Camping near Solon Springs, Wisconsin occurs primarily at elevations between 1,000-1,100 feet above sea level in a transitional forest zone. The area receives approximately 30-35 inches of annual precipitation, creating ideal conditions for the mixed coniferous and deciduous forests surrounding local campsites. Winter temperatures regularly drop below 0°F, requiring specialized gear for off-season camping.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: At Amnicon Falls State Park Campground, multiple cascades create natural swimming opportunities. "Beautiful river with multiple waterfalls and little pools you can soak in if it's warm enough out! A little pricey for out of state. Really close to Superior/Duluth," notes Margaret R. The park features varied water features accessible via short hiking trails.
Fishing opportunities: The St. Croix River and local flowages provide prime fishing spots. Gordon Dam County Park offers excellent access points. "Beautiful location at the end of a dead end. No showers, but they have a nice pit toilet. Great fishing on the St. Croix river/flowage. Quiet peaceful place. Fish cleaning house. Boat launch/landing," reports a camper.
Family hiking: Pattison State Park Campground offers well-maintained trails suitable for all ages. "Awesome state park! Right along side of State Hwy 53. All the amenities you would need. Clean restrooms, bathrooms etc. All kinds of room to stretch out. Playground in good shape and very large area's for BBQing. Also nice trail system for hiking with a few site's for backpacking in," mentions Al J.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds in the region prioritize site separation. At Boise Brule Campground, "the sites are pretty close together so if it's busy, your experience may be very different," notes Jules L., highlighting the importance of timing your visit. Weekday camping typically offers more seclusion than weekends.
Waterfront access: Proximity to lakes and rivers remains a top draw. "This campground stretches along the forest road. The sites range in style but we found nicely wooded spots - perfect for keeping the dog's eyes distracted from others passing by. Nearby are places to launch canoes," reports Art S. about Boise Brule Campground.
Clean facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly between campgrounds. At Jay Cooke State Park Campground, "The restroom/shower facility is very new and has my favorite layout where there is one main area with toilets and sinks and separate rooms accessible from the outside for private shower rooms. Not only is the shower privacy nice, but it keeps the water contained to that individual room," according to Krista T.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Solon Springs require advance booking. Lucius Woods County Park fills quickly. "This place does indeed fill up. We were there midweek and not too many open spaces were there. The people were super friendly. Site 25 was the most private...the rest of the sites were very nice, but this one was the most private," shares Scott M.
Additional fees: Non-resident campers face higher costs at state parks. "Cost for non-residents is $21 for the campsite and another $11 daily state park entrance fee. So, $32 for the same type of campground as a USFS at about $15," explains Laura M. regarding Boise Brule Campground. Budget accordingly when planning multi-night stays.
Seasonal pest considerations: Ticks pose a significant concern in spring and early summer. "Solid hiking trail and good campsites. The campsites have adequate space and decent amenities. The biggest issue however was ticks. Been an outdoor person my whole life and more ticks than I've ever seen before. Pulling 10 or more off an hour..." warns Zachary G. about Boise Brule Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and swim areas: Lucius Woods County Park offers dedicated recreation spaces. "There is a huge park along the water for kids to play and to have all kinds of activities. It had a very nice swimming area. There was also a huge amphitheater for events to be had there," notes Scott M. The beach area features a gentle slope ideal for younger swimmers.
Educational opportunities: Several parks include interpretive programs during summer months. "The fish hatchery is 1/2 mi. away. If they like fishing, it's great though. The river's cold, so small kids would not like to swim there. L. Nebagamon is about 5 mi. away though," explains Jane B. about Boise Brule Campground.
Food accessibility: Proximity to stores and restaurants can help when camping with picky eaters. "The campground is near a small little town with some good food!" mentions Scott M. regarding Lucius Woods County Park. Having backup meal options reduces stress when camping with children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring preparation. "Sites are (mostly) on grass. Site 35 had electricity and water. No privacy or separation between sites, as would be expected in an RV park. We weren't sure the site would be level, but it was once we maneuvered our van a bit," explains Lee D. about The Backyard at Amnicon Lake.
Generator restrictions: Wisconsin state parks limit generator use. "Wisconsin is loosing there position on the use of generators in there state parks that do not have electric at sites. You need to get the ok from the DNR staff," notes Mark J. about Amnicon Falls State Park. Contact rangers before arrival to understand current policies.
Dump station locations: Not all parks provide on-site dumping facilities. "No dumpstation at the campground for RVs but you can use the dumpstation at Pattison SP which is about 30 minutes," advises Mark J. regarding Amnicon Falls State Park. Plan dumping schedule accordingly, especially for longer stays.
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