The New Auburn area features glacial lakes and rolling woodlands approximately 1,200 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons experience cooler nights often dropping into the 40s. Local waterways including the Chippewa River watershed provide habitat for loons, eagles, and numerous fish species that attract anglers to the region's campgrounds.
What to do
Water recreation: O'Neil Creek Campground offers creek access for swimming and tubing that's shallow enough for both dogs and children. "This place is awesome for the whole family!! The natural creek that doubles as a lazy river is great," notes Dana A. The creek's shallow depth makes it particularly suitable for beginners or those with pets.
Fishing opportunities: Pine Point County Park provides multiple fishing access points with several lakefront sites. According to Shari M., "This place has great campsites, nearly all of them are on the water and several even have boat docks." The park connects to multiple lakes in the area for varied fishing experiences.
Hiking trails: Lake Wissota State Park maintains well-marked trail systems through diverse habitats. Julie P. shares, "The hiking was amazing! We went on a 5-mile hike through fern and pine forests, prairie and grassland habitats, and an abandoned beaver pond." Trails range from flat, accessible paths to more challenging routes with elevation changes.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Brunet Island State Park offers two distinct camping experiences. "You really feels the outside world woes melt away at this island park on the Chippewa River. Large sites, many right on the water to make launching your kayak easy," reports Linda T. The North Loop features more primitive, waterfront sites while the South Loop provides electric hookups.
Clean facilities: Barron County Southworth Memorial Park maintains well-kept amenities. Kristin F. notes, "Sites were large with gravel pads, water, and electric. Easy to get into." This county park offers more spacious sites than many in the region, with reliable water pressure and 30-amp service.
Wildlife viewing: The New Auburn area provides excellent opportunities to observe native Wisconsin wildlife. At Pine Point County Park, the wooded setting attracts deer and numerous bird species. David mentions, "Have only been here in the fall (late Sept and Oct) and there were only a few other people in the park," making these quieter seasons ideal for wildlife spotting.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near New Auburn require advance booking, especially during summer months. At Eagle Ridge Campground, campers note flexibility: "Everyone was very friendly and campground was clean. They were flexible on the check out time," according to Anna.
Water conditions: Swimming areas vary significantly between locations. Rachel T. observed at Brunet Island State Park: "The only downside was that the 'beach' is not real swimmer friendly. No sand at all, lots of rocks. The boat launch was actually better to swim at."
Seasonal considerations: Pine Harbor Campground offers proximity to Lake Wissota with operating dates from May 1 to October 15. Rick W. reports, "Very reasonable price for a tent with electric site. Asked to be near the facilities and they did not disappoint." Fall camping offers reduced crowds but campers should bring additional warm layers for nights.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: O'Neil Creek Campground organizes regular events for children. "Campground and staff did a great job putting on Christmas in July. Very Kid friendly environment," shares Darren L. The creek running through the property stays shallow enough for safe play.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play equipment for children. At Lake Wissota State Park, families appreciate the visitor center resources: "Wonderful staff in the visitor center. Firewood and ice sold on site. Also boat rentals and free yard games that can be checked out at the visitor center," according to Donella L.
Safety considerations: Sites at Morris Erickson County Park have limited privacy but good visibility. Janet K. observes, "The sites are close together with little privacy and close to the road which is noisy during the morning and evening but quiets down at night. Lots of kids! Nice to see families camping and having fun!"
Tips from RVers
Hook-up availability: Barron County Veterans Memorial Park provides electric and water connections at reasonable rates. Andrea M. notes, "Nice sites overlooking Prairie lake. Nice boat launch if you have a boat. Great camp hosts. Clean bathrooms. Reasonable price a night."
Site sizing: Pine Harbor Campground accommodates various RV sizes with some limitations. Cody S. explains, "Site was a nice size, we have a smaller pull behind. They were really close to each other. Nice bathroom and showers if you need them." Most dog friendly campgrounds near New Auburn can accommodate medium-sized RVs up to 30 feet.
Dump station access: Many campgrounds offer sanitary dump stations, though not all include sewer hookups at individual sites. At Eagle Ridge Campground, Whistle P. reports, "The bathrooms were sparkling clean. The showers were hot and the laundry was reasonably priced." Plan to use dump stations upon departure rather than during your stay at most New Auburn area campgrounds.
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