The best campgrounds near Wausau, Wisconsin with swimming

Welcome to Hipcamp, the go-to website for finding your perfect camping experience. If you're looking for a camping spot near Wausau, Wisconsin with swimming as your preferred activity, you're in luck! We have over 290 options specifically tailored to your preferences. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoor scene, we have something for everyone. Check out our top campsites, including Camp Escape (223 reviews), Wheel Inn Glamping (92 reviews), and Maggies Merry Mirror (70 reviews), for a truly memorable stay. With popular amenities like potable water, toilets, and campfires, you'll have all the comforts of home while enjoying the great outdoors. Plus, with options starting as low as $10 per night and an average price of $50 per night, you're sure to find a campsite that fits your budget. So pack your swimsuit and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure!

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Top-rated campgrounds near Wausau

Welcome to Hipcamp, the go-to website for finding your perfect camping experience. If you're looking for a camping spot near Wausau, Wisconsin with swimming as your preferred activity, you're in luck! We have over 290 options specifically tailored to your preferences. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoor scene, we have something for everyone. Check out our top campsites, including Camp Escape (223 reviews), Wheel Inn Glamping (92 reviews), and Maggies Merry Mirror (70 reviews), for a truly memorable stay. With popular amenities like potable water, toilets, and campfires, you'll have all the comforts of home while enjoying the great outdoors. Plus, with options starting as low as $10 per night and an average price of $50 per night, you're sure to find a campsite that fits your budget. So pack your swimsuit and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure!

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Top-rated campgrounds near Wausau

1. Riverside Roost

99%

(65)

23mi from Wausau · 2 sites · Tents

** 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)

2. Clear Water Camp

100%

(216)

48mi from Wausau · 12 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

3. Livin’ the Mökki Life

100%

(8)

27mi from Wausau · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

40 acres of Fields, Woods, Rocks and Trees. Camp in open spaces or in the woods. See the stars at night with no light pollution. Easy access to Ice Age Trail, Tomahawk, Merrill, Hwy 51, and nearby county parks and lakes. Enjoy a peaceful campfire with the option to experience an authentic Finnish wood fired sauna (for additional fee).

4. Council Grounds State Park

100%

(4)

55 sites · Merrill, Wisconsin

Discover Council Grounds State Park's scenic trails and waterfront fun.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. 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!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. Iola Pines Campground

40mi from Wausau · 51 sites

Iola Pines Campground in Iola, Wisconsin, stands out for its diverse range of camping options, catering to both big rig enthusiasts and those who prefer a more rustic tent experience. Our campground is packed with activities to keep guests entertained, including ladder golf, bean bag toss, kube, and themed weekends featuring fun events like candy bar bingo, scavenger hunts, and a cheeseball eating contest. Families can also enjoy sidewalk drawing and much more during these special weekends. We take pride in our updated bathrooms and free showers, as well as our pavilion and private group sites, ensuring a comfortable stay for all. Our office/store is a delightful stop for ice cream and sweet treats, perfect for satisfying any cravings. We also offer camping essentials and personal hygiene items that you might have left behind. For your convenience, firewood is available for purchase and can be delivered directly to your campsite for an additional fee. Situated in a prime location, Iola Pines Campground provides easy access to nearby attractions such as the River Ridge Trail, Northwest Passage Bike Trail, Ice Age National Scenic Trail, and Hartman Creek State Park. Whether you're planning a short getaway or an extended stay, we look forward to welcoming you to our beautiful campground soon!

7. Hartman Creek State Park

83%

(3)

84 sites · Chain O' Lakes, Wisconsin

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

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Public campgrounds near Wausau

100%

(4)

Council Grounds Campground

16mi from Wausau · 55 sites · Tents, RVs · in Council Grounds State Park

North Twin Lake Recreation Area and Campground

45mi from Wausau · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chequamegon National Forest

Picnic Point Campground

45mi from Wausau · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Chequamegon National Forest

West Point Recreation Area and Campground

46mi from Wausau · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chequamegon National Forest

Spearhead Point Campground

47mi from Wausau · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chequamegon National Forest

Eastwood Campground

47mi from Wausau · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chequamegon National Forest

83%

(3)

Hartman Creek Campground

49mi from Wausau · 84 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hartman Creek State Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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!

