The best camping near Big Bay State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Big Bay State Park adventure.

100% (5 reviews)

Discover Big Bay State Park's scenic shores and lush campgrounds.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Big Bay State Park

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Bad River Wilderness

4 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Mellen, WI

Update: This property was just awarded 2nd place for 2024 as the 2nd best Hipcamp in Wisconsin out of 252 Hipcamp's based on reviews and ratings! Thank you to all who have enjoyed this amazing property and provided a review or rating!!! On the upper Bad River, I have a special location that I'd like to share for others to enjoy. I was fortunate to acquire this land 20 years ago and now that I have retired from the United States Air Force, I can dedicate time to create peaceful campsites along the river. This land was originally railroad property as the railroad companies bought much land in the late 1800's to have options to place their railroads. There is still a railroad track nearby but it has been abandoned since 2015 and it makes a nice hiking path along the river for many miles to the north. There are 3 waterfalls nearby and I will have many signs leading to the waterfalls. There are 4 total campsites on the property, 1 site you can drive to (Eagle Pines), and 3 tent sites that require 1/8 mile hike to 2 sites, and a 1/4 mile hike to the other hike-in site.

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Eagle's Perch

1 site · RV, Tent4 acres · La Pointe, WI

Secluded island paradise located on lovely Madeline Island with 300 feet of lakeshore and stunning views of the coveted North Channel. Seven of the 22 Apostle Islands are visible on a clear day and not one electric light is visible from the property at night. Enjoy dramatic morning fog while you sip your morning coffee, frequent sailboat regattas during the day, and stunning double sunsets as they reflect across over 5 miles of open water. (ps. this reflective effect is also in play for the northern lights if you're lucky) Amenities: ZERO! (well, other than two fire pits and propane grill) Expect a nicely mowed lawn with space for up to 8 tents located right on top of a 100 foot cliff leading straight down to lake superior. If needed, showers, bathrooms, etc. are located 1.2 miles away at Big Bay Town Park. (no entry fee required) There you can also find the best beach on the island and canoes for rent if you'd like to explore the massive lagoon behind it chalk full of fish. Pack, pack out. Enjoy!

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Rockhound Hideaway on Black River

2 sites · Lodging2 acres · Bessemer, MI

An outdoor enthusiasts dream awaits at Rockhound Hideaway, with opportunities for hiking, biking, swimming, boating and everything in between. The property is situated on a two acre lot with three other rentals on the edge of the Ottawa National Forest, with my full time residence just a few doors away. Rockhound Hideaway is a short walk to Black River Harbor and Lake Superior, the North Country Trail, the scenic and wild Black River, and so many great outdoor adventures. The Black River is accessible from the property for those adventurous enough for a steep walk down the back of the property, or accessible from one of five parking areas along the stretch of road surrounding the property. Lake Superior is located 1 mile north up the road. Perfect for adventure seekers looking for a comfortable place to lay their head after a day exploring hiking trails, waterfalls, skiing, snowshoeing, and all the natural beauty the Ottawa National Forest has to offer. The property offers guests private space at each site, each site with its own charcoal grill, BYO charcoal, hammock, and fire ring. I provide 1 bundle of firewood per visit and more firewood is available at the common area for $5 per bundle. The restrooms for the property is a two stall outhouse for all guests to share located next to the common, which features a roofed sun room with picnic table, lounging area and fire pit. The common area, Kitchigami Commons is there for all guests to enjoy the outdoors in a different setting or enjoy the outdoors when it's raining. It has a fire pit, playing cards, yard games and two lake tubes for guests to take out and enjoy on the lake. This is also where I keep extra firewood and extra drinking water when the temps are above freezing. Please help yourself to the lake tubes, just return them to the Commons when you are done. There is a path from each site to the common area and outhouse. Kitchigami Commons is also where we cook down sap and turn it into maple syrup during the spring time maple season. I am still making improvements to the Commons to provide a more enjoyable shared space, but you are welcome to use it, explore it and access the floaties and games. Please just be aware I may be present there and actively working on improvements, though I keep anything loud limited to when guests aren't present.

