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The best camping near Big Bay State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Big Bay adventure.

100% (5 reviews)
100% (5 reviews)

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

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Big Bay State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Big Bay State Park

98%
(297)

Bad River Wilderness

4 sites ¡ RVs, Tents60 acres ¡ Mellen, WI
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 abandoned since 2015 and it makes a nice hiking path along the river for many miles to the north. There are 3 waterfalls nearby and I will have a map at the campsite to find these.
from 
$20
 / night
96%
(14)

Sailor Springs Glamping

9 sites ¡ Lodging5 acres ¡ Bayfield, WI
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
from 
$110
 / night
98%
(33)

Twisting Twig Gardens and Orchard

3 sites ¡ Lodging40 acres ¡ Bayfield, WI
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.
from 
$95
 / night
97%
(94)

Sanctuary at Little Sand

3 sites ¡ Lodging123 acres ¡ Bayfield, WI
Sanctuary at Little Sand is part of Shaner Farms North. We acquired this property from a logging company in 2016 with the goal to have a wedding with a camping experience. We developed the property to provide an eco-friendly rustic camping venue for our wedding the summer of 2015 and now we would like to share the amazing views and serenity of this place with fellow nature lovers. Escape the city and experience the tranquility of nature. Sanctuary at Little Sand enables you to disconnect from things (no cell signal or WIFI available) and reconnect with people and the environment. Try a slice of glamping life in our 12 x 14 Safari tent. Ideal for couples, families and special events. Our eco-friendly camping experience gives you the opportunity to experience nature without roughing it. Our eco-glamping tents are set up for simple and fresh comfort with real mattresses, cotton linens and minimal furniture; however at the end of the day, this is still the Northwoods there are mosquitoes and wood ticks (depending on the season). This may not be for everyone, as there are coyotes that howl at sunset, owls that hoot, flying squirrels, a couple of palliated woodpeckers that stay busy, deer, our resident porcupine that likes to roam around the property, the millions of stars and no major modern facilities. We provide a composting toilet and a solar camping shower, basics for cooking over the fire or a camping stove (bring your own fuel). Camping with us means no electricity or running water (we provide drinking water), so come prepared. We are 2 miles from the beach at Little Sand Bay, 10 minutes from Meyers Beach and the Caves and 15 minutes away from the town of Bayfield with dining and entertainment opportunities.
from 
$95
 / night

'Old World' Farm By Lake Superior

1 site ¡ Lodging130 acres ¡ Bayfield, WI
Nestled near the breathtaking Apostle Islands of Lake Superior, our slice of paradise offers a tranquil retreat surrounded by the wonders of nature. Just a stone's throw away lies a stunning beach, where the crystal-clear waters of Lake Superior beckon you to swim, relax, or simply soak in the sun. Step outside your door and embark on a journey through our private, groomed trails, each winding path leading you deeper into the heart of the forest. With every step, you'll discover the beauty of the natural world, from towering trees to lush undergrowth teeming with life. As you wander, you may encounter our farm-friendly animals, each one a beloved member of our community. From gentle horses overlooking rolling pastures to playful sled dogs ready for adventure in the winter months, our furry friends are sure to bring joy to your heart. In the winter, experience the thrill of a sled dog run, gliding through snow-covered trails with the wind in your hair and the beauty of the winter landscape stretching out before you. When you're ready to explore further afield, the town is just a short drive away, offering a wealth of attractions and amenities to enjoy. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a quiet moment of reflection, our natural and old-world paradise has something for everyone. Come and discover the magic for yourself.
from 
$70
 / night
92%
(6)

