Explores the top family-friendly campgrounds in Wisconsin, highlighting their unique features, activities, and why they’re perfect for creating lasting memories with your loved ones. Prefer tent camping, RV sites, or cozy cabins, these destinations provide unparalleled opportunities for family fun in the Badger State.
Wisconsin, known as America’s Dairyland, is a haven for families seeking outdoor adventures. With over 15,000 inland lakes, two Great Lakes coastlines, and vast forests shaped by ancient glaciers, the state offers a diverse array of camping experiences. From sandy beaches to towering bluffs, Wisconsin’s campgrounds cater to families with activities like swimming, hiking, kayaking, and kid-friendly amenities such as waterparks and playgrounds.
Why Wisconsin is a Family Camping Paradise
Wisconsin’s natural beauty makes it an ideal destination for family camping. Bordered by Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, and crisscrossed by rivers like the Mississippi and Wisconsin, the state offers waterfront camping at every turn. Its rolling hills, formed by the Wisconsin Glacier, provide scenic backdrops, while its state parks, national forests, and private campgrounds offer a range of experiences from rustic to resort-style. Families can enjoy hiking trails, fishing, canoeing, and even cultural attractions like historic lighthouses or nearby small-town festivals. With options for tent camping, RV hookups, and glamping, Wisconsin ensures every family finds their perfect outdoor escape.
What Makes a Campground Family-Friendly?
Great family campground goes beyond a place to pitch a tent or park an RV. It offers amenities and activities that engage both kids and adults, ensuring everyone has fun. Key features include:
- Kid-Friendly Amenities: Playgrounds, swimming pools, splash pads, and organized activities like crafts or scavenger hunts.
- Safety and Accessibility: Clean facilities, spacious sites, and safe environments for kids to explore.
- Diverse Activities: Options for hiking, fishing, kayaking, or biking to keep the whole family entertained.
- Comfort Options: Cabins or glamping for families who prefer a less rugged experience.
- Proximity to Attractions: Easy access to nearby towns, waterparks, or natural wonders for day trips.
With these criteria in mind, let’s dive into the best campgrounds in Wisconsin for families, organized by region for easy planning.
Great Places to Camp in Wisconsin
Great places to camp in Wisconsin include lush forests, tranquil lakesides, and well-equipped family campgrounds that provide a perfect setting for outdoor adventures. From the scenic beauty of Devil’s Lake State Park to the serene shores of Door County, Wisconsin offers diverse camping spots that cater to both relaxation and recreation. Locations combine natural charm with family-friendly amenities, making them ideal for memorable camping experiences throughout the year.
Southern Wisconsin: Adventure Near Urban Hubs
Devil’s Lake State Park (Baraboo)
Great places to camp in Wisconsin include a variety of scenic and family-friendly destinations, each offering unique outdoor experiences. Located just outside Wisconsin Dells, Devil’s Lake State Park is one of the top campgrounds in Wisconsin, spanning 9,217 acres with a breathtaking 360-acre lake nestled between 500-foot quartzite bluffs. This park is a favorite for families, thanks to its stunning views, hiking trails, swimming beaches, and picnic areas that make it an ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure.
- Why It’s Great for Families: The park offers 423 campsites across three campgrounds, with options for tents, RVs, and electric hookups. The sandy beaches at Devil’s Lake are perfect for swimming, and families can rent kayaks, canoes, or stand-up paddleboards. The park’s 29 miles of trails, including the popular East and West Bluff trails, offer breathtaking views and are manageable for older kids. Nearby Wisconsin Dells, known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” provides additional entertainment for rainy days or day trips.
- Kid-Friendly Amenities: Clean restrooms, showers, and a concession stand. The park’s nature center offers educational programs for kids, including guided hikes and wildlife talks.
- Activities: Rock climbing, fishing, swimming, and hiking. The park’s no-wake lake ensures calm waters for family paddling.
- Nearby Attractions: Wisconsin Dells waterparks, House on the Rock, and the International Crane Foundation.
- Tips: Book campsites early through wisconsin.goingtocamp.com, as Devil’s Lake is popular year-round. Bring bug spray for summer camping due to mosquitoes.
Fox Hill RV Park & Campground (Baraboo)
Great places to camp in Wisconsin include scenic landscapes and family-friendly campgrounds that offer both relaxation and recreation. Located just outside Wisconsin Dells, Devil’s Lake State Park is one of the top campgrounds in Wisconsin, featuring 9,217 acres of natural beauty and a 360-acre lake framed by 500-foot quartzite bluffs. On 70 acres just 15 minutes from Wisconsin Dells, Fox Hill RV Park & Campground is a family favorite, ranked number one on TripAdvisor for specialty lodging in Baraboo as of January 2014. Its proximity to Devil’s Lake State Park and local attractions makes it an ideal base. These popular campgrounds in Wisconsin offer unforgettable outdoor experiences for families, couples, and nature enthusiasts.
