Bear Lake Campground, Manawa, WI

For Wisconsin residents seeking a serene escape into nature, a welcoming community, and the simple joys of lakeside living, Bear Lake Campground in Manawa offers a compelling destination. While every campground has its unique rhythm, Bear Lake has garnered a reputation for its beautiful and quiet atmosphere, particularly during weekdays, making it an ideal spot for those looking to unwind and recharge amidst the state's natural beauty.

More than just a collection of campsites, Bear Lake Campground strives to create a comfortable and engaging environment for its guests. Under new ownership for the past two years, the campground is actively working to enhance the visitor experience, striving to address feedback and continuously improve its offerings. This commitment to improvement, combined with the natural allure of the Bear Lake area, positions it as a promising choice for your next Wisconsin camping adventure.

The campground's unique blend of tranquil natural surroundings and the convenience of an on-site bar and grill provides a well-rounded experience. It's a place where you can spend your days enjoying the calm of the lake, and your evenings sharing stories with fellow campers and friendly staff. For Wisconsin locals, Bear Lake Campground represents an accessible, evolving, and potentially recurring destination for memorable outdoor getaways, fostering a sense of familiarity and belonging with each visit.

Location and Accessibility

Bear Lake Campground is conveniently located at N4715 WI-22 #110, Manawa, WI 54949, USA. This address places the campground directly within the scenic area surrounding Bear Lake, near the charming city of Manawa, in Waupaca County, Central Wisconsin. For Wisconsin locals, this location offers an excellent balance of natural immersion and practical accessibility, making it a viable option for a range of travel plans.

Manawa is a smaller community known for its tranquil lakes and rural landscapes, characteristic of Central Wisconsin. The campground's address on Wisconsin State Highway 22 (WI-22) indicates straightforward vehicle access, which is a significant advantage for campers bringing RVs, trailers, or even just a carload of gear. WI-22 is a well-maintained state highway, ensuring a smooth journey from various parts of Wisconsin. While precise directions to the specific "N4715 WI-22 #110" within the campground are best confirmed upon arrival or by consulting a detailed map, the main entrance should be easily identifiable.

The proximity to Bear Lake itself is a major draw, offering campers direct or very easy access to water-based activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming. The surrounding "tiny towns nearby" are also noted as being "full of nice people and great to visit," suggesting opportunities for local exploration and experiencing authentic Wisconsin small-town charm. This combination of natural beauty and community accessibility makes Bear Lake Campground a convenient and appealing destination for a wide array of Wisconsin residents.

Services Offered

Bear Lake Campground provides a range of services aimed at making the camping experience comfortable and enjoyable, whether you're staying for a weekend or a longer period. Under new ownership, there's an ongoing effort to refine and enhance these offerings.

Campsites (RV & Tent): The campground offers various campsites, accommodating both recreational vehicles and traditional tent camping. Specific details on hookups (water, electric, sewer) should be confirmed when booking, though many campgrounds in this region offer essential hookups for RVs.
On-Site Bar & Grill: A significant amenity is the presence of an on-site bar and grill. This provides a convenient option for meals, drinks, and a social gathering spot, creating a friendly atmosphere for campers and locals alike.
Restrooms & Showers: Basic restroom and shower facilities are available. While one review noted an isolated issue with a shower, the general expectation at a campground of this type is to provide functional and reasonably maintained facilities for guest convenience.
Office/Check-in Services: An office is available for check-in and assistance, with customer feedback noting "office lady was very helpful getting us checked in."
Community & Social Atmosphere: The campground fosters a sense of community, particularly evident in the bar/grill area, where staff and other campers can feel "like old friends." This social aspect is a key 'service' for many visitors.
Pet-Friendly: While not explicitly stated in reviews, most modern campgrounds are pet-friendly. It's always best to confirm their specific pet policy when booking.

It's important to note the feedback regarding "COMMUNICATION was horrible" and issues with food availability and event information. This suggests that while efforts are underway, prospective campers might benefit from clear communication directly with the office regarding specific event details, food service hours, and any other pertinent information for their stay. However, the overall sentiment points to a campground actively working to improve its guest experience.

Features / Highlights

Bear Lake Campground, despite some operational challenges noted in a review, possesses several strong features and highlights that make it an attractive destination, especially for those seeking a tranquil and social camping experience in Wisconsin.

