Big Eau Pleine Park Campground accommodates pets at all 106 sites across its West and South units. Dogs must be leashed and supervised at all times throughout the 1,450-acre property. Sites range from $18-$23 per night, with approximately 60 offering electrical hookups. The campground features drinking water stations, fire rings, picnic tables, and sanitary dump facilities. Dogs can accompany owners on the park's 12 miles of scenic trails which wind through mixed hardwoods on a peninsula jutting into the Big Eau Pleine Flowage. Sites remain clean and well-maintained, though campers note there's no water hookups directly at individual sites.
Marathon County's North Wood County Park provides pet-friendly camping with spacious sites offering ample room between neighbors. The park permits dogs in all camping areas but requires they remain on leashes no longer than 8 feet. Pets aren't allowed in park buildings, beach areas, or playgrounds. Campers appreciate the suspension bridge connecting different park areas, ideal for dog walks with water views. DuBay Park Campground offers additional pet-friendly options with full hookup sites and proximity to the Wisconsin River. The campground's location provides easy access to pet exercise areas along maintained trails. Several waterfront sites throughout the region allow campers and their dogs to enjoy fishing, swimming in designated areas, and sunset walks.
$18 - $23 / night
"This gorgeous county park in Marathon County, Wisconsin is 1,450 acres of mixed hardwoods forming a two-mile peninsula jutting out deep into the waters of the Big Eau Pleine Flowage."
"we stayed in the west loop. sites were large and private. firewood available at the campground. beach and lake are beautiful. fish jumping all day long. hiking was really nice. we’ll maintained trails."
"On the Wisconsin River, there are four “loops” of campsites, with some on the river side of the road and some off the river."
"Dog friendly. Nice beach area, Sandy."
"Great little city park in the town of Dorchester Wisconsin. We're just doing a quick overnight but we have 30 Amp and water hookups. Also, we scored a pull thru! All for just $22/ night!"
"There was a scenic lake, but no swimming access. The bathroom and shower facility was well maintained."
"Nice options to tent at and nice to walk around and do things"
"The evening is mostly quiet, but with traffic noise from the outside of the park streets and occasional loud vehicles that can be disruptive. Morning was largely quiet as well."
"Stayed here one night while driving home from Lake Superior. I found this to be a pricey evening as you have to pay for a day use fee as well as a camping fee."
"Beautiful forest, boating, dam views along the Wisconsin River."
"Should be monitored more closely to prevent issues."
"We made a list of everything we felt was important in a seasonal campground and we drive 2 1/2 hours each weekend because of what they offer."
$28 / night
"The good Small campground clean nice walking trails,dog friendly main park across hwy free and clean showers. The bad is a lot of road noise some sites are very close together."
"After a bit of uncertainty about how to access the sites (they were listed some places as "canoe in") we were pleasantly surprised to see the sites were just a walk over a bridge :) All 3 canoe sites"
TravelerLOTS OF TICKS be aware to check yourself and any pets you may bring. Site was nice, hike felt transformative and lake was incredible to jump in after.
LegendThis is a diamond in the rough - exactly what we wanted on our journey. Our criteria - less than $100, pet friendly and rustic.
This is a sawmill that has it all - they run the mill when needed, but also have primitive cabins (where we stayed), full cabins with in house bath, electric RV/tent camping and more. Even wood fired pizzas with homemade crust most nights of the week and sometimes live music!
We were in cabin #3 - rustic. Yes - it did have heat! A little ceramic heater had it so toasty when it was 30 degrees outside we actually turned it off - so it's sure to please on chilly nights. The interior was amazing - lumber that I'm sure came from the mill and ceiling planks that were gorgeous - left over planks from many years ago, stored in a shed and re-purposed for the cabin. The bed was very comfortable with clean sheets and squishy (in a good way) pillows. A small covered front porch and we just parked in front.
Bathroom - if you are in a cabin without a bath, it's very nearby. One of the largest, cleanest bathrooms I've seen. He built it himself. Women's had 2 sinks with a large vanity area, about 3 stalls (very large - you don't have to squish into them) and two very large shower stalls with full doors - not shower curtains. Heated as well.
Pets - easy pet policy. Just let the owner know and it's no problem as long as you are responsible, pick up after them and leash them when necessary. Just a small charge for them and they were very welcomed here.
He even has event space indoors (heated) and outdoors for weddings and such. And hiking trails (6 miles) if you choose to take on the outdoors.
The owner plans on adding saunas and a hot tub in the near future - so this would be the place to drop for a while if you want something out of the norm, peaceful, rustic and relaxing. It's off the main road, behind a field in Amish Country. Lovely place to stay for the night. Very quiet.
