The best campgrounds near Bayfield, Wisconsin with wildlife watching

Looking for a camping experience near Bayfield, Wisconsin that's perfect for wildlife watching? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 200 options specifically tailored to your preference, you'll be able to find the perfect spot to observe nature in all its glory. Whether you prefer RV parks, tent camping, or cabin rentals, there's something for everyone. Plus, you can read reviews from fellow campers to help you make an informed decision. Check out top campsites like Balsam Ridge Retreat (506 reviews), Bad River Wilderness (158 reviews), and Camp Floodwood (130 reviews) to get started. With popular amenities like showers, campfires, and trash disposal, and activities such as paddling, wind sports, and historic site visits, you'll have everything you need for an unforgettable camping experience. Average price per night is $89, but there are options available for as low as $13. Happy camping!

95% (552)

Top-rated campgrounds near Bayfield

Looking for a camping experience near Bayfield, Wisconsin that's perfect for wildlife watching? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 200 options specifically tailored to your preference, you'll be able to find the perfect spot to observe nature in all its glory. Whether you prefer RV parks, tent camping, or cabin rentals, there's something for everyone. Plus, you can read reviews from fellow campers to help you make an informed decision. Check out top campsites like Balsam Ridge Retreat (506 reviews), Bad River Wilderness (158 reviews), and Camp Floodwood (130 reviews) to get started. With popular amenities like showers, campfires, and trash disposal, and activities such as paddling, wind sports, and historic site visits, you'll have everything you need for an unforgettable camping experience. Average price per night is $89, but there are options available for as low as $13. Happy camping!

95% (552)

Top-rated campgrounds near Bayfield

1. Amnicon Adventures & Retreats

91%

(95)

50mi from Bayfield · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging

At Amnicon you'll find the perfect blend of far-enough-away and easy-enough-to-get-to. We're located at the end of a 5-mile-long dirt road, just 30 minutes outside of Duluth, MN. Our site features 600 acres of protected forests along the Amnicon River on the South Shore of Lake Superior. The wildlife is abundant, and we even have an eagle's nest on site. You'll enjoy falling asleep to the sound of the waves on Lake Superior, and waking up to 118+ species of birdsongs. We have an enormous sandy beach on Lake Superior that's a great place to watch the sunset and have a SMALL campfire. You're going to love it here.

2. Twisting Twig Gardens and Orchard

99%

(70)

6.6mi from Bayfield · 3 sites · Lodging

My husband Rob and I own a 40 acre property approximately 10 miles from Bayfield, Wi. We have a micro organic farm with hundreds of wild apple trees and believe in leaving the land better than we found it. Rob loves permaculture, managing soils, pruning apple trees and feeding his community nutrient dense food. I work as a hospice nurse and help out on the farm when I am able and we have 2 boys, Arlo and Owen. We keep busy! We offer 3 rustic rentals onsite, but each is very private and secluded. Consider all 3 for a larger gathering! We look forward to hosting you for a farm visit.

3. Bad River Wilderness

98%

(536)

39mi from Bayfield · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Update: This property was awarded 2nd place for 2024 as the 2nd best Hipcamp in Wisconsin out of 252 Hipcamp's based on reviews and ratings! Thank you to all who have enjoyed this amazing property and provided a review or rating!!! On the upper Bad River, I have a special location that I'd like to share for others to enjoy. I was fortunate to acquire this land 20 years ago and now that I have retired from the United States Air Force, I can dedicate time to create peaceful campsites along the river. This land was originally railroad property as the railroad companies bought much land in the late 1800's to have options to place their railroads. There is still a railroad track nearby but it has been unused since 2015 and it makes a nice hiking path along the river for many miles to the north into the national forest. There are 3 waterfalls nearby and I will have many signs leading to the waterfalls. There are 4 total campsites on the property, 1 site you can drive to (Eagle Pines), and 3 tent sites that require 1/8 mile hike to 2 sites, and a 1/4 mile hike to the other hike-in site.

4. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

96%

(12)

2 sites · Bayfield, Wisconsin

Shipwrecks, sea caves, and sandy beaches provide a spectacular setting for an island camping experience.

