Camping options near Summit Lake, Wisconsin feature both established campgrounds and dispersed sites across Langlade County's northern lakes region. The area sits at an elevation of approximately 1,600 feet within the glaciated terrain of central Wisconsin, characterized by numerous kettle lakes and mixed hardwood forests. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can drop into the 30s.
What to do
Swimming access: Clear water lakes offer cooling relief during summer months at Langlade County Veterans Memorial Park, where motorized boats are prohibited on Jack Lake. "Clear water for swimming and no motorized boats," notes Rebecca B., adding that the park features "a nice beach area and fantastic disc golf course!"
Disc golf course: Try the 18-hole course located within Veterans Memorial Park. "The campground features a nice beach area and fantastic disc golf course!" according to Nathan R. The course winds through wooded areas and open fields, providing challenges for players of all skill levels.
Hiking trails: Connect with the Ice Age Trail near Dells of the Eau Claire Park Campground. "The hiking trails are great and go all the way out to the Ice Age trails. It goes along the river. Very scenic," writes Adrienne L. The trail system offers several loop options ranging from 1-5 miles with varying difficulty levels.
What campers like
Free dispersed camping: No-cost sites at Horn Lake Camping provide a primitive option for those seeking seclusion. "As a primitive camper who hates paying to sleep on the ground somewhere, this is my new favorite spot. Two sites, fire rings, no bathroom, water, electric," reports Jarrett G. Sites are first-come, first-served.
Quiet lakes for paddling: Small lakes throughout the area restrict motor size. "Great spot right on the water. There are 2 camp spots with stone rings. They are about 40' apart on a cul-de-sac at the end of the road where the boat launch is," describes Skip H. about Horn Lake Camping.
Winter camping options: Cold weather access continues at some campgrounds. "Loved the whole experience, the cold, the snow, the hammock camping. Quite an event!" shares Charles M. about a January stay at Veterans Memorial Park during their "Frozen Butthang 2023" event.
What you should know
Uneven campsite conditions: Site levelness varies significantly across campgrounds in the area. At Great Northern Campground, James M. notes: "The site we had was extremely unlevel and had a low spot that filled up with water/mud in the rain." Bringing leveling blocks is recommended.
Pay attention to shower facilities: Some campgrounds charge for showers while others offer free facilities. "There is a per minute fee for their two showers, but no worries it is Luke warm water at best," reports James M. about Great Northern Campground.
ATV trail connections: Direct access to trail systems from several campgrounds. "On ATV route. Small - medium swim pond with floats for climbing and jumping," notes Lori S. about Great Northern Campground, which provides trail maps at the office.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swim areas: Graduated depths at West Bay Camping Resort accommodate various swimming abilities. "Beautiful lake access with small beach. Has heated swimming pool but was closed for season," reports Stephen M., who found the campground peaceful despite being somewhat dated.
Playgrounds and recreation: Several options for children at multiple campgrounds. "Very clean, nice shade on sites, awesome activities for kids. We will be back," shares Amanda D. about Great Northern Campground.
Pet-friendly guidelines: All campgrounds in the area accommodate dogs with standard rules. "Dogs are welcomed, no barking allowed," reports Charles M. about West Bay Camping Resort, making it one of several dog friendly campgrounds near Summit Lake that enforce typical leash and cleanup requirements.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: Consider electrical needs at Dells of the Eau Claire Park Campground, which offers electric hookups but limited full-service sites. "Sites are wooded and offer plenty of shade. Well spaced so you feel like you're all alone," notes Erin A., though she warns about drainage issues during heavy storms.
Dump station logistics: Plan accordingly as not all dog friendly campgrounds around Summit Lake have dump stations. "Dump site is unlevel and leans away from hose hookup making it difficult to fully flush holding tanks," warns Tonya B. about Holly Wood Hill Campground, adding that the "driveway to get in and out of dump site is rough and quite tight for a camper longer than 35ft to maneuver around."
Cell service limitations: Prepare for connectivity gaps throughout the area. "Poor cell coverage," notes Art H. about Dells of the Eau Claire. At other campgrounds, service is spotty or limited to certain carriers, so download maps and information before arrival.
