Best Campgrounds near Rhinelander, WI

Just 15 minutes from the interstate, Rhinelander's camping areas include family spots like West Bay Camping Resort, which sits four miles from town and has a swimming pool and playgrounds. Bewabic State Park Campground draws campers who want hiking trails and fishing without many modern comforts. Lake George Campsite and several other local campgrounds give you good water access for swimming and kayaking. Some camping spots in the area work on a first-come, first-served basis, so you'll need to arrive early during busy times to get a site. The area sometimes has fire restrictions when conditions get dry, so check the rules before planning to have a campfire. Most Rhinelander campgrounds provide basic needs like vault toilets and drinking water. It's smart to make reservations when possible, particularly in summer when sites fill quickly. The Rhinelander area has camping that works well for both families and people looking for quiet time outdoors.

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Best Camping Sites Near Rhinelander, Wisconsin (146)

    1. West Bay Camping Resort

    4 Reviews
    Rhinelander, WI
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 362-3481

    "Located down a quiet paved road just 2 miles outside of town. You are close to the action but dont have to listen to it.

    Some sites are tight/close and others you could turn around in."

    2. Lake George Campsite

    2 Reviews
    Rhinelander, WI
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 362-6152

    "Walked down to lake, very pretty.
    Very close to highway, very quiet on week days. We had fun!!"

    "Directly across from Lake George, easy and serene."

    3. Moen Lake Campground & RV Park

    1 Review
    Rhinelander, WI
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 893-2540

    "If you want a quiet, secluded campground where you can just sit back and enjoy being out in the woods(we had deer walk through the back of our campsite at night), then you will enjoy this campground."

    4. Cunnard Lake — Northern Highland State Forest

    6 Reviews
    Woodruff, WI
    17 miles
    Website

    "We had the perfect set up.. right on the water and tucked into the woods. Our neighbors were to far to hear us and the bathrooms were near by!"

    "Some provide camper access, walk in private access and water access. Cunard Lake allows non motorized watercrafts and has a great swimming area."

    5. Clear Lake Campground — Northern Highland State Forest

    8 Reviews
    Woodruff, WI
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 356-3668

    "There is a paved bike path through the woods all the way to the registraion area. We arrived at our campsite, unloaded the bikes, then proceeded to ride to check in."

    "Campsite is very near a lake with plenty of wildlife. The weather is unpredictable so bring extra layers just in case."

    6. Pine Valley Lodge

    1 Review
    Rhinelander, WI
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 937-9626

    $80 - $372 / night

    7. Pelican Lake Campground

    1 Review
    Summit Lake, WI
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 487-4600

    "Needed a place to stay in northern Wisconsin for a week and this campground was available. Great place for kids, right on Pelican Lake for fishing and boating, and nice friendly staff. VERY clean!"

    8. Musky Lake Campground — Northern Highland State Forest

    16 Reviews
    Sayner, WI
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 542-3923

    "Lakeside sites have their own path to the lake. Campers would leave their water “toys” ashore for use the next day. Loons singing; very peaceful."

    "Big Muskellunge Lake is one of many campgrounds situated in the North Highland American Legion State Forest and one of three in a two mile radius that offers modern facilities with showers and flush toilets"

    9. Terrace View Campsites

    1 Review
    Tomahawk, WI
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 453-8352

    "Swam in lake. Very family and pet friendly. Would go back!! Recycling avail."

    10. Indian Mounds — Northern Highland State Forest

    3 Reviews
    Hazelhurst, WI
    17 miles
    Website

    "Nestled on Lake Tomahawk, this small campground is comprised of drive-in and walk-in sites. Walk-in sites being tent camp only, which is the option we took."

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Showing results 1-10 of 146 campgrounds

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Recent Reviews near Rhinelander, WI

323 Reviews of 146 Rhinelander Campgrounds


  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Franklin Lake

    Excellent sandy beach

    Private sites, great beach, beautiful buildings built by the CCC. There is even a small nature center. My family loves the nature trail that takes us through bogs and past maiden hair ferns. With a boat one can visit an island that once had a cabin. The best swimming is on a sandbar directly across from the beach.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Scott Lake

    Remote site on quiet lake

    The campsite is on a gravel road. There is access to a small lake. Across the road is a nice boardwalk to another lake. The Wilderness Headwaters trail is also close.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Indian Lake

    Single site on small lake

    The campsite is just off a paved road making it easily accessible. It’s intended for tents, but a small trailer might fit in the parking area. Many hiking opportunities are nearby.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest Backcountry Site

    Amazing find

    This is a huge campsite on a dead end road. The parking area is huge so one could fit a trailer or pop up there. There is a sandy beach on a small lake full of fish. The Sam Cambell trail is right next door, it’s a nice walk to another tiny lake.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Woodbury Lake Campsite

    Sweet spot on small lake

    This remote site has a sandy beach great for swimming or paddling. There is space for a trailer.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Wolf Lake Campsite

    Beautiful small lake

    I love this campsite. The small lake belongs to a pair of loons that will share their fish and sandy beach. The parking area is adequate, I’ve seen small trailers set up here. Many hiking trails are nearby.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Sevenmile Lake

    Is there really a campground ?

