Best Campgrounds near Tomahawk, WI

The Wisconsin town of Tomahawk has several camping spots that range from basic to more developed. Musky Lake Campground maintains good trails that many hikers and bikers use during their stay. At Big Eau Pleine Park Campground, the sites sit far enough apart to give campers some privacy from their neighbors. Boot Lake Campground is more basic, with fewer amenities and a more back-to-basics feel. You'll want to book ahead since the better spots around Tomahawk get taken quickly, especially on weekends. During dry parts of summer, fire bans sometimes happen, so check with rangers before planning to have a campfire. Spring and fall camping tends to be most comfortable temperature-wise around Tomahawk. The woods around the campgrounds have plenty of wildlife, so hang your food or keep it in sealed containers. Bug spray is pretty much required in summer when mosquitoes and ticks are active. Whether you want to fish, hike, or just relax, Tomahawk's camping areas cover the basics with some nice natural surroundings.

Best Camping Sites Near Tomahawk, Wisconsin (127)

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Recent Reviews near Tomahawk, WI

278 Reviews of 127 Tomahawk Campgrounds


  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Franklin Lake

    Excellent sandy beach

    Private sites, great beach, beautiful buildings built by the CCC. There is even a small nature center. My family loves the nature trail that takes us through bogs and past maiden hair ferns. With a boat one can visit an island that once had a cabin. The best swimming is on a sandbar directly across from the beach.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Scott Lake

    Remote site on quiet lake

    The campsite is on a gravel road. There is access to a small lake. Across the road is a nice boardwalk to another lake. The Wilderness Headwaters trail is also close.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Indian Lake

    Single site on small lake

    The campsite is just off a paved road making it easily accessible. It’s intended for tents, but a small trailer might fit in the parking area. Many hiking opportunities are nearby.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest Backcountry Site

    Amazing find

    This is a huge campsite on a dead end road. The parking area is huge so one could fit a trailer or pop up there. There is a sandy beach on a small lake full of fish. The Sam Cambell trail is right next door, it’s a nice walk to another tiny lake.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Woodbury Lake Campsite

    Sweet spot on small lake

    This remote site has a sandy beach great for swimming or paddling. There is space for a trailer.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Wolf Lake Campsite

    Beautiful small lake

    I love this campsite. The small lake belongs to a pair of loons that will share their fish and sandy beach. The parking area is adequate, I’ve seen small trailers set up here. Many hiking trails are nearby.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Sevenmile Lake

    Is there really a campground ?

    The Forest Service gives no indication that this campground is in operation. One could hike or boat in to find out, but the road is barricaded at the intersection with parking for the Sevenmile Trail. There is a nice boat launch and clean toilet.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Nicolet National Forest Luna-White Deer Campground

    Beautiful lakeside sites

    This lovely campground has large wooded sites with privacy. Some sites have direct beach access. The toilets are clean and water is available. It’s dark and quiet. There is a sandy swimming beach with picnic tables. A trail goes around each lake. I enjoy White Deer more, it covers more forest types and stays close to the lake.


Guide to Tomahawk

Camping near Tomahawk, Wisconsin, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Many campgrounds, like Musky Lake Campground, have well-maintained trails. One visitor mentioned, "There are many different hiking and biking trails to explore," making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Fishing and Swimming: At Boulder Lake, the shallow waters are perfect for swimming. A reviewer noted, "The shore was pretty level and easy to get our kayaks in and out," highlighting the lake's accessibility for water activities.
  • Ice Cream Runs: Campers at Council Grounds State Park Campground enjoy biking to the local ice cream shop. One camper shared, "Best part of this stay was the easy bike ride to the local ice cream shop. Too many amazing flavors!"

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Clear Lake Campground said, "Clean showers. Friendly staff. Highly recommended."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds, such as Big Eau Pleine Park Campground, offer large, private sites. One camper remarked, "Sites were large and private. Firewood available at the campground."
  • Natural Beauty: Campers love the scenic views. A review for Bear Lake Campground noted, "The setting for this campground is so pristine and beautiful."

What you should know:

  • Reservations Recommended: Popular spots fill up quickly. A camper at Northern Highland State Forest advised, "You will need to reserve your site 11 months in advance because it fills up fast."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Boot Lake Campground, have fewer facilities. A visitor mentioned, "There are vault toilets and water can be found, but no showers."
  • Wildlife: Expect to see various wildlife. A camper at Franklin Lake noted, "The water is crystal clear and there’s a beach that can be used if you don’t have a lake site."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. One family at Hi-Pines Campground enjoyed, "Great activities for kids…fishing presentation, movie, kickball."
  • Choose Spacious Sites: Opt for campgrounds with larger sites for more room to play. A camper at Council Grounds State Park Campground said, "Sites were spaced nicely."
  • Plan for Quiet Time: Some campgrounds can get busy. A visitor at Musky Lake Campground appreciated the quiet, stating, "Not many people and lots of leaves on the ground but still felt like things were private."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookup Availability: Make sure to confirm if the campground has electric hookups. A reviewer at Big Eau Pleine Park Campground mentioned, "Electric sites. No water."
  • Space for Big Rigs: Look for campgrounds that are big rig friendly. A camper at Hi-Pines Campground noted, "There is a good mix of open and wooded sites."
  • Dump Stations: Ensure the campground has a sanitary dump station. A visitor at Council Grounds State Park Campground appreciated the convenience, saying, "Abundant firewood right at entrance."

Camping near Tomahawk, Wisconsin, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're with family or enjoying a solo trip, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best times of year for camping in Tomahawk, Wisconsin?

The prime camping season in Tomahawk runs from late May through early October, with July and August offering warm days perfect for water activities. Late spring and early fall provide more solitude with fewer crowds. Firefly Lake — Northern Highland State Forest is especially lovely in summer when you can enjoy clear waters and nearby hiking trails. Some campers prefer September when temperatures moderate but lakes remain warm enough for swimming. Eastwood NF Campground offers excellent family-friendly options throughout the summer season. Winter camping is available for experienced cold-weather campers, but most facilities close after the first significant snowfall, typically by mid-October.

Where are the best campgrounds in Tomahawk, WI?

The Tomahawk region offers excellent camping options within a short drive. Council Grounds State Park Campground provides wooded, well-spaced sites and clean shower facilities, though it requires both camping and day-use fees. For those seeking a more rustic experience, Tomahawk Campground and RV Park offers basic facilities with toilet access. The surrounding area within 30-45 minutes also features notable options in the national forests and state lands, with excellent water access and recreational opportunities. Many campgrounds in the region offer sites suitable for both tents and RVs, with varying levels of amenities depending on your preference for rustic or more developed camping experiences.

What amenities are available at Lake Tomahawk camping areas?

Camping areas around Lake Tomahawk offer varying levels of amenities. Indian Mounds — Northern Highland State Forest provides both drive-in and walk-in tent sites, a small beach, and lakefront options with beautiful sunset views over the water. Upper Gresham Lake Campground offers rustic facilities with lakeside sites perfect for water activities. Most campgrounds in the area provide basic amenities including pit toilets, drinking water, and picnic tables. Some sites offer direct lake access with private beach areas or steps leading down to the water. Shower facilities are limited to more developed campgrounds. Generators are typically allowed during restricted hours at certain locations. The nearby towns of Minocqua and Woodruff provide additional services and supplies for campers.