1. Refined Travel
  2. Parks Near Me
  3. Wisconsin
  4. Oneida County
  5. Rhinelander
  6. Parks in South Shore Drive
  7. West Bay Camping Resort

West Bay Camping Resort

West Bay Camping Resort 1West Bay Camping Resort 2West Bay Camping Resort 3West Bay Camping Resort 4West Bay Camping Resort 5West Bay Camping Resort 6West Bay Camping Resort 7West Bay Camping Resort 8West Bay Camping Resort 9West Bay Camping Resort 10

West Bay Camping Resort Overview

Rating

Phone (715) 362-3481

Address 4330 S Shore Dr, Rhinelander, WI 54501, USA

Website http://www.westbaycampingresort.com/

Hours

West Bay Camping Resort Location & Map

WisconsinOneida CountyRhinelanderSouth Shore Drive

West Bay Camping Resort About

For many Wisconsinites, the annual tradition of heading "Up North" for a refreshing getaway is a cherished part of life. The vast forests, sparkling lakes, and the promise of relaxation and adventure draw countless individuals and families to the Northwoods. When it comes to finding the perfect base for your northern Wisconsin explorations, a camping resort that offers a blend of natural beauty and appealing amenities is often highly sought after. West Bay Camping Resort, located in the heart of Rhinelander, Wisconsin, has been a long-standing destination for many, embodying the spirit of a classic Northwoods vacation. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of West Bay Camping Resort, addressing its long-standing appeal while also acknowledging specific concerns raised by recent customer experiences, to help local Wisconsinites make an informed decision for their next outdoor escape.

Wisconsin's diverse landscapes offer a wide array of outdoor experiences, and the Rhinelander area, specifically, is a gem for those seeking lake-centric activities and forest adventures. West Bay Camping Resort has historically been a popular choice for families and repeat visitors, with one long-term guest exclaiming, "Best place ever!! Been coming to West Bay for 27 years. Linda is an awesome camp host and the pool is refreshing on a hot summer day." This kind of enduring loyalty speaks volumes about the positive experiences many have had over the years, highlighting welcoming staff and popular amenities like the pool.

However, it is crucial to present a complete and honest picture. While many have enjoyed their stays, a recent review for "Cabin 4" vividly details significant issues, including cleanliness concerns, pest problems (mouse activity), and maintenance issues with facilities like the basketball hoops and outdoor lighting. This feedback serves as an important reminder for prospective visitors to exercise due diligence, especially when considering cabin rentals. It underscores the need for continuous vigilance and improvement in any hospitality business.

Despite these specific concerns, the underlying appeal of West Bay Camping Resort often lies in its location and key natural features. The mention of a "beautiful beach" and praise for "the new lady who was working" suggests that the resort still possesses valuable assets and positive aspects that contribute to a good experience for many. For Wisconsinites planning their next Northwoods adventure, understanding both the long-standing positive reputation and recent specific criticisms is vital for making the best choice for their family and ensuring a pleasant and safe stay.

Location and Accessibility

West Bay Camping Resort is ideally situated at 4330 S Shore Dr, Rhinelander, WI 54501, USA. This address places it directly on the shores of a beautiful lake, likely the Wisconsin River Flowage system that flows through Rhinelander, deep within the heart of Wisconsin's renowned Northwoods region. Rhinelander, the county seat of Oneida County, is a well-established and popular destination for tourism and outdoor recreation, offering a blend of natural beauty and small-town amenities.

For Wisconsinites, the accessibility of West Bay Camping Resort is a significant advantage. Rhinelander is a central hub in the Northwoods, reachable via well-maintained state highways such as US-8, US-47, and WI-17. This makes the resort relatively easy to access from various parts of Wisconsin, whether you're traveling from Green Bay, Milwaukee, Madison, or even closer communities like Wausau or Minocqua. The drive "Up North" is itself a cherished tradition for many, and Rhinelander serves as a convenient and scenic destination point.

