Explore
/
United States
/
Wisconsin
/
State Parks
/
Big Bay State Park
/
Camping

The best camping in Big Bay State Park, WI

100% (6)

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

The best camping in Big Bay State Park, WI

Big Bay Campground

1. Big Bay Campground

100%

(6)

Campground in Big Bay State Park · 61 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Big Bay Campground has got a bunch of electrical hook-up sites close to restrooms ‘n’ showers, and a slightly more primitive group site for up to 40 if you’re trying to include the distant cousins in this here git-together

Public campgrounds in Big Bay State Park are often sold-out.

Eagle's Perch

2. Eagle's Perch

92%

(24)

3.9mi from Big Bay State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV

Ultra private secluded island paradise located on lovely Madeline Island with 300 feet of lakeshore and stunning views of the coveted North Channel. Seven of the 22 Apostle Islands are in view on a clear day and not one electric light is visible from the property at night. Enjoy dramatic fog while you sip your morning coffee, frequent sailboat regattas during the day, and stunning double sunsets as they reflect across over 5 miles of open water. (ps. this reflective effect is also in play for the northern lights if you're lucky) Amenities: ZERO! Well, other than two fire pits and a propane grill (BYO propane if you want to use that) Expect a lumpy lawn with space for up to 8 tents located right on top of a 100 foot cliff leading straight down to lake superior. If needed, showers, bathrooms, etc. are located 1.2 miles away at Big Bay Town Park. (no entry fee required) There you can also find the best beach on the island and canoes for rent if you'd like to explore the massive lagoon behind it chalk full of fish. Pack in, pack out. Enjoy!

Pets

Campfires

from

$50

/ night

Sailor Springs Glamping

3. Sailor Springs Glamping

94%

(27)

7mi from Big Bay State Park · 9 sites

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

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$155

/ night

'Tiny House' Farm Stay by Superior

4. 'Tiny House' Farm Stay by Superior

90%

(10)

13mi from Big Bay State Park · 1 site

Nestled near the breathtaking Apostle Islands of Lake Superior, our slice of paradise offers a haven surrounded by the wonders of nature, silly farm animals and groomed trails. Just a few miles away lies a stunning beach with amazing sunsets, where the waters of Lake Superior beckon you to swim, relax, or simply soak in the sun. Tour the docks, check out the historic fish house, or learn some history via the on shore historic fishing boat. Three islands are also visible from this beach. and the inland overflow pond adds to the vast beauty. 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 farm family. From horses overlooking rolling pastures to ducks flying to the nearby ponds , chickens free range and happy, sled dogs ready for adventure in the winter months, all sure to bring joy to your heart. 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. On Location Trails groomed are accessible. Accessories may change with season or per decor changes.

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$89

/ night

Twisting Twig Gardens and Orchard

5. Twisting Twig Gardens and Orchard

99%

(71)

14mi from Big Bay State Park · 3 sites

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.

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

from

$99

/ night

Off-Grid Secluded Forest Yurts

6. Off-Grid Secluded Forest Yurts

100%

(11)

14mi from Big Bay State Park · 3 sites

Hi there! We have 5 yurts spread across our 40 acres with each yurt having lots of individual space and privacy. We hand built our yurts from scratch using wood from our land and local lumber, as well as sewing all the vinyl ourselves. The yurts are almost completely locally sourced, everything was handmade by us, and sustainably sourced. We are really excited to share the land we love with folks from near and far. Your yurt is equipped with a full sized futon, two burner stove kitchen with all cooking appliances and utensils, 2 gallons of fresh drinking water (as well as oil, salt, pep, coffee, and tea all provided), a small dining table with chairs, and an outdoor fire pit. A short 7 min drive from our property is beautiful Little Sand Bay beach. This free, public use National Park beach is gorgeous with views of Sand and York Islands, great swimming spots, $2.00 hot showers, and kayak launch. Important things to note about your yurt site! The access to our property is via a long dirt road, this road is accessible for all vehicles but it is about a 2min drive through the woods to get to the yurt sites. Once you arrive on the property your yurt is a 2-4min (depending on which yurt you choose) hike up a hill from the parking area. I recommend backpacking in your items. Wheely coolers and bags will not enjoy the terrain. The Portapotty is located at the parking area as well. That being said, a little bit of walking will be involved in your stay :) If you love walking you are in luck and can explore the trails on the property!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$81

/ night

Farm Stay Glamping Site

7. Farm Stay Glamping Site

96%

(35)

26mi from Big Bay State Park · 1 site

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.

