Group Campground

For Wisconsin residents who cherish the great outdoors and enjoy shared experiences with larger gatherings of friends, family, or organizations, the Group Campground at High Cliff State Park in Menasha offers an exceptional opportunity. Unlike typical family campsites, a group campground is specifically designed to accommodate more people, providing ample space and facilities for a truly collective outdoor adventure. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of this particular Group Campground, helping local users understand its unique offerings, its beautiful location, and why it stands out as an ideal choice for your next group outing in the Badger State. We'll explore what you can expect when you choose this destination for your Wisconsin camping experience.

Camping has long been a beloved pastime in Wisconsin, offering a chance to reconnect with nature, enjoy recreational activities, and create lasting memories. The Group Campground caters to a specific need: providing suitable accommodations for larger parties such as scout troops, church groups, school trips, or big family reunions. Understanding the specifics of such a specialized campground is key to planning a successful trip. We'll delve into the details that make this Group Campground a suitable and often preferred option for those looking to host an outdoor event or simply enjoy nature with a substantial gathering.

The Group Campground is strategically located at 210 Group Camp 3 Rd, Menasha, WI 54952, USA. This address places it directly within the expansive and popular High Cliff State Park. High Cliff State Park is a significant natural landmark in Wisconsin, uniquely situated on the eastern shore of Lake Winnebago, the state's largest inland lake. This location provides unparalleled access to the lake's recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, and stunning views, particularly from the park's namesake limestone cliff.

Being part of a state park means the Group Campground benefits from the park's well-maintained infrastructure and surrounding natural beauty. Accessibility to the campground is typically straightforward via paved roads within the park. Menasha, while a city, offers a comfortable blend of urban convenience and natural surroundings. Residents from nearby cities like Appleton, Neenah, and Oshkosh will find the drive to High Cliff State Park relatively easy, making it a convenient destination for a weekend or extended group stay. The park's well-marked trails and internal road system ensure that once you arrive, navigating to your specific group site is simple. The setting within a state park also often implies a more protected natural environment, enhancing the camping experience for all visitors. For groups, the ease of access for multiple vehicles and the proximity to essential services in Menasha are definite advantages when planning a large gathering.

The Group Campground within High Cliff State Park offers a range of services and facilities tailored to accommodate larger groups, ensuring a comfortable and functional camping experience. While specific details should always be verified with the Wisconsin DNR or the park directly, typical services and amenities at state park group campgrounds often include:

• Designated Group Sites: The campground features a total of 8 group sites, designed to accommodate multiple tents and pop-up campers. These sites are notably spacious, allowing for multiple families or a large number of individuals within a single reservation. Reviews highlight that sites like 206 and 207 offer "ample space for multiple families."

• Picnic Tables: Each group site typically comes equipped with multiple picnic tables, providing ample space for dining, games, and gathering for the entire group.

• Fire Rings: Essential for any camping experience, fire rings are provided at each site for campfires, cooking, and warmth, encouraging traditional camping activities.

• Restroom Facilities: Access to restrooms is crucial. High Cliff State Park provides flush toilet/shower buildings in the family campground, which are generally accessible to all overnight guests. Additionally, several vault toilets are located throughout the broader campground area. The shower building is open seasonally, typically from May to mid-October.

• Water Access: Group sites often have convenient access to potable water sources, either directly at the site or nearby communal spigots.

• Sanitary Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available for registered campers, free of charge, which is particularly beneficial for groups utilizing RVs or pop-ups.

• Recycling/Garbage Station: Facilities for waste disposal are provided to encourage responsible waste management and maintain the cleanliness of the park.

• Pet-Friendly: Pets are permitted in both the family and group campgrounds, allowing furry family members to join the adventure, provided they are supervised and restrained.

The availability of shade is also a key factor for campers, and reviews indicate that "6 of the 8 had ample shade," with sites like 206 and 207 being particularly good for shade, while 204 and 205 might be in "full sun." This information is valuable for groups when selecting their site.

The Group Campground at High Cliff State Park offers several features and highlights that make it an attractive choice for groups looking to experience Wisconsin's natural beauty. Based on available information and user reviews, these include:

• Spacious Group Sites: A significant highlight is the generous size of the individual group sites. With "8 group sites total," reviewers consistently praise the "ample space for multiple tents and a pop-up" and "ample space for multiple families!" This is crucial for accommodating larger parties comfortably, allowing for various setups and activities within the assigned area.

• Ample Shade (for most sites): The presence of significant shade at "6 of the 8" sites, and particularly at sites like 206 and 207, is a major benefit, especially during warmer Wisconsin summers. Shade helps keep campers cool and comfortable, enhancing the overall outdoor experience.

• Prime State Park Location: Being situated within High Cliff State Park provides access to all the park's attractions. This includes stunning views of Lake Winnebago from the cliffs, extensive hiking trails like the Red Bird Trail, and opportunities for picnicking and wildlife observation. The quarry area also adds a unique geological interest.

