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Northern Wisconsin's Washburn area features diverse camping options along Lake Superior's southern shore. Memorial Park Campground on the north side of Washburn offers both wooded and open meadow sites with lake access for kayakers, while West End Thompson City Park on the south side provides more open sites suitable for larger RVs. Within a short drive, campers can access the Apostle Islands area with options ranging from mainland sites at Dalrymple Park in Bayfield to island camping experiences on Madeline Island at Big Bay State Park. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from May through mid-October, with a few year-round exceptions.
Camping permits and reservations are typically required throughout the area, especially during the peak summer season. According to one camper, "This campground is more to my liking as it has all types of sites. There are open meadow sites as well as wooded tree sites." Weather conditions can change rapidly along Lake Superior, with spring bringing potential shoreline flooding and summer featuring occasional biting insects. Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds, with stronger signals typically available in sites closer to towns. Non-resident campers should note that Wisconsin state parks charge additional entrance fees beyond camping fees, which can increase costs substantially for out-of-state visitors.
Site characteristics vary widely across the region, with tent campers generally preferring the more wooded, secluded options. One reviewer noted that West End Thompson City Park is "not a really desirable location for tent camping. Few trees, small campsites, close together, no privacy." In contrast, nearby state parks like Copper Falls offer walk-in sites that provide more seclusion and natural settings. Lake access represents a major draw for many campgrounds, though boat ramps are limited. The camping season in the Apostle Islands area is particularly short, typically running from late June through Labor Day, as lake conditions become unpredictable in fall. Mosquitoes and biting flies can be prevalent in humid conditions, especially near water.
"Apostle Islands is part of a 21 islands chain at the northern tip of Wisconsin, on Lake Superior. On the mainland, the Lakeshore Trail weaves past cliffs and sea caves."
"We liked the easy drive through sites with full hookup. The campsites were tiered into the hill. This helped sound proof the campsites. "
from $15 - $30 / night
Check Availability"Dalrymple was just minutes away from Bayfield, and boat rides away from the Apostle Islands and Madeline Island."
"There are also some primitive tent walk-up sites. Nice campground, $30/night, can pay online when you arrive. Good cell reception. Most, if not all, sites have 30 and 20 amp service."
from $30 / night
Check Availability"It's directly on the lake, and it's connected to a bike trail that you can take to downtown or farther north along the lake."
"There was steady traffic of disappointed RVs driving through the grounds till 6-7pm. Water and electric sites only with a dump station on site."
from $45 - $50 / night
Check Availability"Late spring Wisconsin weather made its presence felt, but we were undeterred. Its hard to be disappointed when faced with the spectacular views of the Apostle Islands."
"Small but has some decent trails. Lovely to walk by the waters edge and skip rocks."
"This campground is on the north side of Washburn. This campground is more to my liking as it has all types of sites. There are open(meadow) sites as well as wooded tree sites."
"The campground was full when we pulled in at 6 pm but the hosts let us stay in an overflow area, right next to the lake. Lots of small rvs and tents, which we prefer to the big rv parks."
"This campground is located on the south side of Washburn. It is an open meadow campground with few trees. It does have a playground and lake access but no boat ramp."
"Self registration is nice and love being on the lake and walking distance to town."
"It was close to the water, just a walk away from a beach and hiking trail. The campsites were fairly private as far as car camping sites go."
"The campsites on the lake side are rustic only. The modern sites are secluded with a good buffer of woods between them. Nice privacy. "
from $33 - $40 / night
Check Availability"This is just outside of Ashland so you have access to supply runs. The campground felt like a park that blends into a camping area. We saw some nice walk in tenting sites."
"Great location, few spots so first come first serve. $35.00 a day, water and electricity, also tent sites. A nice park for family away from the camping grounds, but close enough."
"If your from Wisconsin this sits at the very north of the State. If your looking for areas to visit while camping here you may have a little bit of a drive."
"Wow, Copper Falls has quickly jumped to my number one state park experience in Wisconsin. I’ve lived in Wisconsin my whole life and did not expect such beauty in this northern part of the state."
from $20 - $30 / night
Check Availability"Great campground with swimming hole & great access to Bayside for island ferry’s! Complaints: Park is located on the side of a hill—Spots are small but level, roads are all at a slope."
