The Saxon Harbor area sits at 1,200 feet elevation along Lake Superior's southern shore, creating variable weather patterns for campers throughout the season. Many camping sites near Saxon, Wisconsin require advance planning as the limited number of waterfront sites fill quickly, especially during peak summer months from June through August. These campgrounds provide a range of options from free dispersed sites to full-service facilities with electric hookups.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: 2-mile trails lead to multiple falls at Potato River Falls Campground, where campers get direct access to both upper and lower falls. "We decided to try the unmarked dirt road since we knew a campground was here somewhere... once we ventured forth we found a few spots that certainly feel isolated from each other to add to that remote feeling," reports Art S.
Lake Superior beaches: Rock collecting is a popular activity at the area beaches, especially for agate hunters. "The beach had excellent rocks," notes Kay K., who visited Little Girl's Point County Park during summer. Some beaches require moderate hikes from campgrounds down stairs or trails.
Wilderness exploration: Forest roads lead to secluded spots like Foster Falls, where visitors can camp in true isolation. "8 Mile drive off the main road. Mostly paved, some gravel, but all smooth. We had the place to ourselves. A short walk down to the waterfall. Quiet and serene, towering trees and only a few mosquitoes," describes Irvin N.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Privacy levels vary significantly between campgrounds. The most isolated sites are found in the free dispersed camping areas and on the outskirts of established campgrounds. According to Kim at Potato River Falls, "What this camp site lacks in amenities, it makes up for in sheer natural beauty. The falls may be accessed from a long set of stairs climbing down to see the lower falls."
Wildlife viewing: Animal encounters range from common to rare depending on location and season. "Got a bit nervous hearing timber wolves in the distance for a few hours at night then again in the early morning. But we practiced good camp hygiene and they left us alone," reports Michael G. about his stay at Foster Falls.
Waterfront camping: Lake views are available at several campgrounds with direct beach access. Visitors to Black River Harbor Campground appreciate the combination of forest and water. "We stayed in one of the many first-come-first-served campsites and enjoyed a large site, separated by a pretty dense forest in between our neighbors," writes Anthony K., who also noted the "unpredictable weather" of Lake Superior.
What you should know
Seasonal challenges: Black flies can be overwhelming in early to mid-summer. "Black flies. They. Are. EVERYWHERE. We went early-mid July and it was so bad we left with at least 20 bites each. Deet does nothing," warns Emma W. from Black River Harbor Campground, who learned from locals that "no bug spray works, any spray that says it does is lying."
Bathroom facilities: Vault toilets are standard at most campgrounds, with some offering shower facilities for additional fees. At Copper Falls State Park Campground, a visitor noted, "My rating would have been higher if there was a bath house with showers in the North campground; the pit toilets were ok but it was too long of a walk to the south campground where there are flush toilets and showers."
Cell service: Coverage varies dramatically across the region, with most remote sites having little to no service. "I spend all day every day at the lake, which has lovely beach walks for about a mile total of available shore. I found it hard to locate any cell service (T-Mobile)," reports Ellery K. about Little Girl's Point County Park.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Swimming areas differ significantly in safety and accessibility. Some beaches have designated swim areas while others require careful navigation of rocks and currents. "The swim beach is nice, just a short walk from the parking lot at the ranger station. Plenty of bathroom facilities," notes a visitor to Copper Falls State Park.
Playground availability: Limited equipment exists at most campgrounds, with better facilities at the larger, more developed sites. "There is a playground and the beach had excellent rocks," mentions Kay K. about Little Girl's Point County Park, though basic equipment is standard.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs are available at some state parks during summer months. "The main lot has flush and vault bathrooms, a little nature center (closed for covid), lots of picnic areas and a large spread out feeling," reports Kim about Copper Falls, noting the educational resources available when facilities are fully operational.
Tips from RVers
Site length and access: Limited big rig options exist in most campgrounds, with some featuring narrow access roads. "The tight camp would be difficult for larger rigs but our teardrop made it just fine," notes Art S. about Weber Lake County Park, highlighting the challenge for larger vehicles.
Hookup availability: Electric-only sites are common, with fewer full-hookup options. "Dump station is free for campers, otherwise $15," reports Larry F. from Curry Park, indicating the limited facilities. Frontier RV Park offers one of the few full-hookup options in the immediate area.
Leveling challenges: Uneven terrain is common at many campgrounds, requiring leveling equipment. "We had site 19 on pavement but it wasn't level if that matters to you," shares Lisa about Saxon Harbor, highlighting a practical consideration for RV campers.
