CAMP S'MORE WORRY LESS

Since early in the pandemic the Northwoods saw a huge shift in vacant land sales. Lots that had been sitting on the market for several years were suddenly scooped up, and vacant land sales rose over 400% year to date in some categories.  While the influx of vacant land buyers is partially attributed to families intending to build, a large portion of buyers were looking for a quiet escape from busy campgrounds. 

Not all land purchases can be used solely for camping, and every county has different requirements that need to be met prior to using your newly purchased land for camping purposes. For all land purchases intended for camping, a buyer should make sure there are not any subdivision restrictive covenants, or any additional requirements implemented by the town in which the land is purchased. 

It may seem in-tents navigating these rules, which is why working with a real estate agent can be crucial in making sure you do not end up with land you won't be able to use in your desired manner! Below are the specific guidelines for both Oneida and Vilas counties for using a property for camping with an RV/camper for more than five consecutive days. 

ZONING PERMIT REQUIREMENT:

The placement of the RV/Camper must conform to all WI state setback requirements, minimum lot area and dimensional requirements.

SANITATION SYSTEM REQUIREMENT:

A sanitary permit must be issued by the county and some kind of sanitation system needs to 

be at the property (this can be as complex as a well and septic system installed or as simple as a compost toilet).

TOWN APPROVAL REQUIREMENT: (VILAS COUNTY ONLY)

Written approval must be granted by the town board in which the lot is located.

*If a camper/RV is being stored on a property and not used for camping a permit is not required. For less than five consecutive days of camping a permit is not required. If annual tent camping is intended, a privy permit is recommended. If you are in the process of building a dwelling contact the county zoning department for information on camping during construction.