Beautiful & Quiet Atmosphere (Especially Weekdays): A significant highlight is its reputation for being "beautiful and quiet during the week." This makes it an ideal retreat for those seeking peace and relaxation away from the bustling crowds, allowing for a deeper connection with nature.
Lakeside Location (Bear Lake): The campground's proximity to Bear Lake provides a picturesque setting and offers opportunities for various water-based activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming. While not explicitly stated, direct lake access for campers is a common feature for campgrounds on a lake.
On-Site Bar & Grill: The integrated bar and grill is a major convenience and social hub. It offers not only food and drinks but also a place where "the bar/grill feels like old friends," fostering a warm and welcoming community atmosphere among campers and staff.
Friendly Owners and Staff: Reviewers consistently praise the "owners and staff do all that they can to make us feel welcome," highlighting a strong commitment to guest satisfaction and a hospitable environment.
Sense of Community: The campground creates a convivial atmosphere, where guests can genuinely feel a connection with the staff and other campers, leading to repeated visits and a feeling of belonging.
Proximity to Charming Small Towns: The "tiny towns nearby are also full of nice people and great to visit," offering opportunities for local exploration, unique shops, and experiencing authentic Central Wisconsin culture.
Potential for Extended Stays: The positive experience of visitors who "decided to stay the whole week, then booked a week in Sept!" suggests the campground is well-suited for longer, relaxing vacations.
Ongoing Renovations/Improvements: The mention of "new owners for 2 years now" and efforts to "resolve these issues" indicates a campground actively striving for continuous improvement, which is a positive sign for future visits.

Promotions or Special Offers

While specific, publicly advertised short-term promotions for Bear Lake Campground were not detailed in the provided customer reviews, many campgrounds, especially those under new ownership and focusing on building a loyal customer base, often offer various ways to provide value or encourage return visits. For Wisconsin locals interested in booking a stay, direct inquiry is the most effective way to learn about any current or upcoming special offers. Potential types of promotions might include:

Weekly or Extended Stay Discounts: Campgrounds frequently offer discounted rates for booking multiple nights or a full week, as evidenced by a reviewer extending their stay for a whole week.
Off-Season or Mid-Week Specials: Given that the campground is noted as "quiet during the week," there might be incentives for booking during less busy periods (e.g., Sunday-Thursday nights) or during the shoulder seasons (spring/fall).
Referral Programs: Some campgrounds offer discounts or perks for referring new campers, leveraging their strong community feel.
Loyalty Programs: For repeat visitors, the campground might have a system that rewards continued patronage.
Event-Specific Packages: If the campground hosts or is associated with local events (like Blatz fest mentioned in a review), they might offer special packages that include camping and event access, though these should be confirmed for clarity.

To inquire about current availability, rates, and any specific promotions, Wisconsin residents should contact Bear Lake Campground directly using the provided phone numbers. Calling (920) 596-3308 is the best method to get the most accurate and up-to-date information for planning your visit.

Contact Information

For Wisconsin residents eager to experience the tranquility and community spirit of Bear Lake Campground, here are the direct contact details:

Address: N4715 WI-22 #110, Manawa, WI 54949, USA
Phone: (920) 596-3308 (This is the primary contact number for the campground).
Mobile Phone: +1 920-596-3308 (This reflects the same primary contact number, ensuring direct access).
Email: While not explicitly provided, a professional campground typically has an email address for inquiries. It's recommended to check their official website or inquire via phone for this.
Website: While a specific URL wasn't provided, searching for "Bear Lake Campground Manawa WI" or "Bear Lake Campground" often leads to an official website or social media presence where more detailed information, photos, and possibly online booking can be found.

Prospective campers are strongly encouraged to call the campground directly to confirm availability, inquire about specific site features (e.g., hookups), current rates, any specific policies, and to clarify details about events or services, especially given the feedback about past communication. Direct communication is the most effective way to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to Bear Lake Campground.

Conclusion: Why Bear Lake Campground is Suitable for Locals

For Wisconsin locals, Bear Lake Campground in Manawa presents a highly suitable and increasingly appealing option for their next outdoor getaway. Its serene location at N4715 WI-22 #110 offers a peaceful escape into the heart of Central Wisconsin's natural beauty, yet remains conveniently accessible from various parts of the state. This balance of tranquility and accessibility makes it ideal for both quick weekend trips and longer, more rejuvenating stays.

The campground's significant highlights directly address what many Wisconsin residents seek in a camping experience. Its reputation for being "beautiful and quiet during the week" is a major draw for those seeking true relaxation away from crowds. The presence of an on-site bar & grill not only provides convenient dining options but also fosters a warm, social atmosphere where staff and fellow campers can feel "like old friends". This sense of community creates a welcoming environment that encourages return visits, turning a simple camping trip into a familiar and cherished "staycation."

Furthermore, the proactive approach of the new owners in making improvements, even while addressing past communication challenges, demonstrates a commitment to enhancing guest satisfaction. This continuous effort, combined with the inherent beauty of the lakeside setting and the charm of the "tiny towns nearby," ensures that Bear Lake Campground is an evolving destination dedicated to providing a quality experience.

For locals looking for a campground that blends natural beauty with essential amenities, fosters a friendly community, and is actively striving for excellence, Bear Lake Campground offers an ideal choice. It’s a place where relaxation by the lake, social evenings at the bar, and the welcoming spirit of Central Wisconsin truly come together, promising memorable and enjoyable outdoor escapes for all who visit.