Toilets

Campfires

Wifi

from

$100

/ night

Haugen Road Campground

8. Haugen Road Campground

98%

(24)

31mi from Big Bay State Park · 1 site

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.

Pets

Campfires

Picnic table

from

$20

/ night

Bad River Wilderness

9. Bad River Wilderness

98%

(536)

37mi from Big Bay State Park · 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.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$23

/ night

Gichi-Gami Christmas Tree Farm

10. Gichi-Gami Christmas Tree Farm

85%

(13)

16mi from Big Bay State Park · 3 sites

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.

Pets

Campfires

from

$15

/ night

Stargazers U.P. Campground

11. Stargazers U.P. Campground

100%

(1)

33mi from Big Bay State Park · 22 sites

Stargazers U.P. Campground is located within the North Ironwood Acres resort on the beautiful Black River Scenic Byway in Ironwood Michigan. A top recreation destination in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, we invite you to experience all our area has to offer on our peaceful and relaxing property.

Pets

Full hookups

from

$50

/ night

XCSki In/Out ABR Trails Foundation

12. XCSki In/Out ABR Trails Foundation

100%

(6)

35mi from Big Bay State Park · 4 sites

ABR Trailside Cabins - XC Ski In/Out right from your own Rustic Cabin. The Foundation offers 4 Rustic Cabins available to rent via HipCamp. All cabins are located on 80km of groomed XC Ski trails & 16km of snowshoe trails. Enjoy your own secluded cabin located right on pristine groomed ABR Trails. Snowshoe trails also available from your door. Each cabin has mattresses, wood stove (firewood provided), and your own outhouse specific to each cabin. Basic supplies available at check-in (toilet paper, kindling, pull behind sled to ski in your gear), potable water-BYO container). Enjoy the luxury of groomed trails right out your door with a peaceful rustic cabin experience.

Toilets

Potable water

from

$71

/ night

Wildwood Haven Resort and Camp

13. Wildwood Haven Resort and Camp

100%

(6)

36mi from Big Bay State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Wildwood Haven is a private resort & campground located just south of Copper Falls State Park. It has tent sites, RV sites with W/E hookups, glamping and cabins, located on the north shore of Long Lake. Lake access for all guests. Near over 60 waterfalls.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$47

/ night

North Shore Camping. Co.

14. North Shore Camping. Co.

44mi from Big Bay State Park · 6 sites

Our walk in tent sites tucked amongst the trees on the ridgeline just above Lake Superior have been carefully honed to blend with the natural landscape and maintain the harmony of the forest, allowing for a grounded nature immersion experience. Each tält has been carefully curated to give our guests the space and ease to make the most of their time on the scenic North Shore. Arrive, settle in, and acclimate yourself to the soothing rhythm of the forest.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$200

/ night

Pete’s Place

15. Pete’s Place

45mi from Big Bay State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

Secluded wooded 8 acre private land only a couple blocks from downtown. A couple minute walk to the black bear capital of the world. Gas station, convenience store, bars with food. 1/4 mile of Chippewa River frontage for fishing, small boats, kayaks or tubes. 5 graveled sites with parking each with a fire ring and picnic table, 1 large enough for a 40’ camper and another one large enough for a 30’ camper. Or just pitch a tent anywhere on the property. There’s a small off grid cabin for rent as well. 8x16 with a 4’ covered porch. Solar powered, lp heater and a small camp stove. A bed in each loft and a dual reclining sofa. There’s 2 miles of mowed walking trails to access the whole property. Porta potty, firewood and garbage available on site. Other amenities for rent include a boat, kayak, tubes and guided sxs rides through the national forest.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$30

