ADA ACCESSIBILITY

• Are service animals allowed?
  Yes, service animals are allowed with proper identification and must remain with its owner and must be leashed at all times. Pets of ANY kind are NOT ALLOWED anywhere in the festival, including the campground. *Campgrounds are located in the woods, please be aware that there are wild animals in the area including: foxes, bears, fishers, otters, mink, coyotes and martins & ticks. 
  View ADA Service Animal Guidelines HERE
• Is there ADA accessible parking & drop-off?
  ADA parking is available next to the ADA campsite (handicap stickers required) on a first come first served basis. 

• Is ADA accessible camping available?
  ​We do have a number of ADA campsites available. When purchasing your ticket, please select the additional ADA option. The campgrounds are close to the Stomping Grounds festival entrance.
  
  
• Is ADA accessible seating available?
  All seating under the tent is general admission, first come first serve. There is plenty of lawn area and you are welcome to bring a chair. There is a wheelchair accessible row available under the tent on a first come first serve basis. 
  

CAMPGROUND

• Can I drive back to unreserved camping if I plan to arrive on Thursday, Friday or Saturday?
  ​If you plan to camp in general admission unreserved tent camping and DO NOT have a car camping pass then you can drop off your belongings until 10PM Thursday* and Friday and then must move your car to one of our parking lots after unloading. After 10PM Thursday and Friday, those who do NOT possess a car camping pass will park in our parking area and will need to cart or walk their belongings to their campsite. *Must have an Early-Arrival Pass. 
  
  
• Do you have showers?
  No, we do not have showers at the camping grounds. If you are in need of a shower, the Bayfield Rec Center has a day pass option for you to use. We also have an incredible Great Lake just down the road! Feel free to jump in and rinse off! (Reminder to not use any shower or cleaning products in the water to protect our ecosystem!)
  
  
• What's allowed or prohibited in the campground?
  The following are ALLOWED in the campgrounds: Food and drink (including alcohol), portable small, self contained camping grills, wagons.
  The following are NOT ALLOWED in the campground: NO pets (even small ones), NO glass containers, NO fireworks, Tiki torches, firearms or weapons of any kind, kegs or drones. NO golf carts, boats, power scooters or dirt bikes. NO illegal substances. NO vending (although, sharing is encouraged!). 
  
  
• Can I camp with my 1-day ticket?
  Those with a Saturday 1-day ticket can camp Saturday into Sunday 1:30PM. Campground check-in on Saturday* is from 8AM to 5PM. *You will not be able to drive your car to your unreserved campsite to drop off your camping gear when you arrive on Saturday. You must park your car in the free parking lot and walk your camping gear to your campsite.  Packing a wagon will make this process easier. If our onsite lot is full, you will be parking at our overflow lot half a mile from the hill. A free shuttle will be running to and from the offsite lot daily from 8AM until 12AM. All tent campers will be able to drive back to your campsite on Sunday to pack up. The campgrounds will close at 1PM on Sunday.
  
  
• How do I get my gear to my campsite without my car?
  You are allowed to drop off your belongings at your campsite in General Unreserved Camping until 10PM on Thursday* and Friday. After this time, people who DO NOT possess a Car Camping Pass will be directed to one of our parking lots and will have to cart/walk their belongings to their campsite. Those arriving on Saturday, will NOT be able to drive their car to their campsite to drop off camping gear. NO vehicle traffic allowed after 10PM in Unreserved GA Camping. All tent campers will be able to drive back to your campsite on Sunday to pack up. The campgrounds will close at 1:30PM on Sunday. *Must have an Early-Arrival Pass.
  
  
• Can I park my vehicle at my general admission unreserved campsite?
  No. If you would like to have your car by your tent or to camp in your car, please purchase a car camping ticket.
  
  
• What are the camping check-in hours?
  *You must have an admission ticket that matches the day of your arrival to access the campground* Campground check-in times start Thursday at 12PM to 10PM (for Early-Arrival pass holders only), Friday 8AM to 10PM (for 2-day pass holders) and Saturday from 8AM to 5PM (for 1-day Saturday pass holders). If you are arriving on Saturday, you will not be able to drive your car to your campsite to drop off your camping gear. You must park your car in one of our free parking areas and walk your camping gear to your campsite. If our onsite lot is full, you will be parking at our overflow lot half a mile from the hill. A free shuttle will be running to and from the offsite lot daily from 8AM until 12AM. All tent campers will be able to drive back to your campsite on Sunday to pack up. The campgrounds will close at 1PM on Sunday.
  
