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Camping in Wisconsin

Like the state's famous ice cream, outdoor adventures are served year-round in Wisconsin.

97% (4549 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Wisconsin

Dog-friendly getaways

12 top campgrounds in Wisconsin

98%
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Purplehaze Acres

9 sites · Lodging, Tents60 acres · Rubicon, Dodge
Purplehaze Acres is a 60-acre organic rustic farm in Rubicon, WI and resides at the beginning of the approx. 650-mile Niagara Escarpment--known locally as "The Ledge". We are in close proximity to the Ice Age Trail, and the natural treasures of the great Horicon Marsh, Lake Sinnissipi/Rock River with canoeing/kayaking/fishing, Ledges County Park, and the world-renowned Holy Hill Shrine. Nearby Hustisford ("Husti") offers unique shopping and dining experiences, such as the Mercantile and Mocha Vino. Need a few organic groceries? Make sure to visit Back To The Best Organic grocer only 3 miles away, featuring food raised on local organic farms including Purplehaze Acres. Potable water, charcoal grills, firepit grates, eggs and available for purchase--firewood. COMING SOON: Did you forget something? If so, check out our Camp Cupboard Store. Your approach via 1/2-mile dirt drive up the hills and through the woods . . . to not your grandmother's typical house you go. You'll find wonderful vistas, wildflowers, berries, trails up into the woods, a 900' grass runway for aviators on an overall great "peace" of earth. ☮
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$40
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98%
(52)

The English Pale Campground

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents70 acres · Melrose, Jackson
The English Pale Campground is located on the Black River in Jackson County, 1 mile west of the Village of Melrose. The main campground is 70 feet above the river and is restricted to 21+ campers. The campground has 4 RV/Travel Trailer/Tent sites, a fully furnished Manor House, a travel trailer as well as two additional rustic beach sites that can be found along the river. The property is a total of 70 acres, which includes the 4+ acre beach, a mile of river front and trails through the woods that connect them all. The English Pale opened in August of 2021 and is growing property that offers a reasonable expectation of privacy. We are an adult only property but not a nudist campground. We do not prohibit our guests from nudity for the purpose of sunbathing on the beach, campsites or sundeck, but nudity is not allowed in general common areas. Our complete campground information can be found on our main web page or on Facebook at The English Pale Campground and Resort.
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$23
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93%
(115)

Justin Trails Resort

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · Sparta, Monroe
200-acre very hilly dog-friendly Century farm in the Justin Family over 100 years with acres of alfalfa, corn, and soybeans, 3 acres of gardens tended by Hmong gardeners, 3 acres of gardens around the compound, 150 acres of forest, 2 disc golf courses, 14 miles of grassy "mowed like a lawn" dog-friendly walking trails and 3 lovable pet llamas that love to be hand-fed treats or carrots.
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$30
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99%
(322)

Healing Hills

9 sites · Lodging, TentsHillsboro, Vernon
We are nestled into a hillside in Wisconsin's Driftless and amish country. Surrounded by beautiful ridges, valleys and trout streams, campers can enjoy hiking trails throughout our land, nearby streams and rivers for fishing and paddling, amish markets, famous bike trails, Wildcat Mountain and the Kickapoo Reserve. Or sit back and relax in one of our private camp sites and fall asleep under endless stars while coyotes lull you off to sleep.
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$30
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The Hill Family Camping

15 sites · RVs, Tents18 acres · Wonewoc, Juneau
The Hill is a private forested camp area that was originally made for a large group of friend's annual party.  Spanning 4 acres on top, there is space for campers including 30 amp plug-ins, tents, and has buildings on-site for groups if needed.  We also an add on of a simple rental glamper we call the Sugar Shack (listed as an Extra). The variety of trees, open space, and a group areas including fire pit, horseshoes/bags, and walking paths make the Hill a beloved getaway. Elroy/Sparta trail is 4 miles away that you can reach on the 400 trail just 1.2 miles from Hill.  Golf course in town, paddle on Baraboo, fish/swim at Dutch Hollow, or hike at Wildcat --all within 15 miles.
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$35
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100%
(68)

