The 22 Best Campgrounds in Wisconsin: Top-Rated & Hidden Gems

Are you ready to discover the best campgrounds in Wisconsin? With some 15,000 lakes (not to mention two of the Great Lakes – Lake Superior and Lake Michigan), 66 state parks, and two national forests, this state has a mind-blowing number of recreational opportunities. No matter what your favorite outdoor activities entail – hiking trails, waterfalls, fishing, boating, wildlife and bird watching, hunting, horseback riding, you name it – you can find numerous places to explore and satisfy your inner adventurer.

Camping is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in nature and spend some time away from the chaos of every day, and we have rounded up some of the absolute best campgrounds in Wisconsin.

Best State Park Campgrounds in Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s many state parks provide endless opportunities for exploration year-round, from river rafting to mountain biking to cross-country skiing, and everything in between. When it comes to camping, these four state park campgrounds should definitely be on your must-visit list.

Amnicon Falls State Park, 4279 County Rd U, South Range, WI 54874, USA

RICHARD KOCH/Google Reviews

• Location: South Range, WI
• Popularity: Most popular in summer months
• Park Info: Open year-round. No electrical hookups, showers, or dump station. No generators allowed. One ADA-accessible site and two walk-in sites (less than 150 feet from the parking area) are available.Water systems are weather-dependent and may be unavailable between October and May. Pets allowed. A Wisconsin State Park System vehicle admission sticker required on all motor vehicles.
• Price: $18 per night

Sitting along the Amnicon River, this state park features a series of gorgeous rock waterfalls and rapids created by the Douglas Fault, lovely bridges, and dense woods. Campers can enjoy swimming under the falls in warmer months and marveling at frozen falls in the winter. There are 36 rustic campgrounds nestled in the tall trees, as well as play areas that include a swing set, sandbox, and field. There are vault toilets and drinking water faucets for campers to use.

Wyalusing State Park, 13081 State Park Ln, Bagley, WI 53801, USA

Jason Daughenbaugh/Google Reviews

• Location: Bagley, WI
• Popularity: Popular, especially in summer
• Park Info: Open year-round. 109 campsites in two campgrounds, some electrical hookups, and a dumping station. Leashed pets allowed. A Wisconsin State Park System vehicle admission sticker required on all motor vehicles. There are showers, a concessions stand, flush and vault toilets, and drinking water available.
• Price: $30 per night

Wyalusing State Park offers peaceful, family and group campsites surrounded by lush natural beauty. Set on wooded bluffs where the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers come together, campers enjoy stunning scenic views of the river valley down below and a variety of activities, such as hiking, cycling, exploring a cave, wildlife and bird viewing, canoeing and kayaking on the river, and awesome stargazing.

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Devil's Lake State Park, S5975 Park Rd, Baraboo, WI 53913, USA

Kaylee Bozarth/Google Reviews

• Location: Baraboo
• Popularity: Very popular on summer weekends
• Park Info: There are 3 campgrounds with 423 sites. One of the campgrounds is open year-round and has winterized tap water. Some electrical hookup sites and a dump/fill station are available. A Wisconsin State Park System vehicle admission sticker is required on all motor vehicles.
• Price: $22 to $37 per night for WI residents; $27 to $42 for non-residents

At Devil’s Lake State Park, camping spots sit just steps from stunning rock formations and a deep, pristine lake with sandy beaches. Campers enjoy spectacular views from tall bluffs, 30 miles of hiking trails, lakeside picnic areas along the shore, swimming, paddling, diving, camp stores, and more. Adventurers can rent kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, etc. in the summer and can borrow snowshoes to explore the area in the winter. One of the four campsites, Northern Lights, is open all year and even has a sledding hill. The epic scenery and opportunities for adventure make this one of the best campgrounds in Wisconsin.

