E
Elisa M.
Guide
GuideGoose Island
Beautiful Spot on the River
Quiet, beautiful and good facilities. Showers .25 for 5 minutes. We are here midweek in September so even the occupied sites only have people staying there in the weekends.
Best Campgrounds in Wisconsin
Wisconsin state parks offer diverse camping experiences, from lakeside sites to forested retreats. Established campgrounds like Willow River State Park near Hudson provide amenities for both tent and RV campers, while High Cliff State Park in Sherwood features cabin options for those seeking more comfort. Kohler-Andrae State Park along Lake Michigan combines traditional camping with glamping opportunities. Many campgrounds throughout the state include electric hookups, drinking water, showers, and reservable sites, with most offering year-round access.
State park camping requires vehicle admission stickers in addition to campsite fees, with reservations strongly recommended during summer months. Most campgrounds feature a mix of reservable and first-come, first-served sites. Accessibility varies considerably, with some parks offering paved roads suitable for larger RVs while others have more rustic conditions. Wisconsin's weather can impact camping experiences significantly, with summer humidity and occasional storms, followed by spectacular fall colors and crisp temperatures. Winter camping is available at many locations for cold-weather enthusiasts. "The bathrooms, showers and sites were some of the most clean I've been to, not to mention the landscape and variety of trails is very beautiful and well cared for," noted one visitor about Governor Dodge State Park.
Waterfront camping opportunities abound throughout Wisconsin, with several state parks situated on lakes, rivers, and even Lake Michigan. Devils Lake State Park receives high marks despite occasional crowding, while the campgrounds at Kettle Moraine State Forest offer more secluded experiences with hiking and water activities nearby. Campers consistently praise the well-maintained facilities at locations like Copper Falls State Park and Peninsula State Park. A recent review highlighted that "Dexter Campgrounds was a delight to stay at. There was a private bathroom/shower room that made the experience feel luxurious. It is right next to a beautiful river and lake." Wildlife viewing opportunities are common across Wisconsin's campgrounds, with many visitors reporting sightings of deer, raccoons, and various bird species.
Best Camping Sites in Wisconsin (1,065)
1. Willow River State Park Campground
65 ReviewsHudson, WIWebsite+1 (715) 386-5931$26 - $90 / night
"There is a newly filled lake after the reconstruction of the dam. This is a non motorized lake for paddling, swimming and fishing."
"Fun to play in the water, go behind the waterfall and a good hike up 200 steps to view the falls from above!"
2. Wisconsin Ridge Campground — Wyalusing State Park
53 ReviewsPrairie du Chien, WIWebsite$24 - $41 / night
"Located on the far western edge of Wisconsin this state park offers a little of everything - hiking trails connected to the camp grounds, boat access to the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers, overlook of"
"This is an amazing park on the Wisconsin/Iowa border, overlooking where the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers join. I usually try to get in at least 1 trip a year, if lucky enough 2-3."
3. Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit
52 ReviewsNorth Prairie, WIWebsite+1 (262) 594-6200$26 - $41 / night
"Red Trail, Paradise Trail,Rice Lake are all great hikes. Great views of Lake Ottawa. The close by town of Oconomowoc has a nice place to eat, Burkes Lakeside."
"Site was spacious but very close to your neighbors. Lots to do in the area. Bathrooms and showers were clean. The beach was not clean and very hard to walk on, very rocky."
4. High Cliff State Park Campground
49 ReviewsSherwood, WIWebsite+1 (920) 989-1106$26 - $51 / night
"This was my first time camping in a Wisconsin state park and I thought it was great! Our site backed up to a trail along the cliff which was awesome for a family that loves to hike."
"Another spacious Wisconsin State Park site. #2 is level and listed as full shade but we had enough sun to recharge our Jackery everyday. It helps that it was blue skies each day!"
5. Kohler-Andrae State Park
47 ReviewsOostburg, WIWebsite+1 (920) 451-4080$26 - $70 / night
"We were in route to visiting Green Bay Wisconsin and found this campground on Lake Michigan."
