EAA Camp Scholler

For those of us in Wisconsin, summer means outdoor adventures, and few experiences are as unique and exhilarating as being at the heart of the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. While the air show itself is a spectacle, the experience is truly amplified by staying at EAA Camp Scholler. This isn't just any campground; it's a temporary city built annually, specifically to accommodate the thousands of aviation enthusiasts who flock to Oshkosh each July. For locals, it represents a distinctive way to immerse oneself in one of the world's greatest aviation celebrations, offering a blend of camaraderie, convenience, and an unparalleled front-row seat to aerial marvels.

EAA Camp Scholler transforms a sprawling piece of land into a vibrant community, teeming with fellow aviation lovers. It's a place where tents, RVs, and aircraft-side camping create a unique tapestry of temporary homes, fostering connections among attendees from around the globe. While the primary purpose of Camp Scholler is to serve as the lodging hub for EAA AirVenture, its setup and amenities are designed to provide a comfortable and engaging experience, even amidst the immense crowds.

This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of EAA Camp Scholler for our fellow Wisconsin residents. We’ll explore its strategic location, the essential services it provides, and the unique features that make it a standout choice for those attending AirVenture. While some aspects, like food pricing, might draw mixed reviews, the overall sentiment points to a truly memorable and highly recommended experience for anyone looking to fully embrace the spirit of aviation right here in our home state.

Location and Accessibility

EAA Camp Scholler is uniquely situated at Schaick Ave, Oshkosh, WI 54902, USA. This address places it directly adjacent to the EAA AirVenture convention grounds at Wittman Regional Airport. This proximity is arguably its most significant advantage, allowing campers direct access to the massive air show and exhibition areas, often with the ability to see the air show directly from their campsite.

Oshkosh, a city in Winnebago County, Wisconsin, is well-connected by major roadways, making the journey to Camp Scholler relatively straightforward for residents from across the state. While the sheer volume of traffic during AirVenture can be significant, the very existence of Camp Scholler on the event grounds is designed to mitigate travel headaches once you arrive. The integration with the event grounds means that once you've set up camp, much of your transportation within the AirVenture site can be done on foot or via the provided shuttle services.

The campground's setup, particularly for drive-in campers, aims to get visitors as close to the action as possible. New areas, such as Camp Scholler Southeast, are being developed to improve walking access to the flightline. While leaving the campground during peak event times might involve long walks or reliance on specific shuttle routes, the convenience of being immersed in the AirVenture atmosphere 24/7 from your campsite is unparalleled.

It's important to note that Camp Scholler is primarily a temporary campground, specifically opening for EAA AirVenture, typically from the last Friday in June through the Monday following the conclusion of AirVenture. This seasonal operation underscores its unique purpose as an integral part of one of Wisconsin's largest annual events.

Services Offered

• Camping Sites: EAA Camp Scholler offers a vast array of camping sites for tents and vehicles of all sizes, including large RVs. There are basic sites and a limited number of "improved" sites with electric and water hookups, though these are typically in high demand and sell out quickly.
• Restroom and Shower Facilities: The campground is equipped with numerous shower buildings and flushable toilets, which customers frequently praise for being clean and well-maintained, even with the immense crowds. Portable toilets are also strategically placed throughout the grounds.
• Food Services: On-site "Red One Markets" and other food services are available, providing convenient options for campers to purchase meals and supplies. (Note: One review mentioned food being overpriced and cold, so quality may vary.)
• Laundry Facilities: An on-site laundromat is available, offering a practical amenity for those staying for the duration of the event.
• First Aid Stations: Dedicated First Aid buildings are located within Camp Scholler (e.g., at Schaick Avenue and 38th Street) to address any medical needs.
• Shuttle Services: Free public Wi-Fi hotspots are available, and on-site transportation via shuttle routes connects campers to various parts of the convention grounds, including the flightline, ensuring ease of movement for attendees.
• RV Services: An RV pumping station and portable pumping services are available for RV campers, essential for maintaining comfort during extended stays.
• Accessibility Services: The EAA is dedicated to providing access for guests with disabilities, including designated camping areas, ADA accessible shuttle vehicles, and assistance for those with 24-hour auxiliary generator needs.
• EAA Membership: At least one person in each camping unit must be an EAA member to purchase a campsite, with memberships available for purchase at the Camp Scholler entrance.