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5. Big Bay State Park

100%

(6)

61 sites · Bayfield, Wisconsin

Discover Big Bay State Park's scenic shores and lush campgrounds.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

6. Madeline Island Lakeside Dry Cabin

7.1mi from Bayfield · 1 site · Lodging

This quiet lakeside dry cabin on Madeline Island makes a cozy winter retreat. Sitting on a high bluff with sweeping views of Lake Superior, the Apostle Islands, and snow-covered woods all around, it’s a peaceful place to slow down, read, play games, and enjoy the stillness of the island. The cabin stays warm with in-floor heat and a wood-burning fireplace—perfect for relaxing after skiing, snowshoeing, or exploring nearby Big Bay State Park. There is no running water in winter, but fresh bottled water is provided for drinking and washing, keeping things simple without sacrificing comfort. It feels a bit like winter camping, but with a real bed, warmth, and a cozy cabin to come back to. It’s a great spot for anyone who enjoys quiet, nature, and the calm beauty of winter on the lake. A flush toilet is available with provided water. The tank is filled manually and water is limited, so guests are asked to conserve and flush only as needed. Access to the island is by the Madeline Island Ferry from Bayfield—please be familiar with the ferry schedule and timing, especially in winter. Ice and weather can affect crossings, and access may vary. We’ll share updates on ferry schedules as we know them, and you’re always welcome to reach out with questions. Getting here is part of the adventure!

7. Sailor Springs Glamping

94%

(27)

2.2mi from Bayfield · 9 sites · Lodging

Experience upscale camping–Glamping in the Forested Hills of Lake Superior. Sailor Springs is a small three-site campground located just two miles outside of the picturesque tourist town of Bayfield, WI. 2023 will be our first year of operation and we’re excited to host campers on the property and provide a unique camping experience. The campground is spread out over 5 acres of forest that you’ll hike into from Bresette Hill Road. After parking at the trailhead, you’ll gather your bags and hike into your glamping site. The trail winds through the woods, leading you first to a valley where the seasonal Clark Creek runs through in the spring. The first two campsites are on the other side of this valley. The trail can be steep in spots and requires a moderate level of fitness and mobility to reach the secluded campsites. The third site is a bit farther into the forest, the little A-frame cabin, Anchor sits on the edge of the spring-fed Brickyard Creek that flows year-round. We have many plans for the property and depending on when you stay, the campground will be in various stages of development. The campsites, trailhead / parking area, and trails are scheduled to be completed in early spring. We hope to add amenities such as a camp sauna and screened-in gazebo later in the 2024 summer / fall. Thank you for considering joining us on this journey to build a peaceful place to play and stay in the woods. “In every walk in nature one receives far more than he seeks.” John Muir

8. Farm Stay Glamping Site

96%

(35)

24mi from Bayfield · 1 site · Lodging

Learn more about this land:The Farm Stay Glamping Site was originally my very first greenhouse. As our farmstead has grown, and evolved into a full fledged sheep farm and soon to be market garden, there was an idea to make it into something that we could share the beauty of our homestead with others. As spring breaks through, and the campsite opens, up we have new lambs arriving daily. Baby chicks are hurrying every which way, and the flowers start to emerge. It's a beautiful time of year to visit the farm and enjoy the new beginnings. As summer comes around, our new lambs move to a pasture that you can overlook from the campsite. The glamping site is located on the back side of our yard with a fruit orchard separating our main home from the site. The site has a queen bed, and also has room for an additional tent to be placed in the yard (which is relatively flat), or on the 12'x18' wooden deck. We are 15 minutes from Ashland & 30 minutes from Bayfield with numerous entertainment and dining options. 10 - 15 minutes from numerous beaches along Lake Superior's shore.

9. Haugen Road Campground

98%

(24)

34mi from Bayfield · 1 site · Tent

Come enjoy 4 acres of beautiful Red Pine woods on a dirt road corner. 2 minutes from Copper Falls State Park where you can enjoy kayaking, fishing, hiking the falls, biking, and enjoying a day in the park area with family and friends. Come back to camp and have a beer and cook some food by the fire.

10. Chequamegon National Forest

75%

(4)

351 sites · Rhinelander, Wisconsin

Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, what a unique name and deservedly so as the forest itself is as diverse and attention getting as it’s namesake! The deep northwoods of Wisconsin offers a ton of hiking, biking, and camping to get stoked about; there’s 800 miles of hiking trails alone. But if you’re looking for a truly unique outdoor experience, try offroading or cross country skiing old military roads in the winter. There’s stunning Lake Superior views from St. Peter’s Dome and 70 foot Morgan Falls is sure to cool you off on a hot summer day. We dig the Quartz Trail where you can see giant quartz deposits discovered by the Native Americans who used to inhabit the area. There’s plenty of camping options to make this a wilderness weekend (or more) and with over 1.5 million acres to explore, we doubt you’ll be running out of rad things to discover!

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11. Copper Falls State Park

93%

(7)

51 sites · Mellen, Wisconsin

Discover Copper Falls State Park's ancient lava flows and scenic trails.

