The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Bear Creek, Wisconsin

Camping along Bear Creek’s rivers puts you right in the middle of 183 options tailored to water lovers. You’ll find sites with showers, toilets, and campfires ready for your evening unwind. Average stays run about $40 a night, with some spots dipping as low as $25. The river here draws swimmers, horseback riders, and wildlife-watchers—expect to see herons, deer, and the occasional fox at dawn. Top picks include Clear Water Camp (119 reviews), Riverside Roost (45 reviews), and McCoy's River Retreat (27 reviews). Set up camp near a bend in the water, start your morning with a swim, and end it with a fire under open sky.

99% (262)

Top-rated campgrounds

Camping along Bear Creek’s rivers puts you right in the middle of 183 options tailored to water lovers. You’ll find sites with showers, toilets, and campfires ready for your evening unwind. Average stays run about $40 a night, with some spots dipping as low as $25. The river here draws swimmers, horseback riders, and wildlife-watchers—expect to see herons, deer, and the occasional fox at dawn. Top picks include Clear Water Camp (119 reviews), Riverside Roost (45 reviews), and McCoy's River Retreat (27 reviews). Set up camp near a bend in the water, start your morning with a swim, and end it with a fire under open sky.

99% (262)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Uncle Ben’s Camping

92%

(6)

37mi from Bear Creek · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Abrams, WI

One of my favorite home away from home’s. This property will help you reground and connect with nature. I have added the necessities of life, while keeping the property as natural as possible. My goal is to share this great experience I’ve created with you and your family. From the outdoor shower to the walking trails that weave through the woods and over Tibbet Creek you will love your stay! A couple of the sites are more remote than others by design. Not all can be driven up to. The furthest would be approximately a 500’ walk. A wagon is available to carry your items to your site. There is a large pond if you would like to fish or swim, and a John boat and a paddle boat to use also. Each site has its own fire pit with a cooking grate. Firewood available for purchase on site. Most sites are set with views of a water feature. Some tents are available to rent if you don’t have your own.

2. Riverside Roost

99%

(65)

37mi from Bear Creek · 2 sites · Tents · Custer, WI

** Celebrating our THIRD year of hosting in 2025!! All bookings during the month of October are 25% off with code “ F8P3QFHF”** **Due to several inquiries, We DO allow campers to camp in their vehicles down by the site if you have 4WD. Park at your own risk** New market items for sale on site, delivered right to your campsite including fresh, free-range chicken eggs 🐓 🥚, fresh baked Amish style bread, homemade jelly, jugs of water, and more! Follow us on Instagram (riverside_roost) for the latest updates on what's happening at the Roost! Special discounts will pop up randomly. Come and enjoy all of Central Wisconsins beauty! Situated on the shores of the Little Plover River, the site is ready for you to set up your tent and go! Kayaking, swimming, tubing, and excellent northern pike fishing is all available. We are a short 15 minute drive from the nearest town for any essentials. Area Attractions: -SentryWorld Golf Course in Stevens Point (10 miles from campsite) -Indianhead Golf Course in Mosinee (19 miles) -O'so Brewing Company Taproom in Plover (19 miles) -Stevens Point Sculpture Park (13 miles) -Jordan Bar and Grill in Stevens Point (6.5 miles) -Cedar Creek Cinema (Marcus Theatres) in Rothschild (26 miles) -Sawmill Adventure Park (mini golf and trampoline park) in Rothschild (26 miles)

3. Clear Water Camp

100%

(216)

19mi from Bear Creek · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Waupaca, WI

A private sanctuary with 30 acres located just north of Waupaca's Chain O' Lakes with groomed hiking and/or biking trails. Terrain is varied with ponds, hills, and valleys. Shower, potable water, and rec room available. PLEASE NOTE with heavy rain all wheel drive (AWD) is needed to park next to your site. If you don't have AWD, there's parking by the rec room. We can transport you to your site if there are issues. Firewood is available for purchase in addition to a 24 x 32 rec room/storm shelter. Kayaks and SUPs available to rent too! The rec room offers a fun room full of games (ping pong, darts, and other fun games) and a living room area with multiple TVs. We have a kitchen area with a refrigerator (no water) with snacks, pizza, and beverages available. Head into town for shopping, coffee, and baked treats. Or head to the Chain for crystal clear water, kayaking, paddle boarding, swimming, skiing, or dining at one of Waupaca's signature restaurants. Clear Water Camping has a rich history. The location is where the stagecoach house (still standing) was built in 1847 to support the nearby granite quarry.