Features / Highlights

• Direct Air Show Views: A major highlight is the ability to "see the air show from the camp site!" This offers an unparalleled, immersive experience, allowing campers to enjoy aerial demonstrations and even night air shows with fireworks from the comfort of their temporary home.
• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: Despite the "insane amount of people," customers consistently note that the showers and flushable toilets are "always clean and never crowded," which is a significant achievement for such a large temporary setup.
• Vast Community Atmosphere: Camp Scholler is a unique melting pot of aviation enthusiasts, fostering a strong sense of "camaraderie" and providing opportunities to "meet new friends and old friends reunite," all sharing a common passion.
• Convenient On-Site Access: Being "located right on the AirVenture grounds" means campers are immersed in the event 24/7, with easy access to exhibits, forums, and other attractions.
• Dedicated Shuttle System: The presence of frequent and often full shuttle services from the campgrounds to the convention grounds helps manage the vast distances within the site, making navigation easier for attendees.
• Well-Stocked Camp Store: Reviews mention a "camp store was well stocked and had decent prices" for general supplies, adding to the convenience of staying on-site.
• Unique Camping Experience: The sheer scale and specialized nature of Camp Scholler create an experience unlike any other campground, especially for those passionate about aviation.
• Access to Aviation Experts and Enthusiasts: The environment provides a unique opportunity to interact with pilots, builders, and fellow enthusiasts, enriching the overall AirVenture experience.

Contact Information

Address: Schaick Ave, Oshkosh, WI 54902, USA

Phone: (920) 426-4800

Mobile Phone: +1 920-426-4800

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For us Wisconsinites, EAA Camp Scholler offers a truly unparalleled and perfectly suitable experience, especially if you're a local who embraces the excitement of EAA AirVenture. While it operates as a temporary campground, its unique purpose and comprehensive setup cater specifically to those attending the world-renowned aviation event, making it an ideal choice for anyone in the region looking to fully immerse themselves in the spectacle.

One of the most compelling reasons for locals to consider Camp Scholler is its unmatched proximity to the action. Being able to "see the air show from the camp site!" transforms attending AirVenture from a daily commute to a continuous, immersive festival. For Wisconsin residents, this means less time battling traffic and parking, and more time enjoying the incredible aerial displays, aircraft exhibits, and the vibrant atmosphere that defines AirVenture. It’s about experiencing the event as a resident, living it day and night, rather than just visiting for a few hours.

Furthermore, the scale and efficiency of Camp Scholler are noteworthy. Despite the "insane amount of people there," reviews consistently highlight the cleanliness and accessibility of facilities like showers and flushable toilets. This demonstrates a high level of organization and commitment to visitor comfort, which is crucial when dealing with such large crowds. For locals, this means a surprisingly comfortable camping experience even within such a massive, dynamic environment.

The "great experience overall!" is not just about the air show itself, but also the unique community that forms within Camp Scholler. It's a place where "new friends meet and old friends reunite," fostering a powerful sense of camaraderie among aviation enthusiasts. For Wisconsinites, who often value community and shared experiences, Camp Scholler provides an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals from around the world, right in our own backyard. It’s an extension of the friendly, welcoming spirit our state is known for.

While some minor points, like potentially "overpriced" food or the logistics of leaving early if not camping, were mentioned in reviews, these are often minor trade-offs for the overall convenience and unique experience offered. The provided shuttle services help mitigate internal travel, and the ability to stay directly on the grounds, absorbing the atmosphere 24/7, far outweighs these small inconveniences for many.

In conclusion, EAA Camp Scholler is more than just a place to sleep; it’s an integral part of the EAA AirVenture experience. For Wisconsin locals, it offers the ultimate way to engage with this world-class event, providing unparalleled access to the air show, well-maintained facilities, and a unique community atmosphere that celebrates the spirit of aviation right here in Oshkosh. If you're a local seeking a truly unforgettable summer adventure that combines camping with the thrill of flight, Camp Scholler is undoubtedly your prime destination.

EAA Camp Scholler

Schaick Ave, Oshkosh, WI 54902, USA