"Location is great if you're looking to do some exploring. Was very quiet even though it was close to Labor Day weekend, and for the size of the campground."
from $25 - $35 / night
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TravelerWe stopped here to stop for the night to sleep. There is a lot for larger RVs and two more parking lots for smaller vehicles.
We parked in one of the lots at the top of the viewpoint. Nice short trails to walk the dog with views of the lake and the town.
No restrooms or traditional camping set up.
ScoutLove their sites that back right up to Lake Superior.
ScoutThe staff at the hotel where you registered to camp there was wonderful and helpful. They tell you the campsite is rustic and there’s no water and electricity and it’s exactly how they describe it. The outhouse was clean though rustic but it does have a light. The sites have fire rings and a picnic table. On Memorial weekend, there was only one other set of campers each night. I was there. If you wanna remote location that’s right on Lake superior this is a great site. If you want amenities, this is not the place to go. But I give it five stars for what it is a great rustic primitive campsite.
GuideNice campground with access to the lake. If you tent camp all the sites are nice if you have a trailer only half the sites are wide enough for camper entrance door landing to be on level ground. Also the bugs can be a problem.
RangerI camped here in March and it was empty(probably because it was -8). A few people still were checking out the waterfalls.
This park is packed away deep in northern Wisconsin and the drive was worth it. The waterfalls cut deep through the rocks and makes for some amazing views.
ScoutThe Pro's: Been camping here for many years as seasonal guest. We love it and the kids love it. Lake provides hours of fun for the Kids and us with Kayaking, fishing and just enjoying the summer weather. The last weekend of July they host the Blueberry fest, one of the main reason we stay year after year. If you are ever in town the last weekend of July be sure to stop by it a great time. We camp on the wooded side but each site on both sides come with electric hook ups and recently they have added WIFi for those rainy days. Its Close to town where there are great places to eat and the grocery store is very well prices considering the location. Over all its a pretty peaceful place to camp.
The Con's: There is no water portable water availed here. We travel about a mile down the road a few times a month to get water to put into our camper. There is also no place to dump at your site however their is a dump station down by the Showers and Restrooms. The showers are a little rough but they get the job done. This place use to be the place many family would come for generations. At one point there was a waitlist for seasonal sites. However the town allowed the Options of two outsiders to dictate how the park was ran and one whom lives across from the park will excessively contact the local police department for the slightest of things. All of this and the constant harassment of one local, who will drive through the park daily to take pictures and file complaints with the town office has drove many families away. Which is really unfortunate since it provided income to the town not just in the park fees but visits to local business.
If you are planning a weekend trip I do still highly recommend give Moon lake a try all the negative Nacy's aside it is a lovely place to camp and a get place to fish. Rumor is there is a Monster Pike in these waters,
TravelerAs far as winter camping goes- Gooseberry Falls offers some striking pros and considerable cons.
Pros:
Cons:
Suggestions:
Watch the forecast.
Come with extra food, layers, and hand warmers.
Take care near the water- a slip and wet socks can lead to frostbite sooner than you'd expect.
Make sure your tank is full when you leave Duluth, so that you can use your car as a heating pod if all else fails.
ScoutIt’s close to town plus your right on the lake with beautiful views
GuideThe campground was quiet and well kept. We had a walk to site and carts were available to haul our items. The staff around the park were very helpful and loved to chat. There were many informational signs around detailing history or information on the wildlife. There were also updated postings about events in the park. We had vault toilets by our site but there was a main building with showers and modern toilets. Lots of places near the park to buy local fire wood. Great little camp store. The trails were phenomenal and some were even handicap accessible which is amazing. One of the best kept parks I have ever been to. Would return
Camping sites along Lake Superior in northern Wisconsin offer varied terrain and seasonal access conditions. Most Washburn area campgrounds operate May through mid-October with reduced services during shoulder seasons. Weather conditions can shift rapidly near the lake with temperature swings of 30°F possible within 24 hours.
Kayaking the Apostle Islands: Explore sea caves and remote shorelines from campsites in Bayfield. "We kayaked to many campgrounds and islands in the national lakeshore. Paddling a total of 60 miles we were able to make it to 3 different island campgrounds," notes a visitor at Apostle Islands Area RV park and Camping.
Hiking to waterfalls: Access multiple falls within a 30-minute drive of Washburn. "The hiking trails are well-maintained and offer beautiful scenic views, making for an enjoyable trek through nature," reports a camper at Copper Falls State Park Campground.
