Camping is all about fresh air, beautiful scenery, and spending quality time outdoors. Unfortunately, during parts of the summer, wildfire smoke from Canada can drift into Wisconsin and temporarily reduce air quality. While smoky conditions can affect outdoor activities, they don’t have to ruin your camping trip. With a little planning and a few simple precautions, you can still enjoy your time at Howling Hills Campground while staying comfortable.
The first step is simply being aware of the current conditions. Air quality can change throughout the day as weather patterns shift, and many smoky periods only last a day or two before conditions improve.
Check the Air Quality Before and During Your Trip
Before heading out each morning, take a quick look at the local Air Quality Index (AQI). The AQI measures how clean or polluted the air is and can help you decide how active you want to be that day.
On days with good or moderate air quality, you can enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, and other outdoor activities much like normal. If smoke levels increase, consider adjusting your plans until conditions improve later in the day.
Being flexible is one of the advantages of camping.
Plan Your Activities Around the Conditions
Wildfire smoke often changes throughout the day. Some mornings may be hazy, while afternoons become much clearer as winds shift. On other days, the opposite may be true.
If conditions are smoky, consider lighter outdoor activities such as:
- Relaxing around your campsite
- Reading a book under the trees
- Playing board games with family
- Fishing at a nearby lake
- Enjoying a leisurely meal outdoors
- Taking a short nature walk instead of a long hike
When the air clears, it’s the perfect time to explore nearby attractions like the 400 State Trail, Mirror Lake State Park, or Wisconsin Dells.
Stay Well Hydrated
Smoky air can sometimes cause your throat or eyes to feel dry or irritated. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps your body stay hydrated and can make you feel more comfortable while spending time outdoors.
Keeping a reusable water bottle nearby is always a good camping habit, especially during warm summer weather.
Take Breaks Throughout the Day
Camping isn’t about rushing from one activity to another. One of the greatest parts of staying at Howling Hills Campground is slowing down and enjoying nature at your own pace.
If the air feels smoky, spend more time relaxing between activities. Sit under the shade, enjoy conversations around the picnic table, or simply listen to the sounds of nature until conditions improve.
Sometimes the best camping memories come from doing very little at all.
Consider Wearing a High-Quality Mask During Heavy Smoke
If smoke becomes noticeably thicker and you plan to be active outdoors for an extended period, a properly fitted N95 mask can help reduce the amount of fine smoke particles you breathe.
Many campers choose to keep one or two masks in their camping gear, just as they would pack a flashlight or rain jacket. Hopefully you won’t need them, but they’re useful to have available when conditions change unexpectedly.
Keep Your Campsite Comfortable
A few small adjustments can make your campsite more enjoyable during smoky conditions.
- Set up your chairs under shade whenever possible.
- Stay out of direct afternoon sun during the warmest part of the day.
- Close the windows on your RV or camper if smoke becomes heavier.
- Keep extra drinking water available for everyone in your group.
These simple steps help create a more comfortable environment while you continue enjoying your camping vacation.
Listen to Your Body
Everyone responds differently to wildfire smoke. If you notice irritation in your eyes, coughing, or shortness of breath, it’s a good idea to take a break and reduce strenuous activity until conditions improve.
Young children, older adults, and individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions may want to take extra precautions during periods of poor air quality.
Fortunately, smoke events in Wisconsin are usually temporary, and cleaner air often returns as weather systems move through the area.
Enjoy the Many Ways to Relax at Camp
Even when visibility isn’t perfect, camping offers countless opportunities to unwind.
You can cook meals over the fire, enjoy your morning coffee, play cards with family, tell stories around the campfire, or simply appreciate the slower pace that camping provides.
One of the best things about Howling Hills Campground is that it offers plenty of room to relax without feeling crowded. Even on hazy days, the peaceful setting makes it easy to disconnect from everyday stress and reconnect with family and friends.
A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way
Wildfire smoke is something Wisconsin occasionally experiences during the summer, but it doesn’t mean your camping trip has to be canceled. By checking air quality forecasts, staying hydrated, adjusting activities when needed, and packing a few extra supplies, you can continue enjoying everything that makes camping special.
At Howling Hills Campground, every camping trip is about making memories, enjoying nature, and spending time with the people who matter most. With a little flexibility and preparation, you’ll be ready to make the most of your outdoor adventure—whatever the forecast brings.