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Brunet Island State Park, 23125 255th St, Cornell, WI 54732, USA

Linda Nieto/Google Reviews

• Location: Cornell, WI
• Popularity: Hidden gem
• Park Info: Open year-round. Two campgrounds with 45 rustic sites and 24 electrical hookup sites. Vehicle admission sticker required to enter the park.
• Price: $15 to $35 per night

This campground is located on a little island on Wisconsin’s scenic Chippewa River. Many of the tent camping sites are located directly along the river’s shoreline and bays. This is a perfect camping getaway for paddling, kayaking, and fishing. Campers can bring their own watercraft or take advantage of rentals offered by nearby outfitters. This beautiful park is also known for hiking and biking trails, gorgeous trees, and many white-tailed deer that call it home.

Best Waterfront Camping in Wisconsin

For many outdoor enthusiasts, it is all about being on the water. You will love these spots if you are looking for the best waterfront campgrounds in Wisconsin where you can swim, fish, kayak, or chill on the beach.

Long Lake Recreation Area, N3450 Division Rd, Cascade, WI 53011, USA

Sweet Calming/Google Reviews

• Location: Cascade, WI
• Popularity: Moderately popular, busiest in mid-summer
• Park Info: Open May through October. 200 campsites, including some wheelchair-accessible sites, and 19 electrical sites. Approximately 25 sites are open on a first-come, first-served basis. Showers, vault and flush toilets, drinking water, and a dump station are available. Leashed pets are welcome.
• Price: Prices start at $18 per night

Long Lake is the longest of several glacial lakes in the Kettle Moraine State Forest. The campsites are nestled in the forest, well-shaded, and all an easy walk to the lake’s edge. This lake campground is great for families and water lovers. There is a long narrow beach with picnic tables and a protected swimming area, and campers enjoy kayaking, boating, fishing, and other water activities. The forest offers gorgeous hiking trails as well.

Sweet Minihaha Campground, N4697 County Hwy E, Brodhead, WI 53520, USA

Russell Chernack/Google Reviews

• Location: Brodhead
• Popularity: Very popular on weekends
• Park Info: Open mid-April through mid-October. RV sites have water and electricity. Tent sites available.
• Price: Start at $28 per night

Sweet Minihaha is more than just an awesome riverfront campground. It is an epic tubing destination on the beautiful Sugar River. Settle in and head for the water! The campground offers kayak, canoe, and tube rentals with free shuttle service so you can make your way down the winding river. Between water adventures, enjoy family-friendly amenities and activities such as beach volleyball, fishing, live entertainment, etc.

Log Cabin Resort & Campground LLC, N7470 Log Cabin Dr, Trego, WI 54888, USA

Log Cabin Resort/Facebook

• Location: Trego
• Popularity:
• Park Info: 2-night minimum stay required for weekend reservations. Pay showers and Wi-Fi are available. Free kayak, canoe, and tube rentals. ATVs must be parked on the guest’s site or trailer.
• Price: $42 per night; Cabins start at $79 per night

Camp along the shore of the beautiful Namekagon River in the scenic Wisconsin Northwoods. Enjoy staying on one of 25 shaded campsites that accommodate tents and RVs or rustic cabins. Hot showers and flush toilets are conveniently located near all sites. Chill on the beach or spend the day tubing, canoeing, or kayaking down the river, or pack your tray hauler and take advantage of ATV trails. Kids of all ages will love the playground and Splash Park.

Top Glamping in Wisconsin

Just because you love the great outdoors and want to sit by a campfire making S’mores in the evening does not mean you have to sleep on the ground or pack in tons of gear. These special locations not only offer some of the best Wisconsin camping, but they combine outdoor adventure with homey comforts and even a little luxury.

Smokey Hollow Campground, W9935 McGowan Rd, Lodi, WI 53555, USA

Smokey Hollow Campground/Google Reviews

• Location: Lodi
• Popularity: Busiest in summer months
• Park Info: Open year-round. All sites require a 2-night minimum on weekends. Pets allowed, but must be leashed and up-to-date on vaccinations. Advance reservations required.
• Price: $30 to $96/night, depending on site type and season

With yurts, covered wagons, cabins, tent sites, a 360-degree beach, and a water playground, Sleepy Hollow is an incredibly unique family camping experience near Madison and the Wisconsin Dells. There are numerous creative amenities and activities for campers of all ages and a great general store where you can find supplies, snacks, coffee, toys, gifts, and more.

