Camping near Schofield, Wisconsin offers diverse lodging options within a 25-mile radius of the Wisconsin River Valley. The region experiences distinct seasons with warm summers averaging 80°F and winter lows frequently dipping below freezing, creating opportunities for both summer water recreation and winter camping for those prepared with proper equipment. Local campgrounds typically open from May through October, though several yurt camping options near Schofield remain available year-round.
What to do
Water activities at Alexander Lake: Council Grounds State Park Campground provides water recreation opportunities with easy access to both Alexander Lake and the Wisconsin River. "We enjoyed being able to rent kayaks and paddleboards and relax on the beach," notes a visitor who camped with a group in July 2023. The park has multiple water access points for different activities.
Hiking with wildlife awareness: The forested trails at Council Grounds State Park Campground offer walking routes suitable for various skill levels. "Hiking trails were ok, routing throughout the park. Not very long, only one to two miles per trail, but well maintained," shares one camper. Visitors should wear insect protection, particularly during evening hours.
River exploration: Tilleda Falls Campground offers access to the Embarrass River with shore fishing and swimming opportunities. The small cascading falls create natural water features for wading. A visitor explains, "The river itself adds more space for folks to enjoy the water on rocky outcroppings and trees lining much of the banks."
Fishing locations: Multiple access points along the Wisconsin River provide fishing opportunities with varying catch rates. A visitor at Sara Park notes, "Campground has 10 sites for $30 a day, all with electricity and water... The sites have immediate access to the river for fishing." Fishing licenses required and available at local bait shops.
What campers like
Clean shower facilities: Pine Grove Campground maintains well-kept bathroom facilities that regularly receive positive comments. "They had a nice sand beach with clear water for swimming, as well as a pool area that are both great for the kids," mentions a reviewer who appreciated the amenities.
Quiet wooded sites: Several campgrounds offer secluded spots away from common areas. At Council Grounds, a camper reported, "Sites are wooded and offer plenty of shade. Well spaced so you feel like you're all alone. Quick walk to the river or drive along the loop to the beach." Sites further from main roads typically provide more seclusion.
Boat-in camping options: Birkensee Campground near Tomahawk offers unique water access camping. "Our campsite was just in view of the pond on the campground. Everything was clean. There was a bar on the campground that had pool tables and some other games. We had a fun time fishing too!" reports a visitor. Boat-in sites require watercraft access.
Yurt camping comfort: S'Mores Campground provides yurt accommodations with modern conveniences. A visitor explains specific features: "The yurt is amazing! It comes with couch, beds, tables, and so much more! It is located on the water scenery and a little more private by being set back. Yurt also has heat and ac; wouldn't mind staying there in early May or late September." Yurt camping near Schofield requires advance booking.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Campgrounds range from spacious to compact. At S'Mores Campground, a camper observed, "The campsites were ON TOP of each other... we were too close to our neighbors and the lake view was less than amazing." Researching specific site numbers before booking helps secure more spacious options.
Seasonal operation schedules: Most campgrounds in the Schofield area operate from May through October. S'Mores Campground specifies dates of "May 15th to October 6th is the campsites open/closed dates." Call ahead for shoulder season availability as weather impacts opening dates.
Reservation policies: Campground booking windows and cancellation policies differ. Some require non-refundable deposits. One visitor mentioned, "The cabin we rented was $80 a night, non-refundable since it was last minute. This included two adults and up to four kids."
Shower fees: Some facilities charge for shower use. A reviewer noted about one campground, "The showers are pay showers - a quarter for 3 minutes. First time I seen that." Bring quarters if using shower facilities at certain campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Eau Claire dells provides family-friendly amenities including playground equipment. "Sites are very well taken care of, they have little wagons to buy firewood, and the camp administrator was super nice and helpful," reports a visitor. Several campgrounds feature updated playground equipment suitable for various age groups.
Kid-friendly water areas: Smaller swimming areas with gradual entry points work best for families with young children. A Council Grounds visitor noted, "Fun for tiny tots, but too small for older kids." Beach areas typically have no lifeguards, requiring parental supervision.
Group site advantages: For families camping together, group sites offer practical benefits. At Council Grounds, a camper reported, "For this particular trip, we reserved group sites A and B. They each have concrete pads for 3 campers and TONS of space to spread out and/or set up tents." Group sites typically require earlier booking than standard sites.
Evening activities: Many campgrounds offer structured activities for children during summer weekends. Captains Cove Resort has "good facilities, good bar, great food, newly remodeled pool facilities," according to a visitor. Evening movie screenings occur at select locations during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: RV pads vary in levelness throughout the region. At Council Grounds, a camper noted, "Dirt pads but fairly level in our spot. (We did have a huge storm during our stay that created a river in our site - so tent campers may want to choose wisely)." Bringing leveling blocks helps at most campgrounds.
Power availability: Electrical hookups range from basic to full service. At Sara Park, "Campground has 10 sites for $30 a day, all with electricity and water. There is a dump station nearby behind the city garage for $10." Most sites provide 30-amp service, with limited 50-amp availability.
Access road conditions: Some campgrounds have narrow entry roads challenging for larger rigs. Pine Grove Campground allows big rigs but has tight turns in certain areas. A visitor notes the campground is "good for the whole family" and "the drive in is nice and accessible even for bigger rigs."
Water hookup limitations: Full hookups remain limited in the Schofield region. Many campgrounds offer electric-only sites with community water access points. Check specific site details when booking yurt camping near Schofield, Wisconsin as amenities vary by location.
