Campgrounds near Superior, Wisconsin offer diverse camping experiences in northern Wisconsin and eastern Minnesota. The area features dense forests, rocky shores along Lake Superior, and river access points with well-developed trail systems connecting many sites. Terrain varies from riverfront gravel sites to wooded inland campgrounds with water and electric hookups at most locations.
What to do
Hiking along river formations: At Jay Cooke State Park, trails wind around sculpted granite formations with varying water levels. "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," shares Jared S.
Mountain biking from campsite: Spirit Mountain Campground provides direct trail access for bikers. "Heavily wooded and beautiful! Very close to Duluth. It is a mountain bikers paradise. Loved it!" writes Michelle P. Riders can access downhill trails without driving. "The best part was being able to bike down the trails right from the campground!" notes Beth W.
Waterfall viewing: Pattison State Park Campground features Manitou Falls within walking distance of campsites. "Manitou Falls is a short walk away and is incredible," explains Jim H. The park offers multiple waterfall viewing points with accessible trails. "Great hikes. Nice showers and her peaceful," writes Cyndy S.
What campers like
Tent pad quality: Campsites have varying surfaces for tent setup. At Jay Cooke, one camper mentioned, "Our tent pad was really well graveled and made me realize that the standard stakes that came with our tent and bug house need to be upgraded." Consider bringing heavy-duty stakes for rocky grounds.
Privacy between sites: Buffalo Valley Camping offers wooded separation between campsites. "Sites are nice size, with trees. Trees all around," says Lisa D. who appreciated the seclusion. Other campers note "the campground is really nice" with wooded surroundings providing natural boundaries.
Shower facilities: Campsites vary in shower amenities. Some parks offer new facilities: "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," reports a camper at Jay Cooke.
What you should know
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience frequent train traffic. Jay Cooke campers report: "One of the only things that was obnoxious about this park is that there is a frequently used train track nearby- and the trains really lay on whistle. I slept with earplugs in because of this, but I was still woken up around 4 times that night."
Site size limitations: Indian Point City Campground has varying site dimensions. "Campsite was clean but not very private. Hot showers and flush toilets were a plus!" notes Brook Jorgensen, adding "We stayed in an electric and city water hookup site and were happy enough." Consider site measurements when bringing multiple tents.
Seasonal weather impacts: Spring camping can mean muddy conditions. "We stayed here for three nights, had a great time! Although it was muddy, our kids had a blast!" reports Kaelyn B. Rainy periods affect ground conditions, especially at wooded sites where drying takes longer.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play equipment for children. At Fond du Lac City Campground, one visitor observed, "There were many families with children who were playing on the small playground, shooting hoops, fishing, and riding bike." The campground provides multiple activities within walking distance.
Swimming options: Fond du Lac City has river access though "No designated swimming area" according to reviews. Families should note water safety considerations when visiting dog friendly campgrounds near Superior with children.
Bug preparation: Insect activity increases in warmer months. "Lost Lake backpacking site was very pretty and secluded! It was pretty buggy and ticks were bad, but that's to be expected," notes Lydia N. about Jay Cooke State Park. Pack appropriate repellent and conduct tick checks after outdoor activities.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Red Pine Campground (formerly Ogston RV Park) provides varied surfaces. One RVer noted "Site was gravel and a little un-level, but nothing extreme," while another mentioned "Level well packed stone sites." Most dog-friendly campgrounds near Superior Wisconsin have gravel pads requiring minor leveling adjustments.
Water quality considerations: Hard water is common at regional facilities. "Water is definitely hard but again, shower was clean," reported one camper at Red Pine. RVers may want to use water filters for drinking water hookups.
Electric options: RV sites typically offer 20/30/50A connections. At Red Pine, David B. confirmed "Utilities: 20/30/50A electric in back. Sewer located in back and had a non screw-on fitting." Check specific campground utilities before booking as amp availability varies across pet-friendly campgrounds in the Superior area.