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Jellystone Park Camp-Resort in Caledonia, WI, 8425 WI-38, Caledonia, WI 53108, USA

Jellystone Park Camp-Resort in Caledonia, WI/Google Reviews

• Location: Caledonia
• Popularity: Very Popular
• Park Info: Water activities open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, then on weekends in September as weather permits. Pets allowed. A limited number of seasonal sites are available for rent.
• Price: Cabins start at $142.40/night; basic tent sights start at $76/night

Far beyond your average campground, Jellystone Park offers some of the best camping for families with kids. Glamping cabins provide a luxurious outdoor experience with all the comforts of home while families enjoy endless amenities, activities, wet and dry attractions, etc. such as a mini golf course, fishing, and a white sandy beach with the state’s largest inflatable water park. Love this place? Explore several other locations in the state including Wisconsin Dells, Warrens, and Door County.

Camp Kettlewood, W3524 WI-20, East Troy, WI 53120, USA

Camp Kettlewood/Facebook

• Location: East Troy
• Popularity: Hidden gem
• Park Info: Property open during summer months. Bookings must be made at least 48 hours in advance. Pets are allowed (but must be kept off bedding). Restroom buildings and open-air showers are available for guest use. No Wi-Fi on-site.
• Price: $175 to $275 for individual sites; $350 to $600 for group glampsites

Enjoy the most beautiful natural surroundings, walking trails, and campfires under the stars combined with a comfortable bed and modern amenities. Opened in 2020, this wonderful private glampground offers lovely well-appointed platform tents, vintage trailers, and antique scout cabins. The property owners live on-site and take pride in maintaining this beautiful property. Sites have a fire ring, rustic seating, BBQ grills, string lights, and more to make the most of your outdoor experience.

Merry Macs Campground, E12995 Halweg Rd, Merrimac, WI 53561, USA

Merry Mac’s Campground/Facebook

• Location: Merrimac
• Popularity: Popular with families
• Park Info: Open May through October. Leashed pets are welcome. Golf carts are available for rent. No full hookups, but there are 2 dump stations available for RV camper use (free of charge). Planned camp activities on weekends and on weekdays from mid-June through mid-August.
• Price: $61.50 to $194/night, depending on site type and month

Located between Devils’ Lake and Lake Wisconsin, this 40-acre facility is a true family glampground with tons of amenities and a variety of camping options, including cabins, cottages, yurts, and a covered wagon. In addition to glamping sites, there are a number of sites with water and electrical to accommodate tents and RVs. Individuals and families will enjoy a large swimming pool, beach with inflatable water park, miniature golf course, fishing pond and dog swim pond, sand volleyball, massive jumping pillow, camp store, and more.

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Edenwood Ranch & Preserve, W5734 Chicago Ave, Wautoma, WI 54982, USA

Edenwood Ranch & Preserve/Facebook

• Location: Wautoma
• Popularity: Busiest during summer months
• Park Info: Open year-round. Pets welcome. Entire property can be rented for group ranch vacations or hunting ranch.
• Price: Starting at $229 per night

Nestled in Waushara County’s woodlands, Edenwoodd Ranch is an outdoor sanctuary that offers a one-of-a-kind glamping experience surrounded by natural beauty and wildlife. Choose from luxurious cabins or stunningly appointed glamping tents that feature spacious wood interiors, luxury linens, private bathrooms, etc. Relaxation meets adventure with a huge range of activities available including archery, zip lining, swimming, hiking, horseback riding, birdwatching, hunting, and more. In the winter, enjoy e-bikes, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling before retreating to your comfortable accommodations.

Circle M Market Farm BnB, 1784 County Hwy H, Blanchardville, WI 53516, USA

Circle M Farm

• Location: Blanchardville
• Popularity: Hidden gem
• Park Info: Private working farm. Restroom facilities are a shared full bathroom inside the main house and an open-air shower.
• Price: $115 to $139 per night

Enjoy a unique and intimate glamping experience on a peaceful working sheep farm. Stay in one of three vintage travel trailers stocked with comfy linens, vintage decor, record players and albums, board games, local beer, and S’mores supplies to use with your private fire pit. Order a delicious “Breakfast in Bed Basket” to be delivered to your camper in the morning or head to the main front porch for coffee and scones. Share in farm activities, explore the town and enjoy use of the cedar sauna, swings, hammocks, yard games, frog pond, and more.