4. Hartman Creek State Park

83%

(3)

84 sites · Chain O' Lakes, Wisconsin

Discover Hartman Creek State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Nicolet National Forest

67%

(12)

556 sites · Rhinelander, Wisconsin

The Nicolet National Forest is gonna leave you with a thick grin across your face! A deepwoods paradise, Nicolet offers a smorgasbord of game and fowl for those who like to hunt and over 800 miles of trails, off roading, and snowmobiling for those who like to wander! Canoe out into the Blackjack Springs Wilderness for some serious trout fishin’ or just to be inspired by Mama Nature herself. With unique overnight options like ATV or horse camping, you’re sure to find some rest after your days adventure and there’s plenty of regular campgrounds for families and groups. There’s no coming back from a Nicolet National Forest adventure, when you smile so much your cheeks hurt, you know you’ve found “the” place.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

6. Corner Creek Ranch

100%

(5)

46mi from Bear Creek · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Coleman, WI

Outdoor lovers will enjoy the magnificent Northwoods that our property has to offer. Our private property has an elevation of approximately 907’ft, adjacent to what was formerly known as Mount Le Bett ski hill. Our land has been family owned for 50 years. Our wooded acres property with trails for hiking, horseback riding and you can bring your ATV/UTV to hit the Oconto trails. Our place its perfect place to relax and connect with nature. Find Morels mushrooms, pick blueberries, peaches and apples...when in season. You are welcome to try mountain biking. With access to Mc Donald creek you can also enjoy some trout fishing. We are located 5 minutes from Kelly Lake, and Ross Lake. Spend the day in the woods relaxing, take your boat or kayaks to a near by lake. Cookout, hangout enjoy our woods. Our property offers a variety of activities. We welcome horses (with recent coggings) ATV and UTVs will be able to access the county ATV and UTV trails. (ATV and UTVs will be allowed to run in/out to the trails from our property. Not ridding on our trails We asked that our guest are considerate of our family and other campers. With a lot of ground you can choose from rolling your tent, hammock, RV or stay at our primitive tiny home. All fires will be contained and in designated area only. We follow Oconto County DNR fire guidelines.

7. Waupaca River Retreat

96%

(27)

18mi from Bear Creek · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Weyauwega, WI

Located on the Waupaca River, there is plenty to do here! Enjoy fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, tubing, and so much more! Several routes to choose from. Amazing wildlife includes whitetail deer, turtles, bald eagles, black terns, blue herons, cranes and trumpeter swans. Conveniently located minutes from Waupaca, Hartmans Creek State Park and Chain O Lakes. Great fat tire bike trails in the area. Sites are large to stretch out. Ground is cleared woodland. Site includes picnic table and metal fire pit. Firewood available for purchase on-site.

8. Old Red Mill Oasis

100%

(15)

38mi from Bear Creek · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Stevens Point, WI

This unique riverside retreat is located on the shores of the Plover River, on a dam remnant behind a former working mill. Campers will enjoy a park-like atmosphere with numerous benches, stone fire pits, and hidden trails among riverside, grassy, and forested areas. It's an ideal location to fish, kayak, or enjoy a 20-minute float from the dam to the Sharonwood bridge. The campground host offers guided kayak tours and/or shuttle services along the Big Plover River for an additional fee. The Old Red Mill Oasis is located on County Highway Y, 1.5 miles north of Jordan County Park and Jordan Pond, within 5 miles of the city of Stevens Point, Wisconsin, which offers numerous recreational opportunities. (See additional information section.) Site 1 – River Edge Site The River Edge site is a cleared area along the Plover River which includes a cracked granite fire pit, concrete bench, and nearby picnic table. It is an ideal site for tent camping. Site 2 – Woodland Fern Site The Woodland Fern site is a large shady site among mature trees ideal for tent or hammock camping. The site includes two cleared areas and a portable fire pit. There are lovely benches along the river and hammock chairs nearby. Site 3 – Boardwalk Trail Site The wooded Boardwalk Trail opens to secluded grassy site ideal for tent or hammock camping. A stone fire pit is included.

