Camping in Wisconsin: Best Campgrounds for Every Season

Did you know Wisconsin has over 6,000 campsites in its state park system? This diverse state offers plenty to explore. From the Northern Highland to the Central Plain, you’ll find lush forests, hills, and serene lakes—and, of course, stunning camping spots to base yourself at. 

Whether you’re looking for a lakeside camping experience or you want to explore the beauty surrounding Lake Michigan, we’ve got you covered with the five best campgrounds in Wisconsin come winter, spring, summer, and fall. 

Can I Camp Anywhere in Wisconsin?

No, you can’t camp just anywhere in Wisconsin, but there are plenty of designated camping areas to choose from. These include state parks, national forests, and private campgrounds. Some places allow for boondocking or backcountry camping in non-designated campsites, such as the Nicolet National Forest, sixteen country forests, city parks, and certain county parks. 

Below, we review five of the best campgrounds with designated camping sites throughout the state.

Which Campground Is Best in Wisconsin?

What makes a campground the “best” is subjective, but we’ve researched all the most popular and highly recommended destinations in Wisconsin so you can check them out and decide which is truly the “best” in your book. Here are five of our favorite Wisconsin campgrounds.

Devil’s Lake State Park

Devil’s Lake State Park offers a 360-acre lake surrounded by quartzite bluffs that rise dramatically along the shore. This celebrated Wisconsin camping destination blends natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and a rugged landscape that has something for the whole family. 

If you like to hike, don’t miss the nearly 30 miles of maintained trails that will take you through serene forests nearby. For those who prefer more activity, try rock climbing or swimming to your heart’s content. The modern amenities of the park ensure you have a comfortable stay.

• Features: Large shimmering lake, surrounding quartzite bluffs, and extensive hiking trails.
• Facilities: Camping sites, restrooms, showers, picnic areas.
• Things to Know: Advanced reservations are highly recommended during peak seasons. Some areas may require permits.

Peninsula State Park

In Fish Creek, Wisconsin, on the Door Peninsula that juts out into Lake Michigan, you can settle into the beautiful Peninsula State Park. This popular camping site draws locals and travelers to its 460 campsites nestled among the meadows and forests overlooking the Great Lake. It’s even great for those new to camping, with non-nature activities such as a beautiful golf course and historic lighthouse. But there’s so much beauty, too. Hike, bike, or simply enjoy the tranquility of the rugged cliffs and pristine beaches. It’s an ideal balance of relaxation and adventure for group or solo camping, with enough modern comforts to make it an enjoyable stay that won’t feel like you’re “roughing it.”

• Features: Historic lighthouse, beaches, and cliffside views of Lake Michigan from the Door Peninsula.
• Facilities: Well-maintained campsites, golf course, and modern amenities.
• Things to Know: Make a reservation during the summer to secure your spot.

Apostles Islands National Lakeshore

Head to Wisconsin’s northern tip to Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, which covers a unique archipelago of 21 islands and a stretch of the shoreline along Lake Superior. Eighteen islands provide designated boat camping sites for a truly remote and immersive camping experience. Or, explore the history of the place at the 19th-century lighthouses on Raspberry Island and Sand Island or the Lucerne shipwreck near Long Island. Visitors can also enjoy scenic coastal hikes, sea caves, and abundant natural wildlife, from falcons to bald eagles and black bears. If you’re looking for an isolated escape for peace and solitude as a solo camper, this is it. 

• Features: Remote island camping, sea caves, lighthouses, a shipwreck, wildlife, and coastal hikes.
• Facilities: Facilities are basic and rustic. 
• Things to Know: Camp permits are required to visit. Plan for boat access, weather changes, and conservation guidelines.

Wyalusing State Park

For a different kind of water view, plan a trip to Wyalusing State Park on the western side of the state, which is perched high above the confluence of the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers. Panoramic views don’t get much better than these, with dramatic and sweeping vistas of winding waterways and the lush landscapes that surround them. Explore them through rugged trails, or enjoy a picnic meal surrounded by local birds, waterfalls, and greenery. For something more active, check out the opportunities to bike, boat, canoe, kayak, fish, or hunt. There are also historic burial mounds, a Treasure Cave you can hike to, and even cross-country ski trails open in the winter.

• Features: Sweeping views of the Mississippi and the Wisconsin rivers, rugged trails, burial mounds, and a Treasure Cave.
• Facilities: Designated campsites, restrooms, BBQ grills, dump station, concession stand, fire pit, nature center, ranger station, RV or camping van hookups.
• Things to Know: Check local weather and seasonal closures before planning a trip.

High Cliff State Park

The appropriately named High Cliff State Park overlooks the largest inland lake in Wisconsin, surrounded by tall limestone cliffs. This 1,187-acre park near Sherwood is the only state-owned recreation area on Lake Winnebago. Claim one of the 100+ campsites set in the scenic woodlands of Wisconsin and take in the charming community landmarks, historic statues, and natural beauty. Make sure to visit the 12-foot statue of Chief Red Bird of the Winnebago Tribe, which stands on a large granite rock and watches over the lake. While you’re at it, make a pit stop at the Observation Tower for a different perspective, or go at night to see across the lake and countless stars above.

