Tips For Memorial Day Camping
Memorial Day camping is the unofficial start of summer for many Wisconsin families. The weather is warming up, kids are nearly out of school, and people are eager to spend a long weekend outdoors. Because of this, Memorial Day camping is one of the busiest weekends of the entire season. With the right preparation and location, it can also be one of the most enjoyable.
At Howling Hills Campground, campers can enjoy the energy of the holiday weekend while still having space to relax at night.
Why Memorial Day Camping Is So Popular
- A three-day weekend perfect for travel
- Warm weather that finally feels like summer
- Ideal conditions for swimming, grilling, and campfires
- Families eager to kick off camping season together
Campgrounds across the state fill quickly, and roads near tourist areas become busy. Knowing this ahead of time helps you plan smarter.
Book Early and Arrive Early
The most important tip for Memorial Day camping is simple: reserve your campsite well in advance. Waiting too long limits your options. Arriving earlier in the day also helps you avoid traffic and gives you time to set up camp without feeling rushed.
Plan Simple Meals
With more people around and plenty to do, complicated camp meals can feel stressful. Memorial Day camping is perfect for:
- Burgers and brats on the grill
- Easy breakfast over the fire
- Simple snacks and coolers packed ahead of time
Keeping meals simple lets you spend more time enjoying the weekend.
Expect More Activity
This weekend has more bikes on the roads, more kids at playgrounds, and more campers walking around. That energy can be fun, especially for families. Kids often make new friends, and the campground feels lively during the day.
The key is choosing a place where evenings still settle down so you can relax by the fire when the sun goes down.
Day Trips and Downtime
Many campers use part of the weekend to explore nearby attractions, then return to their campsite for quiet evenings. Visiting parks, trails, or nearby towns earlier in the day avoids peak crowds and leaves the afternoon open for swimming, napping, or relaxing.
Make It a Tradition
For many families, Memorial Day camping becomes an annual tradition. It marks the start of summer, gives everyone something to look forward to, and creates lasting memories around the fire.
With a little planning, Memorial Day camping can feel festive without feeling overwhelming.


