Camping options surround Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, the gateway to Door County Peninsula, where Lake Michigan meets Green Bay. The area sits at approximately 600 feet above sea level with summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Most campgrounds near Sturgeon Bay remain open from May through October, with limited winter accessibility at state parks.
What to do
Hiking trails with wildlife viewing: Daisy Field Campground at Potawatomi State Park offers extensive hiking options with lakeside views. "The campground was set up easy to get to, and had plenty of space to set up our tent/hammocks. Walking trails were easily accessable and well kept," notes Sarah C. The park features an observation tower with views across Green Bay.
Beach activities: Kleinke Park Campground provides direct Lake Michigan beach access just 45 minutes from Sturgeon Bay. "Great place to set up a tent, or in our case, a pop-up camper for the night. It's hard to beat waking up next to serene Lake Michigan waves," shares David K. The park includes playground equipment and picnic areas alongside the beach.
Small-town exploration: River Park Campground in Menominee places campers within walking distance to local shops and attractions. "Shopping, Restaurants & bars are all within walking distance," reports Lora H. The campground's location on the river allows for boat access and fishing opportunities directly from the park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Wagon Trail Campground provides well-spaced camping areas. "The sites were private and spacious. The showers were impeccable. There is even a dish washing station," reports Kay K. Many campers appreciate the separation between sites created by natural vegetation.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds throughout the region maintain high standards for bathrooms and showers. "The bathrooms are the best we've seen in a long time...super clean with individual shower rooms," notes Ron M. about River Park Campground. At Peninsula State Park, Tiffany K. mentions, "There was one shower house that seemed to be pretty busy most of the time. There was also a child's playground with lots of space."
Family-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer recreational facilities beyond standard camping. "It has a pool for both older and small kids. Bathrooms and showers were clean," writes one visitor about Kewaunee RV & Campground. The campground also provides volleyball courts and play areas for children.
What you should know
Weather variability: Door County's peninsula location means weather can change quickly. "We showed up late Friday due to some issues with our pop up. The lady called and asked when we were arriving that was so nice," shares Heather H. about Tranquil Timbers. Pack for changing conditions even in summer.
Seasonal considerations: Most Sturgeon Bay glamping and camping options operate from May through October. "We stayed here for three nights during our Door County Century bike ride trip. The staff was super friendly and made us feel very welcome," notes James B. about his September stay at Tranquil Timbers.
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially for luxury glamping options. "We love this place. Quiet. Lots to do for kids. Pool, mini golf, game room, tennis courts, soccer, volleyball a rec center with games, TV etc. We have already booked for next year," mentions Ann S. about Tranquil Timbers. Reserve sites 6-12 months in advance for peak summer weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Campground activities: J.W. Wells State Park provides multiple recreation options. "There is a ball diamond for kids and a small court for basketball. There is also some nice cabins and areas for tents," shares Pete W. The park's Lake Michigan shoreline offers swimming opportunities during summer months.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play equipment. "The park offers excellent hiking trails with views of ships coming and going. It has a pool for older and small kids," reports a visitor. Daisy Field Campground includes "a child's playground with lots of space."
Site selection: Choose sites with natural barriers for family privacy. "The site is awesome. It's heavily wooded with lots of space between sites," reports John B. about Potawatomi State Park. Sites near bathrooms often benefit families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: Many RV campers note the importance of site dimensions. "Sites are all quite spacious. Plenty of room to setup just about anything you could bring with. It is quite easy to maneuver any size RV into any of the sites," reports Kyle H. about Hy-Land Court RV Park.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites with water, electric and sewer connections are available at many campgrounds. "We love the complete hook ups, no worries about electric, water or sewer. It is a little more pricey but we will pay more for the amenities," explains Ann S. Most glamping pods near Sturgeon Bay also provide electrical service.
Leveling requirements: Site preparation varies between campgrounds. "Our site was incredibly level. I have only found cement sites that require less effort to level your rig," notes John T. about Beantown Campground. Prepare leveling blocks for natural terrain sites.
