RV camping near Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin offers options ranging from fully developed campgrounds to more rustic settings within a 45-minute drive. The camping season generally runs from April through October, though winter camping is available at Wisconsin State Fair RV Park. Most campgrounds in the region experience a 30-40% increase in visitors during summer weekends, making advance reservations crucial from June through August.
What to do
Hiking trails: Pike Lake Campground provides access to the Ice Age Trail directly from the backpacking sites. "The trails are well-marked and best yet the iconic Ice Age Trail runs right through all three campsites for the most convenient hiking access," notes one visitor to Pike Lake Campground.
Beach access: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming options. At Muskego Park, "A spring fed pond for swimming and fishing. Trails that took you through woods and then prairie and then up a decent elevation for an amazing view of the surrounding area."
Astronomy and nature programs: Some campgrounds offer educational activities. "Be sure to check out the interpretive astronomy trail and take the walk up Powder Hill to the tower!" recommends a visitor to Pike Lake Campground.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Campground privacy varies significantly across the area. At Harrington Beach State Park, "Most of the sites are pretty secluded so if you enjoy your privacy I will love this place. Everything was clean and updated including the bathrooms."
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness is frequently mentioned in reviews. "Flush bathrooms and clean showers. Three backpacking sites off the IAT - one prairie, two wooded. B2 and B3 are large," notes a camper at Pike Lake.
Site spacing: Several campgrounds offer well-spaced sites. At Cliffside Park Campground, "Level sites with electric and water at each site. Well taken care of grounds. Nice bathrooms with clean showers."
What you should know
Water availability: Water hookups can be tricky at some locations. At Cliffside Park, "Each site has water but in order to reach some of the spigots you would need more than a 50' water hose so choose your site with that in mind."
Reservation systems: Most campgrounds use online reservation systems with varying fees. "The fee is $30/night plus $12 if you choose to reserve a site," notes a Cliffside Park visitor.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby highways or attractions. At River Bend RV Resort, "One of the members of our group moved sites due to a very loud party in an unoccupied site. When security was called multiple times, they did nothing to quiet them down at 3 in the morning."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Multiple campgrounds offer specialized recreation for children. River Bend RV Resort "has a lot for everyone. Nice swim pond, great pool, fishing…you name it, it's probably here. If you want to have fun, this is the place."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas. At Pinewoods Campground, "There is a playground too but the diverse hiking and woodsy sites make this one to return to."
Campsite selection: Site selection affects your experience. "The site was well wooded and very spacious! It had a decent clearing for some sun and the driveway was longer setting it back from the loop road," notes a Pinewoods camper.
Tips from RVers
Dump station timing: Plan dump station use strategically. Cliffside Park has "electric hookups, but no sewer hookup--dumpsite station available," and during busy periods you may need to wait.
Site surface types: RV sites have varying surfaces. At Wisconsin State Fair RV Park, many sites are paved, while other area campgrounds feature gravel or grass sites.
Water hose length: Carry extra-long water hoses. As noted at Cliffside Park, some water hookups require hoses longer than 50 feet to reach your site.
