Bay Shore Campground

For us Wisconsinites, the call of the great outdoors, especially along our beautiful Great Lakes shoreline, is a strong one. We cherish those moments of peace and connection with nature, whether it's by the crackling campfire or with a stunning sunrise over the water. If you’re looking for a camping experience that truly delivers on privacy, natural beauty, and a serene atmosphere, then Bay Shore Campground in Green Bay is a local gem waiting to be discovered. It offers a refreshing escape from the everyday hustle, providing an ideal setting for families and individuals alike to unwind and create lasting memories.

Bay Shore Campground is nestled within the scenic Cecil Depeau Bay Shore Park, a magnificent natural area situated atop the majestic Niagara Escarpment, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Bay of Green Bay. This isn't just any campground; it’s a destination that seamlessly blends rustic charm with convenient amenities, making it a favorite among those who appreciate both seclusion and accessibility. The campground is well-regarded for its clean, quiet environment and surprisingly spacious sites, even the rustic ones. Visitors often express their pleasant surprise at the level of privacy afforded, allowing for a truly immersive outdoor experience. It's designed to cater to various camping preferences, from traditional tent campers seeking a more primitive feel to RV enthusiasts looking for water and electric hookups. Open typically from April to October, weather permitting, Bay Shore Campground invites you to experience the natural beauty of northeastern Wisconsin in a tranquil and welcoming setting.

Bay Shore Campground boasts a fantastic location in Green Bay, WI 54229, USA, specifically within Cecil Depeau Bay Shore Park. This places it approximately fifteen miles northeast of downtown Green Bay, making it highly accessible for residents across Wisconsin. The park is conveniently located along State Highway 57, ensuring a straightforward drive whether you're coming from Milwaukee, Madison, or closer regional cities. What truly elevates its location is its unique position atop the Niagara Escarpment. This ancient geological formation not only provides stunning elevated views of the Bay of Green Bay but also offers unique hiking opportunities right from the campground. While offering a sense of peaceful seclusion, the campground is still within a reasonable driving distance of Green Bay's city amenities, including grocery stores, dining options, and attractions like the iconic Lambeau Field. Furthermore, its proximity to the Bay allows for easy access to water-based activities, making it a prime spot for those who love to combine camping with boating, fishing, or simply enjoying the waterfront.

Bay Shore Campground provides a comprehensive array of services designed to enhance the camping experience for all visitors, blending rustic appeal with essential conveniences. Here's a breakdown of what campers can expect:

• Diverse Campsite Options: The campground features 107 wooded campsites. This includes approximately 90 sites with water & electric hookups, 15 rustic sites with no hookups, and 2 dedicated group sites. All sites, whether rustic or equipped, come with asphalt pads, fire rings, and picnic tables.
• Group Camping: Two designated group sites are available, accommodating up to 20 individuals and a maximum of 8 tents. Campers, motorhomes, and pop-ups are permitted on these group sites.
• Clean Restroom Facilities: The campground provides well-maintained shower and restroom facilities exclusively for registered campers, a highly valued amenity for comfort after a day of outdoor activities.
• Firewood Sales: For convenience, firewood is sold through machinery on-site, accepting both card and cash, ensuring you can easily keep your campfire burning. It's important to note that firewood may only be brought in from Brown County, adhering to local regulations.
• Dump Station: A dump station is available for campers, with a fee for non-registered users, providing essential services for RVs.
• Free Wi-Fi: While encouraging disconnection, free Wi-Fi is accessible near the playground and park pavilion, allowing for some connectivity when needed.
• Laundry Facilities: The campground is in the process of adding laundry facilities, indicating a continuous effort to enhance convenience for longer stays.
• Pets Allowed: Pets are welcome at the campground, provided they are kept on a leash, making it a great option for those who travel with their furry companions.
• Boat Launch: Within Bay Shore Park, a boat launch facility with a protected harbor is available, providing easy access to the Bay of Green Bay for fishing, sailing, and boating enthusiasts (a separate fee applies for boat launching).