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Twisting Twig Gardens and Orchard

3 sites · Lodging40 acres · Bayfield, WI

My husband Rob and I own a 40 acre property approximately 10 miles from Bayfield, Wi. We have a micro organic farm with hundreds of wild apple trees and believe in leaving the land better than we found it. Rob loves permaculture, managing soils, pruning apple trees and feeding his community nutrient dense food. I work as a hospice nurse and help out on the farm when I am able and we have 2 boys, Arlo and Owen. We keep busy! We offer 3 rustic rentals onsite, but each is very private and secluded. Consider all 3 for a larger gathering! We look forward to hosting you for a farm visit.

XCSki In/Out ABR Trails Foundation

4 sites · Lodging20 acres · Ironwood, MI

We will start booking approximately 360 days in advance for '25-'26 season. For '24-'25 season please book thru A.B.R. (Angela's Cabins) directly. XC Ski In/Out right from your own Rustic Cabin. The Foundation offers 4 Rustic Cabins available to rent via HipCamp. All cabins are located on 80km of groomed XC Ski trails & 16km of snowshoe trails. Enjoy your own secluded cabin located right on pristine groomed ABR Trails. Snowshoe trails also available from your door. Each cabin has mattresses, wood stove (firewood provided), and your own outhouse specific to each cabin. Basic supplies available at check-in (toilet paper, kindling, pull behind sled to ski in your gear), potable water-BYO container). Enjoy the luxury of groomed trails right out your door with a peaceful rustic cabin experience.

Booked 2 times

Eagle Ridge Basecamp

1 site · Lodging8 acres · Ashland, WI

Welcome to our Adventure Base Camp in exciting Bayfield County, WI! My wife and I purchased this little piece of paradise close to every outdoor adventure imaginable, so we and our kids have a place to stay while we get out and play! Our shed cabin is completely off grid, so those looking to get away from it all without being far from it all have found the right place! We are conveniently tucked back in the woods on about 8 acres just off U.S Hwy 2 close to Iron River, Brule, Ashland and Chequamegon Bay, Mt. Ashwabay, Cable and many lakes, falls and beaches. At the shed cabin, you will find a large deck off the back with a picnic table, a small bedroom with 2 beds, a loft and a futon in the living space. We have a propane powered heater, mini fridge and stove. We have a drop down table and chairs. The cabin is completely wired up for use with our solar generator or if you have one of your own, it can be plugged right into the cabin using the generator cord. Power is limited as winter draws near so plan ahead. We have 5 gallon water jugs that can be filled in Ashland at the Maslowski Beach Artesian Well. There is no Wi-fi, but we are close enough to U.S. Hwy 2 and Ashland, so we get cell service. There is a fire pit for your use and a picnic table near it. For those bikers, we have a bike stand that can be placed on the ground for convenient storage while you are here. We have a solar lit out house with a composting toilet. Instructions are posted in the outhouse for use and maintenance of the toilet. Please be respectful and use as directed. We still frequent the shed cabin ourselves. We do not have a cleaning service this keeps costs low for everyone. Please be respectful and kind so we can feel good about sharing this space with all guests to enjoy all the amazing things this area of the world has to offer.

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Farm Stay Glamping Site

1 site · Lodging40 acres · Mason, WI

Learn more about this land:The Farm Stay Glamping Site was originally my very first greenhouse. As our farmstead has grown, and evolved into a full fledged sheep farm and soon to be market garden, there was an idea to make it into something that we could share the beauty of our homestead with others. As spring breaks through, and the campsite opens, up we have new lambs arriving daily. Baby chicks are hurrying every which way, and the flowers start to emerge. It's a beautiful time of year to visit the farm and enjoy the new beginnings. As summer comes around, our new lambs move to a pasture that you can overlook from the campsite. The glamping site is located on the back side of our yard with a fruit orchard separating our main home from the site. The site has a queen bed, and also has room for an additional tent to be placed in the yard (which is relatively flat), or on the 12'x18' wooden deck. We are 15 minutes from Ashland & 30 minutes from Bayfield with numerous entertainment and dining options. 10 - 15 minutes from numerous beaches along Lake Superior's shore.

North Shore Camping. Co.