"Nice long stretch of soft sand beach and cool board walk hikes through sand dunes. The sites are pretty typical, nice, wooded, maybe a little squeezed together but over all not bad."
6. Quartzite Campground — Devils Lake State Park
47 ReviewsBaraboo, WIWebsite+1 (888) 947-2757$28 - $53 / night
"There is something for everyone at Devils Lake State Park."
"The new warden situation is interesting. Things have gotten a lot more strict in some areas (ex."
7. Mauthe Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit
46 ReviewsCampbellsport, WIWebsite+1 (262) 626-2116$26 - $41 / night
"Mauthe Lake Campground is located in the Northern Kettle Moraine Forest in East/Centreal Wisconsin."
"Wonderful trail around the lake and a variety of different campsites. Plenty of space, very rural. Very wisconsin!"
8. Ice Age Campground — Devils Lake State Park
43 ReviewsBaraboo, WIWebsite+1 (608) 356-8301$28 - $53 / night
"Much to do at Devil's Lake and surrounding area. features multiple campgrounds and multiple areas for swimming. A beach at the North and South of the lake."
"It is up and away from the rest of the park a bit and typically almost every site has full shade. This is important in the summer months."
9. Copper Falls State Park Campground
38 ReviewsMellen, WIWebsite+1 (715) 274-5123$28 - $90 / night
"If your from Wisconsin this sits at the very north of the State. If your looking for areas to visit while camping here you may have a little bit of a drive."
"Wow, Copper Falls has quickly jumped to my number one state park experience in Wisconsin. I’ve lived in Wisconsin my whole life and did not expect such beauty in this northern part of the state."
10. Perrot State Park Campground
37 ReviewsTrempealeau, WIWebsite+1 (608) 534-6409$24 - $110 / night
"Located among driftless Wisconsin, Perrot SP is a great place to camp. The highlight of this park are the hiking trails created by the CCC."
"There is a rail line that runs along between the Mississippi and the park edge, campsites are away from this but still can be heard as well as motor boats on the River."
Recent Camping Photos in Wisconsin
1418 Photos of 1065 Wisconsin Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Recent Reviews in Wisconsin
4002 Reviews of 1065 Wisconsin Campgrounds
- JJonathan B.
TravelerRobinson Lake Dispersed Campsite
Amazing
Amazing campground. A little traffic from nearby road but really quiet at night. We launched our row boat right from our campsite and the lake is gorgeous
Beth S.TravelerLittle Creek Family Campground
Camping alone , mid September
I really like this campground, I feel safe as a single person camping with my pups here. The owners are super friendly and the price is very reasonable. There are mostly seasonal here which helps cut back the noise and the crowds.
- GGeorgeann M.
ScoutDalrymple Park and Campground
Great location to explore Bayside orchards and surrounding area
Quiet but right off of hwy 13. Electric shared. Toilets but not showers. $30 a night. Just staying overnight and meets all my needs.
- BBriana K.Scout
Neshonoc Lakeside
Beautiful, clean, fun
I was a little skeptical after a negative review about the regular residents, so I watched for that dynamic. We were camping with another family so we had 8 kids between the two of us and I was worried all those kiddos would upset people. Quite the opposite experience from that review and it motivated me to leave this one to help provide a good picture. I have nothing bad to say about our camping experience. We did go a little out of season (September 12) so a lot of the campsites were empty. Most their sites are flat, and clean. The grass was well mowed and maintained. They had activities for the kids (Halloween). People that drove by were friendly and smiling, and waiving. We had people drop off candy for the kids asking parents first. We had people offer basketballs for our kids to use while they were away from their site. Me and my friend were about to haul ice bags and wood up a huge hill on foot and someone stopped their golf cart and emptied it of what they were carrying to give us a ride to our campsite. The kids tootled about on their bikes being kids with no negative experiences. There were a couple of kids on motor scooters whose engines were kind of obnoxious but that’s going to happen more and more at campgrounds, and it wasn’t during quiet hours. We had sites atop the “full Lakeview” and it was honestly surprising how beautiful it was up there. I think it can be difficult to get a view when you’re camping but those sites had it. We knew the full lake view sites were open so we took the cheaper ones across from them, but still saw the same view. There was a great amount of space between the sites we used. The only possible critique I might offer is in that specific row there weren’t many trees for shade, but the weather was cooler so it didn’t affect us, but if we went in the summer it might have been more uncomfortable without that natural shade. The bath houses and showers were great!!! I feel like a good bath house can make or break a campsite and we’ve been to some smaller ones that were quite lacking but this one was great. Very clean, not many bugs, spacious, real doors on the shower stalls. We did not arrive in season to utilize the pool area but it looked great from the other side of the gate ;) - the parks were well maintained and the kids loved them. there was a set of stairs that went from up the hill down to the office that looked a little sketchy but they were closed off for use. If you didn’t have a golf cart or couldn’t ride a bike, the trek from where we stayed to the office might be a challenge. Overall we loved it and would definitely consider going again. The sites were a little pricey but had on site sewer hookup which is fantastic.
