Trego sits along the Namekagon River, a tributary of the St. Croix River, flowing through northwestern Wisconsin's pine forests at 1,180 feet elevation. The waterway creates numerous camping opportunities with sandy riverbanks and access points for paddlers. Most campgrounds operate from May through October, with late summer bringing frequent rainfall that can affect camping conditions.
What to do
River tubing: Camp Namekagon offers direct river access with equipment rentals. "They also have a kayak, canoe, and tube rental service on site which was great for easy access to the river," notes Robert P. about this Camp Namekagon campsite near Trego.
Waterslide fun: A heated pool and waterslide provide entertainment at Hayward KOA. "Large 9ft heated pool, mini golf, large playground, horse shoes, volleyball, nice size water slide, covered stage for music, ice cream shop, huge jump pillow, and much more," shares Nate C. about Hayward KOA.
Lake swimming: Cranberry Lake at Totogatic Park offers beach access and fishing. "Camped at site #34 on Oct 24, 2023... Our site had a nice view of Cranberry Lake; there was a deck behind our site," writes Fred S.
What campers like
Quiet rustic options: Earl Park Landing provides basic free camping with pit toilets and water. "For what it is - a rustic, small, free campground - it's very nice... Picnic tables, fire ring, pit toilets, and a water station are the total of the amenities," explains Nola R. about Earl Park Landing.
Lakefront convenience: Shell Lake Municipal Park combines water access with town services. "Sites are tightly spaced but mostly perfectly level. All of the sites I checked had at least 30A electric; most also had 50A. All have water and it appears all but the very back row along the municipal parking lot have sewer as well," reports Kerry M. about Shell Lake Municipal Park.
Kid-friendly activities: Red Barn Campground features farm-based entertainment. "Adorable family campground on a farm that has nice large campsites. The campground revolves around children. A huge playground, pony rides, animal parades and mini golf are only a few things that happen at Red Barn," says Courtney C.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require preparation for uneven ground. "This campground is great if your wanting to work on your camper leveling skills. You know you have a collapsible shovel tucked away somewhere, here's your chance!" warns Max P. about Anchor Woods Campground.
Weekend congestion: River access points become busy during peak season. "On weekend days the canoe landing, which is directly adjacent to the camping, is very busy. There's an outfitter that brings canoes/kayaks and innertubes here, and this section of the river is very popular with tubers," notes Nola R.
Roadside noise: Some sites experience traffic sounds. "The main road nearby is a little noisy but everything else was great!!" mentions Tori K. about Shell Lake Municipal Park.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Beaches and pools offer water recreation for different ages. "Nice campground with lake views! Very nice beach and located in a very walkable area!" reports Tori K.
Entertainment variety: Many campgrounds schedule regular family activities. "The 126 year old barn on the premises holds barn dances, and indoor movies," explains Courtney C. about Red Barn Campground.
Space considerations: Some family sites offer more room than others. "The sites are close together, but that's okay, because everyone keeps to themselves. All in all its a pretty great place!" says Lynn N. about Hayward KOA.
Tips from RVers
Dump station logistics: Check dump station locations and access. "Taking off one star for the coin-operated showers and the absolutely ridiculous placement of the dump station that requires maneuvering around one of the campground loops and blocking part of a main road to dump from the correct side of your RV," cautions Deb M. about Washburn County Totogatic Park.
Tree clearance: Larger rigs may struggle at some locations. "Love all this campsite has to offer with amenities! Beautiful area as well. But there are alot of trees that make it very challenging for larger rigs," warns Sheila H. about Hayward KOA.
Utility hookups: Full hookup availability varies by location and site. "For the 1st time doing a full hook up, it was great!!!!" shares Debbie V. about Anchor Woods Campground.
Guide
