Best Campgrounds In Wisconsin

‍Because of the proximity to key landmarks like Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, the state of Wisconsin has some of the best campgrounds in the country.

The best campgrounds in Wisconsin are

1. Peninsula State Park
2. Devil's Lake State Park
3. High Cliff State Park Campground
4. Buffalo Lake Camping Resort
5. Perrot State Park
6. Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest
7. Smokey Hollow Campground
8. Fox Hill RV Park
9. Harrington Beach State Park
10. Rock Island State Park
11. Kettle Moraine State Forest

Wisconsin is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with its vast landscapes, scenic beauty, and abundant natural resources. For those who love camping, the state offers an incredible array of campgrounds to suit every taste and preference. We have spent time in the state checking out and ranking the best campgrounds.

‍11 Best Campgrounds In Wisconsin

Wisconsin is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with its vast landscapes, scenic beauty, and abundant natural resources. For those who love camping, the state offers an incredible array of campgrounds to suit every taste and preference.

Whether you're looking for a serene lakeside setting or an adventure-packed destination, Wisconsin has something for everyone. With so many options, you'll find the perfect spot for your next camping getaway in Wisconsin.

We’ve listed what we believe to be the best campgrounds in the state below.

Peninsula State Park

As one of Wisconsin's most popular camping destinations, Peninsula State Park offers a variety of amenities and breathtaking scenery. This park is open year-round from 6 AM to 11 PM year-round for campers to explore.

Located amidst the Door County shoreline, this park boasts over 460 campsites, sand beaches, and eight miles of Niagara Escarpment. There’s also an 18-hole golf course, tons of bike trails, and a lighthouse worth checking out to watch the sunset.

The historic lighthouse, Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, was built in 1868 and is now a museum. The park also hosts a summer theater, which presents musicals and plays throughout the summer months.

There are five total campgrounds at this state park. Those parks include:

• North Nicolet Bay Campground
• South Nicolet Bay Campground
• Tension Bay Campground
• Weborg Point Campground
• Welcker’s Point Campground

Guests can choose any of these places to camp. All have incredible amenities, beautiful scenery, and spacious campsites to enjoy a summer night.

• Address: 9462 Shore Rd, Fish Creek, WI 54212
• Phone: (920) 868-3258
• Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/peninsula

Pros

• Offers 468 campsites, including some with electrical hookups
• Provides picnic tables, fire pits, restrooms, and showers for added convenience
• Features various recreational activities like an 18-hole golf course, and bike trails
• Winter camping facilities are available at Tennison Bay Campground
• Home to a beautiful historic lighthouse built in 1868

Cons

• It can be crowded, especially during peak season, owing to its popularity
• Some campsites lack privacy, and they’re not as secluded

2. Devil's Lake State Park

Located in Wisconsin, Devil's Lake State Park is a popular camping destination, offering picturesque landscapes and numerous outdoor activities. It covers over 9,000 acres and is known for its stunning scenery, including the 500-foot quartzite bluffs and crystal-clear Devil's Lake.

The park is open year-round and offers a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors, including hiking, camping, swimming, boating, and rock climbing. The four campgrounds you can check out include:

• Quartzite Campground
• Northern Lights Campground
• Ice Age Campground
• Group Campground

These campgrounds include drive-in and walk-in sites, cabins, and group campsites. There are over 29 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging rock scrambles.

Devil's Lake is also a popular spot for swimming and boating, with two public beaches and boat rentals available. There are also several picnic areas and a nature center in the park.

• Address: S5975 Park Rd, Baraboo, WI 53913
• Phone: (608) 356-8301
• Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/devilslake

Pros

• Stunning natural scenery
• Wide variety of recreational activities
• Excellent rock climbing opportunities
• Several camping options, including cabins and group campsites
• Four different campgrounds to choose from

Cons

• It can be crowded during peak season
• Some trails can be challenging for beginners

3. High Cliff State Park Campground

Located on the shores of Lake Winnebago, High Cliff State Park is a popular camping destination in Wisconsin. It boasts stunning cliffs, scenic views, and various recreational activities suitable for the entire family.

The park covers over 1,100 acres and is known for its stunning views of Lake Winnebago and the surrounding countryside. The park is open year-round and offers a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors, including hiking, camping, boating, fishing, and birdwatching.

The campground features over 100 campsites, including tent and RV sites, as well as group campsites and a cabin. There are over 16 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging hikes along the Niagara Escarpment.

Lake Winnebago is also a popular spot for fishing and boating, with a boat launch and fishing pier available. The hiking and biking trails are the perfect family activity too.

• Address: N7630 State Park Rd, Sherwood, WI 54169
• Phone: (920) 989-1106
• Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/highcliff

Pros

• State parks like this have plenty of activities and lots of campsite space
• Beautiful views of Lake Winnebago
• Wide variety of recreational activities, including hiking and boating
• Several camping options, including tent and RV sites
• Historical sites to explore

Cons

• Limited food options within the park

4. Buffalo Lake Camping Resort

Located in Montello, Wisconsin, Buffalo Lake Camping Resort is a beautiful family camping destination with numerous activities and amenities to keep visitors entertained. This resort is perfect for anyone seeking relaxation and adventure in Central Wisconsin.

