Cabin rentals near Sarona, Wisconsin offer camping opportunities within a 25-mile radius of this small town in northwestern Wisconsin. The area sits at approximately 1,250 feet elevation and experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging 75-85°F from June through August. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, explaining why most cabin camping facilities operate seasonally from May through October.
What to do
Water recreation on Lake Chippewa: Lake Chippewa Campground provides pontoon rentals for exploring the lake. "We rented a pontoon for the day and beached it on one of the many islands the lake has," reports one camper who visited with family.
Tubing adventures: River tubing is available at several campgrounds in the region. The Hayward KOA offers this popular activity: "River tubing was the best. They shuttle you out and pick you up," according to a visitor who appreciated the convenience.
Hiking nearby trails: Explore the extensive trail system at Wild River State Park Campground. A visitor notes, "The park is huge and beautiful. We snowshoed and skied. I really enjoyed the snowshoe hike along the St Croix River and watched the full moon rise."
What campers like
Lakefront group sites: Lake Chippewa Campground features group camping areas with lake access. "We stay at this group site for a week every summer with our extended family. Plenty of space for our 4 RV's of various sizes plus tents/easy ups," shares a regular visitor.
Private, wooded settings: Many campers appreciate the secluded feel of Wilderness Way cabins. "It's very secluded and quiet. The owners are the best! There are tent sites, RV, camper cabin (no electric/sewage), and full cabins," according to a long-time visitor who's been camping there for 15 years.
Free watercraft options: Some cabin rental facilities provide complimentary watercraft. At Wilderness Way, "You can rent a pontoon or take out a canoe or rowboat for free. Great fishing too!" notes a satisfied camper.
What you should know
Reservations fill quickly: Popular cabin rentals in the Sarona area book fast, especially for summer weekends. At Lake Chippewa Campground, "They start their booking for the year on January 1st. We called all day long (4500 times not kidding) and finally got a spot."
Cash-only policies: Some campgrounds have payment restrictions. One visitor advises bringing cash: "Be aware they do not accept credit cards so plan ahead."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "We were not sure if this was a coincidence or not. Since our last stay, they had added a primitive/dry camping area and cut down on underaged golf cart driving," notes a camper at Lake Chippewa about changes to their internet service.
Tips for camping with families
Recreational amenities: Hayward KOA offers extensive family-friendly features. "Large 9ft heated pool, mini golf, large playground, horse shoes, volleyball, nice size water slide, covered stage for music, ice cream shop, huge jump pillow, and much more," lists a frequent visitor.
Kid-focused programming: Look for campgrounds with organized activities. "They also have themed weekends for the kids, and plenty of activities!" notes a Hayward KOA camper who appreciated the structured entertainment options.
Site spacing considerations: Family groups should consider how close sites are to each other. "Sites are close together, but that's okay, because everyone keeps to themselves," explains a visitor at Hayward KOA, while another notes, "Campground was kept very clean, even though it is an older campground. Only complaint would be that sites are close together!"
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Nelson Lake Lodge offers concrete pads for RVs but requires careful navigation. "The site was a little tight getting into with our 35' TT because of the approach. But we made it in with some direction from the campground host, and on lookers."
Hookup considerations: Full-service sites vary in setup. "The water spigot was shared with the site behind us but there was already a 'y' connection installed. Good water pressure. Had a little trouble getting our sewer hose to fit tightly," reports an RVer who found a solution by flipping the sewer donut upside down.
Seasonal camper atmosphere: Several camping cabins near Sarona are surrounded by seasonal RV sites. At Nelson Lake Lodge, "Our site was in a great location in the park and we were surrounded by some very friendly seasonal RV'ers. The other seasonal RVers were very friendly and seemed to be having a good time gathering together in the evenings."
