Many of Wisconsin’s campgrounds are owned and operated by families, some for multiple generations, offering a unique experience for visitors seeking time together in the outdoors.
The Wisconsin Association of Campground Owners (WACO), which represents more than 200 member parks, says most are run by couples and families with the goal of helping others create meaningful camping memories.
“Some of the best family time that children have with their parents and siblings growing up takes place during the camping trips they take together,” said Lori Severson, executive director of WACO. “Most of our member campgrounds are owned and operated by couples and families who want to help other families to create wonderful camping memories.”
At Anchor Bay Campground and Anchor Woods Campground in Spooner, Tammy and Mike Friday are completing their first season as owners after acquiring the parks in December 2024. They’ve added a gaga ball pit and a dog park. Anchor Bay, dating back to 1938, features 23 RV sites and cabins on Bass Lake. Across the road, Anchor Woods offers wooded sites for campers and ATV enthusiasts.
In Fond du Lac, Breezy Hill Campground has grown under the ownership of the Wiltzius family since 2014. What began with 85 sites has expanded to 185 and includes a swimming pool, hot tub, beach, catch-and-release fishing ponds and a jumping pillow. Weekend wagon rides and movies are also part of the experience.
Champions Riverside Resort in Galesville has been operated by Rick and Lori Severson and their daughters since 2010. The Seversons have invested close to $1 million in improvements, including a 1.5-acre recreational pond with a floating water sports park. Lori Severson also serves as executive director of WACO.
In Baraboo, Dell Pines Campground has been owned by Kara and Rob Traxler since 2018. Their daughters help run the park, which features miniature golf, walking trails and proximity to Mirror Lake and Devil’s Lake State Parks. The Traxlers also organize themed weekends and activities.
Geitner Homestead Equine Campground in Sturgeon Bay offers services for both traditional and horse campers. Opened in 2023 by David and Penny Geitner, the campground includes riding trails, a round pen, and obstacle challenges, as well as themed weekends and seminars on horse care.
Glacier Valley Campground in Cambria, co-owned since 2014 by Richard Chandler and Diane Thompson, includes a swimming pond, mini golf, hiking trails and a dog park. The park’s amenities are designed to offer something for all ages.
In Alma, Great River Harbor Campground & Marina is operated by Eric and Nikki Jandro. After acquiring the park in 2018 from Eric’s parents, the Jandros continue to run both the campground and a houseboat rental business. Their children are actively involved, with Ashley helping at the campground and Jacob working with the houseboats.
Hickory Hills Campground in Edgerton has been operated by the Gauthier family since 2022. Joanne and Chris Gauthier, along with their four children, left prior careers to manage the 190 seasonal sites and 70 overnight campsites. Each child contributes to park operations, from customer service to maintenance.
Indian Trails Campground in Pardeeville is now in its fourth generation of Meierdirk family ownership. The campground, which began in 1965, is currently operated by Rance and Brittni Meierdirk, along with Rance’s twin brother, Regan.
Jellystone Park Camp-Resort in Caledonia continues to be run by the Isaacson family following the passing of patriarch Randy Isaacson in 2024. The park features water attractions and organized family activities. Campers can also access Bear Paw Beach and Adventure Park next door.
Other long-standing family-run parks include Jellystone Park Camp-Resort in Sturgeon Bay, owned by Jim and Jill Kavicky since 2002, and the Jellystone Park in Wisconsin Dells, which has been operated by the Gasser family since 1971. Each park offers a variety of water-based amenities and organized activities with Yogi Bear.
Campgrounds like Lake Arrowhead in Montello, Lake George Campsite in Rhinelander, Lake Lenwood in West Bend, O’Neil Creek in Chippewa Falls, Pineland Camping Park in Big Flats and Pride of America Camping Resort in Pardeeville all continue to be shaped by the families who own them. Each contributes to a statewide camping experience rooted in generational care, hospitality and connection to the outdoors.