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Campfires

12. Gooseberry Falls State Park

98%

(25)

69 sites · Beaver Bay, Minnesota

Next time you find yourself on Minnesota’s scenic Highway 61, do everything you can to pull over for the stunning views at Gooseberry Falls State Park. The region has been a seat of human activity on the north shore of Lake Superior since at least 1670, and it’s no wonder—the river gorge carved out of ancient rock and five many-tiered waterfalls will literally take your breath away, and developed modern camp sites provide comfort and ease so you can spend more time exploring.Bike the paved Gitchi-Gami trail, or hike any of the connector paths to the Superior Hiking Trail system. Pack some sammies and enjoy the Picnic Flow area, situated on an ancient lava flow that provides great views of Lake Superior. Check out the historic rustic granite structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, whose design was overseen by Italian stonemasons and is very colorful. With so much to do, it’s worth it to invest in the year pass if you live nearby—for Minnesotans, the first time at Gooseberry is never the last.

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13. Tettegouche State Park

100%

(17)

45 sites · Silver Bay, Minnesota

You may not know it by name, but guaranteed if you like nature photography, you’ve seen Shovel Point. Its steep, bridge-like cliff on the shore of Lake Superior attracts photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. Wanna experience the magic? Visit its home: Tettegouche State Park. With cliffs like these, Tettegouche was bound to attract dirtbaggers from all over. Like to climb rock? Come join ‘em! Visit the 60 foot High Falls of the Baptism River and feel the spirit of nature rejoice. Remote hiking through the Sawtooth Mountains offer views made for a life time and lakes made for skinny dipping. This parks nearly 10,000 acres house accommodations from cabins to backpacking and kayaking sites open year-round. Hurry there!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

14. Deer Lake Private Retreat

88%

(4)

48mi from Bayfield · 1 site · Tent

Deer Lake is private 50 acre lake surrounded by 140 acres of hardwood forest Hiking trails Canoe and kayaks. Near Brule River Great kayak trip . Very private and quiet. Listen to the loons and Trumpet Swans large garden blue berries near Lake Nebegamon and lake Minnesong. Great pan fishing and boating. 5 miles to Brule river. Great trout stream and kayaking. Biking trails and quiet country roads.

15. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

97%

(29)

170 sites · White Pine, Michigan

Michigan’s largest state park is an honest Porkies wilderness.

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Toilets

Campfires

16. Northern Highland American Legion State Forest

89%

(9)

719 sites · Boulder Junction, Wisconsin

Discover the natural splendor of Northern Highland American Legion State Forest.

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Toilets

Campfires

17. George H. Crosby Manitou State Park

100%

(2)

21 sites · Finland, Minnesota

Discover the rugged beauty of George H. Crosby Manitou State Park.

Pets

Toilets

Potable water

Camper favorites near Bayfield

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Madeline Island Lakeside Dry Cabin

7.1mi from Bayfield · 1 site · Lodging

This quiet lakeside dry cabin on Madeline Island makes a cozy winter retreat. Sitting on a high bluff with sweeping views of Lake Superior, the Apostle Islands, and snow-covered woods all around, it’s a peaceful place to slow down, read, play games, and enjoy the stillness of the island. The cabin stays warm with in-floor heat and a wood-burning fireplace—perfect for relaxing after skiing, snowshoeing, or exploring nearby Big Bay State Park. There is no running water in winter, but fresh bottled water is provided for drinking and washing, keeping things simple without sacrificing comfort. It feels a bit like winter camping, but with a real bed, warmth, and a cozy cabin to come back to. It’s a great spot for anyone who enjoys quiet, nature, and the calm beauty of winter on the lake. A flush toilet is available with provided water. The tank is filled manually and water is limited, so guests are asked to conserve and flush only as needed. Access to the island is by the Madeline Island Ferry from Bayfield—please be familiar with the ferry schedule and timing, especially in winter. Ice and weather can affect crossings, and access may vary. We’ll share updates on ferry schedules as we know them, and you’re always welcome to reach out with questions. Getting here is part of the adventure!

