The best camping in Wisconsin

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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.

96% (7.8K) • 15,841 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Wisconsin

Purplehaze Acres

1. Purplehaze Acres

98%
(689)
Rubicon, WI · 9 sites · Tents, Lodging
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. 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. We offer a variety of camping alternatives, with 7 tent sites, 1 group site, and a cabin. There is 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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Ice Age Retreat

2. Ice Age Retreat

99%
(86)
Palmyra, WI · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Surrounded by the Kettle Moraine Forest, we purchased this property in October of 2022 to be closer to nature and to share this property with you. We look forward to hosting you. The forest provides many opportunities enjoy! Close to the Ice Age Hiking Trail, Blad Bluff Scenic Overlook within walking distance of our retreat. Hiking, Moutain Biking, Cross Country Skiing, Snow Shoe, Horse Back Riding and much more
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West Fork Sports Club

3. West Fork Sports Club

99%
(145)
Viroqua, WI · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Est. 1966, the West Fork Sports Club has been a special place for multiple generations of both local community members and people from across the country. Nestled in between two valleys with 3,500 feet of stream front property on the West Fork of the Kickapoo, we truly have one of the most unique campgrounds you'll ever visit. Having avoided glacial drift during the last ice age, the Driftless area boast beautiful valleys, bluffs and rolling hills that you won't find anywhere well in Wisconsin. We are an Environmental Conservation Club always accepting new members. A temporary membership is included in camping fees and goes toward environmental conservation work and maintaining grounds, free wifi, etc. Our 20 acre property boast 3,500 feet of stream-front class 1 trout fishing on the West Fork of the Kickapoo (a top 100 trout stream in the US). Our entire stretch of stream is fully improved and excellent to fish. We have a healthy native brown trout population. We work with a local school science program to raise and stock brook trout every year. We have resident Sandhill Cranes, Bald Eagles, Oriels, Willow Fly Catchers, Hummingbirds and many other avian species. Nestled between two valleys, we frequently have stunning sunsets. We are far enough way from light pollution to easily see the Milky Way Galaxy on a clear night. The star gazing is amazing and if you keep your eyes up at night, you're pretty much guaranteed to see a shooting star, if not multiple. The West Fork Sport Club is truly a special campground. We're a short 15 minute drive from Viroqua which has a lot of great local shops, the Driftless Café (Owned and operated by Wisconsin Foodie host Luke Zahm) and a fantastic farmer's market. We're 25 minutes from Wild Cat Mountain which has extensive hiking trails. There are also two great vineyards within 15 minutes. Even on a rainy day, you will have plenty of fun options. ***Electric sites and cabins are not reservable through Hipcamp. Please visit our website for more information.
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Kettle Moraine State Forest (Northern Unit)

4. Kettle Moraine State Forest (Northern Unit)

95%
(22)
State forest in Wisconsin · 303 sites
One of Wisconsin’s best lake camping destinations also has a curious glacial history.
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Amnicon Falls State Park

5. Amnicon Falls State Park

100%
(5)
State park in Wisconsin · 29 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Amnicon Falls State Park.
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Quarry in the Mississippi Bluff MN

6. Quarry in the Mississippi Bluff MN

99%
(585)
Dakota, MN · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
This is a very private location. In its former life this property was a limestone quarry. Evidence of it's history remain with high rock walls on both ends of the property. In the center of the property is about 5 acres that is flat and covered with wildflowers and small trees. There are several good options for camping in this area. Surrounding this area is another 15 acres of hills and trees. We have a scenic overlook open to all guests where you can relax and sit on a wooden swing while enjoying the beautiful view of the Mississippi River below. There is a boat ramp just a mile down the hill for boating or fishing on the Mississippi and the city of La Crosse, WI and La Crescent, MN are each only about a five minute drive. Great River Bluffs State Park and countless other recreational opportunities are just minutes away.
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Cricket Ranch