The resort's location on "S Shore Dr" implies direct waterfront access, which is a major draw for campers and vacationers in Wisconsin's lake country. This provides immediate opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing, and enjoying picturesque lake views. Furthermore, being in Rhinelander means residents have ready access to local grocery stores, dining options, bait shops, and other essential services that complement a camping trip. The city also offers various recreational opportunities, including parks, historical sites, and local events.

While a specific review highlighted concerns about potential hazards around one cabin (concrete slab, twisted basketball hoops, pipes sticking up), the general location offers immense appeal. For Wisconsinites seeking a classic Northwoods experience with lake access and town amenities nearby, West Bay Camping Resort's location is undoubtedly one of its strongest features.

Services Offered

West Bay Camping Resort, as a comprehensive camping destination, aims to provide a variety of services to enhance the stay of its guests. While specific details can be best confirmed by direct inquiry with the resort, based on typical offerings for a "Camping Resort" and the provided customer feedback, visitors can generally expect:

  • Campsites for Various Needs: The resort likely offers a range of camping options, including sites for RVs (with varying levels of hookups: electric, water, sewer), and potentially tent sites for a more traditional camping experience.

  • Cabin Rentals: As evidenced by the detailed review, West Bay Camping Resort offers "cabins" for rent. These typically provide a more structured accommodation option for those who prefer not to tent or bring an RV. However, the review for "Cabin 4" strongly highlights issues that prospective renters should be aware of, including cleanliness and pest control.

  • Swimming Pool: A key amenity mentioned positively by a long-term resident is the "pool," described as "refreshing on a hot summer day." This is a highly valued service, especially for families and during warm Wisconsin summers.

  • Beach Access: Another prominent feature mentioned is a "beautiful beach," providing direct access to the lake for swimming, sunbathing, and general relaxation by the water.

  • Camp Host/Staff Presence: The positive mention of "Linda is an awesome camp host" and "the new lady who was working was so nice and sweet" indicates that the resort employs dedicated staff to assist campers and manage daily operations. This presence is crucial for addressing guest needs and maintaining a positive environment.

  • Restroom and Shower Facilities: Essential for any campground, these facilities are expected to be available for campers. While not directly reviewed, their cleanliness and condition are important factors for guest comfort.

  • Recreational Areas/Equipment: Beyond the pool and beach, resorts often offer other recreational spaces. The mention of "basketball hoops" (even if in disrepair in one instance) suggests an attempt at providing sports facilities. Other common offerings might include playgrounds, game rooms, or rental of watercraft.

Prospective visitors should contact the resort directly to inquire about the current status and condition of specific services and facilities, especially concerning cabin rentals and any recreational equipment.

Features and Highlights

West Bay Camping Resort in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, offers several appealing features and highlights that draw visitors, alongside specific areas that require careful consideration based on recent feedback:

  • Long-Standing Popularity and Guest Loyalty: A significant highlight is the resort's history of attracting long-term, loyal guests. One reviewer stated, "Been coming to West Bay for 27 years," indicating that for many, it has been a consistently beloved vacation spot and a source of positive memories over decades.

  • Refreshing Swimming Pool: The presence of a "refreshing on a hot summer day" pool is a major draw, especially for families and during the warmer months in Wisconsin. A well-maintained pool provides a comfortable and enjoyable alternative to lake swimming.

  • Beautiful Beach Access: The resort boasts a "beautiful beach," offering direct and pleasant access to the lake. This is a prime feature for swimming, sunbathing, building sandcastles, or simply relaxing by the water, embodying the quintessential Northwoods lake experience.

  • Positive Staff Interactions: Despite a negative experience with a specific cabin, the reviewer made a point to highlight that "the new lady who was working was so nice and sweet" and that "Linda is an awesome camp host." This suggests that the quality of staff interactions remains a positive aspect of the resort, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.

  • Northwoods Lakefront Location: The resort's setting in Rhinelander, directly on a lake, provides picturesque views and immediate access to typical Northwoods activities like fishing, boating, and enjoying the natural scenery.

