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59 campgrounds and RV Parks near Merrill, WI. Compare campsite amenities, photos, and site types to find the perfect stop for your rig on your route.
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4739 campsites
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From $24/night
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Best campgrounds near Merrill, WI
Council Grounds State Park
Merrill, WI (3 miles away)
$$$$$
(52 sites)
+3
SARA Park Campground
Tomahawk, WI (20 miles away)
+5
Sure-wood Forest Campground
Tomahawk, WI (21 miles away)
+2
Northforest Campgrounds
Tomahawk, WI (23 miles away)
$$$$$
(152 sites)
+5
Spirit Falls Camping
Tripoli, WI (24 miles away)
Terrace View Campsites
Tomahawk, WI (25 miles away)
$$$$$
(45 sites)
+5
Camp Pontiac
Rhinelander, WI (32 miles away)
+4
Lake Dubay Shores Campground
Mosinee, WI (32 miles away)
$$$$$
(219 sites)
+10
Weavers Resort Campground
Wisconsin (33 miles away)
$$$$$
(47 sites)
+6
Pelican Lake Campground LLC
Wisconsin (34 miles away)
$$$$$
(100 sites)
+8
Lake George Campsite
Rhinelander, WI (34 miles away)
+5
West Bay Camping Resort
Rhinelander, WI (35 miles away)
$$$$$
(69 sites)
+8
Most common amenities
Toilets Showers Tables Pet friendly Grills Dump station Playground Firewood Laundry Internet
Campgrounds near Merrill, Wisconsin
Merrill sits along the Wisconsin River in Lincoln County, in the state's northern lake and forest country. The area's anchor campground is Council Grounds State Park, located along the Wisconsin River near the Alexander Dam, with a heavily wooded family campground of 52 sites, showers and flush toilets, and 19 sites with electricity.
Outside the state park, RV travelers have several nearby options. SARA Park Campground in Tomahawk sits about 20 minutes north on the Wisconsin River and Lake Mohawksin, a municipally managed campground with 10 riverside sites offering 30- and 50-amp electric and non-potable water, a public beach, a boat ramp, a pavilion, and a dump station at the nearby city garage. Sure-wood Forest Campground, Northforest Campgrounds, and Terrace View Campsites round out the private options in the surrounding forest between Merrill and Tomahawk.
The region works well for travelers who want water access, quiet wooded sites, and a small-town base for day trips. Central Wisconsin Airport is roughly 45 minutes south for fly-and-drive itineraries.
Things to do around Merrill
Water recreation drives most trips here. A boat landing at Council Grounds offers access to Lake Alexander and the Wisconsin River, and the park provides family and group campsites, wooded trails, a beach area, and an accessible fishing pier. Kayaking, canoeing, swimming, and fishing for walleye, bass, northern pike, muskie, and panfish are all common on the river and the flowages.
On land, hikers can walk the park's short loops, including the Big Pines Nature Trail through mature pine stands. North of Merrill, the Bearskin State Trail runs between Minocqua and Tomahawk on a former railroad grade through northern forest and alongside lakes and wetlands, a crushed-limestone option suitable for bikes and easy walking. Grandfather Falls on the Wisconsin River is a short drive north for a quick scenic stop.
Camping spots and RV parks near Merrill, WI
When to visit and seasonal patterns
- spring
March - May
50° / 34°F 65 mmParks reopen late April; black flies emerge by late May
- summer
June - August
75° / 55°F 110 mmPeak season; reserve state park sites months ahead
- fall
September - November
52° / 36°F 70 mmFall color peaks late September; most sites close late October
- winter
December - February
21° / 10°F 25 mmDeep freeze; campgrounds closed and roads snow-covered
The camping season here is short and defined by winter. Council Grounds State Park is open for camping from late April through late October, with the shower buildings and dump station operating seasonally from roughly mid-May to mid-October. SARA Park Campground and the private grounds around Tomahawk follow a similar window, with most closing by mid to late October when the Tomahawk dump station water is shut off.
June through August is peak season. Warm days, long evenings, and events like the Kwahamot Water Ski Show in Tomahawk push weekend demand hard. Reserve well ahead for Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day.
Spring is cool and wet, with black flies and mosquitoes active by late May. Fall brings color to the maple and birch stands in late September into early October, cooler nights, and fewer bugs, but shorter operating hours at park facilities. Snow typically covers the ground from late November through March, and most campground water systems are winterized well before then.
Top Hosts near Merrill, WI
Linda10 trips - Joined Aug 2023
Linda was amazing to work with. The camper was everything that we could have needed. If we ever rent again, it will be from Linda.
Peggy H. - Jul 2026
Great people and perfect camper for our family. Will Definitely rent from them again!