Clear Water Camp

6 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Waupaca, Waupaca
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.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.Firewood is available for purchase in addition to a 24 x 32 rec room/storm shelter. 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.
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$35
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(6)

Fall Hall Glen

7 sites · Lodging, Tents400 acres · Black River Falls, Jackson
Atop a ridge, nestled in the heart of the forest, you will find Fall Hall Glen located a few miles south of Black River Falls. Made popular in the early 1920’s and rich with history, Fall Hall Glen offers rustic cabins set next to the trickling creek, a great lodge with a picturesque waterfall view, and acres of peaceful prairie to pitch a tent. While you’re here, take advantage of the local trout streams, ATV trails, and public land access; or find peace and rest among the towering pine forest beside a stream, where the water cataracts and falls just beneath your feet. Access to the public bathhouse, with clean restrooms and showers, is included with any cabin rental.
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$30
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100%
(1)

Big Rock Creek

27 sites · Lodging, RVs1000 acres · Saint Croix Falls, Polk
Nestled back in the St. Croix River Valley there is a hidden 1000 acres that we call home. Not just our home, but your home for the weekend for your family and friends to enjoy. It is a place to get out, stretch your legs, explore, relax, indulge in the rich history, and create lasting memories. Come on out and choose to stay in one of our beautiful fully furnished glamping tents, our Geodesic Dome, or bring your own RV. Take a hike on our 23 miles of trails, embrace the historical grounds, grab a kayak and venture out for a stroll or fly fishing on our spring fed lake, or rent a ranger and take a drive throughout the property and see if you can get a glimpse of the albino deer, a Bald Eagle, swans, or other animals that habitat this property. Whatever your camping experience entails, we have you covered!
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$55
 / night
80%
(10)

Coadys' POV Lake Resort Glamping

19 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents15 acres · Phelps, Vilas
WELCOME TO THE NORTHWOODS TOP-RATED WISCONSIN FAMILY RESORT | Nestled among the Nicolet National Forest and the crystal clear shores of North Twin Lake sits Coadys' Point of View Lake Resort and Glamping Campground. POV Resort can accommodate just about everyone with an abundance of on-site lakeside + wilderness adventure - all the makings of a super fun Eagle River getaway. If you are after terrific fishing, swimming, canoeing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, or sitting around a crackling campfire...POV Resort is the place for you! Nearby you’ll also find thrilling zip lining, waterfalls, and go-kart rides. RENOVATED CABIN RENTALS BY THE LAKE Point of View Lake Resort has fully-renovated studio, 2 bedroom, and 3 bedroom cabin rentals - some are right in the middle of the action by the water and beach and others are nestled back into the national forest for a touch of privacy. Our year-round cabins combine the charm of a Northwoods cottage with the conveniences of a home. Great for weekend getaways in Wisconsin or annual week-long family get togethers. Our rates include all the amenities you would look for in a premier resort experience - including fireplaces, high speed wifi, and luxury bedding - but without exorbitant prices. We take our cleaning seriously - our units are so clean even Darren's mom would stay here! RIDICULOUSLY AWESOME WISCONSIN GLAMPING Point of View Lake Resort is the best Wisconsin glamping experience - it's super cool, luxury CAMPING at its best! POV is more than just a campground, we are a resort with a variety of period-authentic Glamping Tents & Vintage Campers and BYOTent campsites and a ton of super fun amenities (included in your rental rate!). Glamping (glamorous camping) give you the modern comforts you need to really relax and treat yourself and allows you to enjoy the beauty of the great Northwoods (without all the work of traditional camping). Check out our "Definitive Guide to Wisconsin Glamping" to learn more.
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$45
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88%
(30)

Aasen Family Farm Pond

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents101 acres · Whitehall, Trempealeau
Once owned by my husband's grandfather who built a house near a natural spring. We now have built a home on this property and offer beautiful water views with campsite hook ups. Campfires, Swimming and fishing without the need of a licence. Poles available and bait at no cost. Enjoy the Tremp County bike trails and their scenic views. Be sure to check out their website. Our campsites are located next to our beautiful home. Enjoy the views of our ponds. You share our yard, we have 3 dogs who can't reach your area. The sunsets are incredible and the sounds of frogs at night are dreamy.
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Edenwood Ranch & Preserve