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!!

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.

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!

Karla (River)

September 2025

20 ft pop-up camper

5 nights at Livin’ the Mökki Life

Laura is a great hostess, she is well traveled, lots of upbeat energy and kind! Thank you! We had a great time-thanks again for all the little perks!

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!!

T

Tara

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Riverside Roost

Beautiful campsite by the water. The sound of the waterfall from the dam was so calming! The hosts were extremely responsive and nice. It was super easy to find. We had a great time.

M

Margaret

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Clear Water Camp

Had an amazing stay! The hosts were so kind and helpful, the nature was beautiful and abundant with lots of animals, and despite a rainy night in our tents it was quite peaceful and grounding. For those who like to camp with some modern comforts, the porta-potty's were neat and clean, the shower was perfect and warm, and the hosts have a nice communal area with an honor system style pay back for any foods, beverages, camping supplies, and other things you may need during your stay. The clubhouse/rec room was lovely as well with plenty of activities!

M

Meghan

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Clear Water Camp

Adam and Jackie are great hosts! Will definitely be coming back!!

Anita

September 2025

20 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Clear Water Camp

This location is just amazing in so many ways. A beautiful well kept property. I woke up with deer around my camper this morning. Adam met me when I arrived. Gave me a quick tour and went out of his way to be sure that I was comfortable. I highly recommend this hip camp, I can’t wait to come back again.

Tim

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Clear Water Camp

Stayed at site #2. Plenty of room for me , my dog and my gear trailer. Site was great and the host has the fire pit already stacked with wood and a fire starter brick.. Fire wood for sale on site. Showers on site. Massive, posh / super nice (leather/animal heads/ bar / game table / fireplace / tv / fridge / kitchen) clubhouse on site. Kayaks on site. Easy access. Super friendly. Will be trying their other sites as well.

J

Jillian

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Riverside Roost

We had a fantastic camping experience. Kelli has put a lot of work & thoughtfulness into the site. Do yourself a favor and order her homemade bread! It was still warm when we arrived. We recommend opting for the full wheelbarrow of wood! It’s pleasant to sit around the campfire and listen to the dam sounds, pared with watching the birds dive into the water for fish. The river was pleasant to kayak down even in 50/60° weather. Coming back up to the launch site was a great work out!

P

Paula

September 2025

Tent

2 nights at Clear Water Camp

We stayed at campsite #2 and our group had a wonderful time! Our dogs had plenty of space to swim and explore. Definitely check out the rec room during your stay.

Corynn

September 2025

Tent

2 nights at Clear Water Camp

Had a great stay! Jackie & Adam were fantastic hosts, and made a point to check in with everyone staying. We were impressed by how well they care for the place! So many thoughtful details that made the stay enjoyable and easy. We will definitely be back!

M

Marret

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Riverside Roost

We loved our stay at River Roost!! It was magical hearing the waterfall by the Dam, the view is amazing. Kelli your host is awesome, so attentive, kind, and makes the best Amish Bread and Jam, we loved the farm fresh eggs . We wanted a private, romantic getaway to unplug and it was everything we hoped for! We will be back

E

Emma

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Clear Water Camp

I have now stayed here two times and will definitely be staying again! It’s beautiful, peaceful, easy to navigate, has everything you may need and wonderful hosts

Bob & Tanya

September 2025

15 ft travel trailer

1 night at Clear Water Camp

INCREDIBLE hosts. Adam and Jackie were SO welcoming, and offer a lot more than your typical Hipcamp site. There is a gathering space, complete with food and beverages (for purchase), lounge area, games, and more. The entire property is well spaced - and you feel complete seclusion even if there are other guests present. Wonderfully maintained, and Adam will even help you with a smaller ATV if you need to get your adventure wagon in to tighter places! Definitely will be coming back, and highly recommend!