Best Tent Camping near Wausau, WI

Tent camping options around Wausau, Wisconsin include several established sites in the Chequamegon National Forest and nearby county parks. Camp New Wood County Park, located near Merrill, offers seven tent sites adjacent to the Ice Age Trail with fire rings and picnic tables. North Twin Lake Recreation Area provides lakeside tent camping on a no-wake lake ideal for fishing, while backcountry sites along the Ice Age Trail offer more primitive experiences for hikers seeking seclusion.

Most tent sites in the region have basic amenities with varying levels of accessibility. Camp New Wood County Park features large fire rings and stand-alone grills, though campers should note the pit toilets have no lighting. Several campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, including Camp New Wood which rarely fills to capacity. A visitor commented, "For $15 a night, it was a decent stay and we would go again if ever in the area." Water access can be challenging at some locations, with Camp New Wood requiring "a bit of a hike down the trail and through the woods," so bringing your own water is advisable.

The backcountry tent sites along the Ice Age Trail provide unique camping experiences for those willing to hike in. Lake Eleven Campsite offers two separate tent areas on opposite sides of the lake, with the north site featuring a stone fire ring, log benches, and soft pine needle ground cover ideal for tent placement. One camper noted that the site "provided excellent space for hammock camping" and easy access to filterable lake water. Sailor Creek Campsite, located in a hemlock grove, presents more challenging tent setup due to roots and uneven ground, but hammock camping options are readily available. These walk-in tent sites provide immediate access to the geologic wonders of the Ice Age Trail, including the mile-long Hemlock Esker, which rises 80 feet above the surrounding terrain.

Best Tent Sites Near Wausau, Wisconsin (9)

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Tent Camping Reviews near Wausau, WI

178 Reviews of 9 Wausau Campgrounds



Guide to Wausau

Wausau, Wisconsin, offers a variety of tent camping options that cater to outdoor enthusiasts looking for adventure and tranquility in nature.

Local Attractions for Tent Campers

  • Explore the scenic Ice Age Trail right from your campsite at Camp New Wood County Park, where you can enjoy hiking and breathtaking views.
  • Visit the picturesque Wisconsin River Segment of the Ice Age Trail while camping at Plover River Retreat, perfect for those who appreciate nature's beauty.
  • Experience the serene environment of North Twin Lake Recreation Area, a peaceful spot ideal for fishing and relaxing by the water.

Activities for Outdoor Enthusiasts

  • Enjoy a quiet camping experience at Sailor Creek Campsite, where you can hike the diverse trails of the Ice Age Trail and explore unique geological features.
  • Take advantage of the large fire pits and ample firewood at Camp New Wood County Park for cozy evenings under the stars.
  • Engage in fishing and canoeing at North Twin Lake Recreation Area, a no-wake lake that provides a tranquil setting for water activities.

Tent Campers Appreciate These Amenities

  • Pioneer Park & Campground offers picnic tables and toilets, making it a convenient choice for families and groups.
  • At Picnic Point Campground, campers can enjoy reservable sites with picnic tables and fire pits, perfect for group gatherings.
  • Curtiss Village Park provides drinking water and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for those looking to unwind in nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Wausau, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Wausau, WI is Camp New Wood County Park with a 4-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Wausau, WI?

TheDyrt.com has all 9 tent camping locations near Wausau, WI, with real photos and reviews from campers.