Three Price County, Wisconsin campgrounds are demonstrating how year-round operations can capture winter revenue, with Solberg Campground, Smith Lake Campground and Big Falls Campground now accepting reservations for the 2026 season while offering direct snowmobile trail access during what many operators consider the slow months.
Trail conditions in the region are favorable, with a 4- to 6-inch snow base reported as of Jan. 7, 2026, according to Price County parks information, and trails are open and in good condition. For campground operators evaluating whether winter camping makes financial sense for their properties, the Price County model offers a practical case study in extending seasonal revenue streams.
Winter camping represents a significant opportunity for outdoor hospitality businesses to generate income during periods when many properties sit dormant. Snowmobile enthusiasts, in particular, gravitate toward accommodations that provide direct trail access, eliminating the hassle and safety concerns of trailering equipment on public roads. This convenience factor often supports premium pricing and can drive stronger occupancy than operators might expect during winter months. Properties positioned along established trail networks hold a distinct competitive advantage in capturing this market segment.
The three Price County campgrounds illustrate different operational approaches that other operators can evaluate when considering their own year-round strategies.
Solberg Lake County Campground represents the full-service end of the spectrum, featuring 60 sites on a 35-acre peninsula extending into Solberg Lake, with many sites equipped with electrical hookups that enable RVs requiring power for heating systems to camp comfortably in cold weather. The campground connects to snowmobile, hiking and nature trails while also providing access to ATV/UTV trails and the Solberg Trail system.
Smith Lake County Campground takes a mid-range approach with 30 sites located southwest of Park Falls along the North Fork of the Flambeau River. The property emphasizes trail connectivity as a primary selling point, offering ATV and multi-use trail access to the Tuscobia State Trail and other local routes, plus scenic hiking trails and river frontage. This positioning demonstrates how trail access can serve as a central marketing message for attracting winter guests who prioritize ride-in, ride-out convenience over extensive amenities.
Big Falls County Park and Campground rounds out the offerings with a more rustic experience, providing approximately six first-come, first-served sites along the Jump River near Kennan. The property features hiking trails following the river and scenic rapids, appealing to visitors seeking a simpler winter camping experience without the need for advance reservations. This tiered approach across the three properties allows Price County to serve different market segments while maximizing overall winter visitation.
Operators considering similar infrastructure investments should recognize that electrical hookups represent a foundational requirement for enabling winter RV stays.
The presence of power connections at Solberg allows campers to run heating systems safely, removing one of the primary barriers to cold-weather camping. Meanwhile, building relationships with local snowmobile clubs, trail associations and tourism boards creates valuable marketing opportunities that often result in inclusion on regional trail maps and promotional materials at no additional cost to the campground.
Snowmobile enthusiasts frequently book accommodations based on weather forecasts and trail conditions with shorter lead times than traditional summer campers.
Operators can capture this spontaneous travel segment by maintaining flexible booking policies and providing last-minute availability updates through active social media channels. Many successful winter campgrounds share daily trail reports and snow conditions throughout the season, positioning themselves as knowledgeable resources for the riding community while building engagement that translates to bookings.
The operational realities of winter camping require clear communication with guests before arrival. Price County campgrounds are transparent that roads are not plowed during winter months and that water and shower amenities remain seasonal, meaning they are unavailable during cold weather. Campers must arrive prepared with all necessary supplies and winter gear. This straightforward approach to expectation-setting represents a best practice that other operators should adopt, as accurate pre-arrival information reduces negative reviews and increases the likelihood of repeat visitation.
Setting up successful winter operations extends beyond simply keeping gates open during cold months. Installing reflective trail markers and directional signage becomes critical when snow covers familiar landmarks that guests rely on during warmer seasons. Maintaining emergency contact information posted at multiple locations throughout the property enhances safety, as does clearly identifying areas with reliable cellular service. A heated shelter where riders can warm up and review trail maps provides meaningful value to guests without requiring major capital investment.
Proper winterization of water systems prevents costly pipe damage that can undermine the financial benefits of year-round operations. Campgrounds that remain open through winter typically invest in frost-free hydrants at strategic locations or establish clearly marked potable water fill stations that guests can access regardless of temperature. These infrastructure decisions should be evaluated carefully against anticipated winter revenue when operators assess whether extending their season makes business sense.
Reservations for the 2026 camping season at Smith Lake and Solberg campgrounds opened Jan. 1, 2026, with booking information available through the Price County parks website. Big Falls continues operating on its first-come, first-served basis without advance reservations. Operators in similar markets should note that offering discounted rates for extended stays, creating winter-specific packages including firewood bundles, and partnering with local outfitters for equipment rentals are recognized strategies for building occupancy when traditional camping demand is low.
The success of properties like those in Price County demonstrates that winter camping demand exists when operators provide appropriate infrastructure and clear guest communication. For outdoor hospitality businesses in snow-belt regions, evaluating trail partnerships and winter-specific amenities could unlock revenue potential that remains untapped at many properties. The combination of direct trail access, honest communication about available services, and strategic infrastructure investment offers a template that campground owners nationwide can adapt to their own markets and operational capabilities.