1 site · Lodging190 acres · Beaver Bay, MN

Our walk in tent sites tucked amongst the trees on the ridgeline just above Lake Superior have been carefully honed to blend with the natural landscape and maintain the harmony of the forest, allowing for a grounded nature immersion experience. Each tält has been carefully curated to give our guests the space and ease to make the most of their time on the scenic North Shore. Arrive, settle in, and acclimate yourself to the soothing rhythm of the forest.

Chanterelle Woods Preserve

3 sites · Lodging, Tents20 acres · Bayfield, WI

This property is adjacent to a wilderness area (Pikes Creek) and had been our organic farm for decades. It is pristine, wild and beautiful. We currently have 3 camping sites: a lodge tent for up to 4, a 2-person A-frame tent with cots, and a dry cabin. Both the lodge tent and A-frame tent share a privacy shelter with toilet and shower. They are approximately 50 feet away from each other. You would drive to both sites and park in a designated parking within a short walk from them. The dry cabin is more isolated from the other two and has its own shower and compostable toilet. All three sites are completely off grid. The Chanterelle Woods Preserve has a mix of trees, flora, fauna and wild mushrooms, hence the name "Chanterelle Woods." We ran an organic farm here for decades. When we were farming, we had "woofers" (an international organization of volunteers) who stayed in tents and a camper while here. It was a life changing experience for them....Now we would like to offer this opportunity to "rustic campers." Whether you want to stay exclusively on the land and relax or explore the surrounding area, there is a little something for everyone. We are 3 miles from the city of Bayfield, Wisconsin, which is the gateway to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. We are close to all diverse recreational pursuits: biking, hiking, kayaking and golfing. In case you forgot any outdoor or camping gear, there is Howl Adventure Center, one mile from us, that also has a cidery and a small bar with a food/taco truck and outdoor seating. The Big Top Chautauqua on Mt. Ashwabay hosts all kinds of music, art, and cultural events all summer long. Our property is directly across from Mt. Ashwabay, separated by the Pikes Creek wilderness area offering beautiful mountain biking and fat biking trails. Closer to town, there are quaint local shops and art galleries where you can peruse beautiful pottery, fine jewelry and original paintings made by local artists. Stop by one of the many fine restaurants in town for a taste the best fish dishes freshly caught from the Lake.

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Sailor Springs Glamping

9 sites · Lodging5 acres · Bayfield, WI

Experience upscale camping–Glamping in the Forested Hills of Lake Superior. Sailor Springs is a small three-site campground located just two miles outside of the picturesque tourist town of Bayfield, WI. 2023 will be our first year of operation and we’re excited to host campers on the property and provide a unique camping experience. The campground is spread out over 5 acres of forest that you’ll hike into from Bresette Hill Road. After parking at the trailhead, you’ll gather your bags and hike into your glamping site. The trail winds through the woods, leading you first to a valley where the seasonal Clark Creek runs through in the spring. The first two campsites are on the other side of this valley. The trail can be steep in spots and requires a moderate level of fitness and mobility to reach the secluded campsites. The third site is a bit farther into the forest, the little A-frame cabin, Anchor sits on the edge of the spring-fed Brickyard Creek that flows year-round. We have many plans for the property and depending on when you stay, the campground will be in various stages of development. The campsites, trailhead / parking area, and trails are scheduled to be completed in early spring. We hope to add amenities such as a camp sauna and screened-in gazebo later in the 2024 summer / fall. Thank you for considering joining us on this journey to build a peaceful place to play and stay in the woods. “In every walk in nature one receives far more than he seeks.” John Muir

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'Old World' Farm By Lake Superior