Public campgrounds near Bear Creek

83%

(3)

Hartman Creek Campground

28mi from Bear Creek · 84 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hartman Creek State Park

100%

(1)

Boulder Lake Campground

42mi from Bear Creek · 46 sites · Tents, RVs · in Nicolet National Forest

100%

(2)

Bagley Rapids Campground

45mi from Bear Creek · 30 sites · in Nicolet National Forest

Stories from the community

Z

Zac

October 2025

15 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Waupaca River Retreat

Amazing view I had a blast owners are super nice and friendly I felt right at home definitely coming back next year I give it 15 out of 10 lol

R

Red Rosie

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Waupaca River Retreat

Above and beyond! That's how Brenda and her family role. They are the most genuinely kind and caring people. They truly treat you like family. I took my 2 kiddos (ages 8 and 9) and our dog, for a fall camping adventure. The property is absolutely beautiful. Their are 3 campsites right on the river. We happened to be the only people there, so we had it to ourselves! But, would be a perfect spot if you have a larger group to book all 3 sites together. Brenda and her family truly made us feel like family. We had a couple bumps in the road- it was my first time taking my kids camping by myself, but they made me feel like I had a safety net, in case anything happened. I felt completely safe and it put my mind at ease. My daughter said if she could rate her stay, she'd give it "450 trillion out of 5 stars". My son said, the experience was, "one for the books"- meaning he had so much fun, he can't stop talking about it. :) Aside from the top notch host, they offer things to do, like kayaking and fishing. They will even drive you to a place to start and you'll finish at your campsite. They have 2 docks right on the river, which offer gorgeous views of sunset and sunrise. Also, just to bask in the peacefulness surrounding you. I could go on and on about how amazing our experience was... but you should check it out for yourself! We can't wait to go again!! We're already planning our next adventure there!

S

Susan

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Old Red Mill Oasis

Pretty spot along the river. Access to kayaking and tubing during warm weather. Michael was a friendly host. Good privacy between sites. One heads up, Google maps will tell you that you’ve arrived, but you’ll need to go just a little further before you see the red building.

A

Annabelle

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Riverside Roost

We had such a wonderful time at Riverside Roost! The campsite right along the river is stunning and the fresh eggs, bread, & jam were delicious. If you are a big critter fan this is the spot for you! Lots of frogs, fish, turtles, crawdads, bugs, etc. as well as the chickens that wander around! Paddling along the water is a treat and the dam, albeit a little noisy, brought a nice cool air to the site. The campsite itself is nestled into the property and I think it’s a great site, though if you want more options for walking trails/exploring I’d utilize the plenty of parks and public sites in the area as well. We can’t wait to come back!

Direct river access! Great for kayaking (they have some but we brought our own), canoeing, fishing and perhaps a tube float during summer months!

E

Elizabeth

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Waupaca River Retreat

Fishing off the dock, kayaking the river, getting to meet some of Brenda and Josh's "pets" (a stud horse and the sweetest little goat!) whilst stoking a fire was the perfect weekend escape. Yes, the train horns do occur, but we thought they were funny! Seeing a flock of 50 Sandhill Cranes all take off at once was a speechless moment along with watching changing leaves gently fall onto the river 🍂🛶. Plenty of firewood and kindling on site as well as all the water and eggs you could chug! Brenda was thoughtfully communicating throughout brooking process and a gracious host during our stay. We can't wait to come back with some friends! Can't recommend enough for fellow camping sweethearts and nature-loving families. 👏🤗

O

Olivia

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Riverside Roost

we had an amazing time at Kelli’s campsite!! everything was so beautiful and well maintained. We got a wheelbarrow of wood which was perfect for us! We loved saying hi to the chickens. She was very kind and accommodating. Would love to come back soon!!

E

Eric

October 2025

3 nights at Old Red Mill Oasis

Michael is an incredible host! He had everything ready for us upon arrival. We will definitely be back!

Tom

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Riverside Roost

Beautiful spot next to a river. We rented kayaks as well and had a wonderful time. River was very pretty and easy to navigate. Even caught some fish. Kelli was great. Will be back.

