Camp Your Way Through Fall Colors: 11 Spots in Northern Wisconsin

One of Wisconsin’s most enchanting times of year is the brief but beautiful flood of fall colors across the state, usually starting in the north around mid-September and ending along the southern border by late October.

From the Lake Superior shoreline to scenic waterfall settings and the vast splendor of the Northwoods, here are nearly a dozen prime parks and forests in northern Wisconsin where you can park your RV or pitch your tent.

Before reserving your spot, check our annual Fall Color Report for real-time details from our statewide network of foliage reporters.

Camp Like A Castaway

How about an epic experience at the very tip-top of Wisconsin? Hop on the Madeline Island Ferry with your crew and head for Big Bay State Park on the largest of the 21 Apostle Islands. You’ll be rewarded with striking cliffs overlooking Lake Superior beneath colossal old-growth hemlocks and the colorful canopy of the boreal forest.

Another option is, the adjacent Big Bay Town Park, within the town of La Pointe, which offers 61 more campsites perfect for enjoying fall color. Wherever you choose to stay, you’ll be close to ancient sea caves, historic lighthouses, colorful hiking trails and much more.

Go Chasing Waterfalls

If you’re looking for the perfect autumn waterfall scene, you'll find it in Copper Falls State Park's dramatic gorges and picturesque cascades carved by the Bad River. You may even want to plan your visit around the on-site fall color fest!

Hike to the Copper Falls themselves, Red Granite and Brownstone falls, or take in the view from nearly a hundred feet above with observation points overlooking the ravine and a tower over the treetops. A diversity of rock types, including ancient lava flows along the riverbed, create a multi-hued setting along with the changing leaves. As an added bonus, the 4,000-mile North Country National Scenic Trail passes through the park.

Amnicon Falls State Park also provides waterfall fans with another camping option in Wisconsin’s northwestern corner near South Range. Or, trek to the other side of the state for Marinette County’s loop of 14 spectacular falls. The Peshtigo River State Forest and adjoining Governor Thompson State Park are fantastic spots for fall camping along this route.

Retreat to the Woods

Want to get lost in Wisconsin’s enormous Northwoods? The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest – a 1.5 million-acre national treasure spanning 11 counties across northern Wisconsin – has about 50 secluded camping areas and eight rustic cabin rentals for a quiet escape amid stunning fall foliage.

Two of Wisconsin’s state forests – Northern Highland/American Legion and Brule River – offer plenty more wooded campsites in the northern reaches of the state. And for a more primitive backpacking excursion, explore the Governor Knowles and Flambeau River state forests.

Continue your fall camping adventures with these 11 great spots in southern Wisconsin!