Glamping accommodations near Washburn, Wisconsin, provide access to the pristine northern shores of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands archipelago. The region features a temperate climate with summer temperatures typically ranging from 65-75°F, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Located in Bayfield County, the area includes both forested inland campgrounds and waterfront sites, with most facilities operating from May through October due to the harsh northern Wisconsin winters.
What to do
Kayaking to sea caves: Multiple campgrounds provide base camps for exploring the Apostle Islands sea caves. A visitor at Apostle Islands Area RV Park and Camping shared, "Went kayaking out here and the caves are awesome!!!! So much fun and lucked out having a nice still day!!!"
Waterfall viewing: The region features multiple waterfalls accessible via hiking trails. At Ottawa National Forest Black River Harbor Campground, one camper noted, "Five named waterfalls that are simply amazing, each awe inspiring along with several hidden un-named falls that anywhere else would be named and a major attraction."
Island camping exploration: For more adventurous campers, kayaking to different islands offers remote camping experiences. A camper mentioned, "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."
What campers like
Proximity to activities: Campers appreciate the access to both towns and natural areas. A guest at Apostle Islands Area Campground said, "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."
Waterfront access: Many campgrounds provide direct or nearby water access. A visitor to Wanoka Lake Campground mentioned, "The lake is nice and peaceful and small, and bugs/mosquitos weren't too bad. There's a little dock at the lake but you can't drive your boat down, you have to carry it on foot."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forests around Washburn offer chances to spot local wildlife. One camper at Apostle Islands Area RV Park and Camping reported, "We had a wonderful weekend there and saw a few black bears. And one even meandered through our camp site. And enjoyed the sounds of the waves and hiked a few of the trails."
What you should know
Camping fees vary significantly: Non-resident fees at state facilities can be much higher than national forest sites. A visitor to Boise Brule Campground noted, "Cost for non-residents is $21 for the campsite and another $11 daily state park entrance fee. So, $32 for the same type of campground as a USFS at about $15."
Site topography challenges: Many campgrounds in the area are built on slopes. One camper observed, "The entire campground is in the side of a mountain and there are no flat roads, which makes biking and walking a workout rather than leisure."
Amenity charges: Some glamping facilities near Washburn charge additional fees for activities. A visitor reported, "The campground also charges you $5-7 per person to play mini-golf... which is odd, since it is advertised as a campground amenity on the website."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access considerations: When glamping close to Washburn, Wisconsin with children, verify swimming access. A camper at Horseshoe Lake Campground mentioned, "This is a quiet campground in the middle of nowhere. The campground is intended to be used as campers that ride horses can stay at. People who camp in tents or small trailers will also enjoy this quiet place."
Site selection for privacy: Choose perimeter sites for more space and natural barriers. A visitor noted, "If you are looking for a little more shade or tree cover, book a perimeter site. This is also the first campsite I've been to where the fire pit didn't have a grill grate on part of it."
Bug preparation essential: The Lake Superior region can have significant mosquito activity. One camper warned, "You could save this campground was mosquito heaven. My son had 9 mosquito bites on his back when he woke up the next morning."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-hookup sites are limited near Washburn and fill quickly. A camper at Frontier RV Park and Campground reported, "Very nice park with several new lots that are all grass with water and electric. Several lots are full hookup. There is not a true dump station, only a spot near the bathroom that you can pull up to dump, but then you have to back out of it."
Road conditions warning: Some access roads to glamping sites have low-hanging branches. One RVer noted, "Roads are narrow and the low hanging branches scraped along the top and sides of our rig, but no damage."
Generator considerations: Campground rules on generators vary widely. A camper at Black River Harbor warned, "A large open frame generator ran 24/7 the entire time. The 'camper' said quiet hours were only for TVs and radios. The generator ran even while they left the campsite."