Leng

October 2025

Tent

5 nights at Riverside Roost

Relaxing and pretty secluded. This was the 2nd time returning and I decided to stay sun-fri. We saw, maybe 2 other people there. Still very very low to no light pollution to do stargazing weather permitting of course. Kelli reached out more than a few times to make sure we were doing ok and if we needed anything and to make sure to let her know if we did. Great hosts. We definitely be back next year.

This is a large hilltop site with an open sky. Four-wheel drive recommended if vehicle needed.

A

Amanda

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Clear Water Camp

Amazing, private place place to camp. Adam and Jackie are super friendly and made sure to check in on us once in awhile (not too much, just enough). They are super dog friendly and my dogs loved running around off leash. The property is beautiful as well as the surrounding lakes and towns.

C

Charisse

September 2025

14 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Clear Water Camp

Parked our camper van in the beautiful, pond-side Site 6 and loved the seclusion, peace, and spaciousness. The walking trail that is cut through the forest is gorgeous, and the shared clubhouse is an awesome place to hang out, eat, play games, and relax! The garage door bug screen is such a great idea and allows fresh air in while you enjoy the space. Owners are warm and personable, and clearly care about the spaces provided and their guests. This was our second time there, and we will certainly be back! Thanks, Jackie and Adam for a great stay! Charisse

T

Tony

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Old Red Mill Oasis

Sanctuary vibes. The waterfall sound at site #1 and the stream trickle sound at site #2 were both serene to sleep near to. Michael also kindly allowed me to borrow one of his kayaks, and of course, from up river the flow leads directly to his Oasis.

Private site surrounded by beautiful spruce trees.

J

Jeanne

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Clear Water Camp

This was my first experience booking a Hipcamp site and it won't be my last. With Clearwater Camp's campsites located in varied topography, it would make it a different experience each time. Campsites were easy to find and were far enough from each other to feel like you were really out in the wild. But the rec center near the front of camp provided a nice spot to visit with other campers, create some art, and have a bite to eat. The camp hosts were extremely friendly and made sure that we had everything we needed. Combined with wonderful weather, we had a wonderful camping experience at Clearwater Camp!

Kate

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Riverside Roost

Kelli did such an awesome job hosting us! It was an amazing place to camp and we will definitely be back! I highly recommend the Amish bread and home grown eggs! Huge fire pit and the dam provided the best atmosphere ever. The stargazing at night was just the cherry on top!

Kaitlin

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Waupaca River Retreat

We loved being back at Waupaca River Retreat. The sites have had some great upgrades including privacy screens between the sites, chairs overlooking the river, and a nice pathway between the sites and to the parking area. Brenda and her family are so welcoming and hospitable. Olivia even brought us fresh eggs on her horse! We saw otters and herons and heard coyotes and so many birds. This little spot is special -- a perfect place for a weekend in the woods.

c

chris

September 2025

2 nights at Corner Creek Ranch

Beautiful and relaxing campsite. Hosts were very welcoming. This is a great place to unwind and enjoy watching some farm life and explore.

S

STEPHANIE

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Old Red Mill Oasis

The Old Red Mill Oasis is heaven on earth in Central Wisconsin! The whole property along the Big Plover River has been carefully curated, with gazing benches showcasing meditative views. I loved to listen to the rush of the river at the Red Mill, and walk the manicured trails. My doodle dog Yummy is in absolute bliss on the land! The mushroom hunting was sublime in the prime! Michael is such a gracious host and wants to make your experience a memory to last forever. The kayaking is supreme, with a few different options. It's a treat when the heron leads you back to camp. Thank you, Michael!

J

Joanna

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Old Red Mill Oasis

Michael was a lovely host and the campsite was gorgeous!! Only wish we could have stayed longer!

Lizzi

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Clear Water Camp

My group LOVED this campground! Adam and Jackie are amazing. A couple of our group members were joking that they were in love with them lol. It's the perfect mix of nature with some modern comforts. The port a potties are so clean and nice! Each site has its own basically. The rec room was a welcome reprieve when it rained for us! We will definitely be coming back. The sites are well spaced, clean, well maintained, everything you'd want! If you haven't been here yet, you need to go!

D

Deborah

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Clear Water Camp

What a pretty site on beautiful land. Very friendly people. My pups had a blast. Will definitely return next year. Thank you!!