Top Free Dispersed Camping near Wausau, WI

Camping near Wausau, WI, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

• Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at Hartman Creek State Park Campground. “Lots of trails and beach access. Great for bikes and kayaks,” says a happy camper.
• Fishing: Head to Petenwell Park for some fishing. One visitor mentioned, “If you want to bring a boat you can there is a landing in the park.”
• Kayaking: Enjoy kayaking at Big Eau Pleine Park Campground. A reviewer shared, “The beach and lake are beautiful. Fish jumping all day long.”

What campers like

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Council Grounds State Park Campground. One visitor noted, “This was a very nice clean place and the trails were excellent.”
• Privacy: Many enjoy the spacious sites at Boulder Lake. A reviewer said, “It was decently spaced out from the other sites.”
• Family-Friendly Activities: Families love the activities at Fremont RV Campground. One camper mentioned, “This has been one of our favorite stopovers! Plenty of activities for the kids.”

What you should know

• Costs for Non-Residents: If you’re not from Wisconsin, be prepared for higher fees at Hartman Creek State Park Campground. A camper pointed out, “I used a primitive campsite and it cost me $30 ($15 if you’re from WI).”
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Big Eau Pleine Park Campground, don’t have showers or water hookups. A visitor mentioned, “No water. You now pay to dump your waste.”
• Crowded on Weekends: Expect busy weekends at popular spots like Fremont RV Campground. One reviewer noted, “Place is filled with activities for kids... very crowded on weekends.”

Tips for camping with families

• Choose the Right Site: Research your spot before booking at Hartman Creek State Park Campground. A camper advised, “Research your spot before booking as some are wide open and others have privacy.”
• Plan for Activities: Make sure to check out the amenities at Chute Pond Park. One visitor said, “There’s lots to do the whole weekend whether you want to go hiking, fishing, boating.”
• Bring Snacks and Drinks: Some campgrounds, like Council Grounds State Park Campground, don’t have markets nearby. A camper mentioned, “NO market.”

Tips from RVers

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site at Fremont RV Campground. A reviewer noted, “Had to dock a star for the tight spot though. Way too difficult to back in.”
• Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups, like Petenwell Park. One camper shared, “They also have put in new bathrooms and shower houses around their campground.”
• Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Jordan Park said, “The campground is cute and small but the people working at the park then were awful.”

Camping near Wausau, WI, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!