Camping areas near Ringle, Wisconsin offer diverse terrain options across Marathon County's mixed forests and wetlands. Most sites sit at elevations around 1,200-1,300 feet above sea level, creating moderate temperature variations between day and night. The camping season typically extends from mid-April through October, with many locations closed during winter months when temperatures can drop well below freezing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Big Eau Pleine Park Campground provides access to the Big Eau Pleine Flowage with multiple fishing spots near the entrance and along three boat landings. One visitor noted, "I love this campgrounds. Big mature forest with water access, boat launches, swimming, fishing. Camping sites are very nice and level w majority elec."
Hiking trails: Council Grounds State Park Campground features several walking paths through towering pine forests. "There seemed to be plenty of spots along the Wisconsin River or on Alexander Lake to fish if that's your thing and you have a license. You can buy firewood up front at the ranger station," a camper mentioned. Trails connect the campground to beach areas and river access points.
Water activities: Jordan Park offers paddling and swimming options on a small lake. As one visitor explained, "Pretty setting, nice little beach area to relax at or great water to kayak in." Another camper highlighted the canoe camping sites: "The canoe camping site is cheaper and much more secluded with view of the lake."
What campers like
Wooded campsites: Big Eau Pleine Park Campground receives praise for its forested setting. A camper described it as a "Little BIG county park with tons of great things to do for the adventurer in you!" Another mentioned, "This gorgeous county park in Marathon County, Wisconsin is 1,450 acres of mixed hardwoods forming a two-mile peninsula jutting out deep into the waters of the Big Eau Pleine Flowage."
Clean facilities: Hartman Creek State Park Campground maintains well-kept bathroom and shower facilities. "Bathrooms with showers available and in good condition. Pit toilets located nearby as well," noted one visitor. Another camper added, "A gorgeous family friendly campground! Our site was located overlooking Allen Lake, right in the tall pines."
Waterfront access: Several rv sites near Ringle, Wisconsin feature water access. Tilleda Falls Campground offers unique riverside camping. A visitor described it as "Beautiful, friendly campground. Swimming area, waterfall, steam, fishing. This camp has it all."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during summer months. At Jordan Park, "2 night minimum, 14 night maximum reservation" applies according to one visitor. Weekend slots fill quickly from June through August.
Cell service: Connectivity varies across camping areas. At Big Eau Pleine Park, "For those requiring cell service, i had 3 bars LTE with Verizon at my site," reported one camper. More remote locations may have limited reception.
Water quality concerns: Some lakes in the region experience seasonal algae issues. A camper at Big Eau Pleine noted, "I have camped with a club in the group site for years... BUT the water quality suffers from green algae almost the entire season."
Campground maintenance: Early morning maintenance occurs at some parks. One Jordan Park visitor reported, "They had leaf blowers going at 7 am and came right next to our tents. Then lawn mowers did the same."
Tips for camping with families
Beach areas: Council Grounds State Park Campground offers a designated swimming beach. A family noted, "Water was refreshing and there is a small beach area. Beautiful hiking trails, but watch out for the biting deer flies as the sun goes down!"
Playground access: Jordan Park provides recreational facilities for children. One regular visitor mentioned, "Smaller county park far enough from town to be in the wood, but close enough if you forgot anything. Close to Jordan River, and it's parks, beaches, Pavillion, and playground."
Group camping options: For larger family gatherings, consider group sites at Council Grounds. "They each have concrete pads for 3 campers and TONS of space to spread out and/or set up tents. Non-flush toilets in between the two sites on opposite side of the campsites," shared one visitor who reserved group sites A and B.
Rental equipment: Hartman Creek offers equipment rentals for family activities. "There is now a rental building available with kayaks, paddle boats, SUP, etc to rent. We rented kayaks for an hour and a very reasonable price," mentioned one parent.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Tilleda Falls Campground accommodates various RV sizes with appropriate hookups. "Well maintained and easy to maneuver around. Quiet and enough sun and shade for everyone," noted one RVer about this option near Ringle, Wisconsin.
Electric hookups: Most parks provide electric connections, though amperage varies. At Wild West Campground & Corral, RV sites include 30-amp service with water and sewer hookups available. The campground operates from April 15 to October 15.
Level sites: Campers report that Big Eau Pleine Park Campground offers relatively level sites. "Camping sites are very nice and level w majority elec. Wood available for fires an reasonable," mentioned one visitor. Concrete pads at group sites in some parks provide stable setup options for larger RVs.
Road access: Access roads to campgrounds vary in quality. A visitor to Jordan Park observed, "Nice small campground clean nice walking trails,dog friendly main park across hwy free and clean showers. The bad is a lot of road noise some sites are very close together."
