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Big Bay State Park Wisconsin (WI) RV Rentals

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Introduction

Big Bay State Park is a popular destination for RV camping due to its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural history. The park is located on Madeline Island, the largest of the 22 Apostle Islands in Lake Superior. The island has been inhabited for over 2,000 years and was once home to the Ojibwe tribe. Today, visitors can explore the park’s interpretive center to learn more about the island’s history and culture.

The park’s unique geological features are also a major draw for RV campers. The park’s cliffs, caves, and rock formations were formed by glacial activity over 10,000 years ago. The park’s sandy beach and clear waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing.

RVThereYet is an RV rental company, offering a diverse fleet of motorhomes, including Class A, Class B, and Class C Rentals, Travel, Trailers, and Motorhomes for unforgettable adventures in scenic RV parks and campsites in Big Bay State Park. Ensure early reservations for camper rentals at Big Bay State Park.

Camping Accommodations

37

'

Max RV length

37

'

Max trailer Length

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Generator use

Food storage

Sewer hookup

Dogs & cats

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Transportation

  • Driving/Transportation

Visitors to Big Bay State Park can access the park by private vehicle either by taking the ferry from Bayfield or driving across the ice during the winter months. The park has two entrances one on the north side of the island and one on the south side. RV renters should be aware that there are restrictions on rig sizes with a maximum length of 45 feet and a maximum width of 10 feet.

  • Parking area

RV parking is available in select areas of the park with designated spots for RVs. However overnight parking outside of designated campsites is not permitted. RV camping is a popular option and exploring the park via alternative transportation methods such as biking or hiking is recommended.

  • Public Transportation

Big Bay State Park offers visitors various transportation options for getting around. Shuttle buses run on a regular schedule during peak season providing easy access to popular spots. Walking paths are also available throughout the park allowing for a leisurely stroll while taking in the scenic views.

Top Campsites in Big Bay State Park

  • Reservations camping

The most popular campsites near Big Bay State Park that require reservations are

Madeline Island Campground

This campsite is located on Madeline Island the largest of the Apostle Islands. It has 285 sites including RV and tent sites and offers amenities such as showers laundry facilities and a camp store. Activities include hiking biking and kayaking. The campground is pet-friendly and open from May to October. RVs up to 40 feet are permitted.

Apostle Islands Area Campground

Located in Bayfield this campground has 69 sites including RV and tent sites. Amenities include showers laundry facilities and a camp store. Activities include hiking biking and fishing. The campground is pet-friendly and open from May to October. RVs up to 40 feet are permitted.

Washburn Campground

Located in Washburn this campground has 64 sites including RV and tent sites. Amenities include showers laundry facilities and a camp store. Activities include hiking biking and fishing. The campground is pet-friendly and open from May to October. RVs up to 30 feet are permitted.

Bayfield RV Campground

Located in Bayfield this campground has 60 sites including full hookup RV sites. Amenities include showers laundry facilities and a camp store. Activities include hiking biking and fishing. The campground is pet-friendly and open from May to October. RVs up to 40 feet are permitted.

  • First-come first-served

For those who prefer first-come-first-served camping here are some options near Big Bay State Park

Meyers Beach Campground

Located in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore this campground has 6 sites for tent camping only. There are no amenities but the campground offers access to hiking trails and the lake. Pets are allowed and the campground is open from May to October.

Little Sand Bay Campground

Located in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore this campground has 44 sites for RV and tent camping. Amenities include showers laundry facilities and a camp store. Activities include hiking biking and fishing. Pets are allowed and the campground is open from May to October.

Presque Isle Campground

Located in the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park this campground has 50 sites for RV and tent camping. Amenities include showers laundry facilities and a camp store. Activities include hiking biking and fishing. Pets are allowed and the campground is open from May to October.

  • Alternate camping

If the campsites inside Big Bay State Park are full here are some alternative camping options nearby

Private Campgrounds

There are several private campgrounds in the area including the Apostle Islands Area Campground and the Bayfield RV Campground. These campgrounds offer a range of amenities and accommodations including full hookup RV sites tent sites and cabins.

Backcountry Camping

For those who prefer a more rustic camping experience backcountry camping is available in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Permits are required and campers must follow Leave No Trace principles. There are 18 designated campsites on 19 of the islands and camping is also allowed on the mainland near Meyers Beach and Little Sand Bay.

  • General activities

The most popular recreational activities that draw RV campers to Big Bay State Park include

Hiking the Eagle Trail

This trail offers breathtaking views of the lake and is a favorite among RV campers who love hiking. The trail is 1.5 miles long and takes about an hour to complete. It starts at the campground and ends at the observation tower.

Fishing at Big Bay Lake

The lake is teeming with fish including walleye northern pike and bass. RV campers can fish from the shore or rent a boat from the park’s concession stand. The best fishing spots are near the dam and the fishing pier.

Biking the Big Bay Loop

This 5-mile loop trail is perfect for RV campers who love biking. It winds through the forest and offers stunning views of the lake. The trail is relatively flat making it easy for riders of all skill levels.

Canoeing and kayaking

Big Bay State Park has several canoe and kayak launches making it easy for RV campers to explore the lake. The park rents canoes and kayaks or campers can bring their own.

Swimming at the beach

The park’s sandy beach is a great place for RV campers to relax and cool off on hot summer days. The beach is located near the campground and has a designated swimming area.

