Glamping options near Ringle, Wisconsin range from rustic forest settings to waterfront accommodations across several established campgrounds. The area sits within the glaciated terrain of central Wisconsin at approximately 1,250 feet elevation, featuring a mix of wetlands, forests, and small lakes. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, while spring and fall can bring temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night.
What to do
Water recreation on Alexander Lake: Council Grounds State Park Campground offers multiple water activities including kayaking, canoeing, and swimming from a designated beach area. A camper noted, "We enjoyed being able to rent kayaks and paddleboards and relax on the beach. We also liked the proximity to the pit/vault toilet and water pump."
Fishing spots for different skill levels: Boot Lake Campground provides shore fishing access and excellent boat fishing opportunities. According to a reviewer, "Boot lake is actually the shape of a boot. It provides some decent fishing from shore but excellent fishing from a boat."
Hiking through mixed forests: Several trails wind through Council Grounds State Park, ranging from 1-2 miles in length. A visitor mentioned, "Beautiful hiking trails, but watch out for the biting deer flies as the sun goes down! Three kids got attacked in one of the trails and had huge welts and lots of tears."
Mining experiences for children: S'Mores Campground offers rock mining activities that appeal to younger visitors. A parent shared, "They also have rock mining for kids located by the pool which the kids loved. They also liked the store; a lot of neat things in there for adults, kids, camp, and even animal friends."
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Some campsites at Pine Grove Campground offer direct lake access for swimming and boating. A camper reported, "Has a nice sand beach with clear water for swimming, as well as a pool area that are both great for the kids."
Theme weekends: Seasonal events provide additional entertainment at Pine Grove Campground. One visitor shared, "This weekend there was a screening of The Nightmare Before Christmas (one of our favorites) and loads of cool decked out campsites."
Clean, modern facilities: Many glamping accommodations near Ringle maintain well-kept shower houses and restrooms. A camper at Council Grounds State Park commented, "Bathrooms and showers were clean. Showers were free, which is a plus. The beach was a nice size, water was clean."
Spacious, wooded sites: Waupaca S'more Fun Campground offers glamping options in a wooded setting. A visitor explained, "Park has several types of sites available, some rustic, some full service and some in-between. Park is very wooded, campsites are close together."
What you should know
Campground amenities vary by season: Early and late season camping might have limited facilities available. A visitor to Boot Lake noted, "Normally this campsite takes reservations but for 2020 it's strictly first come, first serve."
Additional fees may apply: Some parks charge separate fees for day use and camping. One camper at Council Grounds State Park shared, "I found this to be a pricey evening as you have to pay for a day use fee as well as a camping fee."
Firewood availability and regulations: Eau Claire dells provides firewood through an on-site purchasing system. A reviewer mentioned, "Sites are very well taken care of, they have little wagons to buy firewood, and the camp administrator was super nice and helpful."
Site spacing can be tight: Many campgrounds in the area place sites close together. One visitor commented, "Some sites are super close together but we got lucky!"
Tips for camping with families
Pool and beach combinations: S'Mores Campground offers both pool and beach areas that appeal to different ages. A parent noted, "Right next to the pool was a huge and brand new kids play area. They also have rock mining for kids located by the pool which the kids loved."
Playground accessibility: Many campgrounds feature playground equipment near common areas. At Tilleda Falls Campground, a visitor observed, "Nice playground for the kids, swim beach for great summer fun, campground store/food/drinks if you're hungry or desire a cold drink to beat the heat."
Evening activities: Some campgrounds host outdoor movies and scheduled events. A camper at Pine Grove Campground mentioned, "This weekend there was a screening of The Nightmare Before Christmas and loads of cool decked out campsites."
Site selection for privacy: Larger groups should consider specific site arrangements. One camper at Council Grounds advised, "This was our first camping trip as a group with 12 people and 4 cars. Biggest con was how open/unshaded our site was. We didn't mind but didn't love being as close to the other group sites as well."
Tips from RVers
Electric service details: Campgrounds near Ringle offer varying hookup options. At Crazy Js Campground, electric hookups include 50-amp service for larger RVs.
Pull-through availability: Some campgrounds offer easy-access sites for larger rigs. S'Mores Campground features "Pull through and deluxe sites, seasonal sites, decks, and dogi pots."
Site leveling challenges: Terrain can affect RV setup at some locations. A camper at Council Grounds noted, "Dirt pads but fairly level in our spot. We did have a huge storm during our stay that created a river in our site."
Seasonal booking patterns: Many campgrounds have high occupancy during themed weekends. One visitor observed, "Halloween weekends are by far the most popular weekends for good reason!"
