthusiasts with varying levels of amenities and natural settings.
Is Lakeside Fire Campground a good option in Nekoosa, Wisconsin?
Is Lakeside Fire Campground a good option in Nekoosa, Wisconsin?
Lakeside Fire Campground & Waterpark is a solid option for families visiting Nekoosa who want camping combined with water recreation. The campground features reservable sites with water and toilet facilities, and is particularly accommodating for RVs with its big-rig-friendly layout. What sets it apart is the on-site waterpark, making it especially appealing for families with children during summer months. For a different experience with more woodland immersion, consider Yukon Trails Camping, which offers charming sites nestled among tall pines, plus family activities like mini-golf and seasonal events in a more natural setting, while still being accessible to Nekoosa attractions.
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