Top Family Campgrounds in Wisconsin: Fun for Everyone

Readers, are you looking for the perfect family camping getaway in the heart of Wisconsin? With its stunning natural beauty, abundant outdoor activities, and diverse campground options, Wisconsin offers something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking a serene lakeside retreat, an action-packed adventure, or a comfortable glamping experience, the state has you covered. We’ve scoured the state and compiled a list of the top family campgrounds in Wisconsin, each offering unique amenities, kid-friendly activities, and memorable experiences.

We’ve been camping for years and have personally visited many of these top-rated Wisconsin family campgrounds. We’ve analyzed online reviews, considered family-friendly features, and prioritized safety and accessibility for families. This comprehensive guide will equip you with all the information you need to plan your next camping escapade in the Badger State.

Best Family Campgrounds in Wisconsin: A Comprehensive Guide

1. Devil’s Lake State Park, Baraboo

Nestled in the heart of Wisconsin’s Baraboo Range, Devil’s Lake State Park is a renowned destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Its iconic quartzite bluffs, scenic hiking trails, and crystal-clear lake create a breathtaking backdrop for adventure and relaxation.

Families can explore the park’s numerous hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs. The Devil’s Lake Beach offers swimming, sunbathing, and paddle boating opportunities. For a unique experience, consider taking a guided tour of the park’s historic stone arch bridge or exploring the nearby Wisconsin Dells, a renowned waterpark destination.

Devil’s Lake State Park boasts over 200 developed campsites, including some with electric hookups. The park also offers cabin rentals for those who prefer a more comfortable lodging option.

2. Northern Highland American Legion State Forest, Vilas County

Escape to the wilderness of Vilas County and discover the pristine beauty of the Northern Highland American Legion State Forest. This vast expanse of forest and lakes is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Families can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and wildlife viewing. The forest features numerous lakes, perfect for swimming, paddle boating, and fishing. With over 100 miles of hiking trails, there’s an adventure for every level, from leisurely strolls to challenging backcountry hikes.

The Northern Highland American Legion State Forest offers several campgrounds, each with its own unique charm. Choose from rustic campsites with basic amenities or modern sites with electric hookups and water.

3. Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin Dells

For families seeking a blend of camping and waterpark fun, Wisconsin Dells is the ultimate destination. The city is home to a plethora of waterparks, amusement parks, and other family-friendly attractions.

The Dells offers a variety of camping options, from RV parks with full hookups to campgrounds with basic amenities. Many campgrounds are conveniently located near the waterparks and other attractions, making it easy to enjoy all the excitement the area offers.

Choose from a range of waterpark adventures, including Noah’s Ark Waterpark, Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park, and the Wisconsin Dells Waterpark & Resort. Be sure to check out other attractions, such as the Tommy Bartlett Exploratory, the Rick Wilcox Magic Theatre, and the Dells Scenic Railway.

4. Mirror Lake State Park, Wisconsin Rapids

Nestled in the heart of Wisconsin’s Central Sands region, Mirror Lake State Park is a gem for families seeking a tranquil escape. The park’s namesake lake, Mirror Lake, is known for its pristine waters and breathtaking reflections.

Families can enjoy scenic hiking trails, including the Lakeside Trail, which offers stunning views of the lake. The park also has a swimming beach, a boat launch, and a playground. For a unique experience, consider renting a kayak or canoe and exploring the lake’s secluded coves.

Mirror Lake State Park offers over 100 campsites, including some with electric hookups. The park also provides restrooms, showers, and a dump station for RV campers.

5. Point Beach State Forest, Two Rivers

Located along the shores of Lake Michigan, Point Beach State Forest offers breathtaking views, sandy beaches, and a variety of outdoor activities for families. The forest is known for its diverse ecosystem, featuring towering sand dunes, lush forests, and coastal wetlands.

Families can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and fishing along the park’s beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline. The forest also offers hiking trails, including the popular Point Beach Trail, which winds through the dunes and along the lakeshore. The park’s interpretive center provides insights into the area’s natural and cultural history.

