Tag Archives: Camping

Not Just Tents: Campgrounds With More

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With almost 400 campgrounds in Wisconsin, it’s hard to know where to start. Try something new this summer. Visit one of these campsites that offer water parks, restaurants, events, and other exciting extras!

Peninsula State Park campsite. Photo Credit: Jeff Miller

Blackhawk Camping Resort

There are a lot of campgrounds equipped with an in ground pool, but what about morning water aerobics? The Blackhawk Camping Resort in Milton offers classes every morning from 9-10am. They also feature fun activities for the kids, including face painting, horseshoes, and a playground. We haven’t forgotten about the adults, either! There’s a restaurant with a bar and bingo on the grounds.
To reserve your spot now, click here.

Jellystone Campground

Nothing says family fun like Jellystone Campground. With seven different locations in the state, you can land at one anywhere you go. Caledonia’s Jellystone offers volleyball, candy bar bingo, crafts, cartoons, jump rope and more. Add in the water park, mini golf and pedal carts for guaranteed family fun all day.
To reserve your spot now, click here or call: 1-800-558-2954

Crazy J’s Campground

Peninsula State Park. Photo Credit: James Jordan

If you’re looking for variety, Crazy J’s Campground in Marion has you covered. Every weekend from May through August has a different theme. Come July 20 and party at a luau. Bring your favorite pooch along for Pet Weekend June 1. They even host rummages for the bargain hunter in the group (Psst, come August 3 for Dollar Days!)
To reserve for your spot now, click here.

Peninsula State Park

A definite “must-see” for any new camper in Wisconsin is Peninsula State Park in Door County. Not only does the campground cover quite a bit of ground (3,776 acres to be exact), it also holds a Travel Green certification, and an onsite theatre! The American Folklore Theatre offers shows throughout the summer season and discounts are offered to those who stay at the park. Make sure you place your reservations as soon as possible – some of the more popular sites are filled nearly a year in advance.
To reserve for your spot now, click here.

Got any favorite camping spots you’d like to share?

Small-Town Fun: Tomahawk & Lincoln County

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“Unspoiled wilderness.” It’s a phrase you hear a little too much, but when it comes to Tomahawk and Lincoln County, there’s really no better way to describe it.

Experience water, woods, and wildlife. Whether you’re fishing on one of the scenic lakes, or taking a stroll along the Wisconsin River, it’s easy to see why Tomahawk and Lincoln County are ideal for lovers of the outdoors. You’ll find all kinds of parks in the area. A favorite is Council Grounds State Park, which spans 508 beautiful acres on the Wisconsin River. Bring your tent and set up camp at one of the parks 55 campsites complete with showers and flushing toilets.

If you’re looking to explore the beautiful Northwoods in a new way, stop by Chism Trail Ranch where you can take in all the views on horseback. Never ridden before? Don’t let that stop you! Lessons, training and group parties are available.

If camping isn’t your thing, there are plenty of cozy accommodations in the area. At Pine Cone Ranch Resort, situated on Crystal Lake, you can choose between a luxurious ultra-modern cabin, or rustic traditional pine cabin. Candlewick Bed & Breakfast Inn is the perfect warm and romantic getaway. This elegantly restored mansion from the 1880s is fully furnished with fine antiques and historic furniture. If you’re not quite ready to cut the ties to wi-fi, you can check in to Loon Bay Resort. This 3-cabin haven on Lake Nokomis features furnished, fully equipped cabins with cable TV and wireless Internet.

With all that there is to do and explore in Tomahawk and Lincoln County, it’s the perfect place to vacation any time of year.

Living in Lake Country

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Mike Miller is a former co-anchor of the evening news on WISN 12.

When the folks at Travel Wisconsin asked me to write about my favorite area of Wisconsin, I had a very tough time narrowing it down. I’m a Badger State native. Never lived anywhere else, and proud of it.

So should I pick the Northwoods, where my family has gone camping with the sweet smell of pine in the air? Maybe it’s Door County, where we’ve explored the rocky coastline and lighthouses. How about the La Crosse area, where I went to college, with the bluffs and little towns along the Mississippi River? Then I realized… my favorite spot in Wisconsin is right where I live.