The campground is situated on 200 acres and offers a variety of camping options, including RV sites, tent sites, and cabins. The campground is open from May through October and offers a range of recreational opportunities for visitors.

The campground features over 200 campsites, including full hookup and water and electric sites. Several cabins are also available for rent, including one-room and deluxe cabins with full kitchens and bathrooms.

The campground offers a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, mini-golf, playground, and a lake for fishing and boating. It is also located near several attractions, including the city of Montello, nearby state parks, and several Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers.

• Address: W1915 Buffalo Lake Rd, Montello, WI 53949
• Phone: (608) 297-2915
• Website: https://www.buffalolakecamping.com/

Pros

• Wide variety of camping options, including cabins
• Range of amenities, including a swimming pool and mini-golf
• Convenient location near state parks and other attractions
• Family-friendly atmosphere

Cons

• Private campgrounds, so may not offer the same natural setting as state parks

5. Perrot State Park

Perrot State Park is a popular state park located in Trempealeau, Wisconsin, near the border with Minnesota. The park covers over 1,200 acres and is known for its stunning views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding bluffs.

The park is open year-round and offers a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors, including hiking, camping, boating, fishing, and birdwatching. It also offers several boat launches, fishing piers, and a marina for boating and fishing on the Mississippi River.

The campground features over 100 campsites, including tent and RV sites and a group campsite. There are over 12 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging hikes up the bluffs.

The park is also home to several historic sites, including a Native American burial ground and a former lumber town. There are also several picnic areas and a nature center in the park.

• Address: W26247 Sullivan Rd, Trempealeau, WI 54661
• Phone: (608) 534-6409
• Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/perrot

Pros

• Stunning views of the Mississippi River and surrounding bluffs
• Wide variety of recreational activities, including hiking and boating
• Several camping options, including tent and RV sites
• Historical sites to explore
• Fun things to do like a volleyball net, horseshoe pits, and nature center

Cons

• Located far away from central areas in the state

6. Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest

The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest offers a variety of camping options for nature enthusiasts. From tent sites to RVs, this forest provides plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the wilderness.

This vast forested area in northern Wisconsin covers over 1.5 million acres. The forest offers a range of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, cross country skiing, and wildlife watching. Some of the best camping spots in the forest include:

• Lost Lake Recreation Area
• Franklin Lake Recreation Area
• Headwaters

Camping in the forest can range from primitive backcountry sites to developed campsites with amenities like electricity, water, and restrooms. There are over 30 campgrounds throughout the forest, offering a range of camping options for visitors.

• Address: 500 Hanson Lake Rd, Rhinelander, WI 54501
• Phone: (715) 362-1300
• Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/cnnf/

Pros

• Diverse range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife
• Numerous campgrounds offer a variety of camping options for visitors
• Scenic drives and viewpoints provide stunning natural beauty
• 1.5 million acres to explore
• Cabin rentals, campgrounds, and RV camping are available

Cons

• Not the best place for beginners

7. Smokey Hollow Campground

Smokey Hollow Campground is a family-owned and operated campground located in beautiful southwestern Wisconsin. The campground offers a variety of camping options, from tent sites to full-hook-up RV sites.

The campground offers a variety of camping options to suit any camper's needs. The area surrounding the campground is known for its scenic beauty, offering visitors stunning views of the rolling hills and valleys.

The campground has plenty of on-site activities, including a swimming pool, fishing pond, mini-golf course, and playground. The campground is located near several attractions, including the Wisconsin Dells and the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.

Some campsites are close together, making privacy an issue. The campground can be busy during peak season, leading to potential noise and crowding. It’s only about two hours south of Green Bay too.

• Address: W9935 McGowan Rd, Lodi, WI 53555
• Phone: (608) 635-4806
• Website: https://www.smokyhollowcampground.com/

Pros

• Offers a variety of camping options to suit any camper's needs
• The area surrounding the campground is known for its scenic beauty
• Plenty of on-site activities, including a swimming pool and playground
• Located near several attractions

Cons

• Some campsites are close together, making privacy an issue

8. Fox Hill RV Park

The Fox Hill RV Park is a popular camping destination in the heart of the beautiful Wisconsin countryside. The park offers a variety of RV camping options, including pull-through and back-in sites, as well as rustic tent camping sites.

The park is also pet-friendly, making it an excellent option for families who want to bring their furry friends along for the adventure. This is a perfect place for first-time campers too.

One of the standout features of Fox Hill RV Park is its beautiful location. Situated in the rolling hills of Wisconsin, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside while camping.

Additionally, the park offers a range of amenities to make the camping experience more comfortable, including a heated pool, playground, and laundry facilities. But it’s a private resort with higher pricing too.

