Getting a place to stay in the Bayfield area early is very important — the region fills up fast for the short summer season. Here are several places to try when searching for accommodations:

If you want to stay downtown Bayfeild I highly recommend the Pier Plaza: https://www.bayfieldpierplaza.com/pier-hotel

If you want to stay at the same location as Escape Excursions location: https://www.legendarywaters.com

Bayfield Chamber Of Comerce: https://www.bayfield.org/lodging/

  • Local inns and B&Bs: Bayfield has charming inns and bed-and-breakfasts that book quickly. Call or email directly for the best rates and cancellations.

  • Vacation rentals: Look for houses, cottages, and condos on major vacation-rental platforms. Filter for waterfront views, number of bedrooms, and flexible check-in/out times.

  • Campgrounds and RV parks: If you enjoy camping, book sites at Apostle Islands National Lakeshore-adjacent campgrounds and local RV parks well in advance.

  • Nearby towns: Consider Red Cliff, Washburn, Cornucopia, or Ashland for more availability while staying within a short drive.

  • Last-minute options: If you're flexible, monitor cancellations or same-week openings on rental platforms and contact properties directly to ask about waitlists.

Tips for booking:

  • Reserve as early as possible — aim for months ahead for peak summer weeks.

  • Be flexible with arrival/departure days to increase options.

  • Confirm pet policies and any additional fees (cleaning, linens, security deposits).

  • Check cancellation and refund policies — consider travel insurance for nonrefundable stays.

 I AM VERY PASSIONATE ABOUT THE AREA, HERE ARE SOME PLACES TO CHECK OUT IF YOU ARE WANTING TO CAMP

#1) Little Sand Bay. https://www.townofrussell.org/little-sand-bay-recreation-area/

#2) Legendary Waters Resort and Casino

http://legendarywaters.com/campground-marina/

HERE ARE SOME OTHERS IN THE BAYFIELD AREA

#3) Apostle Island Area campground

https://www.aiacamping.com Very cute and definitely family orientated, it is also near a bike and beer place called Howl https://www.howlinbayfield.com

#4 Dalrymple Park and Campgrounds, closest to Bayfield.

http://www.cityofbayfield.com/dalrymple-campground.html

This one is closest to town and on the water however there is no real water access.

CAMPING ON MADELINE ISLAND IS THE BEST! ITS LIKE BEING AT A MULTI MILLION DOLLAR BEACH RESORT WITH OUT THE RESORT! THE BEACH HERE IS ONE OF THE BEST THE ISLANDS HAVE TO OFFER.

#5)http://www.bigbaytownpark.com

#6)https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/bigbay

as for spending the night on an island that is not Madeline, Its hard to say what one is best because they all are pretty great! you could go to the Apostle Island National Lake shore site https://www.nps.gov/apis/planyourvisit/camping.htm They only open registration up 30 days prior to the date you want to start your camping.