7. Cricket Ranch

99%
(298)
Cascade, WI · 5 sites
We are honored to again be named one of the Best Hipcamps in Wisconsin for 2024. Thank you to our guests for your wonderful reviews and helpful suggestions! And a special thank you to one of our guests, Brandon "Da Garbage Disposal" Clark, for featuring Cricket Ranch in his YouTube series "Outdoors Unsupervised: Survival Season 6". Learn more about this land: Cricket Ranch is a crazy combo of Nature's past, present, and future. The property was a farm with 75% of it corn fields until 30 years ago. It has been virtually untouched since then and in just a few decades it has reinvented itself as a forest. Chambers Creek runs thru the west side of the property. As a headwater of the Milwaukee River, it is part of the Great Lakes Basin and a source for Lake Michigan. Wisconsin has identified Chambers Creek as an Exceptional Resource Water (ERWs), Less than 10% of Wisconsin waterways carry this designation. What we do (or don't do) now affects the Great Lakes later. And you'll find fossils in the rock walls of some of the earliest examples of complex life on Earth (from 460 mya, Ordovician, Cambrian). No digging required. Seriously. How they got there is a very long story in the making and involves ancient inland seas, plate tectonics, glaciers, German immigrants, and 19th-20th century farming. Off the Beaten Path @ Cricket Ranch provides a true back to nature environment for campers, sometimes called "backcountry camping". Located on 50 acres of private forest, field, and valley, our campsites are very secluded and separated by acres of woodland. Each layout is unique, embracing what nature has provided. Backpacking (or wagoning) to your camp from the parking area is necessary as the 5' wide paths do not accommodate cars/trucks. Hiking distance from parking area: (1) Camp Cricket is 600 Ft. (2) Haen Hollow is 250 ft. (3) Rocky Top is 700 ft. (4) Grapeline is 1000 ft.  Feel fee to explore the land! We are located near the Niagara Escarpment so, as previously mentioned, you might even find a 460 million year old fossil on one of the field rock walls. Keep it! So we can keep a count of how many are found, and out of an overabundance of curiosity, please let us know and send some pics of your find.   Chambers Creek provides a spot to cool your feet, stone step, or just listen to the relaxing sound of a babbling brook. The creek is overgrown with brush so access is limited but we do have a trail that follows the creek for about 300 yds. We intend to clear some more of the underbrush in the near future to allow for better enjoyment and management of this invaluable natural resource. Near by: Kettle Moraine National Forest is a 10 minute drive, boasting great hiking and the can't-miss-it view from atop Parnell Tower. Lake Ellen has a nice no-fee public boat landing just 2 miles away. The lake has clear water and is stocked periodically with Pike and Walleye. It is surprising how un-busy this lake is so bring your boat, kayak, paddle board, and/or assorted flotation devices and check it out. Our parking area can accommodate boat trailers during your stay.
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Old Red Mill Oasis

8. Old Red Mill Oasis

99%
(50)
Stevens Point, WI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
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Beaver Point Cabin