20 sites · Tents500 acres · Wautoma, Waushara
Let us show you the time of your life in the solace and quiet luxury of Edenwood Ranch & Preserve. Nestled on 500 acres of pristine preserves and populated with more than 1,000 of the highest quality, privately raised big game wildlife, we’re known worldwide for our hunting and vacationing. But the Edenwood experience is much, much more with activities for any type of group all year.Learn more about this land:Beautiful animal preserve located in a secluded area of Wisconsin. Elk, whitetail deer, and fallow deer range fully in the property. There may be other guests on the property during your stay - please call ahead to check availability with hunting. The property includes a small lake with a zipline, paddleboards, a paddle boat, and fishing poles. Other activities are available for rental.
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$200
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Booked 1 time

SARA Park Campground

16 sites · RVs2000 acres · Tomahawk, Lincoln
10 Campsites with electric (30amp/50amp) and water (non-potable) on 2000 acres of water on the Wisconsin River and Lake Mohawksin 900 W Somo Avenue, Tomahawk, Wisconsin PARK INCLUDES Public Beach Public Bathrooms and Showers RV Dump Station (at the City Garage) Boat Landing Playground, Baseball Diamond
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Under $50

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Star Hosts in Wisconsin

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Camping in Wisconsin guide

Rolling dairy farmlands are just the start of Wisconsin’s great outdoors. This midwestern state boasts two Great Lakes coastlines, some 15,000 inland lakes, and a state border with the Mississippi River. Whether kayaking around caves and islands, hiking to hidden waterfalls, camping along sandy beaches, or hopping between cheesemakers and breweries—the Dairy State is an idyllic destination for a camping trip. Wisconsin state parks provide some of the best camping and stay busy through summer and fall foliage season. Snow blankets the state from November through February, so pack your snowshoes.

Where to Go

Northwest Wisconsin

If you're searching for the most remote Wisconsin campgrounds, the Northern Highlands are a good place to start with hills stretching up to the shore of Lake Superior. Paddle around the islands, sea caves, and lighthouses of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in a kayak, then pitch your tent at a lake campground, or seek out secluded backcountry tent sites in Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. To the west, the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway hugs the coast of the Mississippi River and the Minnesota border, running through Governor Knowles State Forest and Interstate State Park.

Northeast Wisconsin

The forested lakes of the Northwoods blanket northern Wisconsin, stretching down to the shores of Lake Michigan, where the Door County Peninsula curls out around Green Bay. The scenic area is dotted with freshwater beaches, cherry orchards, and hiking trails, making it the perfect spot for a camping getaway. At the northeastern tip, Rock Island State Park is a favorite among campers, with RV sites open year-round.

Southwest Wisconsin

Family campers make a beeline for Wisconsin Dells, the Waterpark Capital of the World, where plenty of full-amenity camping resorts dot the area and nearby Mirror Lake State Park. Just to the south, Baraboo is the gateway to Wisconsin’s most popular park, Devil’s Lake State Park, which boasts beaches, cliff-top walks, and three campgrounds. Further west, the rolling hills and river valleys along the Wisconsin River are ideal for fishing, paddling, and tranquil summer camping.

Southeast Wisconsin

Wisconsin's largest city, Milwaukee, stands proud on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan, where urban campers can sample Wisconsin’s craft beer scene and visit the Harley-Davidson Museum. North of Milwaukee, Lake Winnebago is a popular choice for lakeside camping, while backpackers hiking the 1,000-mile Ice Age National Scenic Trail will find some of the best camping within Kettle Moraine State Forest.

Frequently Asked Questions About Camping in Wisconsin

Is Wisconsin good for camping?