1 site · Lodging150 acres · Bayfield, WI

Nestled near the breathtaking Apostle Islands of Lake Superior, our slice of paradise offers a tranquil retreat surrounded by the wonders of nature. Just a stone's throw away lies a stunning beach, where the crystal-clear waters of Lake Superior beckon you to swim, relax, or simply soak in the sun. Step outside your door and embark on a journey through our private, groomed trails, each winding path leading you deeper into the heart of the forest. With every step, you'll discover the beauty of the natural world, from towering trees to lush undergrowth teeming with life. As you wander, you may encounter our farm-friendly animals, each one a beloved member of our farm family. From horses overlooking rolling pastures to ducks flying to the nearby ponds , chickens free range and happy, sled dogs ready for adventure in the winter months, all sure to bring joy to your heart. In the winter, weather and conditions required , experience the thrill of a sled dog run, gliding through snow-covered trails, the beauty of the winter landscape stretching out before you. When you're ready to explore further afield, the town is just a short drive away, offering a wealth of attractions and amenities to enjoy. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a quiet moment of reflection, our natural and old-world paradise has something for everyone. Come and discover the magic for yourself.

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Gichi-Gami Christmas Tree Farm

3 sites · Tents29 acres · Ashland, WI

We own a 39 acre property on the east side of Ashland, WI. There are three primitive/walk in (no water available, no facilities, no tables) campsites available and a couple of trails. More trails to come. Enjoy the night sky as many, many stars are visible. The property is mostly wooded and can be wet in spots during the spring. You are allowed walk the site off trail at your own risk. Please park your vehicle as close to one side of the driveway as possible as not to block the driveway so if needed the tower company has access to the tower. Please do not walk in the cleared area near the front of the property to the right of driveway/access road, as this area has been planted with Christmas tree saplings. There is a dedicated campfire square in the site. Please do not burn outside of this area. There is plenty of dead and down firewood to collect in the nearby woods – some may need to cut to size. There are no garbage cans on site, so please pack out what you pack in. Hike to the sites: Campsite 1 – Near County Highway A – just past gate. Large enough for two 4 person tents Campsite 2 – From gate - .10 mile hike – large enough for a 4 person tent Campsite 3 – From gate - .13 mile hike – large enough for a 3 person tent What is nearby? Historic Town of Ashland The Ashland Waterfront Trail The Artesian Well Kiosk at Masalowski Beach in Ashland The Apostle Islands are 40 minutes/26 miles away Bad River Casino is 14 minutes/10 miles away Copper Falls State Park is 38 minutes/28 miles – hiking, Wisconsin State Park admission sticker/daily fee required Whittlesey Creek National Wildlife Refuge/Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center is 13 minutes/7 miles away - hiking ABC Raceway (Stock Car racing) is 9 minutes/6 miles away Bayfield Ghost Walk is 36 minutes/25 miles away Beyond the Catch Guide Services (fishing charter) 32 minutes/23 miles away So that you are aware: Hipcamp will be adding a "service fee" (15-20%) when you complete the booking to cover their site management and other things. I don't get any of this service fee and they also take an additional 10% from the price I list to cover the $1 million in insurance for you.

The best camping near Big Bay State Park guide

Overview

About

Question: does residency in Lake Superior make Big Bay State Park superior? We think so. Set within a cluster of islands on the largest Great Lake, Big Bay is like that eclectic aunt who “matches” paisley with chevron and looks like a million bucks doin’ it. Even the landscape can’t help but indulge in the grandeur. Shoreline, boardwalks, inland trails and an endless aquatic horizon work together to create a serene impression perfect for a picnicking or strolling down the beach for sea glass–or both. Do. It. Up.

Notable campgrounds

Family Campground - Spacious sites nestled amid the park's natural beauty, perfect for creating lasting family memories.
Group Camps - Ideal for larger gatherings, these camps offer a communal experience in the great outdoors.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your spot, as the campgrounds are a popular destination amid the park's peak seasons.
Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability and a quieter experience.
Keep an eye on cancellation policies for last-minute openings.
Explore nearby camping options if the park's campgrounds are fully booked.

When to go

The best time to visit Big Bay State Park is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the park is fully accessible. However, autumn also offers a spectacular display of fall foliage. Winters can be harsh with limited access, making it less ideal for a visit.

Know before you go

Ensure your vehicle has a valid admission sticker before entering the park.
Check the park's official website for any property notices or closures before your trip.
Remember that the park is open from 6am to 11pm year-round, offering ample time for exploration.
For a smooth visit, familiarize yourself with the ferry schedule to Madeline Island.
Volunteering opportunities are available for those looking to give back to the park community.