9. Beaver Point Cabin

100%
(289)
Belleville, WI · 1 site
cabin is an off-grid, 12'X20' insulated structure, with a 7'X8' loft and a 12'X6' screened covered porch/deck. That overlooks a small stream and a cattail marsh. It is in the center of our 90 acres and is very private but near to some rural houses, only our house is (barely) visible in winter and you might see some lights of one other neighbor when the leaves are off the trees. We are 1 and a half miles from the village of Belleville and 5 miles from New Glarus. The Badger State Trail runs across the western edge of our property. It connects with the Sugar River State Trail 8 miles away. Near by New Glarus has many shops, restaurants, Baily's Run winery and the famous New Glarus Brewery (tours daily). Everything can be easily reached by bike or, in season, snowmobile. The marsh is a haven for all sorts of birds and wildlife. Spring brings an abundance of winged migrators and returning residents. There are: sand hill cranes, red wing blackbirds, a number of ducks; buffleheads, mergansers, woodducks, blue winged teal and shovelers just to name a few. The American woodcock can be heard overhead most spring mornings and evenings. The spring peepers (small frogs) are a symphony on their own and they continue into early summer. The woods has many spring flowers and the fall colors are wonderful. In summer there are many song birds like: bluebirds, finches, orioles, humming birds, cedar wax wings, robins, cardinals and herons. Sitting on the screened in deck one can hear a kaleidoscope of bird songs and activity. And an abundance of fireflies in later May through late July and then some. The cabin is off-grid, what that means is: there is NO RUNNING WATER in the cabin and only a chemical toilet (port-a-potty). A limited amount of water is supplied for drinking and washing. There is a sink with a drain in the cabin but no bathroom or refrigerator so bring a cooler. Very limited electricity. There is basic LED lighting and you will be able to charge your phones/devices. The power is supplied from batteries/inverter charged by solar panels on the roof. There are LED lights and a coffee maker. There is NO air conditioning but excellent ventilation and a small, cozy wood stove for heat. If you're uncomfortable or unfamiliar with a wood stove, it may not be wise to stay here in the winter heating season, but we can show most people how to use the stove safely. This is still considered "camping" so be prepared to bring camping gear: your own pillows, sleeping bag, food, drinks, cups, plates, cooking utensils etc. There are carryout options a short drive away. The only thing you won't need is a tent, the cabin is very cozy, warm on the cold days and cool on the warm ones and there is a picnic table, lawn chairs and a gas grill with a side burner. There are a few spots around the cabin for tents if you have additional friends staying. There is an additional charge for additional guests (over 2) but please be advised: any loud "parties" or disturbances and you will be asked to leave. This is a place to enjoy nature and quiet time. To get away from it all. No extra charge for children 12 or under. Insects are a part of the woods environment, if you're afraid of bugs this may not be the right fit for you. We rarely have any real issues, so we're reluctant to use toxic chemicals to kill most (normal) bugs. Normal bug repellent is about all that is necessary. Why we have this cabin; It's a way to share this special place that, judging from the artifacts found here has been a camping area for thousands of years. We want to let others enjoy the seasons; the return of the migrating birds, the spring peepers in the marsh, the fall colors, the silence of a winter day in the woods and the warmth of a wood stove. (many people have found the stove to be their favorite feature) The cabin gives you a front row seat in the middle of, comparatively, pristine nature. Campers will have access to our fine trails for hiking, skiing, snowshoeing and biking. (we would allow a snowmobile from the State trail to the cabin). All campers take note: 1. Please do your best to arrive/check in before dark! The cabin is dark; no yard lights, no streetlights, and if it isn’t a moonlit night, it IS very dark. Some of you are not used to real darkness. We provide some flashlights and headlamps (if you forgot yours) and there are LED lights in the cabin we keep charged for you. Camping headlamps are great for cooking, using the port-a-potty and finding your way around, etc. Bring yours or you can borrow ours, just ask. 2. Take safety precautions with the wood stove and learn how to use it correctly. The only source of heat in the cabin is a small, very nice wood stove. Those without any experience with using wood for heat are advised not to stay at the cabin during the cold season. Those that are eager to learn--we can help you, but safety is very important and you must at least have some basic skills to handle wood heat: using a propane torch, using kindling, splitting wood, operating the stove airflow. 3. Campfires: Campfire wood can be purchased for a reasonable price @$10 for a tote, or @$20 for a large pot/container. We do allow people to bring their own if they are coming from less that 50 miles away. Some exceptions do apply. 4. It has been very enjoyable meeting the many campers. Everyone has been very well prepared and it has been a pleasure seeing them have fun. We especially have enjoyed the families with young children and people with their dog(s). All have been very well behaved and very enthusiastic. 5 Dogs are welcome, but please let us know if your dog does not get along well with other dogs, so we can let others know. We have a young golden retriever that is very friendly and does very well with other dogs, kids and all people. If your dog doesn't get along with others (dogs or people) please let us know in advance, so we can warn others and please, for safety, keep them on a leash. Your hosts, Dan and Anne
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Big Bay State Park

