Family-friendly camping options surround Scandinavia, Wisconsin, with most campgrounds nestled within the central Wisconsin glacial landscape. The region features sandy soils and mixed pine-hardwood forests typical of the Central Sand Plains ecological area, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Campgrounds operate primarily from mid-April through mid-October with limited winter availability.
What to do
Water recreation opportunities: Lake of the Woods Campground offers a clean swimming pond and pool for cooling off. "The beach/pond was so nice," notes Emily C., who adds that the "pool and kiddie pool were clean" making this a good option for families seeking water activities.
Biking trails: Hartman Creek State Park Campground features extensive biking options including paved trails and single-track paths. "Paved roads and great off road cycling access," mentions Ame G., while Sara K. shares that her family enjoys "bringing the family's bikes and love the single trail bike paths through the woods."
Fishing spots: Several lakes in the area provide fishing opportunities, particularly during morning hours. At Hartman Creek, "Allen Lake has a fishing pier that the kids loved fishing from. Good catches early in the morning!" according to Jen E., who camped with family.
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly in spring and early summer. "My son was pretty enamored by all of the awesome wildlife we saw on the strip. Might've been the time of year but it was just beautiful," shares Melissa B. about her experience at Fremont RV Campground.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds in the area offer generously sized sites with good separation. At Hartman Creek State Park Campground, "The campsites are a good size with plenty of shade," according to Matt S., while Jimmy P. notes sites "can range from very big to just big enough. Our site was larger, almost fully shaded under a mix of coniferous and deciduous trees."
Organized activities: Lake of the Woods stands out for scheduled events. "Planned events every weekend," mentions Emily C., making it ideal for families seeking structured recreation. The campground offers "a great community area for your group" according to Laura B.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower buildings. "Bathrooms with showers available and in good condition," reports Jen E. about Hartman Creek, while Matthew J. appreciated that Lake of the Woods was "very clean and friendly staff, easy check in."
Quiet evenings: Many campers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, particularly at state park campgrounds. "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," shares Jen E. about Hartman Creek.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Campgrounds fill quickly during summer weekends and fall foliage season. Most parks allow reservations up to 11 months in advance, with holiday weekends booking within minutes of reservation windows opening.
Sandy soil conditions: The region features predominantly sandy soil, which affects tent stakes and drainage. "The only thing I didn't like was the sandy soil," notes Jimmy P. about Hartman Creek, a characteristic common throughout the central Wisconsin region.
Seasonal campgrounds: Most facilities operate from mid-April through mid-October. "Pearl Lake RV Campground operates from Apr 15 to Oct 15" according to their listing, with similar seasonal limitations at other private campgrounds in the area.
Varying site privacy: Campground layouts range from open to well-separated. "The entire campground has very tall slender trees," notes Whistle P. about Pearl Lake, while at other campgrounds, "Sites are close together with nothing in between. No privacy," as Lisa S. observed at Fremont RV Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lake of the Woods Campground offers extensive child-friendly facilities. "They have a store, a bar, coin op laundry, a pool, a clean little pond & a great playground... tons to do to keep busy!" reports Laura B., while Cheryl S. confirms "This campground has something for every age."
Rental equipment: Hartman Creek offers affordable water equipment rentals for families without their own gear. "There is now a rental building available with kayaks, paddle boats, SUP, etc. to rent. We rented kayaks for an hour and a very reasonable price," shares Jen E., making water activities accessible for all families.
Group camping options: Several campgrounds offer designated areas for multiple families. At Lake of the Woods, "The group campsite it's phenomenal... tons of space for each family and a great community area for your group," according to Laura B.
Consider location within campgrounds: At larger facilities, proximity to amenities matters for families with small children. "If you're in the back get a golf cart because the walk to the front where everything is is far," advises Emily C. about Lake of the Woods.
Tips from RVers
Budget-friendly options: Omro RV Park offers economical sites for travelers seeking basic accommodations. "It's a place to stay over for a day or two...the park rental was 25 a night. They did have 30 amp hook ups. Showers and toilets," reports Carl E., while Robert P. noted it was just "$15 a night for a site with electric hookup!"
Big rig considerations: While several RV parks Scandinavia, Wisconsin advertise big rig compatibility, access can be challenging. At Pearl Lake, "Just know that all of the sites are 90 degree back ins which can be tight with longer rigs- especially if your neighbor across the road has their vehicle or toys parked right up to the paved surface," cautions Jeremy B.
Full hookup availability: Wild West Campground & Corral offers water, electric, and sewer connections for self-contained camping. "This was quiet and peaceful. When we needed our fire pit cleaned out they came pretty quickly," shares Dave S., noting the responsive service.
Site conditions: RV campers should prepare for variable site materials across different parks. "The sites are gravel, and that's about it. It is self check-in. They have water and a dump station," explains Carl E. about Omro RV Park, typical of the more basic facilities in the region.