Point Beach State Forest provides several campgrounds, each offering a mix of rustic and modern amenities. Choose from campsites with electric hookups or basic sites with picnic tables and fire rings.

Top Family-Friendly Features in Wisconsin Campgrounds

Wisconsin campgrounds cater to families with a wide range of amenities and activities designed to enhance your camping experience. Some of the common family-friendly features you’ll find at many Wisconsin campgrounds include:

Playgrounds: Many campgrounds provide dedicated playgrounds with swings, slides, and other equipment for kids to enjoy.
Swimming Beaches: Several campgrounds have sandy beaches with designated swimming areas, perfect for splashing around on hot summer days.
Hiking Trails: Families can explore scenic hiking trails that wind through forests, along lakeshores, or over rolling hills.
Fishing Piers & Boat Launches: Campgrounds often offer fishing piers or boat launches, allowing families to cast a line and enjoy a day of fishing.
Group Campsites: For larger families or groups of friends, many campgrounds offer group campsites with ample space for tents, RVs, and gatherings.
Camp Store: Campgrounds frequently have a camp store offering essentials like firewood, snacks, camping gear, and souvenirs.

Planning Your Wisconsin Family Camping Trip

Before embarking on your Wisconsin family camping adventure, here are some essential tips to help you plan a successful and enjoyable trip:

Choose the Right Campground: Consider your family’s needs and preferences when selecting a campground. Do you want a secluded wilderness experience or a campground with many amenities? Are you looking for a specific type of accommodation, such as RV hookups or cabin rentals?
Reserve Your Spot in Advance: Many popular campgrounds book up quickly, especially during peak season. Make your reservations well in advance to secure your spot.
Pack for All Conditions: Wisconsin weather can be unpredictable, so pack for a range of conditions, including rain, sunshine, and cooler temperatures.
Be Prepared for Wildlife: Wisconsin is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, deer, and other animals. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid encounters.
Follow Leave No Trace Principles: Minimize your impact on the environment by following Leave No Trace principles. Pack out everything you pack in, dispose of waste properly, and respect wildlife.

Best Family Campgrounds in Northern Wisconsin

Northern Wisconsin is renowned for its pristine lakes, vast forests, and abundant outdoor activities. Here are some of the top family campgrounds in the region:

1. Big Eau Pleine State Park

Big Eau Pleine State Park in central Wisconsin offers a serene retreat for families seeking a tranquil camping experience. The park is home to the 1,500-acre Big Eau Pleine Lake, perfect for swimming, boating, fishing, and kayaking.

The park features over 100 campsites, including some with electric hookups. Big Eau Pleine State Park also provides restrooms, showers, a dump station, and a camp store. The park’s scenic hiking trails wind through forests and along the lake’s shores, offering breathtaking views.

Families can enjoy the park’s diverse wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and birds. The park’s campground offers a playground, a picnic area, and a boat launch. Big Eau Pleine State Park is a great option for families looking for a peaceful escape in a beautiful natural setting.

2. Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest

The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, encompassing over 1.5 million acres, offers a vast expanse of wilderness for families to explore. The forest boasts numerous lakes, rivers, and streams, perfect for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.

Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest provides a variety of campgrounds, ranging from rustic sites with basic amenities to more modern campgrounds with electric hookups and water. The forest’s diverse ecosystem offers opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and nature exploration.

Families can choose from over 100 miles of hiking trails, including the scenic North Country Trail. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, bear, wolf, and a variety of birds. Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest is an excellent destination for families seeking an authentic wilderness experience.

3. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, located in northern Wisconsin, offers an unparalleled combination of breathtaking scenery, diverse outdoor activities, and a rich maritime history. The lakeshore features 21 islands, each with its own unique character and charm.

Families can explore the islands by boat, kayak, or canoe, immersing themselves in the area’s natural beauty. The lakeshore offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The park’s historic lighthouses are a must-see for history buffs.