  • Alternative activities

For those who prefer less strenuous activities Big Bay State Park has plenty to offer. Some popular alternatives include

Sightseeing at the observation tower

The tower offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding forest. It’s a great spot for taking photos or simply enjoying the view.

Nature watching

The park is home to a variety of wildlife including deer foxes and birds. RV campers can take a leisurely stroll through the forest to spot animals or visit the park’s nature center.

Photography

Big Bay State Park is an Instagrammer’s dream with plenty of scenic spots to capture. Some popular photo ops include the observation tower the beach and the lake.

Visiting the historic lighthouse

The park’s lighthouse built in 1856 is a popular attraction. RV campers can take a guided tour of the lighthouse or simply admire it from afar.

Relaxing at the campground

Big Bay State Park has a spacious campground with plenty of amenities including picnic tables fire rings and restrooms. RV campers can relax and enjoy the great outdoors without having to venture far from their campsite.

Season-specific experiences in Big Bay State Park

  • Spring activities

In the spring Big Bay State Park offers a variety of recreational activities for RV campers. One popular attraction is the park’s hiking trails which offer breathtaking views of Lake Superior and the surrounding forest. The park’s most famous trail is the Eagle Trail which winds through the park’s rugged cliffs and offers stunning views of the lake. Another popular activity is birdwatching as the park is home to a variety of bird species including eagles and loons. The park’s observation tower is a great spot to view these birds in their natural habitat.

For history buffs the park’s Old Ranger III shipwreck is a must-see. The ship which sank in 1928 is now a popular spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. Visitors can also explore the park’s historical lighthouse which dates back to the late 1800s.

Finally the park’s sandy beach is a great spot to relax and soak up the sun. The beach is also a popular spot for swimming kayaking and paddleboarding.

  • Summer activities

During the summer months Big Bay State Park is a popular destination for RV campers looking to enjoy the great outdoors. The park’s beaches are a popular spot for swimming sunbathing and picnicking. The park’s crystal-clear waters are also perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. Visitors can explore the park’s underwater world and see a variety of fish and other marine life.

For those looking for a bit more adventure the park offers a variety of hiking trails that wind through the forest and offer stunning views of Lake Superior. The park’s most famous trail is the Eagle Trail which offers breathtaking views of the lake from its rugged cliffs. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife including deer foxes and beavers.

Another popular summer activity is fishing. The park’s waters are home to a variety of fish including walleye northern pike and bass. Visitors can fish from the shore or rent a boat and head out onto the lake.

Finally the park’s historical lighthouse is a must-see for history buffs. The lighthouse which dates back to the late 1800s offers guided tours and a glimpse into the park’s past.

  • Fall activities

Fall is a fantastic time to visit Big Bay State Park located in the picturesque Apostle Islands in Wisconsin. Here are five recreational activities landmarks and historical sites that attract RV campers during this season

Hiking the Big Bay State Park Trails

The park’s scenic trails offer breathtaking views of Lake Superior and the colorful fall foliage. The trails range from easy to moderate making them suitable for all skill levels. The most popular trail is the 1.5-mile-long boardwalk which winds through the forest and leads to the beach.

Location

Throughout the park

Visiting the Historic Old Bayfield Cemetery

This cemetery is the final resting place of many early settlers of the area including Chief Buffalo a prominent leader of the Ojibwe tribe. The cemetery offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Location

Just outside the park in the nearby town of Bayfield

Exploring the Sea Caves

The park’s sea caves are a must-visit attraction during the fall. The caves are accessible by kayak or boat and visitors can marvel at the stunning rock formations and hues of orange red and yellow on the cave walls.

Location

Along the park’s shoreline

Attending the Bayfield Apple Festival

This annual event celebrates the region’s apple harvest and features live music food vendors and arts and crafts boards. RV campers can stock up on fresh apples cider and other apple-themed treats.

Location

Downtown Bayfield

Birdwatching

The fall migration season is a prime time for birdwatching at Big Bay State Park. The park is home to a variety of bird species including eagles hawks and songbirds. Visitors can observe these birds in their natural habitat and enjoy the beautiful fall scenery.

Location

Throughout the park

  • Winter activities

Winter is a magical time to visit Big Bay State Park with its snow-covered landscapes and frozen Lake Superior. Here are five recreational activities landmarks and historical sites that attract RV campers during this season

Snowshoeing

Big Bay State Park offers miles of snowshoeing trails that wind through the forest and along the shoreline. Visitors can rent snowshoes from the park office and explore the winter wonderland at their own pace.

Location

Throughout the park

Ice Fishing

Lake Superior is a popular destination for ice fishing and Big Bay State Park offers easy access to the frozen lake. Visitors can rent ice fishing gear from local outfitters and try their luck at catching trout salmon and other fish species.

Location

On Lake Superior near the park’s beach

Visiting the Madeline Island Ice Caves

During the winter the sea caves at nearby Madeline Island become encased in ice and are accessible by foot. Visitors can explore the frozen caves and marvel at the stunning ice formations.

Location

Madeline Island

Attending the Bayfield Winter Festival

This annual event features ice sculptures snowshoe races and other winter activities. RV campers can enjoy the festive atmosphere and sample local food and drinks.

Location

Downtown Bayfield

Cross-country Skiing

Big Bay State Park has several groomed cross-country ski trails that offer stunning views of the frozen lake and forest. Visitors can rent cross-country skis from the park office and hit the trails.

Location

Throughout the park

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