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.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Big Bay State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Big Bay State Park

Campsite 047, in the West Loop. The best sites here are located in the outside loop. The ground is nice and soft, with hemlocks and pine surrounding the campground.

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(5)

Big Bay Campground

61 sites · RVs, Tents In Big Bay State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Big Bay State Park

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(395)

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.

92%

(36)

Stargazer On Superior

1 site · Tent1 acre · Port Wing, WI

We have two properties on the beautiful South Shore of Lake Superior in Port Wing, WI. At our lakefront property, we have 700' of shoreline and access to our private sand beach, perfect for swimming and bonfires! At our forest property, we have 68 acres of private trails weaving through the woods. Over the next few years, we'll be building more sites throughout our property to offer private, secluded lodging in a natural setting. We are planning to open up our first few sites in July 2024. The South Shore offers a bounty of activities and is much less crowded than the North Shore. Nearby, there are hiking trails, waterfalls, skiing, kayaking, paddling, ATV trails, and much more. Port Wing is halfway between Duluth/Superior and Bayfield, so it's the perfect spot to stay and visit all the South Shore sights!

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(9)

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.

96%

(35)

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.

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(1)

Camp Blue Rock on Happy Pond

1 site · RV, Tent30 acres · Mellen, WI

Only 8 miles (14 min) from the beautiful Copper Falls State Park. You can drive your vehicle right up to the campsite. This campsite can accommodate average sized campers or 5-6 large tents. This campsite includes a fire ring for your use during your stay. There is deadwood around the property if you wish to forage for firewood, if not there is split wood sold locally. We have no light pollution up here so this is a great place to stargaze and view the Milky Way. This location is within the woods, there is no insect control program so please come prepared. Insect population depends upon recent rainfall and temperatures, and varies greatly. Come prepared with bug sprays and/or a fogger. As well as camping within the woods, there is wild animals. Use caution with your pets roaming and I do not recommend leaving food out. You are required to clean up after yourself and haul your sanitary waste with you when you leave. This campsite has no electric or sewer hookup. There is no shower house or bathroom at this location. I will set the refund policy for 100% up to 3 days prior to check in. Please do a check on the weather outlook at least 3 days before you arrive to see if the weather will be nice for at least part of your stay. If you cancel within 3 days before your arrival, I am sorry, but the system won't provide a refund. If you need to cancel, please cancel at least 3 days prior to your arrival date so you can be refunded, and others can have a better chance to schedule a stay.

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(13)

Haugen Road Campground

1 site · Tent4 acres · Mellen, WI

Come enjoy 4 acres of beautiful Red Pine woods on a dirt road corner. 2 minutes from Copper Falls State Park where you can enjoy kayaking, fishing, hiking the falls, biking, and enjoying a day in the park area with family and friends. Come back to camp and have a beer and cook some food by the fire.

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(51)

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.

92%

(18)

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

XCSki In/Out ABR Trails Foundation

4 sites · Lodging20 acres · Ironwood, MI

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.

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.