Gichi-Gami Christmas Tree Farm

3 sites ¡ Tents29 acres ¡ Ashland, WI
We own a 39 acre property on the east side of Ashland, WI. There are three primitive/walk in (no water available, no facilities, no tables) campsites available and a couple of trails. More trails to come. Enjoy the night sky as many, many stars are visible. The property is mostly wooded and can be wet in spots during the spring. You are allowed walk the site off trail at your own risk. Please park your vehicle as close to one side of the driveway as possible as not to block the driveway so if needed the tower company has access to the tower. Please do not walk in the cleared area near the front of the property to the right of driveway/access road, as this area has been planted with Christmas tree saplings. There is a dedicated campfire square in the site. Please do not burn outside of this area. There is plenty of dead and down firewood to collect in the nearby woods – some may need to cut to size. There are no garbage cans on site, so please pack out what you pack in. Hike to the sites: Campsite 1 – Near County Highway A – just past gate. Large enough for two 4 person tents Campsite 2 – From gate - .10 mile hike – large enough for a 4 person tent Campsite 3 – From gate - .13 mile hike – large enough for a 3 person tent What is nearby? Historic Town of Ashland The Ashland Waterfront Trail The Artesian Well Kiosk at Masalowski Beach in Ashland The Apostle Islands are 40 minutes/26 miles away Bad River Casino is 14 minutes/10 miles away Copper Falls State Park is 38 minutes/28 miles – hiking, Wisconsin State Park admission sticker/daily fee required Whittlesey Creek National Wildlife Refuge/Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center is 13 minutes/7 miles away - hiking ABC Raceway (Stock Car racing) is 9 minutes/6 miles away Bayfield Ghost Walk is 36 minutes/25 miles away Beyond the Catch Guide Services (fishing charter) 32 minutes/23 miles away So that you are aware: Hipcamp will be adding a "service fee" (15-20%) when you complete the booking to cover their site management and other things. I don't get any of this service fee and they also take an additional 10% from the price I list to cover the $1 million in insurance for you.
from 
$15
 / night
88%
(16)

Stargazer On Superior

1 site ¡ Tent1 acre ¡ Port Wing, WI
We have two properties on the beautiful South Shore of Lake Superior in Port Wing, WI. At our lakefront property, we have 700' of shoreline and access to our private sand beach, perfect for swimming and bonfires! At our forest property, we have 68 acres of private trails weaving through the woods. Over the next few years, we'll be building more sites throughout our property to offer private, secluded lodging in a natural setting. The South Shore offers a bounty of activities and is much less crowded than the North Shore. Nearby, there are hiking trails, waterfalls, skiing, kayaking, paddling, ATV trails, and much more. Port Wing is halfway between Duluth/Superior and Bayfield, so it's the perfect spot to stay and visit all the South Shore sights!
from 
$75
 / night
100%
(3)

Awasishkode Rustic Cabin

1 site ¡ Lodging6 acres ¡ Bayfield, WI
This rustic cabin is a great alternative to tent camping. Located on the Red Cliff reservation, 1/2 mile from Little Sand Bay Campground where you can swim, launch a boat, rock hunt, fish, shower and more! It is an easy, 10 minute trip into town but also far enough away to have some peace and relaxation to disconnect for awhile. All while taking in a magnificent view of the stars!
from 
$150
 / night
100%
(6)

Haugen Road Campground

1 site ¡ Tent4 acres ¡ Mellen, WI
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.
from 
$20
 / night

The best camping near Big Bay State Park guide

Overview

About

Question: does residency in Lake Superior make Big Bay State Park superior? We think so. Set within a cluster of islands on the largest Great Lake, Big Bay is like that eclectic aunt who “matches” paisley with chevron and looks like a million bucks doin’ it. Even the landscape can’t help but indulge in the grandeur. Shoreline, boardwalks, inland trails and an endless aquatic horizon work together to create a serene impression perfect for a picnicking or strolling down the beach for sea glass–or both. Do. It. Up.

Notable campgrounds

  • Family Campground - Spacious sites nestled amid the park's natural beauty, perfect for creating lasting family memories.
  • Group Camps - Ideal for larger gatherings, these camps offer a communal experience in the great outdoors.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early to secure your spot, as the campgrounds are a popular destination amid the park's peak seasons.
  • Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability and a quieter experience.
  • Keep an eye on cancellation policies for last-minute openings.
  • Explore nearby camping options if the park's campgrounds are fully booked.

When to go

The best time to visit Big Bay State Park is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the park is fully accessible. However, autumn also offers a spectacular display of fall foliage. Winters can be harsh with limited access, making it less ideal for a visit.

Know before you go

  • Ensure your vehicle has a valid admission sticker before entering the park.
  • Check the park's official website for any property notices or closures before your trip.
  • Remember that the park is open from 6am to 11pm year-round, offering ample time for exploration.
  • For a smooth visit, familiarize yourself with the ferry schedule to Madeline Island.
  • Volunteering opportunities are available for those looking to give back to the park community.

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