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Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just looking for a weekend getaway, Wisconsin offers some of the Midwest’s most beautiful camping experiences. From tranquil lakeside retreats to dense Northwoods forests, here are nine fantastic places to pitch your tent or park your RV—each with something unique to offer.
1. Governor Dodge State Park (Near Madison)
📍 Dodgeville, WIBest for: Rolling hills, scenic trails, and waterfallsJust an hour west of Madison, this 5,000-acre park features over 25 miles of hiking trails, horseback riding, and two lakes for swimming or kayaking. Stephens Falls is a must-see, and campsites range from rustic to electric.
2. Devil’s Lake State Park
📍 Baraboo, WIBest for: Iconic bluffs and glacial lake viewsWisconsin’s most popular state park boasts dramatic quartzite cliffs, clear blue water, and family-friendly beaches. Climb the East Bluff Trail for panoramic views, or enjoy rock climbing, swimming, and bird watching.
3. Blue Mound State Park
📍 Blue Mounds, WIBest for: Elevated views and starry skiesAt the highest point in southern Wisconsin, this park offers cool summer breezes, an observation tower, and access to the Military Ridge State Trail for biking. It’s a dark-sky favorite for stargazers.
4. Wyalusing State Park
📍 Bagley, WIBest for: Mississippi River vistas and Native American historyCamp 500 feet above the confluence of the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers. Enjoy birdwatching (especially eagles), ancient effigy mounds, and canoe trails along the backwaters.
5. Hartman Creek State Park
📍 Waupaca, WIBest for: Quiet paddling and crystal-clear lakesLocated in central Wisconsin, this park is great for families and anglers. Seven spring-fed lakes are perfect for kayaking and swimming. The Ice Age Trail also cuts through the park.
6. Council Grounds State Park
📍 Merrill, WIBest for: River recreation and a peaceful atmosphereSituated on the Wisconsin River, this less-crowded gem offers fishing, hiking, and large campsites shaded by tall pines. Canoe or kayak the tranquil flowage and spot deer at dawn.
7. Northern Highland–American Legion State Forest
📍 Minocqua/Eagle River AreaBest for: Classic Northwoods adventureThis massive 225,000-acre forest features over 900 campsites scattered across dozens of lakes and trails. Paddle the Manitowish River, hike to Star Lake Fire Tower, or just enjoy loon calls echoing at night.
8. Copper Falls State Park
📍 Mellen, WIBest for: Waterfalls and geology loversRed granite gorges, scenic waterfalls, and rugged hiking trails make this northern park unforgettable. The Doughboy Trail loops around the falls for postcard views. Campers love the peace and pine forests.
9. Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest
📍 Spans Northern Wisconsin Best for: Off-grid escapes and backcountry camping Spanning over 1.5 million acres, this national forest offers dispersed camping and dozens of remote, fee-free sites. Fish the Chippewa Flowage, hike parts of the North Country Trail, or find total solitude under towering evergreens.…