A weekly column written by the staff of Discover Wisconsin highlights things to do and see throughout the State of Wisconsin, and is made available for publication to members of the Wisconsin Newspaper Association. The column is accompanied by photos for use in print and online. The Discover Wisconsin logo can be downloaded here.
It’s summer in Wisconsin, and what better way to spend it than outside with friends and family? While there are a plethora of outdoor activities Wisconsinites can partake in, camping is surely a fan favorite. We’re here to fill you in on the best camping spots along with a few hidden gems you’re not going to want to miss.
Devil’s Lake State Park
This first camping spot is well known but never ceases to amaze. Devil’s Lake State Park is located in Baraboo, Wisconsin, and is home to some of the most breathtaking views the state offers. With its bluffs, hiking trails, and lake accompanied by two beaches, you will surely have a great time with friends and family. This state park offers three campgrounds with 423 sites, but be sure to book a reservation, as these spots fill up quickly during the summer months!
Blue Mound State Park
This next campsite takes us into the Driftless Area, where there is no limit to summer fun, and spectacular views year-round. Blue Mound State Park is located in Blue Mound, Wisconsin, and sits atop the highest point in Southern Wisconsin! It has 77 wooded sites, 12 biking and hiking sites, and a rustic cabin available for those who are disabled. This campsite is also the only one in Wisconsin with a swimming pool and splash pad, along with over 15 miles of trails for endless fun.
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
Moving north, Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is a must for camping enthusiasts! These campsites are unique as they can only be reached by boat or sea kayak, with a few you can reach by hiking or kayaking. Camping is available on 18 out of the 21 islands, along with the mainland. You can also camp out on your boat, providing you stunning views of Lake Superior and the 21 islands located in the area!
Wyalusing State Park
Let’s float down to one of Wisconsin’s oldest state parks, Wyalusing State Park. This campsite is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, located just 500 feet above the joining of the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers! Wyalusing offers two family campgrounds, an outdoor group camp, and the Hugh Harper indoor group camp. There are various activities you can take part in here, including fishing, boating, bird watching, picnicking, hiking, and biking! This campsite is full of history that you won’t want to miss.
Peninsula State Park
Moving over to Door County, Peninsula State Park serves as many Wisconsinites’ favorite camping destination. The opportunity for fun is endless here, with activities such as hiking, golf, swimming, and fishing, and even offers winter activities for you to partake in. Peninsula has 5 campgrounds, with over 400 sites to choose from. The best part – you can bring your pets! This campsite truly embodies family-friendly, plus, what’s better than waking up to see Lake Michigan in the morning?
Whether you’re looking for family time, fun with friends, or a solo trip, Wisconsin’s campgrounds have something for everyone. So pack your bags and plan your next camping trip – the opportunities are endless in Wisconsin!
Megan Christian hosts the nation’s longest-running tourism TV show, Discover Wisconsin. Watch the show Saturdays at 10 a.m. on Bally Sports Wisconsin or online at DiscoverWisconsin.com. Follow Discover Wisconsin on Facebook (facebook.com/discoverwisconsin), Instagram (instagram.com/discoverwisconsin), and TikTok (tiktok.com/discoverwisconsin).