I was born and raised in Oconomowoc, in southeastern Wisconsin. You can drive east to a Brewers game or a theatre performance in Milwaukee… or west to a Badgers game in Madison… and get there in 45 minutes. But the big draw here is the clean, refreshing water. At least two dozen lakes dot the area. I was lucky enough to grow up on one of them… where I learned to swim, water ski, fish and sail. My wife and I taught our three children to enjoy — and respect — the natural beauty of their surroundings.

I could go on and on. Just visit the charming towns of ‘Lake Country’ — like Oconomowoc, Delafield, Hartland or Pewaukee — and you’ll see what I mean.

Mike Miller co-anchored the weekend evening newscasts on WISN 12 and provided special reports for the weeknight newscasts and local programming specials. As a broadcast journalist for 32 years, he earned numerous awards from the Associated Press, the United Press International and the Milwaukee Press Club.

Fun on Wisconsin’s Islands

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We know what you’re thinking, and yes, you read right…Wisconsin is home to a handful of beautiful islands. The Apostle Islands, Madeline Island and Turtle Flambeau Flowage make fantastic travel destinations. But that’s not all, there’s also Rock Island and the Lower Wisconsin River Sandbars are which are two must-see destinations.

Rock Island
Think of Rock Island as the little sister island to Washington Island in Door County. In fact, to access this primitive oasis, you have to take a 10-minute ferry ride from Jackson Harbor on Washington Island. There are no permanent residents on this 912-acre island, and cars and bikes are not allowed. Which is good, because you won’t need either. The entire island is a state park and features 10 miles of hiking trails and 5,000 feet of beach!

Most visitors make it a day trip. But if you’re up for a greater dose of the great outdoors, there are some great backpack camping sites. Just don’t forget to pack your own… everything.

While you’re there, don’t miss the Pottawatomie Lighthouse. Not only is it Wisconsin’s oldest lighthouse, it may be the most unique, too. You can actually live in the lighthouse for a week at a time on the condition that you serve as a tour docent. The lighthouse enthusiasts are more than willing to put up with no electricity or running water for this unique volunteer opportunity.

Lower Wisconsin River Sandbars
Need an idea for a cool, end-of-summer trip with friends? Hit the Lower Wisconsin River in southwest Wisconsin.

The 92 miles of the Lower Wisconsin River from the dam at Prairie du Sac to the confluence with the Mississippi River near Prairie du Chien, is prime territory for sandbar islands. Canoeists, anglers, campers and other outdoor enthusiasts consider this their warm-weather Mecca when water levels are low and sandbars are plentiful.

Three days and two nights on the river are perfect. Paddle, fish, play during the day and camp on the sandbars at night. It’s a trip you won’t soon forget. But remember to bring your camera. If there are beginner paddlers in your group, no worries, the lower river is free from rapids and falls.

Wisconsin River Outings is one of the largest outfitters with several hundred canoes and several dozen kayaks, and specializes in group outings. The best part of this stretch of the river? It is completely protected. Spin around 360 degrees and you’ll see no development, just tree lines, bluffs, and, if you’re lucky, some eagles.

Share some pictures of your Wisconsin island adventure with us on our Facebook page!

Wisconsin’s Natural Wonders – Part Two: Cave of the Mounds

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Nature lovers, rejoice!  Wisconsin’s Seven Natural Wonders are truly one (or should we say, 7) of a kind. So it comes as no surprise that they are the setting for some of the best outdoor recreation in the nation. We chose one of our favorite Wisconsin Wonders, Devil’s Lake, to kick off a three-part series on these must-see destinations.

Devil’s Lake State Park is a Wisconsin treasure. It’s the most visited state park in Wisconsin and this year is its 100th anniversary. Go to camp. Go to hike. Go to swim. Go to rock climb. Bottom line… just go!

The park is a quick drive from Wisconsin Dells. Visitors can enjoy the 360-acre spring-fed lake surrounded by 500-foot bluffs and 30 miles of trails. Scientists believe the bluffs were formed 1.6 billion years ago, making them one of the most ancient rock outcrops in North America.

