177 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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. The Rhinelander area offers campgrounds with varying levels of amenities, from primitive sites to those with full hookups for a comfortable stay. 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.
"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."
"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."
"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."
"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."
"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."
from $80 - $372 / night
Check Availability"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!"
"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"
"Swam in lake. Very family and pet friendly. Would go back!! Recycling avail."
"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."
GuideSite (gravel pad) was roughly 50x25... lot of room for our large tent, kitchen set up, portable shower and screen tent. Fishing was good! views were great! Mosquitoes were thick! Be prepared for the Mosquitoes! Quiet and private. Lots of room between sites. We will be back! Biking, Kayaking, swimming, Hiking...
TravelerFirst time on this campground and I would 100% recommend. Campsites are surrounded by tall trees unlike your usual campsites where you can see your next door neighbor. Our campsite lead directly to the lake and was right in the middle so the view was perfect. Easy to navigate and not a very far drive to Minoqua. Very quiet, especially at night. We were able to catch fish and look at the stars very clearly!
GuideNice campground, well maintained, next to a lake with a boat ramp. Ever site has a picnic table, fire ring, asphalt pad and drying stand. Vault toilets, very limited trash collection trash cans (2). No water or waste. Only a few pull through most are back in.
RangerBeautiful lake. Large parking area for oversized rigs. Camping is not allowed in the parking area but a small walk to the lake provides a decent tent site.
RangerScott Lake is not listed on the U.S. Forest Service dispersed page. This location is just off the forest service Road. A small parking area and a small walk to the lake with a fire pit and picnic table.
RangerMayflower Lake is another free dispersed site that is set back in the deep woods. There is a picnic table and fire pit you drive right up to. The trail leading in a little rough and I would advise having an SUV or truck.
RangerThis site is located a few miles off the main Forest Service Road. There is a camping location hidden under the large pines next to the lake. Nothing but you and nature here. Part of the trail is decent for most vehicles, however I would advise an SUV or truck as the trail gets a little technical closer to the lake
Ranger2 sites located on an island accessible by boat. Took the shoreline by kayak to get to the sites.
RangerMy family has been going here for generations. Many memories were made here. Boot Lake offers a nice little beach, fishing and recreation and close to Townsend and Lakewood as well as other lakes and recreation in the CNNF.
Rhinelander's camping options sit at the heart of Wisconsin's Northwoods region, surrounded by over 1,100 lakes within a 30-mile radius. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F, with occasional thunderstorms that campers should prepare for. The area's sandy soil allows for quick drainage after rain, making most campsites usable even after wet weather.
Paddling on quiet lakes: At Cunnard Lake — Northern Highland State Forest, non-motorized watercraft are welcome on the peaceful water. "Loved getting to paddleboard (brought my own) and listen to the loons day and night," writes Jordan A., who appreciates the quiet atmosphere.
Wildlife watching: The Northwoods ecosystem supports diverse wildlife visible from many campgrounds. Charles M. notes that at West Bay Camping Resort, there's "a wildlife school across the road with free trails you can walk," providing educational opportunities beyond the campsite.
Biking on paved trails: The region offers extensive biking opportunities through forested areas. "Convenient to the lovely bike trail that takes you to Boulder Junction and Manitowish Waters," reports Shelley F. about camping near Crystal Lake, making it easy to explore neighboring communities by bicycle.
Peaceful lake access: Many campers value the serene water experiences. "Lake George Campsite was the smallest campground I've seen, 10 sites pretty close together. To be fair it was still very pretty and peaceful. Directly across from Lake George, easy and serene," notes Judy B. about Lake George Campsite.
Clear water lakes: The region's lakes are known for their exceptional clarity. "The lake is one of the cleanest I've ever been on," writes Braden H. about Clear Lake Campground, where swimming and water activities are particularly enjoyable due to the water quality.
Evening wildlife sounds: Natural soundscapes enhance the camping experience. "You will wake up to the sound of loons and go to bed with the sound of them," shares AnneMarie C., highlighting the distinctive calls that create a memorable atmosphere at many Rhinelander area lakes.
Quiet designated campgrounds: Some campgrounds have specific noise restrictions. "Lake Cunard campground was designated a 'Quiet' campground several years ago - one of only two in the 18 different Northern Highlands American Legion state forest campgrounds. That means no 'noise producing devices', including generators, radios, TV's, video games, guitars, etc. No means none," explains S P.
Reservation timing: Many popular sites book up quickly. "You will need to reserve your site 11 months in advance because it fills up fast," advises Joel N. about visiting Musky Lake Campground, especially for prime summer weekends.
Electrical concerns: Some campgrounds may have infrastructure limitations. Vincent S. reported at West Bay Camping Resort that they "had nothing but electrical issues the entire time we stayed there in a very hot part of summer," suggesting campers bring backup options for cooling during peak summer heat.
Kid-friendly swimming spots: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas designed for families. "Great place for kids, right on Pelican Lake for fishing and boating," says Steve D. about Pelican Lake Campground, which also maintains exceptionally clean facilities.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play equipment to keep children entertained. Matthew K. notes that Clear Lake is "a popular campground so it can be busy and hectic but is nice for families. A lot of locals come to the swimming beach on the weekends."
Scooter-friendly roads: Paved roads at some campgrounds allow for additional recreation. "Paved roads made it easy for my children to navigate the grounds on their scooters," shares Corey D. about Indian Mounds campground, adding value for families with young children.
Site leveling requirements: RV campers should note the terrain variations. Charles M. mentions that at West Bay Camping Resort, "Some sites are tight/close and others you could turn around in. Most are fairly level or it doesn't take much to make your camper level."
Hook-up availability: Full hook-ups are available at select campgrounds. "We had a great time! Tall trees, no issues with branches. Quiet…a lot of full timers living there. Work during the day," reports eugenia W. about Terrace View Campsites, which offers water and electric connections.
Passport America discounts: Some private campgrounds honor camping club memberships. "Passport America discount honored for 7 days and Coast to Coast," notes Charles M., which can significantly reduce camping costs for club members staying near Rhinelander.
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.
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