Glamping near South Range, Wisconsin provides upscale outdoor accommodations within a short drive of several state forests and recreational areas. The region sits at the western edge of Lake Superior, creating a microclimate with cooler summer temperatures than inland areas. Winter camping options remain limited to heated structures with temperatures often dropping below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Water recreation: Lake Superior: Just 20 miles north of South Range, the largest freshwater lake by surface area offers fishing and boating opportunities. "I spent a day trip with friends at Jay Cook. The water levels were low, so we clambered around on the sculpted granite rocks that line the river and falls, dipping on and out of pools and up slick rock faces," notes a visitor to Jay Cooke State Park Campground.
Hiking trails: Boise Brule River: The Boise Brule Campground offers access to riverside trails. "We did a little hiking. Trails are good and well marked. Looked like folks were enjoying the fishing too," shares one camper. The river attracts anglers targeting trout throughout the warmer months.
Winter recreation: seasonal options: While most glamping sites close during winter months, some locations maintain year-round access. "If we would stay again we would book site 50 or 52," recommends a visitor to Spirit Mountain, noting the importance of site selection for comfort in varying weather conditions.
What campers like
River access: fishing spots: Fond du Lac City campground offers direct river access. "Great place. Plenty to do. People that work there are friendly and helpful. Great mountain bike trails across the road, and hiking trails only right down the road about 6 blocks. Lots of Canoe and kayak rentals," notes a camper. The St. Louis River provides fishing opportunities within walking distance.
Privacy: wooded sites: Campers appreciate sites with natural screening between neighboring accommodations. "Every campsite seems to be well-treed and relatively private, providing a perfect atmosphere to just enjoy nature from your campsite," reports a visitor to Jay Cooke State Park Campground.
Bathroom facilities: campground standards vary: At Cloquet-Duluth KOA, "Bathrooms were cleaned every couple of hours, but highly trafficked thus quickly undoing the cleaning," notes one camper, while another states: "Staff is friendly and bathrooms, store, activity room, pool are all seemed to be well maintained."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: operating dates: Most glamping options near South Range operate seasonally. Gordon Dam runs from May 17 through September 11. "Does not have water sewer hookups but had a station to dump and fill has electricity at most sites close to water has boat access," reports one visitor.
Insect activity: tick protection: Ticks remain active throughout the camping season. "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 a camper at Boise Brule Campground.
Weather considerations: rain preparation: The region receives significant rainfall even during summer months. "We stayed here for two nights over the 4th of July. A little crowded on the river front but our site was tucked into a more secluded area not far from the river," notes a Fond du Lac City visitor. Pack rain gear even for summer visits.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: kid-friendly sites: Penmarallter Campsite provides open spaces for children. "This is a very open campground that would be premier for RV camping. I probably would not pitch a tent unless I was in a bind," notes one camper. The open layout allows parents to maintain visual contact with children.
Swimming options: designated areas: Water recreation requires supervision for children. "It's on a beautiful lake with a swimming area. You can rent a pontoon or take out a canoe or rowboat for free," shares a visitor to Wilderness Way campground.
Hiking difficulty: trail selection: When planning family hikes, consider trail difficulty. "Nice hiking trails. Not too difficult. Family friendly," reports a Jay Cooke State Park visitor, indicating trails suitable for younger hikers.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: privacy considerations: RV sites vary significantly in spacing. "Sites are cramped, leaving no illusion of privacy," notes a Cloquet-Duluth KOA visitor, while another mentions: "Sites are mostly level and are some are a bit tight and close to your neighbors."
Hookup availability: water and electric: Not all sites provide full hookups. "You can save $5 a night if you only need 30-Amp electric and water," advises a Penmarallter Campsite camper about cost-saving options for those not requiring full hookups.
Road access: larger vehicles: Some campgrounds accommodate larger RVs better than others. "The campground was small but luckily we were there in the middle of the week so it wasn't too busy," reports a Boise Brule visitor, suggesting weekday arrivals for easier maneuvering of larger vehicles.
