Hartman Creek State Park Campground sits within a forested stretch of central Wisconsin near Waupaca, where three small lakes and a network of trails fan out from the main camping areas. The park holds more than 100 sites across family and primitive loops, and site conditions vary considerably. Some spots are heavily shaded under a mix of coniferous and deciduous trees, while others sit more exposed with less buffer between neighbors. Sandy soil makes tent-staking tricky in places. Campers who research specific sites before booking tend to have better luck with privacy.
Water access is a recurring draw. Allen Lake has a fishing pier and a no-wake policy that keeps the surface manageable for kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. Rentals are available on site. Marl Lake, historically mined for sand, runs deep and cold and connects to several other lakes in the Waupaca waterway system, making it worth the short walk or bike ride. "Hartman Creek is a nice small lake, with no wake," notes Jen E., who also found the fishing pier a hit with kids. The park's paved paths work well for cycling, and the Ice Age Trail runs through the property for hikers.
Noise is worth factoring in. Several reviewers mention that the campground draws a younger crowd on weekends, and conversations carry easily between sites. A quiet policy reportedly takes effect at 10pm, though enforcement is inconsistent. Weekdays and shoulder-season visits in September tend to be noticeably calmer. "Lots of trails and beach access," Steph notes, and the park does keep its beach and swimming area clean according to multiple visitors.
The campground runs from April through November and accepts reservations, which is advisable for summer weekends. RVs up to 35 feet can access electric and water hookups. Non-residents should note that site fees stack on top of the state park entrance fee, putting a primitive site in the $40-plus range. Nearby alternatives include Deerhaven Campground to the northeast and Fountain Lake RV Park, Inc. to the southwest, and those looking for more options can browse campgrounds just outside Hartman Creek State Park for comparison.
Families with bikes and kayaks, anglers targeting panfish and bass, and campers who prioritize lake access over site seclusion will find the most to work with here.
Description
Located on the beautiful Chain O' Lakes, Hartman Creek State Park is a quiet and friendly, natural gem. The park offers camping, boating, swimming and mountain biking opportunities, the historic Hellestad House log cabin, and four picnic areas including Whispering Pines along crystal-clear Marl Lake. Family and group campsites, and several picnic shelters are reservable.
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Major construction is finishing up in the family campground to replace toilet and shower facilities. Campers may experience construction activity and traffic disruptions. The water systems and new facilities will be opening May 1, 2026, while some construction activity continues into early summer.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsHartman Creek State Park Campground is located in Wisconsin near King
Directions
Hartman Creek State Park is located approximately 6 miles west of Waupaca off State Hwy. 54. A brown recreational hwy. sign will show you where to turn, onto Hartman Creek Road and go 1 1/2 miles to come to the entrance of the park.
Address
N2480 Hartman Creek Rd.
Waupaca, WI 54981
Coordinates
44.32300039 N
89.217 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/13/26
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/13/26
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Market
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 45 min from Oshkosh, WI
- 48 min from Appleton, WI
- 55 min from Wausau, WI
- 1 hr 3 min from Fond du Lac, WI






