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Best RV Camping Sites in Wisconsin

Like glamping sites, RV campgrounds truly elevate your outdoor experience. Whether you own your own rig or choose to rent one from a service like RV Share, these RV campgrounds offer some of the absolute best camping in Wisconsin, especially for families. Which one will you visit first?

Coconut Cove RV Resort by Rjourney, 1549 Bluff Rd, Hazel Green, WI 53811, USA

Coconut Cove Resort/Facebook

• Location: Hazel Green
• Popularity: Popular
• Park Info: Open from Friday before Memorial Day through Labor Day. ADA accessible sites. Fenced dog park on-site. Wi-Fi available in the clubhouse. Shower house and laundry facilities for guest use.
• Price: Start at $28 per night

Coconut Grove is quite possibly one of the best Wisconsin campgrounds and being located in a blossoming little village near the Illinois border, it is perfect for a real escape. RV travelers will enjoy resort-style amenities and beautiful water views, both of the parks private lake and of the grand Mississippi River. With full hookups, sites right on the water, a tropical-themed tiki bar, restaurant, floating adventure park, swimming pool, multiple playgrounds, and more, this is a premier destination for RV camping at its best. Beachfront cabins, glamping pods, and tent sites are also available.

River Bend RV Resort, W6940 Rubidell Rd, Watertown, WI 53094, USA

River Bend Resort/Facebook

• Location: Watertown
• Popularity: Very popular on weekends from Memorial Day to Labor Day
• Park Info: Open mid-April through mid-October. Reservations are requested. Pets are allowed and must be leashed. Sites have water and electricity. Guests have access to coin-op showers, laundry facilities, and a game room.
• Price: Start at $60 per night during high season (May 25 to September 4) and $30 per night pre/post season; cabins start at $150 per night; lodge starts at $350 per night

Families will find it impossible to be bored at this awesome RV campground on the edge of a calm river. The park features spacious sites, a water park with two huge water slides, a bar and grill, a boat launch, a mini-golf course, fenced dog runs, an RC racetrack, themed activities, sports courts, playgrounds, bicycles, a jumping pad, and more.

Ukarydee Equestrian Camping, 2047 Cumberland Ave, Arkdale, WI 54613, USA

Donna Lieders/Google Reviews

• Location: Arkdale
• Popularity: Not generally too busy
• Park Info: Open year-round. Advance reservations are encouraged, but arrival without reservations is available; if all sites are filled (rare), campers can set up their own portable corral. Each campsite has a place to keep horses.
• Price: $45 per night

Ukarydee is designed not only for RVers, but for horse enthusiasts. There are 50 sites with access to water and electricity, and drive-through parking. Take advantage of gorgeous views riding along the Castle Rock Horse Trails. Bring your own horses or visit nearby stables to get out on the trail. In addition to horseback adventures, you can enjoy exploring Waller’s Pond, The Roche A Sri, Castle Rock Lake, Buckhorn State Park, and the Wisconsin River.

Emrick Lake Campground & Resort, 105 Fawn Dr, Oxford, WI 53952, USA

Malcolm Peakcock/Google Reviews

• Location: Oxford
• Popularity: Newly opened (August 2023)
• Park Info: Open mid-April through mid-October. Pets allowed with some breed restrictions. Campground has 417 sites with full hookups, including 84 pull-through sites.
• Price: $40+ per night

One of the state’s newest RV campgrounds, Emrick Lake Campground aims to provide campers with unparalleled amenities, including a pool and swim-up bar, an outdoor movie screen, restaurant and bar, aqua park, coffee and donut shop, pizza palace, and equipment rentals including kayaks, paddleboats, and golf carts. This massive property is over 400 acres - formerly a Boy Scout camp - and centers on the picturesque lake. Every site has full hook-ups for the ultimate RV experience and convenience.

Best Primitive Tent Camping in Wisconsin

Sometimes “roughing it” is just what you need to let the craziness and stresses of everyday life melt away. When what you really want is the simplicity of tent camping and serene natural surroundings, pack up your gear and head to one of these unique and beautiful rustic camping spots in Wisconsin.