LegendCampground Review:
Lake Eleven campsite is a back country site located within the Chequamegon National Forest in Taylor County, Wisconsin. It is the 15.5 mile Lake Eleven Segment, part of the 1200 mile long Ice Age Trail. A 2.5 hr drive from the Twin Cities it is an excellent diverse section of trail with many geologic wonders formed by continental glaciation, with the most recent effects formed at the end of the Wisconsin Glaciation, a period ending about 10,000 years ago.
Starting our hike at the STH-64 parking lot we hike approximately 10 miles to our campsite. There are two sites on Lake Eleven, one on the south side and ours on the north side. Our initial intentions were to camp on the south side but surprisingly it was occupied on an otherwise empty trail. Our late October backpacking trip skirted hunting season in Wisconsin and it appeared a few groups were getting a head start on the weekend. The guide book does mention that this site is used for backpackers, hunters, fisherman and equestrians. We were fortunate to grab the north side location moments before another group of men came thru. I should note that there is plenty of space for large groups at the north side site but as a group of 7 women, the men knew better than to try and camp at our site; fortunate for us as we could hear their drunken banter across the lake. This north side location is accessible via a short spur trail and situated under a grove of pines so we had adequate protection from the sleet storm that was coming as well as a soft pad of needles for all 5 of our tents. This site also provided excellent space for hammock camping. Located next to the lake, it provided ease of access to water that was drinkable with a filtration system. The site has a nice stone fire pit with log benches surrounding it. Plenty of downed/dead trees provide firewood. There is no pit toilet at this location but plenty of open (no low lying brush) wooded area to find a spot to do your business.
Overall a pleasant spot to consider as you travel some or all of the Ice Age Trail.
Product Review:
As a Ranger Reviewer for The Dyrt, I am honored occasionally to test and evaluate products. During this trip I tested out the Oofos womens Oolala Slide Sandal https://www.oofos.com/collections/womens-oolala-slide-sandal
This sandal is touted as a recovery sandal but frankly I use it as an everything sandal. I walk the dog in them, use them at the beach, use them after running, use them around the house, use them at the campsite after a long day of hiking… they are so comfortable that I don’t really care to wear any other sandals. The extra cushy foam, apparently called Oofoam, really does make your feet and legs feel better. The thick sole took a little bit getting used to but like a day not a week. The grippy bottoms give you great traction on all surfaces and my feet fit comfortably yet snugly in the slide, no worries about them slipping off. For our backpacking trip they were a great post 6-8 hr hike shoe. I’d throw off my hiking shoes and throw on the sandals. I really felt this allowed for a quicker recovery and less leg pain and fatigue for the next days hike. What was also great was popping them off right before I got in the tent. No struggling with wet muddy shoes as I crawl into my ultralight 2p tent (aka no room at all). Speaking of light, these puppies were attached to the outside of my pack and added a whopping 10 ounces. As far as the pricing goes these tend to be mid to upper range compared to other recovery sandals. I’ve had a different brand of sandal at a similar price and while nice they only lasted a couple years. For the pricing and the fact that they’re not used for hard use (hiking, running, etc.) I feel they should have lasted longer. Only time will tell if these Oofos will do the same. If they do last longer than they are worth the price.
GuideSpacious campsites, surrounded by trees. Try to get a lake side site, they are amazing! Hot showers, flush toilets, firewood available for purchase. Great campsite for tent or rv camping. Bring your kayaks, canoes, or inflatables but leave motorboat at home as they are not allowed on the lake. They also upgraded the playground equipment on the dayside beach this year. Only complaint is that there are 2 beaches but dogs not allowed on either beach.
LegendStayed here one night while driving home from Lake Superior. I found this to be a pricey evening as you have to pay for a day use fee as well as a camping fee. But, it was all in all a nice campground. The shower house was clean, the campsites were wooded and well spaced out, and there were a couple of trails that went from the campground to the beach, boat ramps, or in the opposite direction, just nice walking/hiking trails. There seemed to be plenty of spots along the Wisconsin River or on Alexander Lake to fish if that’s your thing and you have a license. You can buy firewood up front at the ranger station. The park road went behind my campsite between me and the river, but it wasn’t too noisy as it was set back about 100 yards from the campground and there were plenty of trees to break the noise.
ScoutDiscover the beauty of Eastwood NF Campground, a family-friendly haven nestled in the serene landscapes of northern Wisconsin. With access to a stunning recreation area, this campground offers everything from picturesque hiking trails to a scenic lake perfect for relaxation and adventure. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking your RV, Eastwood NF Campground provides the perfect blend of nature and comfort for families looking to unwind. Plus, for those moments when you want to relax indoors, don’t forget to check out the gogoanime app for endless entertainment options! Enjoy the best of both worlds with outdoor adventures and anime entertainment at your fingertips.
