Campgrounds surrounding Port Wing offer a mix of rustic and developed options along Wisconsin's northern border. Sites range from primitive national forest camping to full-service resorts and RV parks with Lake Superior views. Camping season typically runs May through October, with some sites remaining open later into fall. Winter camping is available in limited locations, though amenities are reduced during cold months.
What to do
Explore sea caves: Apostle Islands National Lakeshore features numerous water-based activities. "We kayaked to many campgrounds and islands in the national lakeshore, paddling a total of 60 miles we were able to make it to 3 different island campgrounds," notes a visitor to Apostle Islands Area RV Park and Camping. The park serves as an excellent base camp approximately one mile from Bayfield.
Fish the Brule River: Anglers find excellent fishing opportunities at the Brule River. "Great access to the river, campsites aren't too small and spread out a decent amount," reports a camper at Copper Range. The site provides canoe racks and easy river access, making it ideal for both shore casting and fly fishing.
Hike waterfall trails: Several parks feature waterfall-centered hiking options. "Very beautiful place right on Lake Superior. The tent sites are right along the beach. Small and remote. Beautiful hiking locations close by," shares a visitor to Herbster Campground. Many trails connect camping areas to both forest paths and Lake Superior beaches.
What campers like
Private lakeside sites: Campers frequently mention site spacing as a key factor. "There are tent sites on the side road that provide shade and some privacy as well. All sites and first-come (no reservations)," notes a camper at Herbster Campground. The campground offers a balance of wooded and lakefront sites.
Off-season tranquility: Visiting outside peak season offers unique advantages. "Camped here July 5th on our way South from Lake Superior and it was empty. Camped right along Lake Superior, practically the entire sandy beach to ourselves," reports a visitor at Herbster Campground, who gave the experience five stars despite traveling post-season.
Proximity to towns: Most camping locations offer convenient access to nearby communities. "It is close to the ferry dock, restaurants, parks and beaches. All sites are electric and water and some are full hook up," writes a reviewer of Apostle Islands Area RV Park and Camping. Many campsites serve as convenient bases for exploring the region.
What you should know
Limited facilities at rustic sites: Some campgrounds provide only basic amenities. "This is a bit out of the way but it's a nice, small rustic campground. The sites are medium size but give you privacy from others. A vault toilet and water pump are centrally located," explains a visitor to Copper Range. Most primitive sites have pit toilets and limited water sources.
Weather fluctuations: Lake Superior strongly influences local conditions. "As long as it's July or early August, it will be beautiful here. Watch out for the wind coming off the lake any other time!" warns a camper staying at Herbster Campground. Temperature drops occur rapidly after sunset, even in summer months.
Reservation requirements vary: Many locations operate on different reservation systems. "This is a first come first serve campground that doesn't take reservations, which is nice so close to the busy Apostle Islands," explains a camper at Herbster Campground. Some sites fill quickly, especially during peak summer weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer facilities specifically for children. "[The campground] is great for families with a playground, beach and rock hunting along the shore," shares a reviewer of Burlington Bay Campground. Many family-friendly campgrounds provide structured activities alongside natural exploration opportunities.
Consider site location: Family camping requires strategic site selection. "The campground name was a bit confusing as it is also called The Town of Clover Campground, but most of the signage seems to say Herbster Campground. The RV campground section is up front on a large lot with views of the lake (if you are in the front row). Across the street are a few tent sites right on the beach," advises a visitor, noting the different camping sections available.
Pack for temperature swings: Evening temperatures often drop significantly. "Bring a jacket if you plan to be next to the water," recommends a visitor to Burlington Bay Campground. Extra layers and appropriate sleeping gear remain essential, even during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Water and dump station access: RV amenities vary significantly between campgrounds. "Water and electric provided, no sites have full hookups, though there is a dump on site. The showers were clean and hot. No wifi, but we had a pretty decent AT&T signal with our WeBoost," reports a visitor to Herbster Campground. Most developed campgrounds provide at least partial hookups.
Site sizes and access: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. "We stayed in site #31 overnight while driving south with our teardrop trailer. The site was so spacious and treed for hammocks or tents or trailers," shares a camper at Top O' the Morn Resort & Campground. Sites at many campgrounds are well-suited for smaller trailers, though accessibility for large RVs varies widely.
Signal quality: Cell coverage fluctuates throughout the region. "Large camp site with trees and wide open area. #48 was tent site recently made into an RV site with water and electric hook up. This site did not have sewer but there is a dumping station right on sight. WiFi only worked in the lodge and ATT signal was very weak," notes a visitor to Top O' the Morn Resort & Campground.
