Wisconsin’s landscape consists of 15,000 lakes – that’s right, 15,000! That is a stunning backdrop to beautiful scenery and fantastic wildlife along thousands of miles of shoreline. An abundance of lakes makes camping locations within Wisconsin perfect for boating, swimming, fishing, kayaking, and more! If this sounds alluring to you, keep reading to see the 21 Best Spots for Lake Camping in Wisconsin.
Wisconsin State Parks
Devil’s Lake State Park

Tucked away 30 miles south of the famous Wisconsin Dells is Devil’s Lake State Park. You are welcomed with rocky bluffs, gorgeous tree lines, and the stunning Devil’s Lake. Great place if you are looking to spend most of your day hiking, kayaking, and swimming. With 400 campsite locations, you can either tent camp or use the RV since they have power hookups.
Mirror Lake State Park
Another State Park near Wisconsin Dells that’s fantastic for Wisconsin lake camping is Mirror Lake State Park. Mirror Lake gets its name because of the calm waters that perfectly reflect the bluffs and gorgeous trees surrounding it. This state park is excellent for lake camping in Wisconsin and has multiple spacious RV or tent camping campsites. There are many hiking trails throughout the wondrous woods and swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities.
Northern Highland American Legion State Forest
With over 236,000 acres of protected forest and 900 plus lakes to camp near, Northern Highland American Legion State Forest ranks top on the list. With 18 different campsite locations, you are sure to find the perfect place to explore, hike, and enjoy nature. With four modern campgrounds to choose from, you can bring the whole family to enjoy the wonders of this state park.
While backcountry camping, many sites are found scattered around the foresty landscape. A special permit and GPS tracking are required while visiting these areas since some are only accessible by canoe or kayak.
Newport State Park
This hike-in lakeside camping offers impressive campsites along the coast of Lake Michigan. Everything you decide to bring in, you also need to bring back out. There are three first-come, first-serve campsites along the shoreline and 16 others you can reserve. This is tent-only camping, so be ready for a truly relaxing experience. Newport State Park has over 30 miles of hiking trails used all year long and during the winter becomes a cross country skier’s dream.
Kohler Andrae State Park
Just one hour north of Milwaukee is the spacious Kohler Andrae State Park. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, you are surrounded by sandy beaches, dunes, and endless boardwalks, making this an excellent place for summer camping. With modern camping facilities and power hookups, you can camp by tent or RV for some relaxing lake camping in Wisconsin.
Peninsula State Park
Located in Door County, Wisconsin, Peninsula State Park is a fantastic lakeside camping location. Biking, hiking, kayaking, and historical landmarks are within walking distance of most campgrounds. Check out the Peninsula State Park Camping Guide to see if this is the lakeside spot for you! With endless things to do and multiple waterfront campsites, you are sure to have a fun-filled camping trip perfect for the whole family.
Buckhorn State Park
If you are searching for a campground perfect for fishing and relaxing by the water Buckhorn State Park is the place for you. This reservoir was formed by the Yellow and Wisconsin Rivers meeting and is known as an excellent fishing spot for salmon, trout, and bluegill. With 69 campsites to choose from and modern camping amenities, this park had to make it to the list. Check out all the reasons to choose this state park as your next lake camping destination here!
Lake Wissota State Park
A manufactured lake, Lake Wissota State Park is the perfect place for lake camping in Wisconsin. There are many things to do at this state park with boat rentals, hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails. With over 100 campsites available and modern camping amenities, this is a great spot to bring the whole family.
Yellow Stone Lake State Park
With over 4,000 acres of exploration ahead of you, Yellow Stone Lake Park is a must-visit lakeside camping location. With 128 campsites and modern camping amenities, this is an excellent place for much-needed nature exploration. You will never run out of things to do when visiting this state park, from hiking, fishing, swimming, and boating.
Rock Island State Park
A superb primitive camping location, Rock Island State Park is set off the peninsula in Door County, Wisconsin. Known for its incredible nightly stargazing and miles of sandy beaches and shorelines, this is a fantastic location to grab the hiking boots and explore. With only 40 campsites, be ready for some off-the-grid camping.
