Collins Park

Hey there, Wisconsin outdoor enthusiasts! If you're searching for a tranquil and family-friendly camping destination that truly allows you to unwind amidst nature, Collins Park Campground in Rosholt is a place you absolutely need to explore. This charming county park, managed by the Portage County Parks Department, offers a refreshing escape from the everyday hustle, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and essential amenities.

Collins Park is often described as a "very nice, smaller County Park" and a "beautiful place to camp." What sets it apart is its serene atmosphere, particularly due to its location on a pristine no-wake lake. Imagine gliding across calm waters in your kayak, enjoying a relaxing swim, or simply observing the abundant birdlife. It’s the kind of place where peace and quiet reign, making it ideal for families with young ones or anyone simply seeking a restful retreat. With well-maintained facilities and a focus on natural enjoyment, Collins Park is a true gem in Central Wisconsin's outdoor landscape.

Collins Park Campground is conveniently located at 2711 County Rd I, Rosholt, WI 54473, USA. This prime location places it approximately three miles southwest of the village of Rosholt, offering a rural, wooded setting that feels wonderfully secluded, yet remains easily accessible. For Wisconsin residents, reaching Collins Park is straightforward, with well-maintained county roads leading directly to the park entrance.

The park's proximity to Rosholt means that while you're enjoying the tranquility of nature, essential services are never too far away. Rosholt offers basic amenities, and for more extensive shopping, dining, or services, the larger city of Stevens Point is within a comfortable driving distance. This balance ensures campers have the convenience they need without compromising the peaceful camping experience.

A significant highlight of the location is its adjacency to the 42-acre Collins Lake. This beautiful lake is a central feature of the park, providing easy access for various water activities directly from the campground. The clear water and serene nature of the lake, being a "no-wake" lake, are consistently praised by visitors, making it a safe and enjoyable spot for families and those who prefer quieter water sports. The excellent boat launch further enhances accessibility for those bringing their own watercraft. The park's setting on 21 acres of wooded land also ensures a natural and picturesque backdrop for your camping adventure.

Collins Park Campground is well-equipped with services and facilities designed to make your camping experience comfortable and enjoyable. As a Portage County Park, it maintains a standard of public service and cleanliness that visitors appreciate.

• Campsites with Electric Hookups: The campground features 27 campsites, all of which are provided with electrical hookups (20 Amp). This is a significant convenience for RV and trailer campers, allowing for lights, refrigeration, and charging devices.
• Showers and Flush Toilets: A major highlight, consistently praised by campers, are the "nice bathrooms" with showers and flush toilets. The cleanliness of these facilities greatly enhances the comfort of your stay.
• Trailer Dump Station: For RV and trailer campers, a convenient trailer dump station is available on-site, making waste disposal easy before you depart.
• Drinking Water (Bring Your Own Advised): While potable water sources are available, a helpful note from a past camper indicates that due to "high nitrite levels," it's advisable to "bring your own water for cooking and drinking." This allows you to plan accordingly for your hydration and cooking needs.
• Picnic Areas with Tables: Numerous picnic tables are available throughout the park's picnic areas, perfect for outdoor meals and gatherings.
• Boat Launch: There is a "really nice" boat launch providing easy access to Collins Lake for kayaks, canoes, and other non-motorized or low-speed watercraft.
• Seasonal Park Manager: A seasonal park manager lives in the park, providing on-site assistance and ensuring adherence to park rules for a harmonious camping environment.
• Reservations: Campsite reservations can be made online or in person through the Portage County Parks office. Reservations are accepted up to 11 months in advance and must be made at least 7 days prior to arrival.
• Handicapped Accessible Site: The campground also offers a handicapped site that can be reserved, ensuring accessibility for all visitors.

Collins Park Campground offers several unique features and highlights that make it a truly special destination for campers in Wisconsin.

