Tent camping near Sarona, Wisconsin centers around the Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway's waterways and surrounding forests. The area sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation with a continental climate featuring warm summers and cold winters. Most campgrounds remain open from May through October, with primitive sites accessible year-round depending on snow conditions and road access.
What to do
Canoe fishing trips: The Namekagon River offers excellent opportunities for combined paddling and fishing excursions. At Namekagon Trail Bridge, camper Joseph L. notes, "Beautiful river! Instead of paddling down the river I'd recommend turning this into a nice float/fishing trip. They provide nice maps depicting where off shore camping sites are."
Hiking the Ice Age Trail: Access segments of this 1,000-mile National Scenic Trail directly from camping areas. The trail features glacial terrain including kettles, moraines, and eskers. A visitor at Straight Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "The Ice Age Trail also runs next to this park."
Rainbow trout fishing: Several lakes in the area are stocked with trout and provide shore fishing access. At Straight Lake State Park Campground, camper Loren S. highlights this feature: "Remote, hike in, Rainbow trout. There are two parking lots. On by the stream connecting straight lake and Rainbow Trout lake."
What campers like
Cart assistance for gear: Some walk-in sites offer equipment to help transport camping supplies from parking areas. Tiffany K. at Straight Lake State Park Campground appreciated that "The park offered carts to help pack in camping supplies."
Multiple camping access options: Sites accessible by different means provide flexibility based on your travel style. At Phipps Landing, reviewer Arctic D. explains, "You can drive in and park at this site, or canoe down the Namekagagen and pull up. There are 2 small sites with fire pits near the parking & landing, and one large group site with fire pit to the far back."
Secluded site options: For those seeking privacy while tent camping near Sarona, certain campgrounds offer more isolated sites. Paul H. noted about Phipps Landing: "Lovely spot on the Namekagan River. 3 established tent sites 1 is more secluded than the others."
What you should know
Water sources limited: Most primitive sites lack potable water sources, requiring preparation. Arctic D. advises about Phipps Landing: "Bring your own water or filtration. No rubbish bins. Camping is free, FCFS."
River site navigation: Riverside camping spots are often marked by mile markers for paddlers. Joseph L. shares from Namekagon Trail Bridge, "We stayed at the dog town campsite, very secluded, bring your bug spray! These sites are first come first serve."
Insect considerations: Higher than average mosquito populations affect camping comfort in certain locations. Tiffany K. noted, "The amount of mosquitos seemed higher than other Wisconsin locations." Bringing adequate repellent is essential during summer months.
Water access variables: Lake shores may have limited access points depending on seasonal vegetation. At Straight Lake, a camper observed, "The lake shore, when we visited, was blocked by lots of vegetation, geese droppings with one small access point which would be great for kayaks."
Tips for camping with families
Group site options: Some locations feature designated areas for larger parties. At Howell Landing, camper Nickole D. reports, "Clean, well kept little campground, which consisted of one large group site. Tent only with access to the Namekagon River. Plenty of parking."
Site proximity considerations: Not all campgrounds provide separation between camping parties. Nickole D. continues about Howell Landing: "The only downside was no separation from other parties due to the group site setup."
Multi-day paddling options: Families can plan extended river trips with camping stops. Joseph L. shares their experience: "We spent 3 days and 2 nights in the river in our canoe. Caught great fish and camping off the rice banks was great."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: Select campgrounds near Sarona offer comprehensive services for recreational vehicles. At K and C Country Air Campground, Forest R. commented, "Great place water sewer electric sites. Very quiet campground."
Seasonal operation: Most RV campgrounds in the region operate with limited seasons due to Wisconsin's winter conditions. K and C Country Air Campground operates from "May 1 to mid October," giving RVers approximately a 5.5 month camping window annually.
Road noise awareness: Highway proximity can affect site quality for noise-sensitive campers. Paul H. notes about a riverside campground: "A little road noise from nearby highway."