- DDonald S.Scout
Nelson Dewey State Park Campground
Site 14
Be advised site 14 is on such a steep hill it was honestly scary coming in an out of our camper! If an older couple were staying at this site in a camper I’m not sure if they would even be able to. Our second door entrance cannot be used due to how steep the hill is and we had to add wood to the bottom of our stairs because they didn’t touch the ground. Forgot to add you’re also under a very large black walnut tree that is currently dropping walnuts that are ripe.
Kleine L.TravelerQuartz Lake
Hidden gem
This was a super quiet spot. I stayed here on an early September Tuesday-Thursday and didn’t see anybody while at camp. Not much traffic either. Bugs were present but not bad. There was a well made makeshift toilet a stones throw from the site which was an unexpected surprise. The lake was nice… I didn’t swim in it because there were a lot of bugs floating on top but stuck my feet in. There was firewood and 2 cooking grates.. not sure if that’s always there but it was nice.
Mindy B.GuideApple River County Park Campground
Peaceful, hidden gem for simple campers, wonderful water
There are surprisingly few campgrounds in this area with overnight camping - most are just giant trailer parks for people who stay the entire season. We were pleased to find this "real" campground close enough for segment hikes on the Ice Age Trail, 12 miles away at the closest. Some sites do have electricity, but pit toilets, no showers. I took advantage of the Apple River instead - it's just a short walk away, wonderful for wading, has some deeper pools for a cool dip. The water from the hand pump is cold and delicious. We noticed several cars, probably local, stop and fill jugs to take home.
- Mindy B.Guide
Pike Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Pike Lake Unit
Near Ice Age Trail, open woods
Sites are large, well-spaced, many shaded by wonderful large trees. The woods are very open with little understory, and much of the area facing the road is graveled, so you will still see your neighbors. So many hiking options - the Ice Age Trail connects to the campground only a few minutes walk away. Many hiking options, the walk to the Powder Hill Lookout tower is a must. Picnic area and waterfront are a short drive away. Bathrooms were clean and showers free, hot, and strong. Some traffic noise from highway nearby but quiet at night.
Guide to Wisconsin
Camping in Wisconsin offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there's something for everyone in the Badger State.
What to do
- Hiking and Nature Walks: Many campgrounds, like Buckhorn State Park Campground, have great trails. One visitor mentioned, “Plenty of hiking, canoeing, and kayaking opportunities inside the park.”
- Fishing and Water Activities: Campgrounds near lakes, such as Coon Fork Campground, are perfect for fishing. A reviewer noted, “Nice beaches and walking trails throughout!!”
- Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One camper at Hartman Creek State Park Campground shared, “The beauty of this trail is amazing!”
What campers like
- Spacious Campsites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites. A review from Big Eau Pleine Park Campground said, “Sites were large and private.”
- Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds have well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Council Grounds State Park Campground mentioned, “Decent bathrooms. Nice little beach area.”
- Friendly Atmosphere: Campers often feel welcomed. One reviewer at Pigeon Creek Campground stated, “Great overall space! New jungle gym for the kids.”
What you should know
- Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. A camper at Buckhorn State Park Campground warned, “The only reason I gave this 4/5 stars is because the mosquitoes!!!”
- Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy. A visitor at Jordan Park noted, “They had leaf blowers going at 7 am and came right next to our tents.”
- Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A review for Roche A Cri State Park Campground mentioned, “Nothing too fancy, but it is worth the trip!”
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. One camper at Fremont RV Campground said, “Plenty of activities for the kids, nice staff, and friendly campers.”
- Pack for Bugs: Bring bug spray to keep the mosquitoes at bay. A family at Pigeon Creek Campground mentioned, “Bugs were sometimes bad but it was June in the woods in Wisconsin.”
- Plan for Quiet Time: Some campgrounds can be loud, so have a backup plan for quiet activities. A visitor at Council Grounds State Park Campground shared, “Quiet. Sites were spaced nicely.”
Tips from RVers
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Hartman Creek State Park Campground noted, “If you want to be surrounded by hammock-able trees, I suggest sites 94-99.”
- Look for Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric sites. A camper at Petenwell Park mentioned, “They also have put in new bathrooms and shower houses around their campground.”
- Plan for Dump Stations: Not all campgrounds have sewer hookups. A visitor at Coon Fork Campground said, “Some loops better suited for tents, some for large RVs.”
Camping in Wisconsin is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but being prepared can make all the difference!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best tent camping locations in Wisconsin?
What are the best tent camping locations in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin offers exceptional tent camping experiences, particularly at Newport State Park Campground with its hike-in sites that combine outdoor adventure with nearby attractions like wine tastings and drive-in theaters. For a secluded experience, Harrington Beach State Park Campground provides private, wooded sites with clean facilities and easy access to Lake Michigan. Other excellent tent camping options include Wyalusing State Park with its scenic river views, and Sailor Lake NF Campground in the national forest with dedicated waterside tent sites. For those seeking a more rustic experience, the walk-in sites at Kettle Moraine State Forest provide a genuine woodland immersion with basic amenities.
Where can I find campgrounds with cabins in northern Wisconsin?
Where can I find campgrounds with cabins in northern Wisconsin?
Northern Wisconsin offers several cabin options for campers. Lake of the Pines Campground in Flambeau River State Forest provides a rustic cabin experience in a remote, wooded setting near a beautiful lake. North Trout Lake Campground in the Northern Highland State Forest also offers cabin accommodations with excellent lake access. Several private campgrounds in the Minocqua and Eagle River areas provide more amenity-rich cabin options with electricity and running water. Many northern Wisconsin cabins require advance reservations, especially during peak summer months, and typically range from rustic one-room shelters to fully-equipped cabins with kitchenettes and multiple bedrooms.
What are the best family-friendly campgrounds in Wisconsin?
What are the best family-friendly campgrounds in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin boasts numerous family-friendly campgrounds with amenities perfect for children. Wyalusing State Park Campground offers a complete package with hiking trails, river access, playgrounds, and educational opportunities where the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers meet. Rocky Arbor State Park Campground provides a quiet retreat close to Wisconsin Dells attractions while escaping the tourist crowds. Devil's Lake State Park features swimming beaches, gentle hiking trails, and interpretive programs ideal for children. Kohler-Andrae State Park offers dune exploration and Lake Michigan swimming. Many family-friendly campgrounds in Wisconsin include modern bathrooms with showers, accessible playgrounds, ranger-led programs, and spacious sites that accommodate multiple tents, making them perfect for families with children of all ages.
How much does camping typically cost in Wisconsin?
How much does camping typically cost in Wisconsin?
Camping costs in Wisconsin vary based on location, amenities, and residency status. State parks like New Glarus State Park Campground charge approximately $15-30 per night for Wisconsin residents and slightly more for non-residents, plus a required vehicle admission sticker ($8-11 daily or $28-38 annual). County parks such as Mendota County Park typically range from $15-25 per night. Private campgrounds like Fox Hill RV Park have higher rates, often $30-50 for tent sites and $40-70 for full hookup RV sites. National Forest campgrounds offer more affordable options, typically $15-20 per night. Most reservable sites also include a $7.75-10 reservation fee. Discounts are often available for seniors and disabled visitors at public campgrounds.
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