• Versatility for Various Groups: These sites are perfect for a wide array of gatherings, including "school trips, scout camping, family reunions, and other large groups." Their design and available facilities cater well to the needs of diverse organizations and families seeking a shared outdoor experience.

• Proximity to Lake Winnebago: Direct access to Lake Winnebago means group members can enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and simply enjoying the lakeside environment. The park's natural setting provides a scenic backdrop for any group adventure.

• On-site Facilities: Beyond the individual sites, the broader High Cliff State Park provides amenities such as flush toilets and showers (seasonal), vault toilets, a sanitary dump station, and recycling/garbage facilities, enhancing the comfort and convenience for all campers. There is also a play area and volleyball courts nearby, as well as a picnic area and community fire ring.

The consistent positive feedback on site spaciousness and shade availability underlines the campground's suitability for comfortable group gatherings, making it a highly recommended choice for those planning a large camping trip in Wisconsin.

As a state park facility, the Group Campground at High Cliff State Park typically operates under the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) fee structure. This means that while traditional "promotions" in the commercial sense (like discounts or bundled deals) are uncommon, there are still opportunities for cost-effective access and specific guidelines that might be beneficial for groups.

• Vehicle Admission Pass: All vehicles entering Wisconsin State Parks require a vehicle admission pass. While this is a standard fee, groups can consider purchasing an annual pass if they plan multiple visits to Wisconsin State Parks throughout the year, which can lead to savings compared to daily passes. This is a common practice for frequent park users in Wisconsin.

• Reservation System: Group campsites are available through a reservation system, allowing groups to plan and secure their desired dates well in advance. This ensures availability and can help budget for the trip by locking in costs early. Reservations can often be made up to 11 months in advance.

• Youth Group Rates/Guidelines: For specific youth groups (e.g., Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts), there might be particular guidelines or considerations for reservations, sometimes allowing for a more rustic and educational experience. Youth groups typically must be accompanied by at least one adult for every 10 members.

It's important to note that specific "special offers" are not typically advertised for state park campgrounds as they are for private campgrounds. The value lies in the access to public lands, well-maintained facilities, and the natural beauty provided at a standardized, often very reasonable, rate set by the state. For the most accurate and current information on fees, reservation procedures, and any specific group policies, it is always best to consult the official Wisconsin DNR website for High Cliff State Park or contact the park office directly.

For those planning a group camping trip and seeking to learn more or make a reservation at the Group Campground within High Cliff State Park, here is the essential contact information:

• Address: 210 Group Camp 3 Rd, Menasha, WI 54952, USA

• While a direct phone number specifically for the Group Campground is not publicly listed separately from the main park, you can contact the High Cliff State Park office for all camping inquiries.

• High Cliff State Park Main Phone: (920) 989-1650 (This is the general park phone number for inquiries, reservations, and information about all camping options within the park, including group sites.)

• Wisconsin DNR Camping Reservations: Group campsites are typically booked through the Wisconsin State Parks reservation system, which is accessible online via the Wisconsin DNR website. This is generally the most efficient way to check availability and make a reservation for group sites.

It is highly recommended to utilize the official Wisconsin DNR website for the most up-to-date information on booking procedures, site availability, and any specific rules or regulations pertaining to group camping. Calling the park office during business hours can also provide personalized assistance and answers to any specific questions your group may have.

For Wisconsin locals seeking an exceptional outdoor experience tailored for larger gatherings, the Group Campground within High Cliff State Park in Menasha stands out as an incredibly suitable and appealing choice. Its primary advantage lies in its specialized design to accommodate groups, offering spacious sites that can comfortably host multiple tents, pop-ups, and numerous individuals or families, as confirmed by positive resident reviews. This eliminates the common challenge of trying to fit a large party into standard individual campsites. The generous space, coupled with ample shade at most sites, ensures a more comfortable and enjoyable stay, particularly during the warm Wisconsin summers.

Beyond the practicalities of site size, the campground's location within High Cliff State Park is a significant draw. Residents from across Wisconsin will appreciate the easy access to the majestic Lake Winnebago, providing opportunities for scenic views, water activities, and a true sense of being immersed in nature. The park itself offers a wealth of recreational options, including hiking trails, picnic areas, and geological features like the limestone cliffs, ensuring there's always something to explore for every member of the group. The convenience of essential facilities, such as flush toilets, showers (seasonally), and a dump station, further enhances the camping experience, blending rustic charm with necessary comforts. For scout troops fostering outdoor skills, church groups seeking fellowship in nature, or families planning memorable reunions, the Group Campground provides the ideal backdrop. It's a place where shared laughter around a campfire and collective appreciation of Wisconsin's natural beauty can flourish, making it a perfect destination for locals seeking to create lasting group memories.