Nordic Pines Resort Campground

For decades, Nordic Pines Resort Campground in Baraboo, Wisconsin, was a cherished destination for countless families and outdoor enthusiasts. Nestled in a prime location with a reputation for a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere, it offered a classic Wisconsin camping experience that created generations of memories. While circumstances have led to its closure, looking back at what made Nordic Pines so special provides valuable insight into the qualities that make a campground truly beloved by local users in our state. It was a place known for its balance of natural setting and essential comforts, making it a go-to choice for those seeking a peaceful escape near one of Wisconsin’s most iconic natural landmarks.

Nordic Pines embodied the spirit of Wisconsin camping – large sites, the simple joy of campfires, and the promise of quiet nights under the stars. Although it is no longer open to the public, its legacy as a fair-priced, well-maintained, and family-oriented campground continues to resonate. Understanding its past offerings can help current and future campers in Wisconsin identify what they value most in a camping destination, whether it's proximity to natural wonders or the comfort of a clean, community-focused environment.

Nordic Pines Resort Campground was ideally situated at E11740 County Rd DL, Baraboo, WI 53913, USA. This location was a significant advantage for campers, as it placed the campground "super close to Devil's Lake" State Park, one of Wisconsin's most popular and scenic natural attractions. For Wisconsin residents, Baraboo is a well-known and easily accessible area, typically reached via major state highways like US-12. This made Nordic Pines a convenient choice for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation without the need for extensive travel.

The proximity to Devil's Lake meant campers had immediate access to world-class hiking, rock climbing, swimming, and boating opportunities. This ease of access to such a significant natural landmark, combined with the relatively short drive from major population centers in Wisconsin, made Nordic Pines a highly desirable camping spot. Its location also placed it within a short driving distance to other local attractions in the Baraboo area, including the city itself with its shops and restaurants, and not far from the Wisconsin Dells, offering additional entertainment options. This strategic position allowed campers to enjoy both the tranquility of the campground and the excitement of nearby destinations, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of local travelers.

Based on past operations, Nordic Pines Resort Campground provided a range of services designed to offer a comfortable and family-friendly camping experience. While the campground is permanently closed, understanding its historical offerings can provide context for what made it a valued destination:

• Camping Sites: The campground offered a variety of sites, including options for tents and RVs. These sites were described as "large" and capable of accommodating a " decent setup," indicating flexibility for different camping preferences.
• Flush Toilets: Campers had access to "flush toilets," a significant convenience for many, ensuring a more comfortable restroom experience compared to primitive options.
• Running Water: Running water was available, meaning campers had access to potable water for various needs.
• Clean Bathrooms: The bathrooms, although noted as "small," were consistently "cleaned every day," which was a major positive point for guests, often praised as being "better than the bathrooms you'll get in the state park."
• Showers (Paid): Showers were available, though they came with an additional charge, noted by a reviewer as "$1 per person per day." This was a point of contention for some, despite the benefit of hot water.
• Play Area for Kids: The campground featured a "play area for kids," which had been "updated a few years ago," indicating an effort to maintain family-friendly amenities.
• Fair Cost of Sites: Reviewers generally found the cost of campsites to be "fair compared to what's available in the area," suggesting good value.
• Reservations: The owners were noted for being "super helpful when I made reservations," indicating a standard reservation system was in place.

Nordic Pines Resort Campground was known for several features that contributed to its appeal among Wisconsin campers. Reflecting on these highlights offers a glimpse into why it was a beloved local spot:

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: A consistent theme in reviews was its reputation as a "family friendly campground," making it a safe and welcoming environment for visitors of all ages.
• Proximity to Devil's Lake: Its location "super close to Devil's Lake" State Park was a major draw, providing easy access to one of Wisconsin's premier natural attractions for hiking, swimming, and more.
• Quiet and Small Campground: Described as a "quiet, small campground," it offered a peaceful retreat compared to larger, more bustling alternatives. This intimate setting allowed campers to relax without feeling overcrowded.
• Spacious Campsites: Sites were "large and can accommodate a decent set up," providing ample room for campers to spread out and enjoy their space.
• Easy Access to Facilities: Despite its size, the campground was "small enough that every site is a short walk to flush toilets and running water," a significant convenience.
• Well-Maintained Property: The owners were credited with doing a "decent job of maintaining the property," contributing to a pleasant and tidy environment.
• Dedicated Play Area: The updated play area for kids was a positive feature, offering a safe and fun space for younger campers.
• Better Bathrooms than State Park: A notable compliment was that the clean bathrooms were "better than the bathrooms you'll get in the state park," highlighting a commitment to cleanliness.
• Helpful Owners: The owners were praised for being "super helpful," particularly during the reservation process, indicating good customer service.

Address: E11740 County Rd DL, Baraboo, WI 53913, USA

Phone: (608) 356-5810

Mobile Phone: +1 608-356-5810

Note: As of early 2019, Nordic Pines Resort Campground is permanently closed. The contact information above is provided for historical context based on public data prior to its closure. For current camping options in the Baraboo/Devil's Lake area, local users should explore other available campgrounds.

While Nordic Pines Resort Campground is permanently closed, understanding what made it a suitable and cherished destination for Wisconsin locals offers valuable insight into the region's camping preferences. For decades, it served as an accessible and reliable escape for families and individuals from across the state, primarily due to its strategic location and consistent offerings.

Its "super close" proximity to Devil's Lake State Park was arguably its greatest asset for Wisconsin residents. This meant quick and easy access to world-class hiking trails, pristine swimming beaches, and breathtaking natural scenery, making it an ideal base for exploring one of Wisconsin's natural jewels. For locals, minimizing travel time and maximizing outdoor enjoyment is key, and Nordic Pines perfectly facilitated this balance. The ability to return to a nearby, familiar campground after a day of adventure at Devil's Lake added immense value to the experience.

Furthermore, the campground's reputation as a "family friendly" and "quiet, small campground" resonated deeply with many. Wisconsin families often seek safe, relaxed environments where children can play freely and adults can unwind. The "large sites" offered ample space, allowing families to set up comfortable camps without feeling cramped, a common desire among campers. The presence of a dedicated "play area for kids" further solidified its appeal as a suitable local option for those with young ones. Even the seemingly minor detail of "clean bathrooms" that were perceived as "better than the bathrooms you'll get in the state park" highlighted a commitment to basic comforts that many Wisconsin campers prioritize.

Despite past feedback regarding the charge for showers, the overall sentiment indicated a fair cost of sites and a well-maintained property, signifying a commitment to providing value. The helpfulness of the owners in managing reservations and ensuring a pleasant stay also contributed to its suitability. Nordic Pines Resort Campground represented a beloved tradition for many Wisconsin locals, embodying the essence of convenient, family-oriented camping near premier natural attractions. Its legacy remains a testament to the qualities that make a campground a true local favorite in our beautiful state.

You can learn more about attractions in the Baraboo area by watching this (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TcMpBcPfDr4) video.

Nordic Pines Resort Campground

E11740 County Rd DL, Baraboo, WI 53913, USA