Wisconsin is a fantastic state for seniors who enjoy the outdoors and fishing. The state offers an abundance of well-equipped, senior-friendly campgrounds that provide easy access to some of the best fishing spots in the Midwest. Whether you’re an avid angler or simply looking to relax by the water, Wisconsin’s top fishing campgrounds cater perfectly to the needs and interests of older adults.
In the pages ahead, we’ll highlight some of Wisconsin’s most popular and highly-rated fishing campgrounds, highlighting their accessibility, amenities, and proximity to premier fishing destinations. From the serene shores of northern lakes to the winding rivers of the Driftless region, Wisconsin’s seniors will find ample opportunities to cast a line, take in the natural beauty, and create cherished memories.
If you’re ready to explore Wisconsin’s best fishing campgrounds for seniors, this guide will introduce you to some of the top spots that combine the joys of fishing with the comforts and conveniences that make camping enjoyable at any age. So pack your gear, grab your fishing rod, and let’s discover the perfect place for your next outdoor adventure!
1. Devil’s Lake State Park
Location: Baraboo, Wisconsin
Devil’s Lake State Park is one of Wisconsin’s most popular state parks, known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities. The park features over 29 miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and a large campground with more than 400 campsites, including options for tents and RVs. Many sites offer scenic views of the lake and surrounding bluffs.
Devil’s Lake is a prime fishing destination, home to a variety of fish species, including walleye, northern pike, bass, and panfish. The best fishing seasons are late spring through early fall, with peak times during the summer months when fish are most active.
Tips:
- The park has multiple access points for fishing, including a boat launch and designated fishing areas along the shore. Bring your kayak or canoe for a more intimate fishing experience on the water.
- Take advantage of the park’s trails to explore the beautiful scenery. A hike to the top of the bluffs offers breathtaking views of the lake, making it a great way to combine fishing with outdoor exploration.
2. Peninsula State Park
Location: Fish Creek, Wisconsin (Door County)
Peninsula State Park is one of Wisconsin’s largest and most scenic state parks, offering a range of amenities for campers. The park features over 468 campsites, including options for tents, RVs, and cabins. There are also picnic areas, restrooms, and showers available for campers’ convenience. The park is known for its picturesque landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and stunning views of Green Bay.
The park provides access to several fishing spots, including the waters of Green Bay and the nearby Nicolet Bay. Anglers can expect to catch species such as perch, bass, and northern pike. The best fishing seasons are late spring through early fall, with summer being particularly fruitful.
Tips:
- For a unique experience, consider fishing from the shores of Nicolet Bay at sunset. The views are spectacular, and the fishing can be quite rewarding.
- Take time to explore the park’s extensive trail system. The Sunset Trail offers stunning views of the bay and is a great way to stretch your legs after a day of fishing.
3. Black Hawk Memorial Park
Location: South Wayne, Wisconsin
Black Hawk Memorial Park is a hidden gem located along the East Branch of the Pecatonica River. This county park offers a more rustic camping experience with basic amenities, including picnic areas, restrooms, and fire pits. The park features spacious campsites, many of which are situated near the river, providing a peaceful setting for campers.
The Pecatonica River is known for its excellent fishing, with species such as walleye, bass, and panfish readily available. The best fishing seasons are spring and fall, particularly during the spawning periods when fish are more active.
Tips:
- Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer and various bird species. The tranquil setting makes it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.
- Since the park is more rustic, be sure to bring all necessary supplies, including firewood and food, as amenities are limited.
4. Governor Dodge State Park
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Driftless Area, Governor Dodge State Park is located near Dodgeville, Wisconsin. This sprawling park covers over 5,000 acres of woodlands, prairies, and lakes, making it one of the largest state parks in Wisconsin.
Governor Dodge State Park is a nature lover’s paradise with two large lakes—Cox Hollow Lake and Twin Valley Lake—offering excellent fishing opportunities. The park features multiple campgrounds, including Twin Valley and Cox Hollow, with both electric and non-electric sites available. Amenities include modern restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and boat rentals, making it easy to enjoy a full day on the water.
The park also boasts over 40 miles of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and even a waterfall, providing plenty to do when you’re not fishing.
Both lakes in the park are well-stocked with a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and catfish. Cox Hollow Lake is particularly popular for its healthy population of panfish, making it a great spot for families and novice anglers. The best fishing seasons are late spring through early fall when the fish are most active and the weather is ideal for camping.