Bay Shore Campground stands out with several key features and highlights that consistently receive praise from campers and contribute to a memorable Wisconsin outdoor experience:

• Spacious and Private Sites: A recurring highlight from reviews is the generous size and privacy of the campsites, even the rustic ones. Campers note that sites are large enough to fit an additional tent and that "neighbors aren’t right next to you," fostering a truly secluded feel.
• Clean and Quiet Grounds: The "entire grounds are clean and quiet," creating a peaceful atmosphere ideal for relaxation and enjoying nature without excessive noise.
• Recreational Amenities for All Ages:
  • Jump Pad: The "jump pad" is consistently mentioned as a "blast" by families, providing a popular and fun activity for kids.
  • Playground: A nautical-themed playground with a huge wooden ship provides an imaginative play area for children.
  • Swings with a View: Visitors love the "swings looking towards the water at sunrise and sunset," offering a serene spot to take in the breathtaking views of the Bay.
• Access to Bay Shore Park Features:
  • Scenic Hiking Trails: Situated atop the Niagara Escarpment, the park offers "scenic hiking trails follow the ledge," providing up-close views of ancient geological formations. While the "beach hike is a little further than we expected," it "added to the fun," and driving is an option for those less inclined to walk.
  • Beautiful Small Beach: The campground provides access to a "beautiful small beach" on the Bay, perfect for sunbathing, beachcombing, or simply enjoying the waterfront.
  • Boat Launch & Fishing: A breakwater and boat launch facility with a protected harbor provide direct access for fishing, sailing, and boating on the Bay of Green Bay.
• Well-Designed Fire Pits: Campers appreciate the "well designed and useful" fire pits, essential for those quintessential camping bonfires.
• Stunning Views: The elevated position offers "breathtaking views of the Bay of Green Bay," especially at sunrise and sunset, creating picturesque moments.

As Bay Shore Campground is a public facility managed by Brown County Parks, direct commercial "promotions" or "special offers" on campsite fees are not typically run in the same way a private business might. The pricing for campsites is generally set by the county. However, there are aspects to consider that offer value and can be seen as benefits:

• Standardized Pricing: The transparent and consistent pricing for water & electric sites ($32/night) and rustic sites ($22/night) provides clear expectations for campers, ensuring fair rates for all. Group sites are priced at $50/night (no hookups) and $75/night (water and electric).
• First-Come, First-Serve Options: A portion of the water and electric sites (all even-numbered ones) are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. This can be a "promotion" in the sense that it offers flexibility for spontaneous trips without needing an advance reservation for every site.
• Vehicle Admission: While not a discount, visitors should be aware of any required Brown County Parks vehicle admission fees, which are separate from camping fees. An annual pass might offer savings for frequent park goers.
• Seasonal Availability: The campground is typically open from April to October. Camping during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) can offer a quieter experience, often with fewer crowds, which can feel like a "special offer" in terms of tranquility.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fees and any potential minor adjustments, always consult the official Brown County Parks website or contact the campground directly.

Planning your tranquil getaway to Bay Shore Campground? Here’s how you can get in touch to gather more information or inquire about reservations:

• Address: Green Bay, WI 54229, USA (The physical park entrance is at 5637 Sturgeon Bay Rd, New Franken, WI 54229, which is the exact location for directions.)
• Phone: (920) 448-4466
• Mobile Phone: +1 920-448-4466

Reservations for Bay Shore Campground sites are primarily made online, though some even-numbered water and electric sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. It's always best to check their official website for the most current reservation policies and availability, especially for holiday weekends which may require a 3-night minimum stay. The friendly staff at the Brown County Parks Department can also assist with any questions you may have.

For us Wisconsinites, Bay Shore Campground offers an ideal blend of accessibility, natural beauty, and a truly comfortable camping experience right here in our own backyard. Its location just a short drive from Green Bay makes it perfect for a spontaneous weekend escape or a longer family vacation without the need for extensive travel. The consistent praise from fellow local campers regarding the "huge and private" rustic sites and the overall "clean and quiet" grounds speaks directly to what many of us seek in a natural retreat. The unique setting atop the Niagara Escarpment provides not only stunning Bay views, especially at sunrise and sunset, but also direct access to scenic hiking trails, allowing for active exploration of our state's unique geology. Families will particularly appreciate the dedicated amenities like the "jump pad" and playground, ensuring plenty of entertainment for younger campers. Furthermore, the convenience of on-site firewood sales and well-maintained facilities, including showers and restrooms, elevates the camping experience beyond mere ruggedness. Whether you're looking to unwind by a well-designed fire pit, enjoy water activities on the Bay, or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere, Bay Shore Campground provides an excellent opportunity to connect with Wisconsin's natural splendor while enjoying the comforts that make a camping trip truly relaxing and memorable. It’s a place many locals promise they "will absolutely be back" to, and for good reason.