Wisconsin is a great camping destination with dozens of state parks, national forests, and plenty of private camping options and RV parks—not to mention a ton of lake campgrounds with access to both Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, plus a border with sandy beaches on the Mississippi River. Whether heading out on hidden gem waterfall hikes, kayaking around caves, exploring the many bike trails, or hitting the top city hubs of Milwaukee, Door County’s Green Bay, and Wisconsin Dells (known for its waterparks and mini golf for family fun), a Wisconsin campground or Wisconsin state park Devil’s Lake State Park) awaits with tent camping or RV sites. Summertime is for lake visits, and late spring and early fall are still mild enough for tent camping. It's snowy from November through February, when you’ll want to opt for a rustic cabin or a vacation rental getaway.

Is camping allowed in Wisconsin state parks?

Yes, Wisconsin state parks are open for camping. Of the state’s 50+ state parks, nearly all of them allow camping of some kind, whether tent camping, RV camping, or cabin camping. Wisconsin’s most popular parks with camping include Devil’s Lake State Park south of Baraboo, Peninsula State Park (set on the shores of Lake Michigan in Door County), the year-round Rock Island State Park, Willow River State Park, and Copper Falls State Park.

Is wild camping legal in Wisconsin?

Yes, wild camping is allowed in Wisconsin in county forests, state forests, and national forests. Wild camping, typically described as primitive or dispersed camping away from designated campgrounds without facilities, is available within Nicolet National Forest and Chequamegon National Forest, including at Porcupine Lake Wilderness, Rainbow Lake Wilderness, and Blackjack Springs Wilderness. Some Wisconsin River islands are managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), meaning that the ones that are public land are open to camping. Some state parks feature a small number of backpacking campsites, and you can find more private, secluded camping in Wisconsin with Hipcamp.

Is there free camping in Wisconsin?

You can find free camping in Wisconsin in its national forests: Nicolet and Chequamegon, each of which span thousands of acres and house various national wilderness areas. The free campsites in these forests are primitive and dispersed with no facilities, so you’ll need to come prepared. Most of this land is open and free of charge to use, but some beaches, boat launches, and trailheads require small day-use fees or permits.

Can you camp anywhere in a Wisconsin national forest?

No, you cannot camp anywhere in Wisconsin national forests, but they do have plenty of free areas available for dispersed camping. Wisconsin is home to two national forests: Nicolet National Forest and Chequamegon National Forest, both managed together as the 1.5-million acre Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. Throughout are dozens of designated campgrounds with tent sites, including at Twin Lakes Recreation Area and Bear Lake Recreation Area. In addition, the forest offers cabins at Lost Lake, some large group campsites, many RV campsites (most with hookups), and a lot of dispersed camping options. Just be sure to park up to 30 feet from the edge of any road, and pitch your tent at least 150 feet away from any trail or road (and at least 200 feet away from any water). Dispersed camping in Wisconsin national forests is limited to 21 days at the same site within a 30-day period.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wisconsin is a great camping destination, with dozens of state parks, wide-open national forests, and plenty of private camping options and RV parks—not to mention a ton of lake campgrounds with access to both Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, as well as a border with sandy Mississippi River beaches. Whether heading out on hidden gem waterfall hikes, kayaking around caves, exploring the many bike trails, or hitting the top city hubs of Milwaukee, Door County's Green Bay, and Wisconsin Dells (known for its waterparks and mini golf for family fun), a Wisconsin campground or Wisconsin state park Devil's Lake State Park) awaits with tent camping or RV sites. Summertime is for lake visits, and late spring and early fall are still mild enough for tent camping. It's snowy from November through February, when you'll want to opt for a rustic cabin or a vacation rental getaway.

You can find free camping in Wisconsin in its national forests: Nicolet and Chequamegon, each of which span thousands of acres and house various national wilderness areas. The free campsites in these forests are primitive and dispersed with no facilities, so you'll need to come prepared. Most of this land is open and free of charge to use, but some beaches, boat launches, and trailheads require small day-use fees or permits.

Yes, Wisconsin state parks are open for camping. Of the state's 50+ state parks, nearly all of them allow camping of some kind, whether tent camping, RV camping, or cabin camping. Wisconsin's most popular parks with camping include Devil's Lake State Park south of Baraboo, Peninsula State Park (set on the shores of Lake Michigan in Door County), the year-round Rock Island State Park, Willow River State Park, and Copper Falls State Park.