10. Big Bay State Park

100%
(6)
State park in Wisconsin · 61 sites
Discover Big Bay State Park's scenic shores and lush campgrounds.
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Interstate State Park

11. Interstate State Park

100%
(5)
State park in Wisconsin · 84 sites
Discover the scenic beauty of Interstate State Park and its outdoor adventures.
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Kohler-Andrae State Park

12. Kohler-Andrae State Park

100%
(8)
State park in Wisconsin · 125 sites
Discover Kohler-Andrae State Park's dunes, beaches, and wildlife.
Mirror Lake State Park

13. Mirror Lake State Park

100%
(6)
State park in Wisconsin · 121 sites
Venture into the water for a swim or a day of boating at this Wisconsin state park!
High County Estate

14. High County Estate

89%
(18)
Burlington, WI · 1 site · Tent, RV
Conveniently located near beautiful Lake Geneva along the crystal clear waters of the White River this 70 acre property awaits abundant recreational and relaxation opportunities. PLEASE DO NOT take our split fire wood. Nestled among the countryside hills this agriculture parcel awaits. Whether it be private and secluded access to the White River for fishing, swimming, kayaking, or a private picnic on the historic iron bridge. This opportunity is one of a kind. Horseback riders, cyclist, snowmobilers and hikers alike will appreciate their own private access to the White River state trail. Also less than 1/2 mile away via. A private farm access road the areas many miles of four wheeler and side by side trails await motorsports enthusiasts. NOTE This is a working farm with livestock, so if farm animals are present dogs must remain leashed.
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Bad River Wilderness

15. Bad River Wilderness

98%
(645)
Mellen, WI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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. There is no leash required for good pups. If your pup is aggressive with other dogs or people please leash them when on the hiking trails. If your pups would stay in your campsite no leash is required. Other campers may be hiking past your campsite on the trails that is still over 100 feet away from others campsites. You may run into others on the trails where others dogs may not be leashed. If your dog is aggressive to other dogs even if yours is on leash if you can’t control them please muzzle them. This property is for sale if you may be interested. Please ask and I’ll send you the details.
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Bouressa Family Farm

16. Bouressa Family Farm

98%
(87)
New London, WI · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
There's 2 properties, both beautiful and special. ADDED AMENITIES!!! Shower available! Game Room!! Porta-potty/Outhouse!! Pedal boat on the pond!! AND visit the farm with the CUTEST farm babies!!!!! "The Twenty" is a neat campsite right on the Little Wolf River. This land has been in my family for generations. My dad tells stories of fishing the holes while they made hay when he was a kid. Definitely fishing opportunities, as well as floating down the river (tube, canoe, kayak, sup). There's a nice swimming hole right out from the campsite. The other property is on my pasture-based farm. It's a few miles from the Little Wolf. There is the "FarmStay" Camper, as well as a couple campsites nestled in the woods with a great views of the pastures, woods, and wetlands. We've also recently added a pond that's able to be used by our guests to swim in! There are 100+ acres that can explored on this 100% pasture-based beef operation. We're working on improving the trails. It's beautiful out there! Farm tours and canoe/tube rental available. The surrounding area has a TON of activities to offer for water fun and exploring! Feel free to ask! HipCamp STAR Host!!! woohoo!
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Auch Farm.