High Cliff State Park
Situated along Lake Winnebago, High Cliff State Park is a must-visit state park. This 1,187-acre park is known for its excellent cliff environments. With fishing, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, and so much more, you will never run out of things to do at this stunning state park. With 112 campsites 32 with power hookups, you need to grab the family and head to this excellent lakeside campground for your next lake camping trip.
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is so exciting because it’s hike-in or kayak-in camping only. You are surrounded by 21 islands and the beautiful waters of Lake Superior. 18 out of the 21 islands you can camp at, and some have private docks if you want to boat here. You will need your sea kayak versus a lake kayak and plenty of waterproof clothing and gear if looking to this national lakeshore.
Lake Camping Campgrounds
Lake Joy Campground
Experience one of the best fishing and camping locations for lake camping in Wisconsin. Explore 60 acres of no-wake lakeshore and sunny sandy beaches. Lake Joy Campground offers modern amenities such as power hookups, laundromat, campground store, and more. With hundreds of great reviews, you will want to visit Lake Joy.
Lake Wisconsin Campground
Located on the shores of Lake Wisconsin, this campsite has all the modern amenities you could ask for while still sitting back and enjoying the view. With 149 sites and most containing power hookups, this is a great place to bring the RV.
Turtle Flambeau Flowage
Paddlers rejoice. This rustic campground is perfect for getting out on the water. These 66 rustic campsites are first-come, first-serve, offer no power hookups, and are equipped with a fire ring and a picnic table. Be ready to rough it at Turtle Flambeau Flowage and be prepared for the peacefulness of the woods around you.
Blackhawk Lake
Located in the southwest region of Wisconsin, Blackhawk Lake offers camping, fishing, hiking, and relaxation within its 150 open and wooded campsites. When looking to get as close to the water as possible, there are ten power hookup sites and three walk-in tent sites for you to choose from. Not ready to rough the outdoors? Enjoy one of five rentable cabins located on the grounds.
Lake DuBay Park Campground
Bordered by Lake DuBay, this 51-acre park provides access to boating, fishing, and swimming. With 36 spacious spread-out campsites within a wooded area, this location feels quiet, calm, and quaint. All sites have power hookups and recreation areas.
Bear Lake Campground
Bear Lake Campground is located on the beautiful Bear Lake, surrounded by the towering 150-year-old pines. With 175 sites, you can bring the tent or the RV with all the modern camping amenities available. There is a laundromat, small grocery store, bar and grill, and so much more on-site! Great place for a family getaway.
Lakeside Fire Campground
When visiting Lakeside Fire Campground on the 52-acre Ross Lake, you are greeted with over 200 campsites, some with power hookups and some reserved for tent camping only; no matter where you decide to set up camp, you have terrific views of Ross Lake. Rentable cabins are available by reservation only and you can even rent a golf cart during your visit to explore with ease. Plan the perfect family getaway at Lakeside Fire.
Lakeside Glamping
Neshonoc Lakeside Camping Resort
Now, this is “glamping.” Neshonoc Lakeside Camping Resort is nestled beautifully on Neshonoc Lake. This camping resort has many modern amenities while still getting you close to nature. With vacation cabins and RV sites, you will not see any tent campers here, but you get the whole experience of lakeside camping.
Lake Arrowhead Campground
Another great “glamping“ location is Lake Arrowhead Campground. With 118 sites, cabins, trailers, and RV locations, not to mention the many modern amenities within this campground, you do not have to travel out to get anything. Nestled into Lake Pukaway, this is an excellent spot for lake camping in Wisconsin.
Wrapping Up The Best Lake Camping In Wisconsin
There are so many fantastic lakeside camping locations in Wisconsin. Did we miss your favorite? We would love to know in the comments below!
Want more Wisconsin Camping Blogs? Check out all of our blogs just about Wisconsin Camping.
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Lauren is a housewife and mother with a passion for writing about all things outdoors! Whether choosing a camping location or the top chairs to put around your campfire, Lauren will guide you each step of the way.
So make sure to get up and plan that outdoor getaway, and remember to see what Lauren has to say about the best camping or gaming gear and what sites to visit!