Yes, wild camping is allowed in Wisconsin in county forests, state forests, and national forests. Wild camping, typically described as primitive or dispersed camping away from designated campgrounds without facilities, is available within Nicolet National Forest and Chequamegon National Forest, including at Porcupine Lake Wilderness, Rainbow Lake Wilderness, and Blackjack Springs Wilderness. Some Wisconsin River islands are managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), meaning that the ones that are public land are open to camping. Some state parks feature a small number of backpacking campsites, and you can find more private, secluded camping in Wisconsin with Hipcamp.

No, you cannot camp anywhere in Wisconsin national forests, but they do have free areas for dispersed camping. Wisconsin is home to two national forests: Nicolet National Forest and Chequamegon National Forest, both managed together as the 1.5-million acre Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. Throughout are dozens of designated campgrounds with tent sites, including at Twin Lakes Recreation Area and Bear Lake Recreation Area. In addition, the forest offers cabins at Lost Lake, some large group campsites, many RV campsites (most with hookups), and a lot of dispersed camping options. Just be sure to park up to 30 feet from the edge of any road, and pitch your tent at least 150 feet away from any trail or road (and at least 200 feet away from any water).

Camping fees at Wisconsin state parks vary depending on the type of campsite, the park, and the season. Here's a general breakdown of the fees:

  • Non-electric tent and RV sites: $15 to $22 per night for Wisconsin residents, $20 to $27 per night for non-residents.
  • Electric tent and RV sites: $20 to $30 per night for Wisconsin residents, $25 to $35 per night for non-residents.
  • Group campsites: $30 to $60 per night for Wisconsin residents, $35 to $65 per night for non-residents, depending on the size of the group.
  • Cabin rentals: Prices vary depending on the park and the type of cabin, but expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 per night.

Additionally, you'll need a Wisconsin State Park vehicle admission sticker for your vehicle when camping at a state park. The daily fees for this are $8 for residents and $11 for non-residents. Annual stickers are also available for $28 for residents and $38 for non-residents.

Keep in mind that these are general estimates and fees may vary slightly depending on the specific park and time of year. It's always a good idea to check the park's website or contact them directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information about camping fees.

Yes, there is free camping in Wisconsin, primarily in the form of dispersed camping in national forests. The two main national forests in Wisconsin are Nicolet and Chequamegon. These forests offer primitive and dispersed campsites with no facilities, so campers need to be prepared for a more rugged experience. While most of the land in these forests is open and free of charge for camping, some areas may require small day-use fees or permits for activities like beach access, boat launches, and trailheads.

The cost of camping at Wisconsin state parks varies depending on the type of campsite, the park, and the time of year. On average, the nightly fees for campsites range from $15 to $35 for Wisconsin residents and $20 to $40 for non-residents. Here's a general breakdown of camping fees:

  • Tent, trailer, and RV sites: $15 to $35 for residents, $20 to $40 for non-residents
  • Electric hookups: Additional $5 to $10 per night
  • Group sites: $30 to $60 for residents, $35 to $65 for non-residents
  • Family cabins: $50 to $100 per night
  • Shelters: $30 to $60 per night

It's important to note that these fees are for camping only, and a vehicle admission sticker is required for all motor vehicles entering state parks, forests, and recreation areas. Annual stickers are $28 for residents and $38 for non-residents, while daily stickers are $8 for residents and $11 for non-residents.

For more information on specific parks and their fees, visit the Hipcamp Wisconsin State Parks page or the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website.

No, you cannot camp anywhere in Wisconsin. Camping is allowed in designated areas such as state parks, national forests, and private campgrounds. It is important to camp only in authorized locations to protect the environment and respect private property. Dispersed camping is allowed in some areas of the national forests, but you must follow specific rules and guidelines. In addition, there are many private campgrounds and state parks throughout Wisconsin that offer a variety of camping options, including tent sites, RV sites, and cabins. Always make sure to check the regulations and guidelines of the area you plan to camp in, and obtain any necessary permits or reservations before setting up camp.

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