Campgrounds across Wisconsin are making preparations for the influx of visitors expected during the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay, despite uncertainties surrounding the state’s unpredictable spring weather. 

Among those gearing up is Fawn Lake Campground and RV Park in Wescott, recently purchased by Samantha and Joe Zurawski in 2023. 

Traditionally, the campground opens on May 1 due to Wisconsin’s harsh winters, but this year, the Zurawskis have opted to open early on April 23 to accommodate draft attendees.

“We’re close, and we’re out of Green Bay just to get these people out of the rush and craziness that Green Bay’s going to be handling,” Samantha Zurawski told We Are Green Bay. 

Despite the decision to open earlier, the couple remains cautious about potential weather challenges, particularly the risk of frozen ground affecting their water lines. Should water be unavailable, campers will need to rely on dry camping facilities.

In Brown County, where Lambeau Field is located, officials are also preparing for the event. Brown County Parks director Matt Kriese emphasized the importance of readiness, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of Wisconsin’s spring weather. 

“April can present its challenges, but after all, it is winter in Wisconsin, and we’ve come to know to expect the unexpected,” Kriese said. 

Campgrounds in the area, including the Brown County Fairgrounds and the Reforestation Camp, are nearing capacity, with some sites offering only primitive camping options.

The Zurawskis are offering a range of rates at Fawn Lake, from $50 for tent camping to $175 for sites with full hookups. 

In contrast, High Cliff State Park, operated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, offers one of the most affordable options for RV camping within a 45-minute radius of Green Bay at $25 per night, though availability is dwindling.

Revenue from campground bookings is already significant. Brown County Parks has generated approximately $60,000 in campsite reservations for the draft week. 

Kriese noted the importance of maintaining budget neutrality while ensuring no costs fall to taxpayers. 

“We know that we’ll have some unexpected costs in opening up the campgrounds a bit earlier than we would. So we want to make sure that we’re budget-neutral through the process,” he said.

With shuttle services under consideration to ease transportation to Lambeau Field, officials are optimistic about managing the influx of visitors. Kriese highlighted the unique appeal of camping during the draft. “It’s really something that hasn’t been seen at any draft city,” he said.

Despite the challenges, campground operators view the event as a significant opportunity to showcase Wisconsin hospitality. Zurawski expressed her hope for a strong turnout, noting the rarity of such an event in Green Bay. 

“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I mean, when is the draft going to come back to Green Bay? Probably not in my lifetime,” she said.