17. Auch Farm.

100%
(87)
Mount Pleasant, WI · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Rustic Escape on an 8-Acre Homestead, Agro-Tourism Retreat, Pines, Trails and Wetland Views Step into a peaceful, off-grid retreat on our 8-acre working homestead, where open grassy fields meet whispering pines, and nature invites you to slow down. Set up camp in the wide-open meadow or follow a quiet trail through the woods to a secluded, wooded site overlooking untouched wetlands. This stay blends rustic camping with simple farm life, goats, chickens, fields, and wetland edges all in one place. It’s the perfect spot to relax in a hammock, stargaze by the fire, or kick back and stay a while. We border protected wetland conservation land, offering a truly remote and rustic experience, secluded, yet still close to town for anything you might need. Please note: This is boondocking/Dry camping only. There are no toilet facilities, so we ask campers to bring a bucket, sawdust, and pack everything out. It’s your stuff, we don’t want it. Farm Life Bonus: We share the land with friendly goats and egg-laying hens. You’re welcome to say hello, feed the goats (they LOVE weeds, feel free to
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Simplicity @Top Of The Hill Huskies

18. Simplicity @Top Of The Hill Huskies

99%
(40)
Eagle River, WI · 1 site
Welcome to our secluded glamping retreat nestled just outside the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest! Experience the ultimate in privacy and tranquility as you unwind in nature's embrace. (Sadly not recommended in the winter unless you have a snowmobile. Or willing to snowshoe in.) Surrounded by miles of scenic trails, our retreat is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, or wildlife watching, you'll find endless opportunities to explore the beauty of the surrounding forest. From the comfort of your accommodation, you can marvel at the wonders of nature unfolding outside your window. Keep an eye out for deer, wild turkeys, coyotes, birds, and even black bears as they roam freely in their natural habitat. Venture beyond our retreat and discover the breathtaking sights of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, where waterfalls, sandy beaches, and lush landscapes await exploration. Whether you're seeking adventure or simply a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, our glamping retreat offers the perfect setting for a memorable outdoor getaway. Come experience the beauty and serenity of northern Wisconsin's wilderness with us!
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Prairie View Camp

19. Prairie View Camp

100%
(63)
Pepin, WI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Enjoy the sweeping prairie and sunset views from your camping area.  All sites have access to toilet facilities and water, each site has their own picnic table. Hike right from your tent onto 80 acres of prairie, woods and valley views. Lots of wildlife and wildflowers. Kayak the nearby Chippewa River. Shockingly few mosquitos for the upper Midwest due to the lack of standing water. The campsites are located on a working homestead, complete with old farm house and gardens. Site 1, Bee Balm is shaded by nearby trees and is closest to the shower and toilet. If you are camping with a trailer we recommend the Bee Balm site as there is more space and better access. The highlight of Site 2, Oak Grove, is a shady grove of young oaks that you can set your tent up under. Site 3, Meadowlark, is a tent site surrounded by prairie grass about 20' from where you park. It has a picnic table but no fire pit.
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Armstrong Orchard & Spoonlickers

20. Armstrong Orchard & Spoonlickers

98%
(22)
Campbellsport, WI · 14 sites · Tents, RVs
Escape to our peaceful 17-acre retreat in Wisconsin’s beautiful Kettle Moraine region. Surrounded by trees and nature, our property features a 5-acre apple orchard, open fields, and plenty of space to relax, unwind, and enjoy the outdoors. We’re conveniently located near Kettle Moraine State Forest and just 21 minutes from Road America, making us a great home base for hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, and race weekends alike. Guests love the quiet, private setting—enjoy star-filled night skies, beautiful sunsets, and frequent deer sightings. Families will appreciate the small playground and picnic tables, and dogs are always welcome. On-site you’ll also find Spoonlickers Café & Ice Cream Shop, located right next to the camping area and parking lot. Open daily from 9:00 AM–8:00 PM, we serve breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, ice cream, beverages, and local foods and goods. Menus are available online at Spoonlickers.com. Amenities: • 17 acres of private land • 5-acre apple orchard • Open fields for camping and relaxing • Picnic tables • Playground • Porta-potties • Convenient parking • Dog-friendly stays • On-site café & ice cream (9 AM–8 PM daily) • Close to Kettle Moraine State Forest trails • 21 minutes from Road America • Excellent stargazing and wildlife viewing A peaceful, scenic getaway with the rare bonus of great food and ice cream just steps from your campsite.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Wisconsin camping guide

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.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field