/ night

Robinson Lake Campground

16. Robinson Lake Campground

50mi from Big Bay State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Brand-new 28-site RV campground featuring full water and sewer hookups, along with 50A, 30A, and 20A power at every site. Most sites are generously sized at 30’ wide by 60’ long. Enjoy the on-site bar and restaurant with stunning views overlooking Robinson Lake — a premier recreational spot known for some of the best fishing in the state.

Pets

Campfires

Full hookups

from

$40

/ night

Big Bay Town Park

17. Big Bay Town Park

2.2mi from Big Bay State Park · 1 site

Discover the unique charm of Big Bay Town Park on Madeline Island, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and acclaimed as “the best beach in northern Wisconsin.” This award-winning campground features 61 sites nestled within one of the most impressive natural areas in the Apostle Islands and throughout Wisconsin. Open year-round, the park is managed by the Town of La Pointe and offers breathtaking views along with public access to the picturesque Big Bay Lagoon. Located just 6 miles from the La Pointe ferry dock, Big Bay Town Park is a premier destination for a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you enjoy camping, hiking, swimming, biking, kayaking, canoeing, picnicking, beachcombing, bird watching, snowshoeing, or simply unwinding on the soft sandy beach, this park has something for everyone. Please note that while the Town of La Pointe does not provide canoe or kayak rentals, visitors can easily arrange rentals through local private vendors. For more information on rentals and to plan your adventure, visit www.madelineisland.com. Enjoy your time in this beautiful natural paradise!

Dalrymple Park and Campground

18. Dalrymple Park and Campground

6.6mi from Big Bay State Park · 1 site

Dalrymple Park & Campground stands out as a unique destination for campers seeking a rustic experience with stunning views of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands. Located just one mile north of downtown Bayfield, WI, this city-operated park features 30 primitive campsites nestled in a heavily wooded area on a scenic bluff, providing both privacy and breathtaking vistas. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, and most offer electricity. While there are no sewer hookups or on-site showers, modern vault toilets are available, ensuring an authentic camping experience. For those in need of shower facilities, the Bayfield Rec Center offers access for a small fee. Open from mid-May to mid-October, Dalrymple Park operates on a first-come, first-served basis, allowing visitors to enjoy its tranquil atmosphere without the hassle of reservations. Campers may wake up to the sight of deer grazing nearby or the soothing sounds of waves lapping at the shore. A short trail leads down to the water and the historic Pike’s Creek area, where guests can launch kayaks or watch sailboats glide by. Despite its serene setting, the shops, restaurants, and ferry docks of Bayfield are just minutes away, making it easy to explore local attractions like Madeline Island or embark on

Little Sand Bay Campground

19. Little Sand Bay Campground

10mi from Big Bay State Park · 97 sites

Discover the unique charm of the Town of Russell's campground, where the stunning natural beauty of Lake Superior meets a variety of outdoor activities. Nestled at Little Sand Bay, just 15 minutes north of Bayfield, Wisconsin, this picturesque location offers a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. You can find us at 32665 Little Sand Bay Road, Bayfield, WI 54814. Our campground features 32 RV sites equipped with electric hookups, many of which are conveniently designed as drive-through sites. For those who prefer a more rustic experience, we offer 14 tent-only sites and a spacious group site complete with a gazebo. Throughout the campground, you'll find water spigots for easy access, as well as essential amenities such as showers, firewood, and ice available for purchase. Additionally, our facilities include an RV/trailer dump station, garbage dumpsters, and recycling containers to ensure a clean and enjoyable environment. With a beautiful sandy swimming beach, a boat ramp, and a harbor docking area, visitors can indulge in various water activities. The picnic area, sports field, and playground provide ample opportunities for family fun and relaxation. Experience the best of outdoor living at our campground, where adventure and tranquility await!