The surplus of trails guarantees a good time to hikers of all experience levels. So whether you’re a novice hiker or a veteran back-packer, have no fear, there’s a trail waiting for you.  If you’re looking for must-see spots, hike the east bluff to see Balance Rock and Devil’s Doorway. (Tip: Both destinations are full of great photo opps, so don’t forget to snap a pic!)

Curious what the next Wisconsin Natural Wonder will be? Here’s a hint: No matter what time of year, this once hidden place is ALWAYS a cool 50 degrees.

Any guesses? Share it in a comment below.

Gilbert Brown Gallops Thru Wisconsin

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Gilbert Brown is a former nose tackle for the Green Bay Packers.

When I sat down to write this blog, I gotta’ be honest…I didn’t know where to start! What is my FAVORITE vacation memory in Wisconsin? Wisconsin obviously means a lot to me because of all my Green Bay Packer experiences, but since starting up the Gilbert Brown Foundation (GBF), I’ve been able to see a lot more of what Wisconsin has to offer. In an effort to raise money for GBF, I’ve formed some great relationships along the way with several campgrounds in Wisconsin through the Wisconsin Association of Campgrounds Owners (WACO). Traveling to campgrounds throughout the state not only demonstrated the generosity of the people of Wisconsin, but made for some great memories for me and my family.

With all those trips, it was tough to come up with a single memory, so I decided to write about two types of experiences instead. Festivals are always a good time, and Wisconsin is full of them. I mean, you got Summerfest in Milwaukee, Oktoberfest in La Crosse, and Cranfest in Warrens. Festivals mean good music, good food, and good times, so any time I have the opportunity to bring together a festival and the Gilbert Brown Foundation, I jump on it! Our offices are located in the little ol’ town of Ettrick, Wisconsin where they host an annual “Ettrick Fun Days.” I got additional space at the Ettrick Business Centerand created “The Graveyard” to host events for the GBF. Together with the help of the Ettrick Lions Club, we hosted events like the kiddie tractor pull, a football camp and a motorcycle ride where I got to show off my hog. Yea, you know I liked that! In the fall Cranfest rolls around and my family and I stay at Jellystone Park. My daughter Jada gets to spend time with her favorite lil bear “Boo Boo” and as a dad that makes me feel pretty dang good.

So what’s even better than a festival with my family? How about a car show, with my family, at a campground…all while I raise money for the Gilbert Brown Foundation. Now that’s what I’m talking about! My favorite pastime would have to be attending car shows. I love seeing a car like a Mopar and how well it’s been taken care of. Or checking out a new ride like the Challenger and seeing what the owner has done to make it their own. Teaming up with Wilderness Campground and hosting a car show in Montello gave me the opportunity to pass my favorite activity down to my kids, while bringing in some change for the good of the cause.

I can’t wait to see what the next Wisconsin adventure will bring…and if you and your family want to make some memories with me this summer, check out what activities the Gilbert Brown Foundation has planned on our website. To see where the money goes, how you can help or get more information on the Gilbert Brown Foundation, send us an email!

Gilbert Brown is a former nose tackle for the Green Bay Packers. He played 125 games for the team, recording 292 tackles including 7 sacks. Dubbed “The Gravedigger,” Brown was a major defensive part of the 1996 Packers team that won Super Bowl XXXI. His 15 playoff games for the green and gold is the second most in franchise history. Brown is currently the head coach of the La Crosse Spartans of the Indoor Football League.

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National Camping Week

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Grab your fishing pole and pack the tent, the last week of June is National Camping Week!

There’s no question Wisconsinites love the great outdoors, and camping is a summertime tradition.

If you’re looking for somewhere to stake your tent, look no further than Perrot State Park and Rock Island – some of the best camping spots in the state.

With over 1,200 acres of land surrounded by bluffs, Perrot State Park is the perfect setting to set up camp. The park offers a multitude of activities and amenities including hiking, biking and canoeing. You’ll even find one of the best views of the Mississippi River. The nearby Great River State Trail, a rail bed route, is great for biking and the village of Trempealeau has great food and an excellent series of summer concerts to enjoy.