Jared S. - Jun 2026
MP
Matthew 2 trips - Joined May 2026
Very clean and well equipped.
William M. - Jul 2026
How to book campgrounds near Merrill
Council Grounds is a Wisconsin State Park property. Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance through the Wisconsin DNR reservation system, and same-day reservations are accepted when sites remain. A Wisconsin state park vehicle admission sticker is required in addition to the site fee.
SARA Park Campground in Tomahawk is booked online through RoverPass via the City of Tomahawk, with a maximum continuous stay of 14 days and only 10 riverside sites, so weekends fill quickly. Sure-wood Forest Campground, Northforest Campgrounds, and Terrace View Campsites take reservations directly through the operators. For summer weekends and holiday weeks, book two to three months out for state park sites and at least four to six weeks ahead for the smaller private grounds.
What to expect on site
Sites in this area are typically wooded, level, and family-oriented rather than resort-style. At Council Grounds, the heavily wooded family campground has 52 sites with 19 offering electric hookups, plus an outdoor group campground with three sites that can accommodate wheeled campers. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring, and the family campground has flush toilets, showers, a dump station, and recycling containers. There are no sewer or individual water hookups at sites, so arrive with fresh water and dump on the way out. Maximum RV length is 50 feet.
At SARA Park, the 10 sites sit directly on the water with 30/50-amp electric and non-potable water, so fill fresh tanks before arrival and use the dump station at the Tomahawk city garage. Cell coverage is generally reliable in town and spottier deep in the forest. Bring bug spray from May through August.
Own an RV? Earn up to $24,738/year.
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Frequently asked questions about campgrounds near Merrill, WI
How much does it cost to rent an RV in Merrill, WI?
An RV rental in Merrill is one of the most affordable ways to explore Wisconsin's Northwoods. Travel trailers typically run $90 to $175 per night, Class C motorhomes range from $185 to $325 per night, and larger Class A rigs start around $300. Because hosts set their own pricing, you can often find a cheap RV rental in Merrill by booking midweek, traveling in the May or September shoulder seasons, or choosing a smaller campervan. Pair your stay with a Council Grounds State Park reservation for a budget-friendly basecamp right on the Wisconsin River.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Merrill%2C%20WisconsinDo I need a special license to rent an RV in Merrill, Wisconsin?
A standard driver's license is all you need to rent an RV in Merrill, Wisconsin, even for a 32-foot Class C motorhome or a travel trailer. Wisconsin does not require a commercial driver's license (CDL) for personal RV use. The RVezy platform requirement is that you're 25 or older with a valid license, and ID verification is handled securely through your account before pickup. Visiting from outside the US? Bring your home-country license along with an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in English. Most first-time renters in Lincoln County are surprised how quickly the paperwork wraps up so they can hit the road toward Council Grounds State Park.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039008774-Understanding-approved-driver-requirementsIs insurance and roadside assistance included with my Merrill RV rental?
Yes, every booking on RVezy includes a renter protection plan plus 24/7 roadside assistance, so you can focus on enjoying your Merrill RV trip instead of worrying about the what-ifs. Protection plans cover most damage to the vehicle during your rental, and you choose your coverage level during checkout. If a tire goes flat on Highway 51 heading toward Tomahawk or your battery dies near Grandfather Falls, one call gets help on the way. That peace of mind is especially reassuring for first-timers exploring the backroads of Lincoln County.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailWhat happens if I need to cancel my RV rental in Merrill?
Plans change, and RVezy makes it low-risk to book with confidence. RVezy sets the cancellation policy (not individual hosts), and it includes a money-back grace period right after booking so you have time to confirm details. Refund amounts for later cancellations depend on how close to the trip start date you cancel. If your host cancels, RVezy refunds you or provides travel credits. If you're unsure about dates for your Merrill RV trip, message the host first to confirm flexibility, then book knowing RVezy support has your back before, during, and after the trip.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360037736674-Understanding-the-cancellation-policy-for-guestsCan I bring my dog on a pet-friendly RV rental in Merrill?
Absolutely, plenty of hosts offer a pet-friendly RV rental in Merrill, and your pup will love the Northwoods as much as you will. Just filter for Pet Friendly on RVezy to see eligible listings, and message the host about any pet fees or breed notes. Council Grounds State Park welcomes leashed pets on most trails and has designated pet areas along the Wisconsin River. The Ice Age Trail segments near Merrill are perfect for tail-wagging hikes too. Pack a towel, because that river is irresistible.
dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/petsinparksCan the RV be delivered to my campsite in Merrill?