• Features: Historic landmarks, scenic woodlands, and views of Lake Winnebago.
• Facilities: Modern campsites, restrooms, dumping stations, concessions, boat launch, and visitors center.
• Things to Know: Learn about local attractions at the park office.

What Should I Pack for a Wisconsin Camping Trip?

• Tent, Stakes, Fly: Secure your shelter against wind and rain
• Tarp: Protect tent bottom and keep shoes clean
• Sleeping bag, pad, or air mattress
  Pillow
• Camp chairs: Lightweight and foldable for sitting by the fire
• Lanterns, flashlights, string lights
• Portable Power: Pack the EcoFlow RAPID Power Bank for phones and smartwatches, a portable power station like the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus for weekend camping, or a solar generator like the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Solar Generator (PV45W) for extended trips
• Clothing layers: Moisture-wicking base, insulated layer, rain jacket
• Shoes and socks: Hiking boots or waterproof shoes, wool or synthetic socks
• Hat and gloves for colder months
• Camp stove or portable grill—check for restrictions on open flames
• Lighter/matches
• Cookware: pot, pan, utensils
• Cooler or portable refrigerator
• Hydration packs or water bottles
• Food and snacks: Easy-cook meals, protein bars, trail mix
• Bear-proof food storage
• Toiletries and hygiene: Toothbrush and paste, biodegradable soap and wipes, sunscreen and lip balm, shower items
• First aid kit
• Bug spray
• GPS, map, or compass if cell service is unreliable, especially in remote areas
• Portable AC: Keep cool or warm up your tent with the EcoFlow WAVE 2 Portable Air Conditioner

15 Wisconsin Camping Tips

1. Plan for all seasons. Wisconsin’s weather can be unpredictable, with cold summer camping nights and sudden rain showers all year round. Pack layers and rain gear no matter what time of year you’re visiting.
2. See if reservations are required. Some campgrounds, including many state parks and private campgrounds, require reservations. Even campgrounds that don’t require reservations year-round may have different requirements during peak season, from May through September.
3. Beware of ticks and mosquitos. Wisconsin is home to wooded areas and wetlands, which attract mosquitos and ticks, some of which may carry Lyme disease. Use bug spray or wear permethrin-treated clothing for protection.
4. Know how to handle bears. Northern Wisconsin has black bears, so practice bear-safe camping habits like storing food in bear-proof containers or hanging it from a tree away from your campsite. Know what to do if you see a black bear or are approached by one.
5. Respect fire restrictions. Some areas may prohibit fires, and firewood transport restrictions may also be in place, so buy local firewood near your campsite.
6. Pack for water activities, including your swimsuit. Wisconsin camping destinations are often near lakes or rivers. You may also want to bring fishing gear, canoes, or kayaks.
7. Expect limited cell service. Remote areas may have weak cellular service. Download important maps, bring a GPS, and write down important information before you go.
8. Be ready for bugs at sunset. Mosquitos become most active around sunrise and sunset, so wear long sleeves or sport a head net to avoid them.
9. Check the hunting and fishing regulations. If you plan to hunt or fish, bring your Wisconsin DNR license and follow all local laws.
10. Respect nature. While camping, you’ll also be in the land that foxes, deer, eagles, and more call home. Keep a safe distance, never feed them, and store your food securely.
11. Stay on hiking trails. Never venture off marked hiking trails. This will protect undisturbed nature and prevent you from getting lost.
12. Bring a waterproof map. If you’re relying on a paper map due to poor cell service, ensure it’s waterproof. Laminating the map before you leave will protect it from rain and humidity.
13. Avoid poison ivy. Remember the saying, “Leaves of three, let it be.” It’s not uncommon to come across poison ivy in the depths of Wisconsin’s forests, so know what it looks like and avoid anything similar.
14. Consider camping in the fall. Wisconsin’s natural colors are most gorgeous in the fall as the leaves change. Plan a trip between late September and mid-October, as there are also fewer mosquitoes.
15. Observe quiet hours. Most campgrounds enforce quiet hours from 10 pm to 6 am, so follow them closely out of respect for your camping neighbors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

Camping in Wisconsin might be pretty chilly in the winter and spring months, but it’s one of the most pleasant places to spend a few days and nights in nature during the warm summer and early fall. From bluff side views of the Mississippi River or a Great Lake to historic landmarks, lush forests, and a quaint sense of community, there’s a lot to love about Wisconsin camping. Pay attention to the small details when planning your trip, from checking local weather and making early reservations to packing the comforts of home like the

EcoFlow River 3 Series for sustained power. You’ll soon be planning your next trip back to go camping in Wisconsin.