Tent campsites near Superior, Wisconsin range from secluded backpacking sites to more accessible car-camping locations within a 30-mile radius. The area features mixed hardwood forests transitioning to northern coniferous landscapes with sandy to loamy soil types. Elevations around Superior sit at approximately 600-700 feet above sea level, creating moderate terrain conditions for camping.
What to do
Trail exploration with OHVs: Nemadji State Forest accommodates dirt bikers and ATV enthusiasts with extensive trail networks. "Excellent campground if you're into ATV use camping. Offers hundreds of miles of 4 wheeling and snowmobiling. Can't forget dirtbikes and UTV as well," notes Josh M. about Garfvert.
River fishing and canoeing: The Namekagon River provides opportunities for multi-day paddling trips. "Beautiful river! Instead of paddling down the river I'd recommend turning this into a nice float/fishing trip. They provide nice maps depicting where off shore camping sites are," shares Joseph L. about his experience at Namekagon Trail Bridge.
Water activities: Multiple lakes and streams offer swimming and fishing opportunities throughout summer months. According to Sara S. from Bear Lake County Park, "We enjoyed the fishing, hiking, and canoeing (rental from the park). Visiting in the fall was ideal—I bet this place is packed during the summer months!"
What campers like
Privacy levels: Some Superior-area campgrounds offer more secluded experiences than others. Clarke N. recommends Schoen Park, saying "This is a great spot for primitive campers. There are no real sites, more of a dispersed camping area. No reservations. The reason we like it so much is it's very private and a beautiful view of the river."
Seasonal timing: Fall camping provides less crowded experiences with pleasant temperatures. One camper at Bear Lake County Park noted, "The sites were on the smaller side but being on the water made up for that. It was very private and had nice trees surrounding it. Visiting in the fall was ideal."
Accessible wilderness: Many primitive sites offer natural settings without long hikes. "I'd recommend Gafvert if you want a deeper woods experience without many people. Accessible trails, good, flat sizeable spots," shares Kraig E., highlighting the balance of accessibility and seclusion.
What you should know
Site reservation systems: Most primitive campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis. "It was hard to find a campsite because it's first-come-first-serve, but we were able to find a spot closer to the trails," explains Casie S. about camping at Nemadji State Forest.
Campground density: KOA options provide more amenities but less privacy than state forest sites. One camper at Cloquet-Duluth KOA reports, "This is your standard KOA with RVs and tents on top of each other. If you are just looking for a place to stay for the night, this campground will work great. If you're looking for peace and quiet over a weekend, look elsewhere."
Local facilities: Consider access to provisions when planning trips. Sandra from Cloquet-Duluth KOA shares, "Kwik Trip down the road has everything you forgot to bring but there's a full grocery just a few miles from the campground...small but well stocked. Easy on easy off from I35 and close enough to Duluth to make a day trip."
Tips for camping with families
Noise considerations: Campgrounds with playgrounds may experience higher noise levels. Cindy B. cautions about Cloquet-Duluth KOA: "Our site was directly across from the playground and the kids playing at the playground were all pre-teens who screamed non-stop."
Activity options: Multiple recreational opportunities keep children engaged. "Came in August for Thomas the train in Duluth. This campground is great. Tons of trees for shade. Everything you need to enjoy a weekend away. Pool, hot tub, WiFi, showers, arcade, laundry, c store, and lots more," reports Jade K.
Off-site exploration: Plan day trips to nearby attractions. As Cindy B. suggests, "We rode the Gitchi Gami trail up along the north shore of Lake Superior, hiked around in Jay Cooke State Park and explored Duluth a bit. We liked the Streetcare Cafe in Carlton, The Cedar Coffee Co and Castle Danger Brewery."
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Many primitive sites accommodate only smaller rigs. Clarke N. advises about Schoen Park: "Don't try to bring anything too big into here or you will be in trouble. We have a 19' travel trailer and it wasn't a problem but turning around is tight."
Train proximity: Several campgrounds sit near active rail lines. Sam C. notes, "Like so many RV/campgrounds this one is also located near to railroad tracks that has several trains that come through day and night."
Waste management: Check dumping station availability when booking. According to Sam C., "Dump station is conveniently located on your way out of the grounds but can get backed up at the end of a busy weekend and can make it difficult to exit the campground."