• Address: E11371 N Reedsburg Rd, Baraboo, WI 53913
• Phone: (608) 356-5898
• Website: https://www.foxhillrvpark.com/

Pros

• Beautiful location in the Wisconsin countryside
• Variety of RV camping options to suit any camper's needs
• Pet-friendly
• Range of amenities, including a heated pool, playground, and laundry facilities
• Close proximity to popular attractions, such as the Wisconsin Dells

Cons

• The park can be busy during peak season, leading to potential noise and crowding
• The Wi-Fi signal can be weak in some areas of the park

9. Harrington Beach State Park

Harrington Beach State Park is a beautiful park located on the shores of Lake Michigan in Ozaukee County, Wisconsin. The park covers over 700 acres and offers visitors a wide range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, swimming, fishing, and picnicking.

In addition, the park boasts stunning views of Lake Michigan and offers visitors the chance to explore its sandy beaches and rugged shoreline. One of the highlights of Harrington Beach State Park is its natural beauty.

Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Michigan from the park's observation tower, or take a stroll along the park's miles of hiking trails. The park has several picnic areas, making it a great spot for a family outing or a romantic picnic.

• Address: 531 County Rd D, Belgium, WI 53004
• Phone: (262) 285-3015
• Website: https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/name/harrington/

Pros

• Beautiful location on the shores of Lake Michigan
• Wide range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, swimming, and fishing
• Picnic areas available for visitors
• Several campsites available for overnight camping
• Clean and well-maintained facilities

Cons

• Limited amenities compared to other state parks in Wisconsin

10. Rock Island State Park

Rock Island State Park is a hidden gem off the tip of the Door Peninsula in Wisconsin. The park is only accessible by ferry, which adds to its sense of adventure and remoteness.

The island covers over 900 acres and boasts stunning views of Lake Michigan and Green Bay. Visitors can explore the island's rugged shoreline, hike its scenic trails, and even camp overnight in one of its rustic campsites.

One of the highlights of Rock Island State Park is its seclusion and natural beauty. Visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in the island's serene atmosphere.

The park is also home to the Pottawatomie Lighthouse, which dates back to 1836 and offers visitors a glimpse into the island's rich history.

• Address: Rock Island, WI 54246
• Phone: (920) 847-2235
• Website: https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/name/rockisland/

Pros

• The secluded location adds to the sense of adventure and remoteness
• Stunning views of Lake Michigan and Green Bay
• Scenic hiking trails for all skill levels
• Rustic campsites for overnight camping
• A rich history and cultural significance

Cons

• Limited ferry service, which can make it challenging to plan a visit
• The island can be buggy during peak season

11. Kettle Moraine State Forest

Kettle Moraine State Forest is a beautiful park located in southeastern Wisconsin. The park covers over 30,000 acres and offers visitors a wide range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, camping, and fishing.

The park is also home to several stunning natural features, including rolling hills, deep kettles, and sparkling lakes. One thing that sets Kettle Moraine State Forest apart is its natural beauty.

Visitors can explore the park's miles of hiking and biking trails, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The park has several camping areas, making it a great spot for a family vacation or a weekend getaway.

• Address: S91 W39091 WI-59, Eagle, WI 53119
• Phone: (262) 594-6200
• Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/kms/

Pros

• Beautiful natural scenery, including rolling hills, deep kettles, and sparkling lakes
• Wide range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and camping
• Several camping areas available for overnight stays
• Conveniently located near several major cities in southeastern Wisconsin

Cons

• Large state forest that can be difficult to adventure through for beginners

Are Permits Required To Go Camping In Wisconsin?

In Wisconsin, permits are required for certain types of camping. For example, if you plan to camp in a state park, you must purchase a camping permit. The permit is valid for a fixed amount of time, depending on the length of your stay.

There are also additional fees for campsites with electricity or for reserving specific campsites in advance. If you plan to camp in a national forest in Wisconsin, you may also need a camping permit depending on the particular forest and camping location.

Some national forests require permits for backcountry camping or certain types of camping equipment, such as tents or RVs. It's important to note that camping permits may have different requirements and fees depending on the location and time of year.

Before planning your camping trip, it's a good idea to check with the specific park or forest you plan to visit to find out if permits are required and the specific requirements and fees.

Is Wisconsin A Good Place To Go Camping?

Yes, Wisconsin is a great place to go camping. Wisconsin's diverse landscape includes forests, lakes, rivers, and rolling hills, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Many state parks, national forests, and private campgrounds throughout the state that offer camping options for all types of campers, from tent camping to RV camping. The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is another landmark to camp near.

One of the most popular destinations for camping in Wisconsin is the Door County peninsula, which is home to several state parks, including Peninsula State Park. Other popular camping destinations in Wisconsin include the Wisconsin Dells or finding a campsite along the Mississippi River.

Wisconsin is also home to many seasonal festivals and events, including music festivals, county fairs, and food festivals, which can add an extra element of fun to your camping trip. You can also check out Big Bay State Park or Newport State Park if the sites we recommended aren't for you.