Scandinavia, Wisconsin sits in the glaciated terrain of central Wisconsin's Waupaca County, with elevations ranging between 1,100-1,200 feet above sea level. The region features sandy soil and numerous kettle lakes formed by glacial retreat. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during peak camping season, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can drop into the 40s.
What to do
Swimming and water recreation: Jordan Park offers a small beach area perfect for relaxation or kayaking. "Pretty setting, nice little beach area to relax at or great water to kayak in," notes one visitor to Jordan Park. The park also serves as a launch point for longer paddling trips.
Hiking on maintained trails: Hartman Creek State Park provides multiple hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. A camper mentioned, "There is ample hiking opportunities in the area, some you can walk to from the campground, some requires a small amount of driving." The park connects to segments of the Ice Age Trail system.
Biking on dedicated paths: Several campgrounds maintain bike-friendly infrastructure. At Hartman Creek State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the "paved roads and great off road cycling access." Another camper noted they "enjoy bringing the family's bikes and love the single trail bike paths through the woods."
What campers like
Spacious, shaded campsites: Many campsites in the area provide good separation and natural shade. One Hartman Creek visitor reported, "Hartman Creek has pretty spacious sites, though they can range from very big to just big enough. Our site was larger, almost fully shaded under a mix of coniferous and deciduous trees."
Lake access for kayaking: Multiple campgrounds offer direct water access. A Lake Emily Park visitor mentioned, "I have came here a couple times with friends for fall camping...There are a mix of sites that have a little more privacy, and others that are wide open which would be better for group setups."
Quiet camping atmosphere: Despite being close to towns, most campgrounds maintain peaceful environments. According to a Jordan Park camper who stayed at one of the walk-in sites: "Quiet little campground, I was in one of the three canoe/walk in sights and they were right on the water. All three sights were separated from the rest of camp and are tent sites."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially for premium sites. At Wolf River Campgrounds, a visitor advised, "Sites are a responsible size. Generally very quiet, except for holiday weekends, lots of seasonal sites."
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience road noise. A Jordan Park visitor noted, "The only down fall was that you could hear semis on the road very clearly during the evening." Consider requesting sites further from main roads.
Campsite privacy varies: Site selection impacts privacy levels. A camper at Lake Emily Park observed, "Campground has large sites. Many shaded in woods, some open and sunny." Research specific site locations before booking.
Water quality differences: Lake conditions vary by location. A S'Mores Campground visitor remarked, "It was really inconvenient for none of the amenities to be open. The campsites were ON TOP of each other...the lake view was less than amazing."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Fremont RV Campground, families appreciate that there are "tons of activities for kids and adults. Water parks, mini golf, playgrounds, arcade, train rides."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting provides chances to observe local animals. One camper mentioned, "My kid loved the wildlife here! Everything was great overall, but most of all my son was pretty enamored by all of the awesome wildlife we saw on the strip."
Activity planning: Some campgrounds organize regular events for younger guests. A visitor to S'Mores Campground reported, "They also have rock mining for kids located by the pool which the kids loved...We watched a movie by the playground area - it was amazing and free!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections are standard at most sites, but full hookups are limited. A Wolf River Campgrounds camper noted, "This campground has full hookups, a laundry, shower house, bathrooms, a restaurant/bar, fire rings, and picnic tables."
Site leveling considerations: Terrain varies across campgrounds. A S'More Fun Campground visitor observed, "Park has several types of sites available, some rustic, some full service and some in-between. Park is very wooded, campsites are close together."
Seasonal restrictions: Most RV campgrounds operate on limited seasonal schedules. At Wild West Campground, which runs from April 15 to October 15, a camper recommended, "This was quiet and peaceful. When we needed our fire pit cleaned out they came pretty quickly. Being able to watch the horses was very calming."
