Port Wing, Wisconsin sits on the southern shore of Lake Superior in northern Wisconsin at an elevation of 689 feet. Campers encounter a mix of rocky shorelines and sandy beaches with lake temperatures rarely exceeding 60°F even in summer months. The camping season typically runs from May through mid-October, with nearby forests providing shelter from Lake Superior's sometimes significant winds.
What to do
Kayaking the Apostle Islands: Explore the 21-island chain from Apostle Islands Area RV Park and Camping. "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 Kayla A. A sea kayak is recommended for these waters.
Fishing the Brule River: The river offers excellent trout fishing opportunities at Boise Brule Campground. "A Beautiful trout stream with canoeing and kayaking popular sports. Rentals about 1 mi. away in Brule with reasonable prices. Fishing off the pier," reports Jane B. The nearby fish hatchery indicates the area's focus on fishing.
Hiking at Gooseberry Falls: Located about an hour from Port Wing, this park features "great day hikes around the falls as well," according to Craig B. "The hiking here is GREAT, a lot of cool trails and waterfalls to see. Along lake Superior there are a lot of cliffs to take in the view of the great lakes."
What campers like
Lakeside camping spots: Many campsites at Herbster Campground offer direct lake access. "Camped right along Lake Superior, practically the entire sandy beach to ourselves," writes Lesley R., who visited during the post-season. Another camper notes, "The tent sites are right along the beach. Small and remote."
Wildlife viewing: Red squirrels are particularly abundant at Copper Range Campground. "The cutest red squirrels EVERYWHERE! Posted a video of one and the noises they make! Super cool!" describes Kalene H. Bird watchers can hear loons at Top O' the Morn Resort, where one camper "heard the sounds of loons in the AM and evening."
Quiet, secluded sites: Many campgrounds in the area provide separation between sites. "The sites are pretty level, all come with a bench and fire ring," notes a visitor to Birch Grove Campground. At Top O' the Morn Resort, sites are described as "large camp site with trees and wide open area" and "tucked away campground right in a lake. Spacious sites and quiet."
What you should know
Best timing for visits: Lake Superior significantly affects local weather patterns. "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!" advises Cathy J. about Herbster Campground. Fall offers fewer crowds but cooler temperatures.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the area have different reservation policies. "This is a first come first serve campground that doesn't take reservations, which is nice so close to the busy Apostle Islands," notes Annie C. about Herbster. In contrast, Bois Brule Campground has "no pay station at campground, no FCFS sites."
Limited amenities at some locations: Be prepared for rustic facilities at certain campgrounds. "Bring food with you, the nearest store is 7 miles away in Cornucopia," advises a Herbster Campground visitor. At Birch Grove, "Getting water is a real workout, you have to pump the water and it comes out really slow."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access options: Split Rock Lighthouse State Park Campground features "a nice beach with a nice beach" according to Thomas N. Burlington Bay Campground has a playground, and "There is a lake view. Apparently there's a path with lake access," reports a recent visitor.
Tick awareness: During spring and early summer, ticks can be problematic. One camper at Bois Brule reported "pulling 10 or more off an hour..." Perform regular tick checks, especially after hiking through grassy areas.
Pet-friendly accommodations: Most campgrounds welcome pets with leash requirements. Port Wing camping areas generally accommodate dogs, with one camper noting that at Top O' the Morn Resort, wooded spots are "perfect for keeping the dog's eyes distracted from others passing by."
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Burlington Bay: Burlington Bay Campground has varying quality of sites. "Choose wisely. The sites are small... very small. Barely fit my 21 foot trailer in because the turn was ridiculous to get in the site," warns Robert P. The Agate sites numbered 73-75, 77, 79, and 81-84 have "beautiful views of the lake, but difficult lake access."
Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited in the region. "Water and electric provided, no sites have full hookups, though there is a dump on site," reports Melissa H. about Herbster Campground. Some campsites offer more solar exposure than others, with one camper noting, "This one is by a lake and I had GREAT solar days. I was able to keep my battery charged."
Cell service considerations: Reception varies significantly by location. "AT&T signal was amazing! I was able to watch Netflix and also get my work done," reports a camper at Birch Grove. Others mention that "WiFi only worked in the lodge and ATT signal was very weak" at Top O' the Morn Resort.
Traveler