The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore provides several campgrounds on various islands, offering a range of amenities. Some campgrounds are accessible only by boat, providing a true wilderness experience. The lakeshore’s unique location and diverse activities make it a truly memorable destination for families.

4. The Wilderness State Park

The Wilderness State Park, located in northern Wisconsin, encompasses over 7,000 acres of pristine wilderness, offering families an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The park features numerous lakes, streams, and forests, perfect for hiking, fishing, paddling, and wildlife viewing.

The Wilderness State Park offers a variety of campgrounds, providing a blend of rustic and modern amenities. The park provides over 100 campsites, some with electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings. The park’s scenic hiking trails wind through forests and along lakeshores, offering breathtaking views.

The Wilderness State Park is known for its abundance of wildlife, including deer, wolf, black bear, and a variety of birds. The park’s fishing opportunities are excellent, with numerous lakes and streams teeming with fish. The Wilderness State Park is an ideal destination for families seeking a true wilderness adventure.

5. Council Grounds State Park

Council Grounds State Park, located near Black River Falls, is a historical gem for families seeking a blend of nature and history. The park is known for its prehistoric effigy mounds, which are unique earthen formations shaped like animals. The park boasts a beautiful lake, perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating.

Council Grounds State Park provides over 100 campsites, including some with electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings. The park’s campground also offers a playground, a picnic area, and a boat launch. The park’s scenic hiking trails lead to the prehistoric effigy mounds and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Families can learn about the park’s history at the interpretive center, which provides insights into the area’s Native American heritage. Council Grounds State Park is an excellent destination for families seeking a unique combination of nature and history.

Best Family Campgrounds in Southern Wisconsin

Southern Wisconsin offers a blend of rolling hills, scenic lakes, and vibrant cities, providing families with a diverse range of camping experiences. Here are some of the top family campgrounds in the region:

1. Governor Dodge State Park

Governor Dodge State Park, located near Dodgeville, is a sprawling park with rolling hills, dense forests, and a variety of outdoor activities for families. The park is home to the scenic Dodgeville Creek, perfect for fishing and kayaking.

The park provides over 200 campsites, including some with electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings. Governor Dodge State Park also offers a playground, a picnic area, and a boat launch. The park’s scenic hiking trails wind through forests and along the creek, offering breathtaking views.

Governor Dodge State Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and birds. The park’s fishing opportunities are excellent, with numerous lakes and streams teeming with fish. Governor Dodge State Park is an ideal destination for families seeking a blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty.

2. Blue Mound State Park

Blue Mound State Park, located near Blue Mounds, is known for its iconic Blue Mound, a prominent geological formation that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The park features a beautiful lake, perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating.

Blue Mound State Park provides over 100 campsites, including some with electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings. The park’s campground also offers a playground, a picnic area, and a boat launch. The park’s scenic hiking trails lead to the summit of Blue Mound, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Blue Mound State Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and birds. The park’s fishing opportunities are excellent, with numerous lakes and streams teeming with fish. Blue Mound State Park is an ideal destination for families seeking a blend of history, nature, and scenic beauty.

3. Kettle Moraine State Forest

The Kettle Moraine State Forest, located in southeastern Wisconsin, offers a diverse range of camping experiences for families. The forest features rolling hills, dense forests, and numerous lakes and streams, perfect for hiking, fishing, paddling, and wildlife viewing.

The Kettle Moraine State Forest provides several campgrounds, including some with electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings. The forest offers over 100 miles of hiking trails, including the scenic Ice Age Trail, which follows the path of the last glaciers. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and birds.

The Kettle Moraine State Forest is an excellent destination for families seeking a blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty. The forest offers opportunities for camping, hiking, fishing, paddling, and wildlife viewing, making it an ideal destination for families seeking a true Wisconsin experience.

4. Lake Kegonsa State Park

Lake Kegonsa State Park, located near Stoughton, is a popular destination for families seeking a lakefront camping experience. The park features a beautiful lake, perfect for swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking.