However, it is critically important to acknowledge the specific concerns highlighted in the detailed review regarding "Cabin 4." Issues such as mouse droppings, chewed-on utensils, persistent odor, mold, and safety hazards (twisted hoops, pipes, non-working lights) are serious negative features that prospective renters of cabins (and potentially other facilities) must be aware of. While the beach and staff were praised, these issues warrant thorough inquiry and inspection before booking.

Promotions or Special Offers

To discover any ongoing promotions or special offers at West Bay Camping Resort, interested individuals should directly contact the resort management. As a private camping resort, they may offer various incentives to attract new guests or reward returning customers. While specific current promotions are not detailed in the provided information, typical offers for resorts of this kind could include:

  • Off-Season Discounts: Reduced rates for stays during the shoulder seasons (e.g., late spring or early fall) when demand might be lower than peak summer months.

  • Weekly or Extended Stay Deals: Discounts for booking longer stays, such as a reduced nightly rate for a full week reservation.

  • Early Bird Booking Incentives: Special rates for reservations made well in advance of the camping season.

  • Package Deals: Bundled offers that might include campsite/cabin rental along with amenities like boat rentals, firewood, or activity passes.

  • Loyalty Programs: For a resort with many long-term repeat guests, there might be loyalty programs or exclusive offers for returning visitors.

Given the detailed positive review spanning 27 years, it's plausible that West Bay Camping Resort values its repeat clientele and may have programs or incentives for them. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on availability, rates, and any special offers, contacting the resort directly via their phone numbers is recommended.

Contact Information

For direct inquiries, detailed information, or to make reservations at West Bay Camping Resort, interested individuals can use the following contact details:

  • Address: 4330 S Shore Dr, Rhinelander, WI 54501, USA

  • Phone: (715) 362-3481

  • Mobile Phone: +1 715-362-3481

It is highly recommended that prospective guests, especially those considering cabin rentals, utilize these contact methods to ask specific questions about the condition of accommodation units, pest control measures, and the functionality of all advertised facilities (e.g., outdoor lighting, recreational equipment). Direct communication will allow you to get the most current and relevant information to ensure your stay meets your expectations.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

West Bay Camping Resort in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, offers a unique and historically popular choice for local residents seeking a Northwoods getaway. Its suitability for Wisconsinites lies in its quintessential northern Wisconsin experience, appealing features, and a community of long-standing loyal guests, while also requiring careful consideration of recent feedback.

Firstly, the resort's location on the beautiful lakeshore in Rhinelander is a significant draw. It provides immediate access to the kind of pristine waters and scenic forests that define a Wisconsin Northwoods vacation. For locals, this means a manageable drive to a true escape, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, swimming, and simply relaxing by the water, all within the familiar beauty of our state. The refreshing pool and "beautiful beach" are clear highlights for those hot Wisconsin summer days, catering directly to what many seek in a recreational resort.

Secondly, the long-standing loyalty of many guests, some visiting for decades, speaks volumes about the positive experiences West Bay Camping Resort has provided over time. This indicates a consistent level of satisfaction for a significant portion of its clientele, often attributed to the welcoming atmosphere and dedicated staff, as highlighted by mentions of "awesome camp host" Linda and other "nice and sweet" employees. This established positive reputation suggests a welcoming environment for both new and returning Wisconsin families.

However, it is crucial for prospective local users to be fully aware of the detailed concerns raised in a recent review, particularly regarding "Cabin 4." Issues such as cleanliness, pests, and maintenance require direct inquiry and verification. For Wisconsinites, this means contacting the resort directly to discuss these specific points and confirm the current condition of any rental units or facilities they are considering.

In conclusion, West Bay Camping Resort offers the charm and recreational potential of a classic Wisconsin Northwoods destination. For locals seeking a lakeside retreat with amenities like a pool and beach, it holds significant appeal. By exercising due diligence and directly communicating with the resort about any specific concerns, Wisconsin residents can determine if West Bay Camping Resort will indeed provide the "best place ever" for their next Northwoods adventure.