- Why It’s Great for Families: Fox Hill offers 17 cabins, RV sites with full hookups, and tent sites, all with fire rings and picnic tables. The campground’s heated pool, playground, and disc golf course keep kids entertained, while a fenced pet area ensures furry family members are welcome. Weekend pancake breakfasts add a fun community vibe.
- Kid-Friendly Amenities: Clean bathrooms with free showers, a camp store, and a nearby golf course with discounts for guests.
- Activities: Swimming, hiking, disc golf, and biking. Devil’s Lake State Park is just seven miles away for additional outdoor adventures.
- Nearby Attractions: Wisconsin Dells, Devil’s Lake State Park, and Baraboo’s charming downtown.
- Tips: Reserve cabins early for peak summer weekends. The campground’s serene setting is perfect for families seeking a balance of nature and amenities.
Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resort (Wisconsin Dells)
Summer tradition for nearly five decades, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park in Wisconsin Dells is a kid’s paradise with its waterpark, splashground, and themed activities. Located near the Wisconsin River, it combines natural beauty with resort-style fun. Other top-rated campgrounds in Wisconsin include Fox Hill RV Park, Peninsula State Park in Door County, and Devil’s Lake State Park, all offering unforgettable outdoor experiences.
- Why It’s Great for Families: With over 200 campsites, cabins, and RV sites, this campground caters to all camping styles. The waterpark features slides, a lazy river, and wading pools, while on-site activities include wagon rides, mini golf, and character meet-and-greets with Yogi Bear. Themed weekends, like Halloween or pirate days, keep kids engaged.
- Kid-Friendly Amenities: Multiple swimming pools, a game room, and a camp store. Cabins offer air conditioning and kitchens for added comfort.
- Activities: Swimming, mini golf, crafts, and fishing in nearby ponds. The Wisconsin River offers tubing and kayaking opportunities.
- Nearby Attractions: Wisconsin Dells waterparks, Mirror Lake State Park, and the Tommy Bartlett Show.
- Tips: Book early for themed weekends, and take advantage of midweek discounts for budget-friendly stays.
Central Wisconsin: Lakes and Family Fun
Wilderness Campground (Montello)
Wilderness Campground, located in Montello near Madison and Wisconsin Dells, is a family-owned gem offering clean facilities and a variety of activities. Popular among Wisconsin family campgrounds, it’s praised for its friendly vibe and kid-friendly amenities, making it perfect for memorable family getaways.
- Why It’s Great for Families: The campground offers spacious tent and RV sites, plus cabins, nestled between three tranquil lakes. Kids love the giant jumping pillow, water slides, pedal karts, and paddle boats. Daily activities, such as crafts and scavenger hunts, ensure there’s always something to do. The campground enforces quiet hours for a peaceful family experience.
- Kid-Friendly Amenities: Heated pool, playgrounds, clean showers, and a camp store. The lakefront offers a sandy beach for swimming.
- Activities: Canoeing, fishing, mini golf, and biking. Nearby Montello has family-friendly attractions like waterfalls and historic sites.
- Nearby Attractions: Wisconsin Dells, Cascade Mountain Ski Area, and local farmers’ markets.
- Tips: Book early for holiday weekends like the 4th of July, which feature special events. Bring water shoes for lake activities.
Buckhorn State Park (Necedah)
Buckhorn State Park, situated on Castle Rock Lake in central Wisconsin, is a hidden gem among campgrounds in Wisconsin. It offers family-friendly campground spots and remote tent camping options. Close to Wisconsin Dells, it serves as a perfect base for families to explore the beautiful region while enjoying peaceful lakeside camping.
- Why It’s Great for Families: The park features a family campground with electric hookups and remote tent sites for a more secluded experience. The sandy beach is ideal for swimming, and a self-guided canoe trail through the flowage area is perfect for family adventures. Fishing and boating are popular, with Castle Rock Lake teeming with fish.
- Kid-Friendly Amenities: Clean restrooms, showers, and a playground. The park’s nature center offers educational programs for kids.
- Activities: Canoeing, kayaking, fishing, swimming, and hiking. The park’s trails offer opportunities to spot wildlife like deer and eagles.
- Nearby Attractions: Wisconsin Dells, Necedah National Wildlife Refuge, and the Wo-Zha-Wa Festival in September.