Related: Best Arkansas state parks for camping
5. Big Eau Pleine County Park
Situated in Marathon County, Big Eau Pleine County Park is located on a peninsula that juts out into the Big Eau Pleine Reservoir. This peaceful park is about 25 miles west of Wausau, offering a serene escape into the heart of Wisconsin’s Northwoods.
Big Eau Pleine County Park is a hidden gem, known for its quiet atmosphere and beautiful natural surroundings. The park offers several campgrounds with both rustic and modern camping options, including sites with electricity and running water.
The park’s expansive shoreline provides ample opportunities for fishing, and the well-maintained boat launches make it easy to get out on the water. In addition to fishing, the park features miles of trails for hiking and biking, as well as picnic areas and playgrounds, making it a great destination for families.
The Big Eau Pleine Reservoir is a large, man-made lake that’s home to a variety of fish species, including walleye, northern pike, muskellunge, and panfish. The reservoir is particularly known for its excellent walleye fishing, especially in the spring and early summer months when the fish are more active. Ice fishing is also popular here during the winter, with anglers targeting walleye and northern pike through the ice.
6. Mirror Lake State Park
Mirror Lake State Park is located near Wisconsin Dells, about 3 miles south of Lake Delton. The park is easily accessible yet offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the Dells area.
The park is named after its centerpiece, Mirror Lake, a calm and narrow body of water surrounded by towering sandstone bluffs and dense forests. The serene lake is ideal for fishing, as well as for kayaking and canoeing, due to its no-wake policy, which keeps the waters calm and undisturbed. The park features three campgrounds—Bluewater Bay, Sandstone Ridge, and Cliffwood—offering a variety of campsites, including those with electric hookups. Amenities include modern restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and a boat launch.
Additionally, the park has over 19 miles of trails for hiking and biking, offering plenty to explore when you’re not fishing.
Mirror Lake is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, northern pike, panfish, and walleye. The best fishing seasons are late spring through early fall, with early morning and late afternoon being prime times to cast your line. The lake’s calm waters make it easy to spot fish, and the surrounding bluffs provide natural cover for bass and pike.
7. Buckhorn State Park
Buckhorn State Park is located on a peninsula that juts out into Castle Rock Lake, about 20 miles north of Mauston, Wisconsin. The park is part of the larger Buckhorn Wildlife Area, offering a more secluded and natural setting for outdoor activities.
The park is known for its expansive shoreline along Castle Rock Lake, the fourth-largest lake in Wisconsin. The park offers a variety of camping options, including traditional campsites, group sites, and even a few secluded, walk-in campsites for those seeking a more rustic experience. Several sites are situated right along the water, providing easy access to the lake for fishing and boating. The park also features a boat launch, a small swimming beach, and several picnic areas.
For those interested in wildlife, Buckhorn is a great spot for birdwatching and nature photography, with a diverse array of species inhabiting the area.
Castle Rock Lake is a haven for anglers, with species including walleye, musky, northern pike, largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. Spring and early summer are the best times for walleye and bass fishing, while the fall is ideal for catching musky and northern pike.
8. Lake Kegonsa State Park
Lake Kegonsa State Park is located in southeastern Wisconsin, about 10 miles southeast of Madison. The park is easily accessible, making it a convenient option for a weekend getaway.
The park is centered around the 3,200-acre Lake Kegonsa, a glacial lake known for its clear waters and abundant fish. The park offers a variety of camping options, including 80 campsites, some with electrical hookups. Amenities include modern restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and a boat launch. The park also has a sandy beach, making it a great spot for swimming and family outings.
If you enjoy hiking, there are several trails that wind through the park’s woodlands and prairies, offering scenic views of the lake and surrounding area.
Lake Kegonsa is a popular fishing destination, with species such as largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, northern pike, and panfish. The lake is particularly known for its bass fishing, which is best in the spring and early summer when the fish are more active. Panfish like bluegill and crappie are plentiful and can be caught throughout the year. The clear waters make it easier to spot fish, adding to the excitement of the catch.
9. Kettle Moraine State Forest
Kettle Moraine State Forest is a vast area of over 56,000 acres, stretching across southeastern Wisconsin. The forest is divided into two main units: the Northern Unit, near Campbellsport, and the Southern Unit, near Whitewater. Both units offer excellent fishing and camping experiences.