RangerStayed one night to ride the nearby OHV trails, some of which turned out to be not intended for off-road motorcycles (only ATVs are allowed on trails in that county).
Quite a maze of a campsite, with a lake near by. Site 147 is right at one of the entrance, so it was a little busy on that site, although there are multiple entrances.
The management was super nice and helpful. For $8 they delivered a gator-load of wood to the site, and even offered to unload and stack it. It was super heavy oak, so didn't burn that well.
No cell service, no towns nearby. But two local bars that were fairly close.
LegendCampground Review:
Sailor Creek campsite is a backcountry site located within the Chequamegon National Forest in Taylor County, Wisconsin. It is the 15.2 mile Jerry Lake Segment; part of the 1200 mile long Ice Age Trail. A 2.5 hr drive from the Twin Cities it is an excellent diverse section of trail with many geologic wonders formed by continental glaciation, with the most recent effects formed at the end of the Wisconsin Glaciation, a period ending about 10,000 years ago. In the Jerry Lake Segment you cross over the mile-long Hemlock Esker. An Esker is basically an inverted river. Look it up, it’s fascinating. It also provides incredible views as you’re about 80 feet up.
Continuing our backpacking trip from the Lake Eleven campsite, we hiked about 8 miles from our previous site to Sailor Creek. It is located in a grove of hemlocks about 150 feet away from your water source, Sailor Creek. It’s marked by a large blue gray boulder that looks exactly like Jeff Dunhams, Walter, and some very open ground. The trees are lovely but the site is a bit rough for tents. Lots of roots and low dips make for uncomfortable, possibly damp sleeping. Hammock camping, however, is readily available. This site has no pit toilet and not a lot of “privacy” so finding a place to do your business is not for the modest. You are also directly in contact with the trail. It’s literally right along the campsite so even though we never saw anyone, if you happen to camp during a busy time you will not have any privacy from those walking the trails. The fire pit is very nice and there are plenty of dead downed trees to start a fire. The pit is surrounded by logs to sit on and oddly enough some of the “bridge” of Sailor Creek. We’re not sure if someone broke the boardwalk or they’ve repaired it and those were left over pieces. They made for nice tables though.
Product Review:
As a Ranger Reviewer for The Dyrt, I am honored occasionally to test and evaluate products. During this trip I tested out two LEDLENSER products, the MH2 Headlamp and the MT10 Flashlight. https://www.ledlenserusa.com
First up the MH2. This sturdy, well built, headlamp is great for tasks around camp. It is not incredibly bright at 100 lumens but it’s a no frills get the job done light. You can twist the front to go from soft 15 lumen light to the more direct spot of the 100 lumens. It’s lightweight at a little over 6 oz and has an excellent price point, for its qualities, of $25. It provided plenty of light for walking around camp, gathering firewood and setting up the tent. It requires 3 AAA batteries which were pleasantly included in the box along with instructions and a 7 year warranty.
The MT10 flashlight is in a word, intense. If the packaging doesn’t convince you (a chainsaw would have been useful) then the 1000 lumens of light might. It is incredibly well built and while just under 6 oz feels a lot denser. It’s a convenient, compact size at a little over 5 inches long and comes with a handy sheath that clips to your pants, shirt, backpack, etc. Like the headlamp you can go from a soft 10 lumens of light to the powerful direct 1000 lumens. As a women I considered the fact that this 1000 lumens light would blind a would be attacker in a heartbeat. The light comes with a rechargeable battery via usb cord and is advertised as providing 6 to 144 hours of light depending on your lumen intensity. I enjoyed using this light for a middle of the night bathroom run as I could see everything within a 500+ foot radius. No shining eyes were sneaking up on me. I would completely trust this light for late night trail jaunts. The pictures below looking up into the 100 foot tall pine trees give you just a peak at the power of this flashlight. This light comes in at a steeper price point of $80 but given its capacity I think it’s more than worth it if you need sunlight in the darkness.
GuideNote: I have not camped here yet, but I will be in the summer at the tent sites.
I have been going to this campground for years, walking around, going to the beaches, launching the family pontoon and fishing in Lake Petenwell. Everyone is always so friendly upon arrival. All of the tent sites are right on the edge, it is the best view of the lake. Other RV spots are partially shaded or full sun depending on the location.
I have US Cellular, it does work excellent in the area, but is very spotty lakeside. I am not sure what other providers are like.
There are two other camping areas that also are apart of this park. The second one is down the road a little and is west to the main grounds. It has been there for a while and is a spectacular place for sunsets! The park also just added a third campground right across the street as another option for additional camping. This one is atv/utv friendly where if you are on the trails you can drive right in that area. One thing to note is that they are not allowed in the main campground. There is a small atv entrance about 200ft passed the car entrance where you will need to check in.