- Tips: Mosquitoes can be intense in summer, so pack bug repellent. Reserve sites early for peak season.
Huckleberry Acres Campground (New London)
Huckleberry Acres, a small family-owned campground in central Wisconsin, is beloved for its cozy, intimate setting and dedication to family fun. The large pond with a central island is a favorite spot, especially for kids, making it a perfect getaway for families seeking a peaceful outdoor experience.
- Why It’s Great for Families: Campground offers tent sites, RV sites with water and electric hookups, and cabins. Swimming and fishing pond is a hit with kids, who can canoe or kayak around the island. Stocked bar and Tiki bar add a fun vibe for parents, while the nearby town of New London hosts the New Dublin Irish Fest in March.
- Kid-Friendly Amenities: Playground, clean bathrooms, and a camp store. The pond’s sandy beach is great for young swimmers.
- Activities: Fishing, kayaking, swimming, and volleyball. The campground hosts family-friendly events like movie nights.
- Nearby Attractions: New London’s restaurants and shops, Mosquito Hill Nature Center, and local festivals.
- Tips: The pond’s small fish make fishing easy for kids, so bring simple rods. Book seasonal sites early for returning campers.
Western Wisconsin: Rivers and Rolling Hills
Wisconsin Riverside Resort (Spring Green)
Located along the Wisconsin River, Wisconsin Riverside Resort combines natural beauty with family-friendly amenities. Its proximity to Spring Green’s cultural attractions makes it a versatile choice.
- Why It’s Great for Families: The resort offers RV sites, tent sites with electric hookups, and cabins. Kids love the swim pond, sandy beach, and mini golf, while parents appreciate the on-site restaurant and bar. Kayaking and tubing on the Wisconsin River are major draws, with rentals available on-site.
- Kid-Friendly Amenities: Heated pool, playground, clean showers, and a camp store. The resort’s pet-friendly policy is a bonus for families with dogs.
- Activities: Kayaking, tubing, fishing, swimming, and biking. The nearby Fall Festival in Spring Green features a chili cook-off and fall foliage tours.
- Nearby Attractions: Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin, House on the Rock, and the American Players Theatre.
- Tips: Book riverfront sites for the best views. Bring water shoes for river activities.
Merrick State Park (Fountain City)
Situated on the Mississippi River, Merrick State Park is a peaceful retreat perfect for families who love water activities. Its flat terrain and calm waters make it ideal for young campers.
- Why It’s Great for Families: The park offers 65 campsites across three areas, including RV sites with electric hookups and walk-in tent sites. Families can paddle through inlets and beaches, fish from the shore, or explore nearby islands by canoe. The park’s quiet atmosphere is perfect for relaxing family vacations.
- Kid-Friendly Amenities: Clean restrooms, showers, and a boat ramp. The park’s flat layout is easy for kids to navigate.
- Activities: Canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and hiking. Fall camping offers stunning views of changing leaves.
- Nearby Attractions: Winona, Minnesota, Lock and Dam 5A, and local supper clubs.
- Tips: Reserve sites early for fall camping. Bring binoculars for birdwatching along the Mississippi flyway.
Eastern Wisconsin: Door County and Lake Michigan
Peninsula State Park (Fish Creek)
Peninsula State Park, located in Door County along eight miles of Green Bay shoreline, is one of Wisconsin’s most iconic camping destinations. With 468 campsites across five campgrounds, it’s a family-friendly hub with endless activities.
- Why It’s Great for Families: Park offers tent sites, RV sites with electric hookups, and group sites. Kids love swimming at Nicolet Beach, biking the shoreline trails, and exploring the historic Eagle Bluff Lighthouse. Park’s Northern Sky Theater hosts family-friendly shows, and the newly reconstructed Eagle Tower offers stunning views.
- Kid-Friendly Amenities: Showers, flush toilets, concessions, and bike rentals. The White Cedar Nature Center offers kids’ programs.
- Activities: Hiking, biking, kayaking, swimming, and fishing. Golf at the Peninsula Golf Course is a fun family outing.
- Nearby Attractions: Fish Creek’s cafes and shops, Door County Maritime Museum, and cherry orchards.
- Tips: Book early, as sites fill up months in advance. Visit in fall for vibrant foliage.
Tranquil Timbers Camping Resort (Sturgeon Bay)
Near Lake Michigan and Potawatomi State Park, Tranquil Timbers offers a serene, wooded setting with modern amenities, making it a great choice for families exploring Door County.
- Why It’s Great for Families: Campground features tent sites, RV sites, and cabins, with water and electric hookups available. Kids enjoy the pool, game room, and organized activities like crafts and movie nights. Shaded sites create a cool, forest-like atmosphere.
