Wisconsin’s Top 10 Family-Friendly Camping Spots
August 28, 2018
Relaxing, family-friendly getaways don’t need to be expensive when you live in Wisconsin. Our beautiful state is packed with gorgeous, serene spots to pop up your tent or pull up your RV or camper. Between tent camping or RV camping in state parks or private campgrounds, enjoy family time under the stars this summer or fall.
To make deciding where and how to camp easier for you, we have shortlisted the best and most beautiful camping spots in the state.
1. Mirror Lake State Park
Image courtesy of Wikicommons
Located just off I-94 in Baraboo, WI, Mirror Lake State Park has many campsites to choose from with a good mix of reservable and walk-in sites available until the end of October. You can rent kayaks, paddle-boards, and rowboats for recreation on the lake. Mirror Lake is a no-wake lake, which means there will be no sound of motorboats whirring past you, disturbing the serene quietness of the wilderness. If you are going camping with your extended family, Bluewater Bay Campground here has plenty of group camping sites.
2. Harrington Beach State Park
Image courtesy of Wikicommons
If your idea of tent camping is more centered around fun family activities, Harrington Beach State Park is perfect. Nestled alongside the gorgeous Lake Michigan in Ozaukee County, this 700-acre park has a lowland forest, picnic areas with tables and grills, a nature trail, and ski trails. Puckett’s Pond and Quarry Lake are great for fishing. The state park is also well-known among birdwatchers, especially around the beginning of October, when you can spot migrating falcons and raptors.
3. Chequamegon-Nicolet National Park
Image courtesy of Wikicommons
Spread across 1.5 million acres of land, this national park covers much of the northern part of Wisconsin. There are a wide variety of RV camping spots here, ranging from deep woods to remote locations. One of the most popular family RV camping spots in Chequamegon-Nicolet National Park is the East Twin Lake Campground. East Twin Lake and nearby West Twin lake are excellent for fishing, known for fish including bass, musky, and panfish. East Twin Lake Campground offers 10 sites that can accommodate RVs up to 30 feet.
4. Hi-Pines Campground
Image courtesy of Hi-Pines Campground Facebook page
If your idea of camping is a secluded spot in a picturesque setting with all the modern amenities, Hi-Pines Campground is meant for you. Located just two miles from downtown Eagle River, the 75-acre campground has free Wi-Fi, a waterpark, hiking trails, a private pond, and volleyball courts. The campground has 52 full hookups, 77 water/electric hookups, 18 tent sites, and 40 seasonal sites. Plan a trip around Cranberry Fest in October where you can experience this fun Eagle River festival while enjoying the serenity of camping.
5. Indian Shores
Image courtesy of Indian Shores RV & Campground Resort Facebook page
Located on the shores of Tomahawk Lake, this campground has a swimming beach, boat rentals, and a heated pool. There are more than 250 RV campsites here. You can choose between campsites nestled amongst lofty birch and maple trees or overlooking the lake. There are water sports, fishing, and other family-friendly activities to indulge in.
6. Wagon Trail Campground
Image courtesy of Wagon Trail Campground Facebook page
Head north to beautiful Ellison Bay where you’ll discover Wagon Trail Campground nestled among 75 wooded acres. This clean and secluded campground has 145 sites including RV sites, tent sites, yurt rentals, and glamping cabins. In addition to its clean, renovated bathrooms, campers can stop by the campground store for s’mores supplies and wood, walk on safe trails to Sand Bay Beach Town Park, and enjoy all Door County has to offer with a short drive.
7. Wood Lake Campground
Image courtesy of Aaron Carlson via Flickr Creative Commons
If your idea of camping is blissful solitude, consider the secluded six-site Wood Lake Campground, which is located close to Highway 102. The picturesque Wood Lake, which is a no-wake lake, is great for fishing largemouth bass. Wood Lake Campground is close to Ice Age Trail for hiking and exploring.
8. High Cliff State Park
Image courtesy of Jim Bauer via Flickr Creative Commons
Situated in limestone cliffs, High Cliff State Park in Sherwood, WI, is sacred to Native Americans and overlooks the largest inland lake in Wisconsin. Hike alongside the park’s lime kilns, quarry, and fields – all while you camp in the quiet nature under the stars. With over one hundred sites to choose from, showers, and hiking spots, you’ll experience the tranquility of camping right in the Fox Valley.
9. Holtwood Campground
Image courtesy of City of Oconto
Just 30 minutes north of Green Bay, Holtwood Campground offers a mix of sunny and rustic campgrounds in Oconto, WI. Between canoe trips down the Oconto River to mini golf or a relaxing evening beside a campfire, you’ll be sure to get a good dose of R&R at this small, private pet-friendly campground.
10. Turtle-Flambeau Flowage
Image courtesy of WI DNR
Accessible by boat only, Turtle-Flambeau Flowage has some of the most beautiful campsites in Wisconsin. There are 58 family campsites here, all of which are available on a first-come-first-served basis. Turtle-Flambeau scenic waters are great for fishing and there is plenty of wildlife to be spotted around. In case you can’t find a free campsite here, you can always head to the nearby Lake of the Falls County Park or Sandy Beach Campground.
Take Your Camping Game Up a Notch
When it comes to camping, it is not just about the campground. It is also about the road you take and the fun you have with your friends and family. An RV or camper makes camping more convenient and enjoyable. You have a dedicated camping vehicle that you can keep ready for whenever the mood strikes. You don’t have to go through the logistical hassle of planning a camping trip that includes prepping the tent and packing sleeping bags. The best part is, there are attractive loan options available on RVs and campers. Unison Credit Union has locations spread across northeast Wisconsin, so applying for an RV loan is not at all a hassle. Contact a Member Advisor at Unison to get the conversation started today.