• No-Wake Lake: The adjacent Collins Lake is a "no-wake lake," which is a significant draw. This creates a remarkably calm and serene environment, perfect for relaxing swimming, peaceful kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding without the disturbance of motorized boat wakes. Reviews consistently praise the lake for its beauty and clarity.
• Clean Bathrooms and Showers: Consistently highlighted by visitors, the "nice bathrooms" with hot showers are a major comfort feature. The high level of cleanliness adds significantly to the overall positive camping experience.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: The park boasts a well-maintained playground for children, a volleyball court, and ample picnic areas, making it an excellent choice for families looking for activities beyond the campfire. The smaller size of the park also contributes to a relaxed atmosphere where kids can safely explore.
• Excellent for Kayaking and Canoeing: Due to the no-wake policy and clear waters of Collins Lake, it's considered "excellent for a bit of kayaking." The easy access from the campground and a "really nice" boat launch make it convenient for water enthusiasts.
• Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: Many visitors describe Collins Park as a "very peaceful place" and "amazingly quiet," especially during the week. This tranquility is a major highlight for those seeking a true escape from noise and crowds.
• Beautiful Wooded Setting: The campground is "beautifully wooded," providing natural shade for many sites and a picturesque backdrop for your outdoor stay.
• Abundant Wildlife and Bird Watching: The clear lake and natural surroundings offer opportunities for observing various birds and wildlife, enhancing the nature experience.
• Fishing Opportunities: Collins Lake provides access for fishing, with species such as Panfish, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, and Walleye, appealing to anglers.

As Collins Park is a Portage County Park, its pricing and any "promotions" typically adhere to the standard fee structures set by the county parks department rather than offering commercial-style discounts. However, there are aspects of its booking and cancellation policies that could be considered beneficial "offers" or important information for managing your stay and costs:

• Advance Booking Window: You can reserve campsites up to 11 months in advance. This allows you to plan well ahead, especially for popular dates, ensuring you secure your preferred spot without last-minute scrambling.
• Online and In-Person Reservations: The flexibility to book online with MasterCard or VISA, or in person at the Portage County Parks office, offers convenience for all users.
• Handicapped Site Availability: The campground specifically offers a handicapped-accessible site that can be reserved, ensuring inclusive access to camping for all individuals.
• Cancellation Policy: While a cancellation fee ($8.00) and reservation fee ($8.00) apply, all other monies will be refunded for cancellations made up to 7 days prior to the reservation date. This provides some flexibility if your plans change.
• Administrative Fee for Changes: An $8.00 administrative fee is withheld for any changes or cancellations, a standard practice to cover processing costs.

For the most current information on camping rates, reservation fees, and any specific seasonal notices, it is always best to visit the Portage County Parks website or contact them directly. While you won't find traditional "buy one get one free" deals, the value comes from the well-maintained facilities and serene environment offered at public park rates.

To plan your camping trip or to inquire further about Collins Park Campground, please use the following contact information for the Portage County Parks Department, which manages the park:

• Park Address: 2711 County Rd I, Rosholt, WI 54473, USA
• Phone (Portage County Parks Department): (715) 346-1433

The provided phone number (715) 677-4504 appears to be a direct line to the park itself, which may be seasonal or for direct inquiries during operating hours. For reservations or detailed information, contacting the main Portage County Parks Department office is recommended. Their office hours are typically Monday-Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

For Wisconsin residents, Collins Park Campground in Rosholt is an ideal local camping destination, offering a fantastic blend of convenience, tranquility, and natural beauty right in our backyard. As locals, we appreciate direct access to the outdoor activities that define our state, and Collins Park delivers on all fronts without requiring extensive travel.

The park's smaller, intimate size provides a quieter and more relaxing atmosphere than larger, more bustling campgrounds, making it perfect for genuine unwinding. The "no-wake" Collins Lake is a particular highlight, offering safe and peaceful opportunities for kayaking, swimming, and fishing – activities that many Wisconsinites cherish. This serene lake environment is a stark contrast to busier bodies of water, allowing for true relaxation on the water.

The consistently praised clean bathrooms and showers significantly enhance the comfort of your stay, proving that even a rustic escape can come with essential modern conveniences. For families, the playground and open spaces mean that children have plenty of room to play safely, fostering memorable outdoor experiences. Plus, the ease of making reservations through the Portage County Parks system, and the presence of a seasonal park manager, ensure a well-organized and pleasant visit.

Choosing Collins Park means supporting our local county park system while enjoying a high-quality camping experience. It’s a place where you can disconnect from daily stresses, reconnect with nature, and create lasting memories with family and friends, all within a short drive from home. It embodies the best of Wisconsin's accessible outdoor recreation, making it a perfect retreat for any local looking for a refreshing getaway.