Memorial Park Campground

20. Memorial Park Campground

12mi from Big Bay State Park · 1 site

Nestled on a scenic bluff overlooking the stunning Chequamegon Bay of Lake Superior, this campground offers a unique blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it an ideal retreat for campers. The park features 50 campsites, most of which are conveniently located along gravel access roads, with several sites perched on the bluff, providing breathtaking views of the lake. Campers will enjoy heavily shaded sites under the canopy of majestic old-growth pine trees, ensuring a peaceful and private atmosphere. Each campsite is equipped with electric service and has access to essential facilities, including drinking water, flush toilets, and pay showers. For those looking for a longer stay, 14 seasonal camping sites are available within the park. The campground is designed for convenience and recreation, featuring paved and unpaved access roads, picnic tables, fire rings, and Wi-Fi. Visitors can take advantage of the sanitary dump station and enjoy the covered picnic shelter, playground, and open play areas. The park also offers direct trail access to Lake Superior, perfect for shoreline fishing and exploring the natural beauty of the area. With an on-site campground host available to assist, this destination promises a memorable outdoor experience for all.

100% (6)

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

Popular ways to camp

Snag sold-out campsites.

Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.

See the best spots in one place.

Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.

Book with confidence.

Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.

Top-rated campgrounds near Big Bay State Park

Eagle's Perch

92%

(24)

3.9mi from Big Bay State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV

Pets

Campfires

from

$50

/ night

Sailor Springs Glamping

94%

(27)

7mi from Big Bay State Park · 9 sites

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$155

/ night

'Tiny House' Farm Stay by Superior

90%

(10)

13mi from Big Bay State Park · 1 site

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$89

/ night

Twisting Twig Gardens and Orchard

99%

(71)

14mi from Big Bay State Park · 3 sites

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

from

$99

/ night

Off-Grid Secluded Forest Yurts

100%

(11)

14mi from Big Bay State Park · 3 sites

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$81

/ night

Farm Stay Glamping Site

96%

(35)

26mi from Big Bay State Park · 1 site

Toilets

Campfires

Wifi

from

$100

/ night

Haugen Road Campground

98%

(24)

31mi from Big Bay State Park · 1 site

Pets

Campfires

Picnic table

from

$20

/ night

Bad River Wilderness

98%

(536)

37mi from Big Bay State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$23

/ night

Gichi-Gami Christmas Tree Farm

85%

(13)

16mi from Big Bay State Park · 3 sites

Pets

Campfires

from

$15

/ night

Stargazers U.P. Campground

100%

(1)

33mi from Big Bay State Park · 22 sites

Pets

Full hookups

from

$50

/ night

XCSki In/Out ABR Trails Foundation

100%

(6)

35mi from Big Bay State Park · 4 sites

Toilets

Potable water

from

$71

/ night

Wildwood Haven Resort and Camp

100%

(6)

36mi from Big Bay State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$47

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Fantastic grooming and views, every time.

Sarah

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to XCSki In/Out ABR Trails Foundation

We stay at one of the small cabins every year and love the chance to experience the trails at all times of day. We miss when dogs were allowed at the cabins on the dog trails, though! Wood stoves in the small cabins are proportionally small and simple to figure out — only one lever to let more or less air in. Wood in the cabin is always dry. Easy to get the cabin super hot! Previous guests always leave cabin super clean. Waxing barn at the trailhead is a great amenity; no need to try to wax our skis in the tiny cabin!

Ryan

January 2026

1 night at XCSki In/Out ABR Trails Foundation

We loved our stay @ Hemlock cabin, we enjoyed and appreciated the simple upgrades from prior years with basic cooking utensils. We were able relax and unwind and disconnect from all things stressful and get back to the basics of nature and simple lives.