The forest is known for its unique glacial landscapes, including rolling hills, deep kettles, and clear lakes. The forest offers a variety of camping options, from modern campgrounds with electric hookups to more primitive sites for those seeking a rustic experience. The Northern Unit features Long Lake and Mauthe Lake, both of which are popular fishing spots, while the Southern Unit includes Whitewater Lake and Rice Lake.
Amenities vary by campground but generally include modern restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and boat launches. The forest also offers miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for wildlife watching and exploring historic sites.
The lakes within Kettle Moraine State Forest are well-stocked with fish, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, northern pike, panfish, and trout. Long Lake, in particular, is known for its excellent bass fishing, especially in the spring and summer.
10. Willow Flowage Scenic Waters Area
Location: Hazelhurst, Wisconsin
The Willow Flowage Scenic Waters Area is a hidden gem nestled in the Northwoods of Wisconsin. This stunning area features over 6,000 acres of water and 40 islands, making it a perfect spot for fishing and camping. The campground offers rustic sites with picnic tables and fire rings, providing a true wilderness experience. While there are no modern amenities like showers or flush toilets, the natural beauty and tranquility make it worthwhile.
The Willow Flowage is known for its diverse fish population, including northern pike, walleye, musky, and various panfish. The best fishing seasons are late spring through early fall, particularly during the warmer months when fish are more active. Anglers can enjoy both shore fishing and boat fishing, with several boat launches available.
Tips:
- Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, including eagles, loons, and deer. The area is rich in biodiversity, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.
- Since the campground is rustic, be sure to bring all necessary supplies, including food, water, and fishing gear.
11. St. Croix National Scenic Riverway
Location: Grantsburg, Wisconsin
The St. Croix National Scenic Riverway is a breathtaking stretch of river that includes both the St. Croix and Namekagon rivers. This area features over 250 miles of protected waterways, offering numerous primitive campsites accessible only by canoe or kayak. The campgrounds are surrounded by lush forests and beautiful landscapes, providing a peaceful and scenic environment for campers.
The rivers are home to a variety of fish species, including smallmouth bass, northern pike, and catfish. The best fishing seasons are late spring through early fall, with peak fishing activity typically occurring in the summer months. Anglers can fish from the shore or from their canoes while floating down the river.
Tips:
- Consider renting a canoe or kayak from one of the local outfitters to explore the riverway. Paddling allows you to access more secluded fishing spots and enjoy the stunning scenery.
- There are several access points along the river, so plan your route ahead of time to ensure you hit the best fishing spots.
12. Brunet Island State Park
Location: Cornell, Wisconsin
Brunet Island State Park is a picturesque park located at the confluence of the Chippewa River and the Brunet River. The park features 1,200 acres of land, including an island with campsites that overlook the river and its lagoons. The campground offers 36 campsites, including options for tents and RVs, as well as modern restrooms and showers.
The waters surrounding Brunet Island are rich in fish species, including walleye, northern pike, and panfish. The best fishing seasons are spring and summer, particularly during the spawning periods when fish are more active. The park has fishing piers and easy access to the river for shore fishing.
Tips:
- The lagoons around the island are great spots for fishing and are often less crowded than the main river. Bring a canoe or kayak to explore these quieter areas.
- After a day of fishing, take some time to hike the park’s trails. The scenic routes offer beautiful views and a chance to see local wildlife.
Essential Gear for a Wisconsin Fishing Camping Trip
When planning a fishing trip in Wisconsin, make sure your tackle box is stocked with essentials like fishing rods, reels, various lures, and a good assortment of bait. Different fish require different approaches, so it’s wise to bring a variety of lures, including spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and live bait like nightcrawlers or minnows.
You’ll also want to pack the right camping gear to ensure a comfortable stay. Essentials include a durable tent, sleeping bags, cooking supplies, and plenty of layers to prepare for Wisconsin’s unpredictable weather. Don’t forget bug spray, as mosquitoes can be active around the water, especially during the summer months.
Fishing Regulations and Licenses in Wisconsin
To fish in Wisconsin, you’ll need a valid fishing license. Wisconsin offers a variety of options, including single-day, annual, and combination licenses. Resident and non-resident prices vary, so it’s important to check the Wisconsin DNR website for current rates.
You can purchase a fishing license online through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website, or at many outdoor retailers and bait shops throughout the state.