Camping near Oconto, Wisconsin provides access to both river and bay waters along Green Bay's western shore. The region sits at the intersection of the Oconto River and Green Bay, offering a mix of waterfront and wooded sites within a 25-mile radius. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-80°F, with cooler nights requiring appropriate gear for comfortable camping experiences.
What to do
Kayaking the Oconto River: At Holtwood Campground, campers can rent equipment for water activities. "This campground is in the town of Oconto, on the Oconto river, with easy access to fishing and kayaking," notes Valerie B. The campground offers affordable kayak, tube, and paddle board rentals.
Historical exploration: Visit Copper Culture State Park to learn about ancient history. "This park is named after the little-understood Copper Culture people... The park boasts a few varied trails that stretch throughout the area. A few trails go through what is thought to be a massive mass burial pit of the Copper Culture that could be older than 5000 years," explains David K.
Basketball and community activities: Several campgrounds offer recreational facilities beyond hiking and water sports. At North Bay Shore Park, "In the day-use area, there is a fish cleaning station, a basketball hoop, and a somewhat dated playground," according to Lee D. The park also hosts community gatherings, as Jill G. notes it's the "Site of the Wisconsin camping Facebook get together."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Campers appreciate the generous sizing of sites in the area. At Bay Shore Park, "The tent sites are a great size and semi private (you can have a conversation and not be heard at other sites)," states Jennifer S. Many campgrounds feature ample space between sites with trees providing natural boundaries.
Value for money: The affordability of camping in this region stands out. "Monday thru wendsday $15/night" at North Bay Shore Park, notes Gerald E. about the weekday rates for electric and water hookups. Similarly, at Bay Shore Park, one reviewer mentioned "The fee of $20 per night was very reasonable."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain excellent bathroom facilities. At Menominee River City Park, "The bathrooms are super clean (they have individual showers with locking doors)," according to Lora H. This attention to cleanliness extends to overall grounds maintenance throughout the area.
What you should know
Coin-operated showers: Some campgrounds require quarters for shower use. Deb M. notes at North Bay Shore Park there are "strange coin operated showers, ($.25 for 4 minutes)," which might surprise first-time visitors. Bring quarters if planning to use shower facilities.
Emerald ash borer impact: Tree cover has been affected at several campgrounds. "Sadly, most of the trees (especially the ones in the middle of the loop) are gone, due to emerald ash borer. There are many small trees that have been planted to replace them, but it will be a few years until they have shade potential," reports Deb M.
Water access limitations: Potable water may be restricted at certain locations. "How difficult it is to fill up your water tank if you don't have a water site. There's no potable water at the dump station," warns one reviewer about North Bay Shore Park. Check water availability when making reservations.
Train noise: At Potawatomi State Park, expect possible noise disruptions. "The train goes through town in the early morning hours and blows its horn multiple times," cautions a camper. Light sleepers should consider earplugs.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Badger Park receives high marks for family amenities. "I loved coming here as a kid just for the playground which is still the best in the area," shares David K. The park combines camping with recreational facilities suitable for children of various ages.
Beach access considerations: Families should research swimming options beforehand. At Menominee River City Park, one visitor noted the "Only bummer was no place to swim but everything else was great." Similarly, at North Bay Shore, Christine B. mentions "This side of the lake is very Mari so there is no beachfront at all."
Multiple play areas: Bay Shore Park offers separated play spaces across the grounds. "There is a nice playground and a smaller swing set; both are in different locations behind campsites, making it a bit awkward to access," notes Lee D. This layout allows for different age groups but requires supervision across multiple locations.
Tips from RVers
Hookup arrangements: RVers should prepare for unusual utility layouts. At Bay Shore Park, "The electric and water hookups were on opposite sides of the site, and we had to keep adjusting the travel trailer to get both to actually hook up," reports Nikki & Mike.
Site surface conditions: Surface quality varies across campgrounds in the area. At Countryside Motel & RV Sites, Ken F. notes "16 parking spots with lawn, fire pit and a few trees." While at North Bay Shore Park, "Sites 14-23 are on grass while the others have paved camper pads. All are level and very generous in size."
Limited dump facilities: Be aware that some campgrounds lack dump stations. Barbara B. warns about Countryside Motel & RV Sites: "NO DUMP STATION AT ALL. No garbage dumpster. Water and electric only... Charged extra for 50 amp service." Plan accordingly for waste management during longer stays.