Sailor Springs Glamping

94%

(27)

2.2mi from Bayfield · 9 sites · Lodging

Experience upscale camping–Glamping in the Forested Hills of Lake Superior. Sailor Springs is a small three-site campground located just two miles outside of the picturesque tourist town of Bayfield, WI. 2023 will be our first year of operation and we’re excited to host campers on the property and provide a unique camping experience. The campground is spread out over 5 acres of forest that you’ll hike into from Bresette Hill Road. After parking at the trailhead, you’ll gather your bags and hike into your glamping site. The trail winds through the woods, leading you first to a valley where the seasonal Clark Creek runs through in the spring. The first two campsites are on the other side of this valley. The trail can be steep in spots and requires a moderate level of fitness and mobility to reach the secluded campsites. The third site is a bit farther into the forest, the little A-frame cabin, Anchor sits on the edge of the spring-fed Brickyard Creek that flows year-round. We have many plans for the property and depending on when you stay, the campground will be in various stages of development. The campsites, trailhead / parking area, and trails are scheduled to be completed in early spring. We hope to add amenities such as a camp sauna and screened-in gazebo later in the 2024 summer / fall. Thank you for considering joining us on this journey to build a peaceful place to play and stay in the woods. “In every walk in nature one receives far more than he seeks.” John Muir

Farm Stay Glamping Site

96%

(35)

24mi from Bayfield · 1 site · Lodging

Learn more about this land:The Farm Stay Glamping Site was originally my very first greenhouse. As our farmstead has grown, and evolved into a full fledged sheep farm and soon to be market garden, there was an idea to make it into something that we could share the beauty of our homestead with others. As spring breaks through, and the campsite opens, up we have new lambs arriving daily. Baby chicks are hurrying every which way, and the flowers start to emerge. It's a beautiful time of year to visit the farm and enjoy the new beginnings. As summer comes around, our new lambs move to a pasture that you can overlook from the campsite. The glamping site is located on the back side of our yard with a fruit orchard separating our main home from the site. The site has a queen bed, and also has room for an additional tent to be placed in the yard (which is relatively flat), or on the 12'x18' wooden deck. We are 15 minutes from Ashland & 30 minutes from Bayfield with numerous entertainment and dining options. 10 - 15 minutes from numerous beaches along Lake Superior's shore.

Haugen Road Campground

98%

(24)

34mi from Bayfield · 1 site · Tent

Come enjoy 4 acres of beautiful Red Pine woods on a dirt road corner. 2 minutes from Copper Falls State Park where you can enjoy kayaking, fishing, hiking the falls, biking, and enjoying a day in the park area with family and friends. Come back to camp and have a beer and cook some food by the fire.

Deer Lake Private Retreat

88%

(4)

48mi from Bayfield · 1 site · Tent

Deer Lake is private 50 acre lake surrounded by 140 acres of hardwood forest Hiking trails Canoe and kayaks. Near Brule River Great kayak trip . Very private and quiet. Listen to the loons and Trumpet Swans large garden blue berries near Lake Nebegamon and lake Minnesong. Great pan fishing and boating. 5 miles to Brule river. Great trout stream and kayaking. Biking trails and quiet country roads.

Public campgrounds near Bayfield

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Campgrounds

96%

(12)

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Campgrounds

5.5mi from Bayfield · 2 sites · in Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Campsite 047, in the West Loop. The best sites here are located in the outside loop. The ground is nice and soft, with hemlocks and pine surrounding the campground.

100%

(6)

Big Bay Campground

7.3mi from Bayfield · 61 sites · Tents, RVs · in Big Bay State Park

Birch Grove Campground

14mi from Bayfield · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chequamegon National Forest

Wanoka Lake Recreation Area and Campground

29mi from Bayfield · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chequamegon National Forest

93%

(7)

Copper Falls Campground

33mi from Bayfield · 51 sites · Tents, RVs · in Copper Falls State Park

Lake Three Campground

34mi from Bayfield · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chequamegon National Forest

Perch Lake Campground

35mi from Bayfield · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chequamegon National Forest

100%

(1)

Beaver Lake Campground

36mi from Bayfield · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chequamegon National Forest

Mineral Lake Campground

36mi from Bayfield · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chequamegon National Forest

98%

(25)

Gooseberry Falls Campground

37mi from Bayfield · 69 sites · Tents, RVs · in Gooseberry Falls State Park

100%

(6)

Lake Superior Cart-in Campground

40mi from Bayfield · 13 sites · in Tettegouche State Park

100%

(1)

Two Lakes Campground

40mi from Bayfield · 36 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chequamegon National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

J

Justin

November 2025

With kids

2 nights at Sailor Springs Glamping

Abe offered the A frame cabin and I decided to take it due to him stating it would be warmer. Everything was great. Nice warm cabin, beautiful scenery, a trickling creek, and a nice little hike to the site. I will be coming back.

A

Armando

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bad River Wilderness

Amazing a lot of space shame the doc wasent out but 100/10 would recommend beautiful pretty secluded but still close !

J

Julie

October 2025

18 ft campervan

2 nights at Bad River Wilderness

Very peaceful site right on the river. Loved the ancient white pines covering the camp area! Great location and fun to hike to the falls. Thank you, Jeff & Julie

N

Neeka

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bad River Wilderness

Absolutely amazing! A little slice of heaven!!! Will be coming again next year!