Newport State Park, 475 County Rd NP, Ellison Bay, WI 54210, USA

Tim Wodke/Google Reviews

• Location: Ellison Bay
• Popularity: Hidden gem
• Park Info: Open all year and requires a hike to reach sites. No utilities. Vehicle admission sticker is required and can be purchased online. Reservations can be made same day or up to 11 months in advance.
• Price: $33 per night

What makes this small campground on the shores of Lake Michigan truly special is its location in Newport State Park, a dark sky park that offers some of the most spectacular stargazing in the state. There are 17 rustic backpacking sites and campers must pack in their gear and supplies. In addition to the stunning night views, this pristine park has beautiful beaches and well-groomed trails in winter for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. By the way, if backpacking is your style, we love these backpacks by The North Face!

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Hartman Creek State Park, N2480 Hartman Creek Rd, Waupaca, WI 54981, USA

Troy Dorrier/Google Reviews

• Location: Waupaca
• Popularity: Hidden gem
• Park Info: Park is open year-round, but camping is only available April 1 through November 30. Two shower and flush toilet buildings available for guest use. Pets allowed on campsites.
• Price: Start at $18 per night

This under-the-radar little (relatively) state park is a picturesque haven of quiet and tranquility. Loved by locals but far less known and visited than other state parks, this remote little gem has a flowing creek, a serene lake, and beautiful trails, including a segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. Enjoy boating, swimming, mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking, and of course, sleeping under the stars on one of 103 spacious tent campsites (or one of five groups sites).

Sauk County, WI, USA

Amy Anderson/Flickr

• Location: Wisconsin River
• Popularity: Hidden gem
• Park Info: Camping restricted to 3 days on state-owned islands and sandbars. Campers and equipment must arrive by watercraft only. No permits required.
• Price: Free

Perhaps the most unique beach camping trip, this experience is like a water version of an epic road trip. Did you know that free camping is permitted on the many sandbars and islands along the Wisconsin River. Whether you own a canoe or kayak or rent from one of the several local companies, you pack in your camping supplies, float or paddle down the scenic river, and stop at any of the sandy areas down the river to spend the night under the stars.

Pier County Park, 17520 State Rd 80, Richland Center, WI 53581, USA

Jonathan Gatzke/Google Reviews

• Location: Rockbridge
• Popularity: Not generally too busy
• Park Info: Camping season is April 15 to November 15. No advance reservations. Camping permits must be obtained from the Natural Bridge Store next to the park. All camping is first-come, first-served. Vault toilets on-site.
• Price: $11 per tent, per night

Also known as Pier County Park, this 10-acre park may be small but it is one of the most incredible places to explore and stay the night. The most prominent and fascinating features of the park is the massive rock formation that stretches for nearly one-half mile and stands almost 60 feet tall. A stairway leads to the top for stunning views and a man-made tunnel lets you walk right through this geological wonder. There are just six rustic campsites so campers enjoy a peaceful night under the stars.

Mauthe Lake Recreation Area, N1490 Co Rd GGG, Campbellsport, WI 53010, USA

Jeff Leismer/Google Reviews

• Location: Campbellsport
• Popularity: Hidden gem
• Park Info: Open year-round. One shower building with flush toilets, several vault toilets, and dump station available for guest use. No-motor lake.
• Price: $30 per night

This pretty 80-acre lake campground in the Kettle Moraine State Forest Northern Unit is a perfect place for an outdoor family adventure. There are 135 campsites to choose from, including 51 with electrical, nestled in the pristine forest and perfectly situated to enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, swimming, canoeing, backpacking, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and more. Whether you stay close to camp or venture out to other nearby lakes, the Milwaukee River and Swamp Natural Area, Kettle Hole Woods, etc., there are endless opportunities to explore.

The best campgrounds in Wisconsin are just waiting to provide you with the adventure of a lifetime. Which one will you visit first? Do you have a favorite state campground that should be on our list? We would love to hear about your best place to camp in Wisconsin!

Your Ultimate Guide To State Parks In Wisconsin