Yes, RV delivery in Merrill is one of the most popular options, especially for first-timers who'd rather skip towing or maneuvering a big rig. Many local hosts will deliver and set up the motorhome or travel trailer right at your site, whether that's Council Grounds State Park, a Lincoln County campground, or a private driveway. They'll level the unit, connect water and electric, and walk you through every system. Filter for Delivery on RVezy and message the host with your destination for an exact quote. Delivery makes a stationary basecamp at Council Grounds an absolute breeze.
dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/councilgroundsHow far can I drive on an RV road trip from Merrill?
Merrill's central Northwoods location makes it an ideal launchpad for an RV road trip. Door County is about 3 hours east (160 miles), the Apostle Islands and Bayfield sit roughly 3.5 hours northwest (180 miles), Wisconsin Dells is around 2 hours south (110 miles), and the Porcupine Mountains in Michigan's Upper Peninsula are about 4 hours north (210 miles). Most hosts include a daily mileage allowance with extra miles available for a small per-mile fee, and some offer an RV rental with unlimited mileage. Discuss your route upfront and your host can recommend the best mileage package for your itinerary.
travelwisconsin.com/article/road-tripsWhere are the best campgrounds near Merrill for RV camping?
You're spoiled for choice when it comes to RV camping in Merrill. Council Grounds State Park sits right on Lake Alexander with electric sites, a swim beach, and quick access to the Ice Age Trail. Otter Lake Campground in Stanley offers quiet, wooded sites about 20 minutes north. Underdown Recreation Area near Gleason has primitive sites perfect for off-grid stays, and Rice Reservoir Campground offers waterfront sites near Tomahawk. For full hookups, try Westwood Park in nearby Wausau, just 20 minutes south. Pro tip: state park sites release 11 months out on the Wisconsin DNR reservation site, so book your summer weekend early.
dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/councilgrounds/campingWhen is the best time to visit Merrill in an RV?
Late May through early October is prime time for an RV trip in Merrill, with summer highs of 75 to 82 F and crisp, comfortable nights in the 50s. June through August deliver warm lake swimming and the famous Lincoln County Fair, while late September and early October explode with maple, oak, and birch fall color along the Wisconsin River. Winter dips well below zero with heavy snow, but adventurous renters can find winterized rigs for snowmobiling the 315 miles of groomed Lincoln County trails. For most travelers, the sweet spot is mid-June to mid-September when every campground, paddle launch, and trailhead is open.
weather.gov/grb/I've never rented an RV before. Will I be able to handle it?
You've got this, and Merrill is a great spot for first time renting an RV thanks to its quiet rural roads and friendly Northwoods pace. Every RVezy host provides a hands-on orientation at pickup, showing you how to operate the slide-outs, generator, water systems, propane, and dump valves. If you prefer to skip driving entirely, book a host who offers delivery and setup directly to Council Grounds State Park or your private site. Most renters feel completely comfortable after a quick test drive on Highway 64 or County Road K. Message your host ahead of time with any questions and they'll happily walk you through specifics.
wisconsindot.gov/Pages/safety/safety-eng/motorists/driver-tips.aspxWhat if something goes wrong with the RV during my trip?
Take a deep breath, because help is always one call away. Every motorhome rental in Merrill on RVezy includes 24/7 roadside assistance, covering flat tires, dead batteries, lockouts, mechanical breakdowns, and towing. Whether you're parked at Grandfather Falls or rolling along Highway 51 toward Wausau, support is available day or night. For non-emergency questions, message your host directly through the RVezy app for the fastest answer about quirks of their specific rig. RVezy's customer support team is also available before, during, and after your trip to help resolve anything that pops up.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailCan I take my Merrill RV rental across state lines or into Canada?
Yes, most hosts happily allow interstate travel, so a Merrill launchpad opens up Minnesota's North Shore, Michigan's Upper Peninsula, and Illinois with no extra paperwork. Canada crossings are sometimes allowed depending on the host's insurance, so message the listing directly to confirm before booking if Thunder Bay or Sault Ste. Marie is on your radar. Travel into Mexico is not permitted on any RVezy rental because protection coverage does not extend there. Popular cross-border routes from Merrill include the 6-hour drive to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and the 4.5-hour run to Duluth, Minnesota.
cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/know-before-you-goHow much should I budget for fuel on a Merrill RV trip?
Fuel is usually the biggest variable cost, but Wisconsin's reasonable gas prices keep it manageable. Expect a Class C motorhome to deliver 8 to 12 miles per gallon (mpg), a Class B campervan rental in Merrill to hit 15 to 20 mpg, and a tow vehicle pulling a travel trailer to get 10 to 14 mpg. Regular unleaded in north central Wisconsin typically averages near the state average, with diesel slightly higher. A weekend round trip from Merrill to Door County (320 miles) runs roughly $90 to $130 in fuel for a Class C. Pro tip: fill up in Wausau or Merrill before heading deeper into the Northwoods, where station prices climb.
eia.gov/petroleum/gasdiesel/How far in advance should I reserve a campground near Merrill?