D

Dee

October 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Bad River Wilderness

Wow! What a magical place. I had an amazing time camping at Eagle Pines On The Bad River and spending a gorgeous exploring Deans land. He’s clearly put much time and care into building and maintaining the trails. The map, signs and ribbons were very helpful for navigating the area. It was an absolute delight and adventure hiking the trails and wandering around the three waterfalls. Dean was also an excellent host. He was incredibly accommodating, responded quickly to my messages and provided very detailed instructions and recommendations upon booking. I highly recommend these sites to anyone wanting a peaceful, somewhat rustic and secluded spot to stargaze, canoe/kayak, hike and commune with the land and water. I hope to visit again soon.

Jennifer

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bad River Wilderness

We had the greatest time camping at Bad River Wilderness! We stayed at Bad River Point. Dean was most accommodating and helpful. The campsites are very remote and short walks to the waterfalls. Gorgeous property! Extremely clean and well taken care of! We enjoyed hiking the beautiful paths! Walking on the railroad tracks. Exploring in the canoe was also fun! We can’t wait to stay there again! Thank you, Dean for sharing your property with us!

E

Erin

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sailor Springs Glamping

The most beautiful and intentional property. Close to town yet you feel so secluded while feeling the breeze from the lake. We will definetly be back, thank you Abe!!!

Lydia

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bad River Wilderness

We were super impressed with the Balsam Shores campsite! It was lovely to be so close to the water, and it was so cool to have the option to canoe. Overall, everything was well-labeled and easy to find.

J

Janelle

October 2025

Tent

4 nights at Bad River Wilderness

Loved our time at this spot! Beautiful camp with amazing giant pine trees and a great setting on the river. Definitely plan to return! The river was low at this time of the year, but still managed to get out on the canoe provided and that was a great surprise to have available. We even saw a pair of swans!

Provided vault/pit toilet with hand sanitizer and toilet paper

F

Fiona

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bad River Wilderness

Although I arrived in the dark, I still found it fairly easy to navigate and find my campsite based on the directions Dean sent and the posted signs he made. I was impressed at how nice the campsite was -- it is clear that a lot of work was put in to haul in a lot of accommodations (chairs to sit on, smores sticks, lifejackets, canoes, food safety bins, etc) and create easy to navigate trails to the campsites and waterfall spots. This is a lovely place to just spend the night or have a long weekend getaway. Unique location right on the river and unique way to get there (crossing railroad tracks and hiking in). I found the location to be very quiet and secluded which I really enjoyed; it felt like I had backpacked quite far into the woods, not just walked a couple minutes from my parking spot. Highly recommend!

M

Molly Jo

October 2025

17 ft travel trailer

1 night at Bad River Wilderness

One of the best hip camps we have ever been to…. Maybe even the absolute best. Michael has great communication, the site was beautiful and private, and please don’t miss out on taking a ride in the supplied canoe. It’s a beautiful place! This is our second time there and we will return again.

S

Sue

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Bad River Wilderness

I had a nice stay on Dean's property. Not only was it quiet and along the river, but it was also a good jumping off spot to play tourist in the area. The ability to have the dog off-leash made us both happy. My pup had a great time in the woods, running and exploring. The sites are definitely walk-in. It's not a difficult or technical walk, but expect your standard rocks, roots, and wet leaves. A bit of up and down. More advanced beginner than totally flat. (I include this for those of us with knee issues.) I arrived at night (my fault for the late start) and had no issues getting to my site thanks to the thorough directions and the signage on the property. Overall, good time!

c

chris

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Amnicon Adventures & Retreats

Balsam site is a little bit of a hike. It was worth it for us to be right by Lake Superior and the beach. Having the main lodge available to you with hot showers and flush toilets is very nice. Site was really nice. We got our 6p north face down nice and level. It felt really private and the only vehicles we heard at night was planes. Had a really good time and will go back. Only thing that would have made it better would have been a pit bathroom at the site or closer.

K

Keira

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bad River Wilderness

The campsite was spacious and tucked away from the other sites which provided a good amount of privacy. Our dogs had enough space to run around and explore and we loved every second of it!

Will

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bad River Wilderness

The campsite was magical! If you're looking for a beautiful place to really get off the beaten path, this is a great place to do it. The river was nice for a cooling swim on a hot day. Dean takes very good care of the property. I could occasionally hear voices off in the distance from other campers and their dogs, but I never saw another person in the day and night I spent there.

M

Michael

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Bad River Wilderness

Peace & quiet off the beaten track along the Bad River. Well worth the hike in.