    The Forest Service gives no indication that this campground is in operation. One could hike or boat in to find out, but the road is barricaded at the intersection with parking for the Sevenmile Trail. There is a nice boat launch and clean toilet.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Nicolet National Forest Luna-White Deer Campground

    Beautiful lakeside sites

    This lovely campground has large wooded sites with privacy. Some sites have direct beach access. The toilets are clean and water is available. It’s dark and quiet. There is a sandy swimming beach with picnic tables. A trail goes around each lake. I enjoy White Deer more, it covers more forest types and stays close to the lake.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Chipmunk Rapids

    Artesian well

    Cute campground with an artesian well. The toilet is clean.


Guide to Rhinelander

Camping near Rhinelander, Wisconsin, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Trails: Explore the nearby trails for hiking and biking. Campers have enjoyed the “excellent trails” at Bewabic State Park Campground, noting that “the trails were excellent” and perfect for a day of adventure.
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds are near lakes and rivers, making them great spots for fishing. One reviewer at Musky Lake Campground mentioned, “the lake is not very deep, which is great for swimming or water recreation.”
  • Water Activities: Enjoy swimming, kayaking, or canoeing. Campers at Lake Gogebic State Park Campground have praised the “great beach” and “boat ramp” available for water fun.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Governor Thompson State Park Campground noted, “clean bathrooms, water access, and great campsites.”
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites that provide privacy. A reviewer at Bond Falls Campground mentioned, “some very private and right on the lake,” making it a great choice for those seeking solitude.
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. One camper at Clear Lake Campground said, “friendly staff” made their stay enjoyable.

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially in wooded areas. A camper at Lake Gogebic State Park Campground warned about “a lot of mosquitoes, but you’re in the woods.”
  • First-Come, First-Served: Some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A visitor at Bond Falls Campground mentioned, “you have to drive around and pick an open site.”
  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor cell reception. A camper at Governor Thompson State Park Campground noted, “barely any cell service if that is important to you.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. Campers at Council Grounds State Park Campground enjoyed the “nice little beach area” and “good hiking/walking trails.”
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. A family at Boulder Lake mentioned, “the views and the level sites” made it a great spot for family fun.
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for hikes and outings. A reviewer at Franklin Lake highlighted the “good fishing” and “clean campground,” making it a perfect spot for family picnics.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure the sites can accommodate your RV. A camper at Musky Lake Campground noted, “big clean sites” that are great for RVs.
  • Look for Electric Hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with electric hookups. A visitor at Governor Thompson State Park Campground mentioned, “not many electric sites but nice hiking trails.”
  • Plan for Dump Stations: Ensure there are dump stations nearby. A reviewer at Lake Gogebic State Park Campground appreciated the “sanitary dump” available on-site.

Camping near Rhinelander, Wisconsin, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. From beautiful lakes to friendly campgrounds, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds in Rhinelander, WI for families?

For families visiting Rhinelander, Langlade County Veterans Memorial Park offers exceptional features with free canoe use on Game Lake, hiking trails, and access to the Ice Age Trail. Franklin Lake is another excellent family option with lakefront sites that include private beach access where kids can swim and play. Both campgrounds provide clean facilities and spacious sites with plenty of recreational opportunities. The Northern Highland State Forest region surrounding Rhinelander also offers numerous family-friendly options with bike trails, fishing, and water activities that keep children entertained while allowing parents to relax in Wisconsin's beautiful north woods setting.

Are there tent-specific camping areas available in Rhinelander?

Sailor Lake NF Campground offers dedicated tent sites, particularly along the waterside where you park and carry your gear to your campsite. This provides a more secluded and authentic tent camping experience. North Trout Lake Campground in the Northern Highland State Forest is another excellent option for tent campers, offering sites within a beautiful forested setting. Most campgrounds in the Rhinelander area accommodate both tent and RV camping, with tent campers often getting premium lakeside spots that aren't suitable for larger vehicles. These rustic tent sites typically include a fire ring, picnic table, and nearby access to vault toilets and water sources.

How far are campgrounds near Rhinelander, WI from downtown and local attractions?

Upper Gresham Lake Campground is located very close to Boulder Junction, a charming town where visitors can enjoy local attractions like the weekly Lyons Club flea market with homemade treats. Firefly Lake campground puts you near the towns of Woodruff and Minocqua, with access to multiple paved bike trails and hiking opportunities. Most campgrounds in the Rhinelander area are within a 15-30 minute drive to downtown, where you'll find restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions. The Northern Highland State Forest region offers over 900 lakes and 225,000 acres of outdoor recreation opportunities, all within easy driving distance of Rhinelander.

What is the typical cost for camping in Rhinelander, Wisconsin?

Camping costs around Rhinelander vary by amenities and location. Council Grounds State Park Campground requires both a day use fee and camping fee, making it one of the pricier options. Boot Lake Campground and similar National Forest campgrounds typically charge $15-25 per night for basic sites with vault toilets and water access. State Forest campgrounds in the Northern Highland American Legion State Forest generally range from $15-30 per night depending on location and amenities. Private campgrounds may charge $30-50 for more amenities. Most public campgrounds in the area are rustic without electrical hookups, though some allow generator use during specific hours. Wisconsin residents typically pay less than non-residents at state parks and forests.