Scandinavia, Wisconsin sits at an elevation of approximately 1,060 feet in the glaciated terrain of central Wisconsin. The area experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging in the 70s and cold winters where snow often blankets the landscape from November through March. Most campgrounds near Scandinavia operate seasonally from April or May through October, with camping rates for tent sites typically ranging from $15-25 per night.
What to do
Swimming at local lakes: Hartman Creek State Park Campground offers swimming in a small lake with a maintained beach area. "The lake was a smaller lake, but nice for swimming. They do a great job of keeping the beach and swimming area clean," notes Jimmy P.
Hiking the Ice Age Trail: The Hartman Creek State Park trail system connects to the famous Ice Age Trail. "Right along the ice age trail!" shares Leah K. The trails provide varied terrain through glacial formations with multiple access points from the campground.
Kayaking on local waterways: Waupaca S'more Fun Campground provides direct lake access for paddlers. "We enjoy camping at S'more Fun and kayaking on the lake. The owners are very personable," explains Kris W. Kayak rentals are available at several locations, with hourly rates starting around $10-15.
Biking on paved and off-road trails: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated biking paths. "Paved roads and great off road cycling access," mentions Ame G. about Hartman Creek State Park Campground. The park features both paved routes and single-track mountain biking trails through wooded areas.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Jordan Park features secluded tent camping options. "The canoe camping site is cheaper and much more secluded with view of the lake. Great experience," shares Rico R. These walk-in sites offer more privacy than standard drive-up camping spots.
Clean facilities: Lake Emily Park maintains well-kept shower buildings. "Very clean showers and bathrooms," notes Donna W. The park provides free hot showers, flush toilets at the main building, and pit toilets located throughout the campground.
Family-friendly atmospheres: Camping options cater to families with children of all ages. "A gorgeous family friendly campground! Our site was located overlooking Allen Lake, right in the tall pines. It was a great location, enough trees for kids to hang hammocks for a little relaxation," explains Jen E. about Hartman Creek State Park.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes near Scandinavia offer fishing access. "Allen Lake has a fishing pier that the kids loved fishing from. Good catches early in the morning!" according to Jen E. Most locations don't require boat access for productive fishing.
What you should know
Train noise affects some campgrounds: Lake Emily Park experiences railroad disruptions. "Only downfall is an active train going through at night," mentions Donna W. Sites further from the tracks experience less noise disturbance.
Limited operating seasons: Most campgrounds close during winter months. "Seasonal campgrounds typically operate from April or May through October," with specific opening dates varying by location.
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during summer weekends. Hartman Creek State Park Campground often books completely on weekends 2-3 months in advance. "Pretty full, but also pretty quiet place. Clean bathrooms with showers. Most sites don't have hookups. There's an upcharge for out-of-staters," explains Ellen B.
Soil conditions vary: Wild West Campground & Corral offers unique camping with horses nearby. "Being able to watch the horses was very calming," notes Dave S. Hartman Creek has "sandy soil" according to Jimmy P., which drains quickly after rain but may affect tent staking.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple dog friendly campgrounds near Scandinavia feature dedicated play areas. "Nice large sites, swimming, boat landing, shelter building to rent, very clean free showers, and flush and pit toilets," shares Donna W. about Lake Emily Park, which maintains a playground near the swimming area.
Water activities for kids: S'Mores Campground provides pool access and lake recreation. "Right next to the pool was a huge and brand new kids play area. They also have rock mining for kids located by the pool which the kids loved," explains Annabelle G. Most swimming areas are supervised only during peak season.
Stargazing opportunities: The rural setting allows for excellent night sky viewing. "We loved the quietness at night. Not entirely sure, but I believe there is a quite policy after 10pm. Gorgeous to look up and see the amazing stars at night," notes Jen E. Light pollution remains minimal around most campgrounds.
Pet-friendly accommodations: Several campgrounds welcome four-legged family members. "This a small county park in Portage County," Julie W. explains about Jordan Park, noting that pets are welcome with standard leashing requirements and waste cleanup responsibilities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Wolf River Campgrounds provides full-service options. "This campground has full hookups, a laundry, shower house, bathrooms, a restaurant/bar, fire rings, and picnic tables. Sites are a responsible size," shares Jackie S. Electric and water hookups are more common than full sewer connections in the area.
Size limitations: Most campgrounds accommodate medium-sized RVs but have limitations for larger rigs. "The campground was expensive at 80$ for water and electric only on a dirt pull through," notes Scott B. about Fremont RV Campground, indicating the premium often charged for RV sites regardless of size.
Seasonal sites available: Several campgrounds offer longer-term options. Wolf River Campgrounds has "lots of seasonal sites" according to Jackie S., making it suitable for those wanting to maintain a consistent weekend getaway location throughout the season.