- Kid-Friendly Amenities: Heated pool, clean showers, and a camp store. The resort’s proximity to boat landings makes water activities accessible.
- Activities: Swimming, hiking, fishing, and biking. Potawatomi State Park’s trails are great for family hikes.
- Nearby Attractions: Door County’s beaches, wineries, and the Ridges Sanctuary.
- Tips: Book cabins for a comfortable stay. Check the resort’s activity schedule for family events.
Northern Wisconsin: Lake Superior and Wilderness
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore (Bayfield)
For adventurous families, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore offers a unique camping experience on 19 of its 21 islands. Accessible only by boat or kayak, it’s a remote paradise with stunning sea caves and beaches.
- Why It’s Great for Families: The islands offer rustic tent camping, with sites on islands like Stockton and Sand. Families can kayak to sea caves, fish in Lake Superior, or hike island trails. The lack of vehicles ensures a peaceful, nature-focused experience. Guided kayak tours are available for families new to paddling.
- Kid-Friendly Amenities: Basic amenities like fire rings and pit toilets. Some islands have docks for easier access.
- Activities: Kayaking, fishing, hiking, and swimming. The sea caves are a highlight for older kids.
- Nearby Attractions: Bayfield’s ferry rides, Madeline Island, and the Big Bay State Park.
- Tips: Book guided tours for safety. Pack light and bring waterproof gear for island camping.
Copper Falls State Park (Mellen)
Copper Falls State Park, in northern Wisconsin, is a scenic gem with waterfalls, Loon Lake, and family-friendly camping. Its secluded feel makes it perfect for nature-loving families.
- Why It’s Great for Families: The park offers 68 campsites, with electric hookups and a mix of tent and RV sites. Kids can swim or paddle on Loon Lake (electric motors only), while the Doughboys Nature Trail leads to Copper and Brownstone Falls. Winter camping is popular for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
- Kid-Friendly Amenities: Showers, flush toilets, and paddleboard rentals. The park’s quiet setting is ideal for families.
- Activities: Hiking, kayaking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The Bad River trail is great for family strolls.
- Nearby Attractions: Ashland, Lake Superior, and other northern state parks like Pattison and Brule River.
- Tips: Reserve sites early for summer and fall. Bring warm layers for cool northern nights.
Big Bay State Park (Madeline Island)
Accessible by a 20-minute ferry from Bayfield, Big Bay State Park on Madeline Island offers a secluded camping experience along Lake Superior’s shores. Its 1.5-mile beach is a family favorite.
- Why It’s Great for Families: The park’s 60 campsites include tent and RV options, with some electric hookups. The sandy beach is perfect for swimming, and trails explore wetlands and dunes. Kids love the ferry ride, which adds adventure to the trip.
- Kid-Friendly Amenities: Showers, flush toilets, and a playground. The park’s remote setting ensures a peaceful stay.
- Activities: Swimming, hiking, kayaking, and fishing. The boardwalk trail through dunes is great for kids.
- Nearby Attractions: Madeline Island’s museums, La Pointe, and Lake Superior fishing charters.
- Tips: Book ferry tickets and campsites in advance. Bring bikes for exploring the car-light island.
Tips for Planning a Family Camping Trip in Wisconsin
- Book Early: Wisconsin’s state parks and popular private campgrounds fill up quickly, especially in summer and fall. Use wisconsin.goingtocamp.com for state park reservations, and check private campground websites for availability.
- Pack for the Weather: Wisconsin’s weather can vary, with warm summers and cool nights, especially in the north. Bring layers, bug spray, and waterproof gear.
- Choose the Right Campground: Match the campground to your family’s camping style—rustic for adventure, resort-style for amenities, or cabins for comfort.
- Plan Activities: Balance structured activities (e.g., waterparks, guided tours) with free time for campfires and s’mores.
- Check for Permits: Some activities, like fishing or biking on state trails, require permits. Annual park passes ($28 for Wisconsin residents, $38 for non-residents) can save money for multiple visits.
- Involve Kids: Let kids help plan activities or pack their gear to build excitement and responsibility.
Wisconsin’s campgrounds offer something for every family, from the waterpark thrills of Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park to the remote wilderness of the Apostle Islands. Pitching a tent by Lake Superior, kayaking the Wisconsin River, or hiking the bluffs of Devil’s Lake, these destinations provide the perfect backdrop for family bonding and outdoor adventure. With clean facilities, kid-friendly amenities, and proximity to cultural and natural attractions, Wisconsin’s campgrounds ensure unforgettable memories. Start planning your trip today, and discover why Wisconsin is a top destination for family camping.