Book early and you'll thank yourself later. Council Grounds State Park and other Wisconsin state park campgrounds release reservations 11 months in advance through the Wisconsin DNR's reservation portal, and summer weekends, especially around the 4th of July Parade and Black Squirrel Scurry, fill within hours. Lincoln County parks like Otter Lake open reservations several months out. For private parks near Tomahawk and Wausau, 4 to 8 weeks ahead is usually enough. Pro tip: midweek arrivals are far easier to snag, and if you want a lakeside electric site at Council Grounds in July, set a calendar reminder for exactly 11 months before your target date.
dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/reservationsWhat are the local driving conditions like around Merrill?
Driving an RV around Merrill is refreshingly low-stress thanks to wide rural highways, light traffic, and gentle terrain. Highway 51 and Highway 64 are the main arteries, both easy to navigate even in a 30-foot Class C. Watch for white-tailed deer at dawn and dusk, especially on County roads heading toward Underdown Recreation Area, and slow down for logging trucks on backroads. In winter, plan for snow, ice, and occasional whiteout conditions from November through March, when Wisconsin 511 (511wi.gov) becomes your best friend for real-time road reports. Summer storms can be intense but short, so check radar before long drives.
511wi.gov/What amenities do campgrounds near Merrill offer for RVs?
Campgrounds near Merrill range from full-hookup parks to rustic state forest sites. Council Grounds State Park offers electric sites (20/30/50 amp), potable water fill stations, a dump station, flush toilets, and showers. Private parks like Rivers Edge of Tomahawk add sewer hookups and Wi-Fi at most sites. Underdown Recreation Area is more primitive with pit toilets and no hookups, perfect for boondocking. For dumping and freshwater fills between stops, the Council Grounds dump station is open during the camping season, and the Pilot Travel Center off Highway 51 in Mosinee is a reliable highway option. Pro tip: arrive with full fresh water if heading to Underdown.
dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/councilgrounds/campingWhat features and equipment come standard in Merrill RV rentals?
You'll be impressed by how well-equipped most Merrill RV rentals are. Expect a queen or king bed, full kitchen with fridge, freezer, microwave, stove, and sink, a wet or dry bathroom with shower and toilet, air conditioning, furnace, and propane appliances. Many listings include a generator for off-grid power, a TV, and seatbelts for every passenger, which is required by Wisconsin law for occupants under 16. Bigger Class A and Class C units often add outdoor speakers, awnings, and bike racks. Filter by sleeps count and amenities on RVezy, then message the host with specific must-haves like a coffee maker or pack-n-play.
wisconsindot.gov/Pages/safety/education/child-safety/seatbelt.aspxWhat add-ons and pickup options should I know about?
Hosts offer lots of useful add-ons that make a family RV trip in Merrill smoother. Common extras include kitchen kits ($25 to $60), bedding packages ($25 to $50 per bed), camping chairs and tables, generators, bike racks, kayaks, and propane refills. Pickup is usually at the host's home in or near Merrill, with most offering a 30 to 60 minute walkthrough included. Mileage policies vary, typically 100 to 150 free miles per night with extra miles at $0.35 to $0.55 each, and some hosts offer unlimited mileage packages. Pro tip: ask about a generator add-on if you plan to camp at Underdown or anywhere off-grid.
travelwisconsin.com/article/rv-camping/wisconsin-rv-camping-guideHow does payment and the security deposit work on RVezy?
Payment is simple, secure, and entirely handled through the RVezy platform, so you never need to hand cash to the host. You pay the rental total when you book, and the security deposit is pre-authorized (not charged) on your credit card before pickup. Deposits for a Merrill RV rental typically range from $500 to $1,500 depending on the rig's value. As long as you return the RV on time, clean, and with the agreed fuel and tank levels, the hold is released after your trip ends. Pro tip: take time-stamped photos at pickup and drop-off to keep everything transparent.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360038106214-How-the-security-deposit-worksCan I rent a winterized RV in Merrill for snowmobiling or ice fishing?
Yes, and a winter RV rental in Merrill is one of the best-kept secrets of the Wisconsin Northwoods. Several hosts offer four-season rigs with heated holding tanks, enclosed underbellies, and reliable furnaces, perfect for accessing the 315 miles of groomed Lincoln County snowmobile trails or ice fishing on Lake Alexander and Lake Mohawksin. Look for listings marked four-season or message hosts directly to confirm winter readiness, shore power needs, and tire chains. Pair your booking with a delivery option so the host can set up at a plowed site with 30-amp hookups. Bundle up, because January nights can drop to minus 20 F and the stars are unreal.
dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/snowmobile