There is a pretty nice beach to relax on, the lake is a little green and mucky sometimes- but hey its a lake! There are playgrounds for the kids to let the energy out and plenty of activities to do in the area.
Overall, I would highly recommend this campground!
Big Eau Pleine Park Campground sits on a peninsula surrounded by the 6,800-acre Big Eau Pleine Flowage in central Wisconsin. Located about 15 miles from Stratford, this park offers camping options with varying levels of shade and privacy between sites. While summer daytime temperatures average 78-82°F, evenings can drop to the 50s, making campfires a welcome feature at most sites. Water activities dominate recreational options with three boat launches and multiple fishing access points throughout the property.
Beach activities: The swimming beach at Big Eau Pleine Park offers a sandy area for families. One visitor notes, "You can hike, bike, or ride your horse on the 12 miles of scenic, wooded trails. The park also offers several fishing points near the entrance and along the three boat landings. There is also a beach, two shelters and scattered picnic areas."
Disc golf: The park features a wooded disc golf course requiring a daily fee. According to a camper, "There is a daily fee for disk golf course" but the course provides a scenic experience through the forested terrain.
Paddle sports: Dubay Park Campground provides direct access to the Wisconsin River for kayaking and canoeing. A visitor mentions, "On the Wisconsin River, there are four 'loops' of campsites, with some on the river side of the road and some off the river."
Hiking trails: Explore the Council Grounds State Park trail system with routes connecting to the beach, boat ramps and through wooded areas. A reviewer shared: "There are beautiful views along the Wisconsin River, would probably be a nice stretch for canoeing or kayaking."
Spacious campsites: At North Wood County Park, sites offer privacy and room to spread out. A camper notes, "You have plenty of room between campsites and if you're lucky enough to get a water front one it is just beautiful in the fall especially with the geese hanging out in the water and the sound of the water running over the dam."
Accessible options: Big Eau Pleine Park provides handicap-accessible sites for visitors with mobility needs. One visitor shared, "I camped on the handicap site as I am disabled. The site is near the bathroom which is good it's a nice big site. It was big enough for an camper and a tent. Site was clean and well kepted."
Unique features: Many campers appreciate North Wood County Park's suspension bridge. A reviewer mentioned, "The suspension bridge is another favorite of ours to get to the other side of the park."
Water views: Jordan Park offers sites with direct water access. A camper describes, "The canoe camping site is cheaper and much more secluded with view of the lake. Great experience."
Water quality concerns: Algae blooms can affect swimming and fishing at certain times. One camper at Big Eau Pleine noted: "I have camped with a club in the group site for years. Electric sites. No water. You now pay to dump your waste. Price is right for a county site. BUT the water quality suffers from green algae almost the entire season."
Bathroom facilities: Facilities vary widely between parks. A visitor to Dorchester Park mentioned, "The bathroom and shower facility was well maintained."
Reservation requirements: Some parks have minimum stay requirements. Jordan Park has "2 night minimum, 14 night maximum reservation" according to a camper.
Rules enforcement: Some parks strictly enforce regulations. One camper noted about Big Eau Pleine Park: "Been coming here for years. But the rangers and camp hosts will give you tickets for EVERYTHING. I was profiled for fitting the description of a vehicle they had an issue with the week prior and I got a $50 ticket!"
Splash pads: Marathon Park Campground offers additional water play options. A reviewer noted, "The campground is part of a larger park. There are multiple playgrounds, tennis courts, splash pads and even an amphitheater and ice rinks within the park."
Group sites: Council Grounds State Park provides group camping areas ideal for family reunions. A camper explains, "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."
Beach access: Many parks offer beaches suitable for children. At Council Grounds, "Water was refreshing and there is a small beach area."
Pest awareness: Be prepared for insects, particularly in wooded areas. One family noted, "Watch out for the biting deer flies as the sun goes down! Three kids got attacked in one of the trails and had huge welts and lots of tears."
Electric options: Most pet friendly camping near Stratford, Wisconsin offers electric hookups, but specifications vary. At Dubay Park, "The main RV loop looked crowded, but it is also where the very clean bathhouse is located."
Site selection: Choose your site based on privacy needs. A camper at Marathon Park noted, "The campsites themselves are small — if you have a camper there's not much room outside."
Cell service: Coverage is generally good in the area. At Big Eau Pleine Park, "For those requiring cell service, i had 3 bars LTE with Verizon at my site."
Dump station access: While most campgrounds offer dump stations, some charge fees. A reviewer mentioned about Big Eau Pleine Park, "You now pay to dump your waste."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Stratford, WI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Stratford, WI is Big Eau Pleine Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 13 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 64 dog-friendly camping locations near Stratford, WI, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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