The park provides over 100 campsites, including some with electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings. Lake Kegonsa State Park also offers a playground, a picnic area, and a boat launch. The park’s scenic hiking trails wind through forests and along the lake’s shores, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Lake Kegonsa State Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and birds. The park’s fishing opportunities are excellent, with numerous lakes and streams teeming with fish. Lake Kegonsa State Park is an ideal destination for families seeking a tranquil lakefront camping experience.

5. Devil’s Lake State Park

Devil’s Lake State Park, located near Baraboo, is a renowned destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Its iconic quartzite bluffs, scenic hiking trails, and crystal-clear lake create a breathtaking backdrop for adventure and relaxation.

Devil’s Lake State Park boasts over 200 developed campsites, including some with electric hookups. The park also offers cabin rentals for those who prefer a more comfortable lodging option. Devil’s Lake State Park is an excellent destination for families seeking a blend of outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, and historical charm.

FAQ: Family Camping in Wisconsin

Here are some frequently asked questions about family camping in Wisconsin:

1. What are the best times to camp in Wisconsin?

The best time to camp in Wisconsin depends on your preferences. Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds, while summer brings warm temperatures and opportunities for swimming and water activities. Winter camping offers a unique experience, but be prepared for cold temperatures and snow.

2. What should I pack for a family camping trip in Wisconsin?

When packing for a family camping trip in Wisconsin, remember to pack for all conditions, including rain, sunshine, and cooler temperatures. Bring essential gear, such as tents, sleeping bags, pillows, cooking supplies, first-aid kits, insect repellent, and sunscreen. Consider packing games, books, and activities to keep the whole family entertained.

3. Are there any campgrounds in Wisconsin that offer glamping?

Yes, several campgrounds in Wisconsin offer glamping options, providing a comfortable and luxurious camping experience. Look for campgrounds that offer yurts, cabins, or other glamping accommodations.

Conclusion

So, are you ready to embark on an unforgettable family camping adventure in Wisconsin? With its diverse range of campgrounds, family-friendly amenities, and breathtaking natural beauty, Wisconsin offers something for everyone. From serene lakeside retreats to action-packed adventures, there’s a perfect camping getaway waiting for your family.

We hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with valuable insights and tips for planning your next Wisconsin family camping trip. If you’re looking for more inspiration and information about camping in Wisconsin, be sure to check out our other articles on family camping, Wisconsin travel, and outdoor activities.

As you plan your next family adventure, consider the breathtaking landscapes and endless recreational opportunities that Wisconsin offers. From the rolling hills of the Driftless Area to the pristine shores of Lake Superior, the state boasts an impressive array of campgrounds perfect for creating lasting memories. Whether you seek tranquil lakeside settings, wooded retreats, or action-packed adventures, these top-rated family campgrounds cater to every taste and preference. Embrace the beauty of Wisconsin’s natural wonders, reconnect with loved ones under the starry skies, and create cherished experiences that will last a lifetime.

Beyond the captivating scenery and camping amenities, these campgrounds are designed to ensure that fun and laughter fill every moment. From exhilarating water activities like swimming, kayaking, and fishing to hiking through scenic trails and enjoying campfire sing-alongs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Many campgrounds offer unique programs and activities, such as nature walks, educational workshops, and even live entertainment, further enriching your family’s experience. In addition, the friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere create a sense of community, allowing you to connect with other families and share stories of adventure. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing weekend escape or a longer family vacation, these campgrounds provide the ideal setting for creating unforgettable memories that will be cherished for years to come.

So, gather your loved ones, pack your bags, and head to one of these incredible family campgrounds in Wisconsin. Embrace the spirit of adventure, soak in the beauty of nature, and create unforgettable memories that will bind your family together. Remember to respect the natural environment, practice responsible camping, and leave no trace behind. With its diverse offerings and commitment to family fun, Wisconsin promises an unforgettable camping experience that will leave you yearning for your next visit.

Unforgettable family adventures await! Discover Wisconsin’s top campgrounds with stunning nature, kid-friendly activities, and memories that last a lifetime.