Door County’s Peninsula State Park is perfect for a truly rustic camping experience. Complete with sandy beaches and high bluffs, it’s a breathtaking view. Go off the beaten path to Rock Island, just a ferry-ride away from Washington Island and you’ll find even more opportunity for campaign. Bikes or cars are not allowed on the island and with 40 campsites, 10 miles of hiking trails and 5,000 feet of beach, Rock Island is a truly immersive nature experience. Of course, once you’re ready to get back to society, catch a play at the family friendly American Folklore Theatre. This critically acclaimed professional theater showcases original musical comedies and more, all under the stars.

Go on, book your campsites then get out and enjoy!

Wisconsin Country Music Festivals

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Get ready because Nashville is about to invade Wisconsin. Watch your favorite country music stars take stage at the “Summerfest” of country music – Country Fest and Country USA!

This year, grammy winners Lady Antebellum and Carrie Underwood headline Country Fest, a four day music festival held in the village of Cadott from June 23-26th. Enjoy a natural amphitheater, superb sound system, jumbo screens, great food, and spacious campsites complete with showers. Act quickly, you’ll need tickets for this big event.

If four days of country just isn’t enough, be sure to visit Oshkosh from June 21st -25th for five days of honky-tonk music at Country USA! Miranda Lambert, Dierks Bentley and Rascal Flatts headline this premier country music and camping festival – one of the best in the nation! Join thousands of concert goers and country fans for five concerts daily, but again you’ll need tickets!

Of course, there’s no shortage of diverse music festivals in Wisconsin. For a complete listing be sure to visit our website!

A Summer Guide to Wisconsin State Parks

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Wisconsin’s State Parks offer adventures and excitement for the entire family: camping, fishing, hiking and bird watching. The possibilities are endless, so where do you start? Well, we’ve done the work for you and have everything you need to navigate Wisconsin’s state parks. Down and dirty. Here we go:

Looking for the best of the best? Here are some suggestions:

Environmentally conscience? Find the Travel Green Certified state parks or campgrounds. They’re green (pun intended) and easy on the wallet.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or weeklong stay, TravelWisconsin.com is your go-to. Narrow options by activity, region or city.

See, that wasn’t so bad. Just make sure you set aside enough time to see and do it all!

Three Anniversaries to Celebrate: Taliesin, Devil’s Lake, Big Top Chautauqua

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We’re celebrating 225 years of history as we salute three of Wisconsin’s most historic attractions for 2011: Taliesin, Big Top Chautauqua and Devil’s Lake State Park. This summer, be sure to check out all three as they are offering fun activities to commemorate their milestones.

Taliesin

In Spring Green, the 100th anniversary of Taliesin, the residence and workshop of legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright, is being duly marked with a variety of special events, tours, artist workshops, lectures and performances. Visitors will want to check out the centennial exhibit entitled Taliesin: The Work of a Lifetime, with rare photographs of Wright, the Taliesin Fellowship and Taliesin pre-1914.

Big Top Chautauqua

This year marks the 25th anniversary of Big Top Chautauqua in Bayfield. The Big Top is one of the nation’s most revered tented theater troupes. Visitors can watch musicals, tent show radio, concerts and plays all performed under a canvas tent with seating for 900 and stellar views of the Milky Way and Northern Lights upon exit. Included on the summer playbill are folkabilly queen Nanci Griffith, singer/songwriter Greg Brown and guitarist Tommy Emmanuel.

Devil’s Lake State Park

Devil’s Lake will be celebrating its 100th Anniversary this year. The official date for the centennial celebration is June 22 but there are activities planned throughout the year including guided and auto hikes highlighting the history of the park, a geocaching event and an old fashioned ice cream social. A special art print celebrating the park’s centennial and created by a local artist will be available for purchase later in the year.

Go on, celebrate the season with a visit to Taliesin, Big Top Chautauqua or Devil’s Lake State Park!