Customer Reviews

3.0
72 reviews
M
Megan Mueller
Mar 02, 2025

Best place ever!! Been coming to West Bay for 27 years. Linda is an awesome camp host and the pool is refreshing on a hot summer day.

R
Rochelle Ferguson
Jul 18, 2024

We rented cabin 4.... don't do it. Mouse poo in the coffee pot filter, the silverware was wrapped in open zip lock bags and the rubber spatula was chewed on by mice. I spoke to another cabin renter and they said they stopped renting that cabin because in one week they caught 26 mice. They complained and got nothing off the bill, the owners also did nothing to correct it. It was moldy and we all got headaches and sore throats. The cabinet under the kitchen sink? DO NOT OPEN IT! you smell dead mice and it's so decrepit. Definitely a health hazard. We went to town and bought air purifiers and a coffee pot so we could have coffee. Otherwise up side... beautiful beach and the new lady who was working was so nice and sweet. She deserves a big thank you for sure! She and the beach are the only reason I gave it stars at all. The health department will probably.... most likely be called. It's a nice place but the cabin was disgusting. Also there was a big concrete slab next to our cabin with basketball hoops that were twisted and laying on the ground pipes sticking up out of the ground. Totally a risk if you're walking around in the dark because the outside lights don't work..... rant over but please don't ever rent cabin 4. Gross!!!!

L
Laura Libal
Jun 21, 2024

Advertised "heated pool", either the heater is broken or the thermometer is, NOT 82 degrees, very cold. Pool is only open from 10 to 2 and have to have the office person unlock the door to get to the pool. Buildings are very run down and Linda (owner I presume) is the crabbiest person I have ever met! Would not recommend if you are looking forward to refreshing dip in the pool on a hot afternoon!!!

L
Larissa Crawford
Jul 15, 2024

Bring a hazmat suit if staying in cabin 4! When we checked in Linda told me they had a mouse in there that week and they set up traps and plugged in pest things. I said hey no big deal if it’s one mouse. I live in the country but we have cats that take care of them. But when we walked in you can clearly smell mice. It’s definitely NOT one mouse! Our first day and night there was not fun! The smell was so bad I was gagging and almost throwing up. By morning my boyfriend and I had the worst headaches we’ve ever had. Because there is also mold in there. We couldn’t stand it anymore. So my friend came back from leaving at 6AM to get an air purifier and Lysol. A little while later we went to the store and got one for our room too. Which helped a little. I at least could breathe in there again. I also have issues with my sinuses and nose which the stench didn’t help at all. And I had just called Linda and told her it’s definitely not one mouse in there. She said well sometimes they can get a “cabin smell” from sitting empty all winter. Idk how anyone can’t smell what we smelled. She also said I wish you would have told me when you were here. I was thinking “well we didn’t want to get kicked out in the middle of hodag with nowhere else to go” Also in the bathroom it looks like they’re getting black mold and the flooring is coming up and caulk around the tub is hard and crusty. We also had to wash every dish before we could use them. They just looked dirty. Like someone didn’t wash them before we used them. The first morning we also wanted coffee. So my boyfriend went to the sink with the strainer and dumped it out. It had mouse feces in it! So we also had to go to Walmart and buy our own coffee pot. No way we’re using theirs! They also had damp rids in every corner of the place. We asked for more because they were full of old nasty water. But we never received them. And god forbid don’t open the cabinet under the sink! The only good thing about that place was that it had a beautiful beach with a nice view. That’s why I gave it 2 stars

B
Brian Borchardt
Jul 06, 2024

Beautiful campground, hard to get around in in an rv but you can. They close the store randomly and the pool is not heated much. If u have a class a or c be wary of your site. Ours was so unlevel couldn't keep the back jacks down at all. Beautiful place though in the Northwoods.