1. Lake Wissota State Park
Located about 30 minutes from Eau Claire, Lake Wissota State Park is a great place to camp, hike, and enjoy the water. The park has more than 100 campsites, some with electricity and some without. There are trails for hiking and biking, a beach for swimming, and a big lake where you can go fishing or kayaking. If you like nature but still want some comfort, this is a great spot. https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/lakewissota
2. Brunet Island State Park
Brunet Island State Park is about 40 minutes from Eau Claire and is known for its beautiful water views. The park is on an island, which makes it a great place for canoeing and kayaking. There are several campsites right next to the water, so you can wake up and enjoy a peaceful morning by the lake. The park also has hiking trails and places for fishing. https://gochippewacounty.com/listings/brunet-island-state-park/
3. Hoffman Hills State Recreation Area (No Camping, Just Hiking, Skiing)
If you’re looking for a day trip instead of overnight camping, Hoffman Hills is a great option. It’s about 25 minutes away and offers hiking trails through forests, prairies, and wetlands. There’s also a 60-foot observation tower where you can get an amazing view of the area. While there aren’t camping spots here, it’s a great place for an outdoor adventure. https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/hoffmanhills
4. Coon Fork Lake County Park
Coon Fork Lake County Park is about 35 minutes from Eau Claire and is perfect for a quiet, nature-filled camping experience. It has sites for tents and RVs, as well as a beautiful lake where you can swim, fish, or kayak. The campground has electric and non-electric campsites, and it’s open from spring to fall. https://www.eccountyparks.com/parks/camping/coon_fork_lake_county_park/
5. Harstad County Park
Harstad Park is one of the oldest parks in Eau Claire County. It’s a small, peaceful campground right along the Eau Claire River, about 20 minutes from UWEC. There are 27 primitive campsites, which means there’s no electricity or running water, but it’s a great place to enjoy nature. The park has a picnic area, a playground, and even a ball field. Canoeing and kayaking are popular here, and there’s a small creek that kids love to explore. https://www.eccountyparks.com/parks/parks-and-shelters/harstad_county_park_shelter/ https://thedyrt.com/camping/wisconsin/wisconsin-harstad-county-park
6. Stoney Creek RV Resort
If you want a camping experience that includes fun activities, Stoney Creek RV Resort in Osseo is a great choice. Located about 20 minutes from Eau Claire, this campground has spots for tents and RVs, plus a bunch of family-friendly activities like mini golf, a jumping pillow, and a swimming pool. It’s a great place for a weekend getaway with friends or family. https://www.stoneycreekrvresort.com/
7. Camping at the Eau Claire County Expo Center
If you’re looking for a simple and affordable camping spot close to town, the Eau Claire County Expo Center has camping available from May 1 to September 15. There are 36 campsites with and without electricity. The Expo Center is close to Lowes Creek Park, where you can bike or hike on some great trails. https://www.eccountyparks.com/parks/camping/expo_center_camping/
8. Chippewa River State Trail Camping
For those who love bikepacking or canoe camping, there are some unofficial places to camp along the Chippewa River State Trail. This trail runs through Eau Claire and follows the Chippewa River for many miles. While there aren’t official campgrounds, experienced campers sometimes set up small campsites along the way. https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/chipriver
9. Clark County Forest
For a more remote camping experience, Clark County Forest is about an hour away and offers dispersed camping, meaning you can camp in the forest away from designated campsites. This is perfect for people who love backpacking and want to be in nature with very few other people around. https://clarkcountywi.org/visit-clark-county/outdoors/parks-camping.php
What You Need to Know Before You Go
Before you head out on a camping trip, here are some important things to remember:
Check the Rules: Some parks require reservations, and others are first-come, first-served. Always check before you go.
Pack the Essentials: Bring a tent, sleeping bag, flashlight, food, water, and any camping gear you need.
Respect Nature: Leave no trace—clean up your trash and respect wildlife.
Campfire Rules: Some areas allow campfires, while others don’t. Make sure to check fire restrictions before lighting one.
Gear: If you need it UWEC has you all set up if you are a UWEC student. The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire offers camping gear rentals to students through the Environmental Adventure Center (EAC). The EAC provides a comprehensive outdoor program, including an Outdoor Equipment Rental Center where students can rent camping gear, skis, kayaks, and more.
Wrapping it all up…
Additionally, the EAC organizes adventure trips, such as hiking and climbing excursions, where equipment is provided as part of the trip package. https://www.uwec.edu/offices-services/recreation-and-sport-operations/about-recreation-and-sport-operations
For more information on available equipment, rental procedures, and upcoming trips, you can contact the Recreation and Sport Operations department:
Phone: 715-836-3377
Email: https://www.uwec.edu/offices-services/recreation-and-sport-operations
Office: Hilltop Center 105, 15 Garfield Avenue, Eau Claire, WI 54701
Camping near Eau Claire is a great way to relax, enjoy nature, and have fun with friends or family. Whether you want to camp right next to the water, deep in the woods, or in a place with fun activities, there’s a spot for everyone. So grab your gear, pick a spot, and enjoy the great outdoors!!
Disclaimer
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Author
John Moss. After attending University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire (UWEC), John made Eau Claire home where he and his wife raised their children, dogs, and chickens.
