Camping options near Washburn, Wisconsin range from primitive forest sites to full-hookup RV campgrounds along Lake Superior's shoreline. The area's clay soil can create muddy conditions during the frequent rainfall that averages 30 inches annually. Winter camping is limited, with most facilities closing between October and May when temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Kayaking adventures: Explore the Apostle Islands with water-based excursions from campgrounds near the shoreline. "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," reports one visitor at Apostle Islands Area RV park and Camping. For beginners, guided tours are recommended due to Lake Superior's changeable conditions.
Hiking trails: Access multiple trail systems directly from campsites. "We hiked Wolf Mountain and the Porcupine Mountains. We've done the ski jump thing too. All are great!" mentions a camper from Alpine Campground & RV Park. The Lakeshore Trail near Washburn connects several camping areas to scenic viewpoints overlooking the water.
Wildlife viewing: Watch for local wildlife in the wooded camping areas. "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," notes a visitor at Apostle Islands Area RV park and Camping. Morning and evening hours offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Lake access: Sites with water views and direct lake access rank highest with visitors. At Kreher RV Park, one camper appreciated that "it's connected to a bike trail that you can take to downtown or farther north along the lake. You can follow it all the way to the end of town where you'll find a large beach and (free) artesian well water." These waterfront locations typically fill first during peak summer months.
Spacious sites: Campers consistently mention site size as a key factor. "Sites are big and well maintained. We camped in site 64," reports a visitor at Apostle Islands Area Campground. The surrounding forest provides natural separation between many sites in the area.
Proximity to towns: Easy access to local communities appeals to many campers. "This is the best base camp for exploring the Apostle islands. It's about a mile from Bayfield. There is bike rental at Howl bike shop which is walking distance," notes one reviewer about Apostle Islands Area RV park and Camping. Most camping areas are within 15 minutes of small towns with supplies and services.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "This is a first come first serve campsite, self pay. We arrived around 6 after changing flat tire and there were no sites available," warns a camper about Kreher RV Park. For weekend camping between June and August, reservations 2-3 months in advance are recommended for most established sites.
Limited facilities: Several campgrounds offer minimal amenities. At Birch Grove Campground, "getting water is a real workout, you have to pump the water and it comes out really slow. Maybe I wasn't strong enough. I gave up after working out for 10 minutes for a couple of gallons of water, I was exhausted!" Water access and bathroom facilities vary significantly between locations.
Campsite terrain: Many sites require leveling equipment. "I think all the sites will require quite a bit of leveling. The sites are small, this campground is best for tent campers or small campers. Some of the roads are very steep," reports a camper at Dalrymple Park and Campground. Preparing for uneven ground is essential, particularly with larger RVs.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "Large playground, biking, hiking," notes a visitor to Frontier RV Park and Campground. Most family-friendly sites are concentrated in the established campgrounds rather than the more primitive forest service locations.
Swimming options: Water access varies by location. "There is a marina and a small beach," mentions a visitor to Buffalo Bay Campground. Not all lakefront sites offer safe swimming areas due to rocky shorelines and cold water temperatures that rarely exceed 60°F even in summer.
Mini-golf considerations: Some campgrounds charge extra for advertised amenities. "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," notes one visitor to Apostle Islands Area Campground. Budgeting for these additional activities helps prevent surprises.
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: RV sites near Washburn, Wisconsin have varying utility access. "Very level gravel pads, some have full hookups. Ok for a one night stopover," notes a visitor to Frontier RV Park and Campground. Many smaller campgrounds offer only electric and water hookups without sewer connections.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with RV sites provide dump stations. "There is no dump station, but there are some water faucets spread throughout the campground," reports a camper at Dalrymple Park and Campground. Several campers mention using facilities at nearby larger campgrounds or gas stations for a small fee.
Size restrictions: Larger RVs face limitations at many local campgrounds. "I would not recommend this campground for anything larger than a pop up or teardrop. The sites are close together and hilly. The road to the back area where we stayed in 25 was narrow," warns a visitor about Dalrymple Park and Campground. RVs over 30 feet should carefully research site dimensions before booking.