Nadia

January 2026

Group trip

Weekend Trip to XCSki In/Out ABR Trails Foundation

Always love our time at ABR! It costs more since it stopped being Angela's cabins but same great experience.

Savi

December 2025

Weekend Trip to Twisting Twig Gardens and Orchard

An absolutely lovely stay! Ashley was so helpful with directions and help with weather. The yurt was so cozy and magical and the perfect stay on a winter storm night ✨ Such an incredible spot! I can’t wait to come back and see it in warmer months. The wood stove was perfect and the yurt was very equipped with pots and pans and even tea! Would so recommend!!!

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.

sara

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at Eagle's Perch

This was our first time on Madeline Island and Schuyler's place was the perfect landing spot for a weekend of adventures. It was easy to find and get to the site. We would definitely come back!

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 !

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

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!

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!

Leah

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Sailor Springs Glamping

We had an incredible time at Sailor Springs! The crows nest was clean, came well equipped and was so cozy! The trails and trees were so beautiful and you could tell it was well taken care of. Thanks for the stay, Abe!

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.

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!

Aaron

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Off-Grid Secluded Forest Yurts

I had the best time staying here with my dog. The area is far enough away from things that it can be deafeningly quiet at night. Had all the supplies I needed just like advertised. All yurts were reserved and I only saw the neighboring folks as they walked to their car. Never heard anyone! Truly a peaceful little spot and you can tell the yurts were made very well. 10/10 coming back and going to have friends rent the other yurts for a fun weekend. I had just enough cell service to make a call in the parking area, and enough to send and receive texts at the yurt.

Provided vault/pit toilet with hand sanitizer and toilet paper

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!

Maria

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bad River Wilderness

Host was super communicative and we loved the camp site right on the water, waterfalls, trails. Beautiful place!

Flannery

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Eagle's Perch

We had a great time! This was our second time at this campsite this year and it was equally amazing. Fall colors were beautiful this time of year

Lauren

October 2025

Weekend Trip to 'Tiny House' Farm Stay by Superior

Such a cute little place! Host was super friendly, and has lots of land to explore! We’ll definitely be back!

The best camping in Big Bay State Park, WI 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.

100%

6 ratings · 3 reviews

Recommends

· October 2025

With pets ·

Big Bay Campground

This place was great! Nice and private even though other yurts were nearby. Quiet and relaxing. Plenty of firewood to be had. All the necessities were provided, even coffee and tea. There was also a handy cart for toting supplies up the hill. The only additional thing that I wish was supplied would have been a flyswatter :)

Jamie B.

1 year on Hipcamp

September 2016

Big Bay Campground

Stayed here early September, 2016. Superb! Wood bundles cost $5, bundle your own Pros: -Get to take a cool ferry out to the island -Outer loop sites are indeed private! (Thanks, Suzy) -No road noise or light pollution! Quiet, and dark. -Many recycling receptacles, even for propane canisters -Outrageously beautiful beaches, with short walks/hikes (~quarter mile or less) to access them -Small grocer, laundromat, coffee shop, souvenir shop, and post office all easily accessible at the ferry landing Cons: -Ferry trips can get expensive; round-trip for a vehicle and two passengers will run around $50 -Stowe all foodstuffs, as the raccoons (trash pandas) are plentiful. While not aggressive, they will sneak up on you in the dark.

El P.

9 years on Hipcamp

June 2016

Big Bay Campground

You'll need to catch the ferry (auto and passenger) from adorable little Bayfield, Wisconsin. It takes about a half hour to cross to Madeliene Island, and from there it's a short drive to the campsite and Big Bay. The campsites are basic, not very scenic but decent enough. The outer loops are fairly private, with enough trees and vegetation between sites to keep things personal. Our site -- West Loop 047 -- had a small stream in the back, but nothing so big that mosquitos were a problem. Try to find an outer loop site for maximum privacy. There are nice bathrooms and showers at this campground, and a cozy little visitor center/park office, with souvenirs, interesting books to check out library-style, and friendly staff.