Northern Wisconsin's forests around Westboro feature diverse glamping options set amid national forests and waterways. Situated between the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and various state parks, the area averages 130 cm of annual snowfall, making it a year-round destination with distinct seasonal camping opportunities. Glamping accommodations range from basic canvas structures to heated luxury tents, with most sites located near lakes and rivers.
What to do
Fishing and water activities: Several campgrounds provide direct water access for fishing enthusiasts. At Cedar Falls Campground, lakeside glamping sites offer convenient access to boats. One visitor noted, "We found this place this summer and it's the only camping I want todo. Weather we stay in Wisconsin or not I'll be back!"
Swimming at beaches: Council Grounds State Park Campground offers a lake beach area ideal for summer visitors. According to one camper, "There is a nice beach, and boat launch area. Campers and Tents can camp there. There are all the hookups you need." The swimming areas typically open from late May through early September, with some sites offering designated swimming docks.
Wildlife viewing: Cunnard Lake Campground in Northern Highland State Forest provides opportunities to observe local wildlife. One visitor shared, "You will wake up to the sound of loons and go to bed with the sound of them." Loons are commonly spotted from May through September on many of the area's lakes.
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Non-motorized water sports are popular at several glamping sites near Westboro. A Jordan A. reported, "Loved getting to paddleboard (brought my own) and listen to the loons day and night" at Cunnard Lake Campground. Most glamping sites charge $10-15 for kayak rentals when available.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Thornapple River Campground provides a peaceful riverside setting. A camper described it as "a sleepy, winding river. There are campsites right on the river. You can float or wade in it; it's shallow and refreshing." The campground maintains quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM.
Spacious sites: Big Falls County Park offers roomier glamping areas compared to some other locations. According to UnnamedAdventures, "This campground and campsites are large and you can hear the falls in the background. Each site comes with a picnic table and wood that looks like leftovers from a lumber mill in the area."
Clean facilities: Visitors frequently mention well-maintained amenities at Clear Lake Campground. As one camper stated, "Great firewood… only 5$ per bundle. Clean showers. Friendly staff. Highly recommended." Most glamping sites provide basic toilets, with premium locations offering shower facilities.
Lake access: Several glamping sites feature direct water access, with Birkensee Campground offering views of nearby ponds. Elizabeth commented, "Our campsite was just in view of the pond on the campground. Everything was clean. There was a bar on the campground that had pool tables and some other games."
What you should know
Primitive options available: While glamping options exist, some campgrounds like Big Falls County Park provide more rustic experiences. Dani M. described it as "Very secluded/primitive. Outhouse only. Nice campsites & the river is gorgeous. Nice walking & exploring trails."
Seasonal operation: Most glamping sites operate from May through October, though some remain open year-round. Philip M. notes about Chippewa National Forest Campground: "Sites are spread out with woods between the sites. Flush toilets with token operated showers."
Quiet zone regulations: Some campgrounds enforce strict noise policies. At Cunnard Lake, one visitor explained, "Lake Cunard campground was designated a 'Quiet' campground several years ago - one of only two in the 18 different Northern Highlands American Legion state forest campgrounds. That means no 'noise producing devices', including generators, radios, TV's, video games, guitars, etc."
Variable amenities: Glamping sites range from basic to well-equipped. At Sara Park, a visitor reported, "Campground has 10 sites for $30 a day, all with electricity and water. There is a dump station nearby behind the city garage for $10. There are vault toilets with free showers."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for children: Many families select glamping sites near beach areas. Annie C. remarked about Council Grounds State Park: "There seemed to be plenty of spots along the Wisconsin River or on Alexander Lake to fish if that's your thing and you have a license. You can buy firewood up front at the ranger station."
Group site considerations: Terrace View Campsites offers family-friendly glamping options. According to Debra R., it's "Welcoming, clean and charming old fashioned camping & RV'ing. Nice paved road coming in. Friendly owner on site. Convenient dump station. Water and Electric. Swam in lake. Very family and pet friendly."
Activity planning: Clear Lake Campground provides diverse recreation for families. Joel N. shared, "My family, along with a couple other families, used to camp here for a week every year when we were kids. There are 2 beaches, trails, beautiful wooded sites, and the lakes water is as clear as advertised."
Weather preparation: Northern Wisconsin weather can change quickly. Pack extra clothing layers, especially for evening temperature drops which can reach 15-20°F lower than daytime highs even during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: For RV glampers, Chippewa National Forest Campground offers decent spacing. Philip M. noted, "Sites are spread out with woods between the sites. Flush toilets with token operated showers. Waterfront sites are usually full, but shallow boat ramp for trailers is close by."
Hookup availability: Most glamping sites offer at least electric hookups. At Sara Park, one RVer reported, "Campground has 10 sites for $30 a day, all with electricity and water. There is a dump station nearby behind the city garage for $10."
Reservation timing: For popular glamping sites, advanced planning is essential. At Clear Lake Campground, Joel N. advised, "You will need to reserve your site 11 months in advance because it fills up fast."
