Wisconsin is one of the most sought-out destinations for seasonal camping thanks to its abundance of scenic state parks, and welcoming outdoor relaxation areas. With fresh spring days, sunny summer weekends, and crisp fall mornings, it’s easy to see why so many campers return year after year to claim their favorite spots.

Explore this comprehensive guide to discover all the helpful tips, must-have gear, and everything you can expect when enjoying a full camping season in Wisconsin.  

What to Expect When Choosing a Seasonal Campsite

Finding the right campsite is one of the most important decisions when planning a seasonal stay, since it will become your home base for an extended period of time. Things like the location, layout, and amenities can completely transform your overall experience, so consider the following.

Review the Type of RV Site

Not all campsites are the same and the right setup can make your stay more comfortable. Pay close attention to aspects like:

  • Full hookups – Water, sewer, and electrical connections help make seasonal stays more convenient
  • Pad type – Grass or gravel pads provide a more stable foundation than dirt
  • Amenity proximity – Restrooms and other shared facilities being close can enhance your comfort and convenience


Check the Amenities

Amenities will make a huge difference in how fun and lively your seasonal stay is.Here are just a few common features that many sites tend to offer:

  • Wi-Fi
  • Fishing
  • Restaurant
  • Playgrounds
  • Docks
  • Fishing piers
  • Clean restrooms
  • Recreation halls
  • Picnic tables
  • Walking trails
  • Free kayaks, paddle boats and rowboats
  • Dog parks
  • Firewood
  • Beaches
  • Swimming pools

Research the Surrounding Area

Beyond the campground itself, the surrounding area can play an important role in your seasonal camping experience.

Consider what’s nearby, such as:

  • Grocery stores
  • Gas stations
  • General stores
  • Local attractions
  • Markets

Ask About Pricing and Availability Early On

A lot of the top campsites in Wisconsin tend to book up quickly for seasonal stays from spring through fall, so it’s best to inquire about pricing and availability as soon as possible.  When you reach out to book, make sure you understand exactly what’s included in the cost of your stay, like utilities and storage, and whether there are any additional fees.

It’s also a good idea to ask about deposits, any discounts or promotions, refund policies, and how renewals work if you plan to return for multiple seasons.

What to Expect When Packing for a Seasonal Camping Stay in Wisconsin

Create a Comfortable Outdoor Living Space

Seasonal camping means spending lots of time outside, so you can expect to need items like camp chairs, outdoor rugs, lighting, picnic table coverings, fire pit tools, and more, all to make your outdoor environment the most functional.

Prep for Easy Cooking and Meals

When camping for an extended stay, daily cooking naturally becomes part of the routine. You can expect to rely on a grill or griddle, coolers, reusable dishes, storage containers, and basic cleaning supplies for making mealtime simple.

Prioritize Comfort and Safety

A long-term stay often comes down to the small comforts like having bug spray, sunscreen, extra bedding, fans and heaters, surge protectors, and first aid kits handy to stay prepared throughout your stay.

Stay Organized for the Long Season

When camping for an entire season, keeping your site organized can make a big difference in how enjoyable and stress-free your stay is. You can expect to need sturdy storage bins, shelving units, hooks, and weatherproof containers to keep everything in its place.

Add Extras to Make It Your Own

Beyond the basics, seasonal camping is about creating a space that feels personal. You can expect many other seasonal campers to bring fun extras like hammocks, kayaks, paddle boards, bikes, and yard games to make their sites feel more like home.

Plan Your Seasonal Camping Adventure at Emrick Lake Resorts

If you’re looking for the perfect place to make your seasonal camping plans a reality, Emrick Lake Campground and Resort offers everything you need for a comfortable and memorable long-term seasonal stay. Nestled along the stunning shoreline of Emrick Lake, our resort provides the ideal setting for campers who want to relax, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the great outdoors.

By securing your site, here are some of the benefits you can expect:  

  • On-site perksRestaurant and bar, coffee shop with delivery to your site, swim-up pool bar, dog parks, a petting zoo, on-site store, and more
  • Active water recreationFree kayaks, paddle boats, and rowboats are available. Enjoy boating, fishing, a floating water park, and scenic hiking and biking trails around the lake.
  • Family-friendly events and activities – From themed weekends and weekly events to on-site playgrounds, there’s always something fun for families.

If you’re ready to make seasonal camping at Emrick Lake part of your routine, you can easily book your stay online!

Book Your Next Seasonal Stay

If you have questions about our seasonal campsites or want to learn more about our amenities, pricing, and availability, our team is happy to help. Please get in contact with us today to start planning your seasonal camping stay at Emrick Lake.