Beach access: Most waterfront sites require walking down steep trails to reach shorelines. "The beach in the state park is absolutely gorgeous with access via a nice boardwalk through the forest and along the beach," mentions a camper about Big Bay State Park.
Artesian well water: Local spring water sources are available at several sites. "Artesian well has nationally recognized quality of water on campground," notes a camper at West End Thompson City Park.
Wooded privacy: Heavily forested sites provide better seclusion than open meadow areas. "Sites are fairly large and have lots of trees and woods surrounding them, though you may likely still be able to see your neighbors a bit," reports a camper at Big Bay State Park Campground.
Ferry access to island camping: Madeline Island camping requires advance planning for vehicle transport. "It takes a ferry to get here, but it is a must see! Lake Superior is beautiful, and the campsites are nice and private," notes a visitor about Big Bay State Park.
Limited tent-only options: Many sites prioritize RVs or require specific equipment. "I would not recommend this campground for anything larger than a pop up or teardrop. The sites are close together and hilly," explains a camper at Dalrymple Park and Campground.
First-come availability: Many sites cannot be reserved ahead. "This is a first come first serve campground - no reservations. However, campers have the option of staying the entire season if they want to pay up front for it (May to October)," notes a visitor about West End Thompson City Park.
Wildlife encounters: Bears frequent island and mainland sites during summer months. "We had a wonderful weekend there and saw a few black bears. And one even meandered through our camp site," reports a camper at Apostle Islands Area.
Beach safety awareness: Lake Superior waters remain cold even in summer. "The swim beach is nice, just a short walk from the parking lot at the ranger station. Plenty of bathroom facilities," notes a visitor at Copper Falls State Park.
Playground proximity: Several campgrounds include play areas near camping loops. "There is a nice play area and beach, and it is obvious from the huge carved trout which fish reigns here," reports a visitor about West End Thompson.
Island exploration with kids: Big Bay Town Park offers protected water access. "Little diy canoe rental in the lagoon," notes one visitor, while another adds, "Super cool place to walk the boardwalk down the side of the lake. Or even walk in the water. There were people swimming in the bay."
Limited level sites: Most campgrounds require significant leveling equipment. "I think all the sites will require quite a bit of leveling. The sites a small, this campground is best for tent campers or small campers," explains a visitor at Dalrymple Park.
Ferry size constraints: Kreher RV Park offers mainland alternatives to island camping. "This is a great campground. It's directly on the lake, and it's connected to a bike trail that you can take to downtown or farther north along the lake," reports a visitor.
Dump station locations: Limited facilities for waste disposal require planning. "The dump station is on a hill and with a longer rig our tow vehicle felt in the way of the entrance/exit and the road to the boat launch," notes a camper at Kreher RV Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there campgrounds with electricity near Washburn, Wisconsin?
Yes, several campgrounds near Washburn offer electrical hookups. Apostle Islands Area RV Park and Camping provides full electrical service specifically designed for RVs and is conveniently located for exploring the Apostle Islands region. Kreher RV Park near Ashland (a short drive from Washburn) also offers electrical hookups with boat-in and drive-in access. For those willing to travel slightly further, Copper Falls State Park Campground has limited electrical sites that should be reserved well in advance, especially during peak summer months.
Can I rent an RV in Washburn, Wisconsin for camping?
While Washburn itself has limited RV rental options, several alternatives exist in the surrounding area. The nearby towns of Ashland and Bayfield typically offer seasonal RV rentals through private owners and small businesses. Dalrymple Park and Campground in Bayfield is a convenient destination if you secure an RV rental, with 28 sites just minutes from town and the Apostle Islands. Online peer-to-peer RV rental platforms like RVshare and Outdoorsy also list rentals in the greater Northern Wisconsin region. For the best selection and rates, book well in advance of your trip, especially during the peak summer season.
What campgrounds are available in Washburn, WI?
Washburn offers several excellent camping options. Memorial Park Campground on the north side of town features a variety of sites including both open meadow and wooded areas, with lake access perfect for launching kayaks. West End Thompson City Park on the south side provides an open meadow setting with playground facilities and lake access, making it particularly suitable for larger RVs. Both campgrounds provide convenient access to Washburn's amenities while offering different camping experiences based on your preferences for shade, proximity to water, and site layout.
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