  
• Are RVs/pop-up campers allowed?
  Yes! If you plan to bring an RV, pull behind/trailer, or pop-up/tear-drop camper you will need to purchase a RESERVED RV site. You will need to have an RV pass to gain access to the RV area. For safety reasons, your RV will need to stay in the campground for the duration of the festival.
  
  
• Can I sleep in my vehicle?
  Yes, but if you plan to use your vehicle as a sleeping unit, you will need to purchase a Car Camping Pass in addition to your festival admission pass. There is a limited number of car camping passes available. 


• Will there be quiet camping available?
  Yes. We will have an area set aside specifically for a quiet zone. The 10PM noise curfew will be strictly enforced in this area. Sites are limited and are first come first serve.
  
  
• Can I leave and re-enter the campgrounds?
  Yes! We would love for our guests to get out into Bayfield and explore our town. There are beaches, restaurants, shopping and plenty of outdoor excursions all within a 5-10 minute drive from the campgrounds. NO vehicle traffic allowed after 10PM in the car camping site. If you do not have a car camping pass, upon return you will be directed to park in our free parking lots. If our onsite lot is full, you will be parking at our overflow lot half a mile from the hill.  A free shuttle will be running to and from the offsite lot daily from 8AM until 12AM
  
  
• Are pets allowed?
  We’re sorry, but for the safety of your pet and other festival attendees, pets are not allowed. Qualified service animals are allowed and must stay leased at all times. *Campgrounds are located in the woods, please be aware that there are wild animals in the area including: foxes, bears, fishers, otters, mink, coyotes, martins and ticks. 
  
  
• Can I have a fire at my campsite?
  ​No, fires at campsites are PROHIBITED. Each camping area will have a staff maintained bonfire that all campers are encouraged to enjoy. Please do not bring your own firewood to fuel these bonfires, safe wood will be provided. In lieu of campsite fires, campers are welcome to bring a small self-contained cooking grill or camp stove for cooking. All fires are subject to burning restrictions at all times.

STOMPING GROUNDS

• What form of payment do you accept for food and drink?
  The Ashwabay Grille and the T-Bar accept both cash and credit/debit cards. There will NOT be an ATM onsite. Most food vendors (including Lake Effect Music Festival official merch) accept cards, some are cash only. A list of all food vendors will be available closer to the festival date.
  
  
• What's NOT allowed in the festival grounds?
  All items carried into the festival gates are subject to search by Lake Effect Security. All items must be removed from the Stomping Grounds at the end of the day. The following items are NOT ALLOWED! 
• NO carry-in food or beverage, including alcohol 
• NO PETS ALLOWED (even small ones). 
• NO large EZ-UP/pop-up tents of any size
• NO glass containers
• NO fireworks
• Tiki torches
• Weapons, kegs or drones. 
• NO golf carts, boats, power scooters or dirt bikes. 
• NO illegal substances.
• NO firearms or weapons of any kind, with or without a carry permit
  
  
• What's allowed in the festival grounds?
  All items carried into the festival gates are subject to search by Lake Effect Security. All items must be removed from the grounds at the end of the day. Big Top and Lake Effect Festival are not liable for any items left and they will be removed by staff. The following items are ALLOWED! Factory sealed water bottles, empty hydration packs, empty refillable water bottles, backpacks, purses, fanny packs, chairs (must be set up in the designated area and removed at the end of the day), blankets, service animals (must be leashed at all times), wagons and kids strollers allowed.
  
  
• Is smoking allowed?
  Smoking is discouraged within the Stomping Grounds. Please be mindful of other guests and kindly locate a designated smoking area. Be mindful of smoking at your campsite by being aware of fire restrictions set by the DNR. Please do not litter any cigars, cigarettes, etc.
  
  
• What time do the festival gates open?
  The festival gate hours are Thursday 3PM (for Early-Arrival pass holders only), Friday 8AM and Saturday 8AM. The Campground entrance gate hours are: Thursday 12PM-10PM (for Early-Arrival pass holders only), Friday 8AM-10PM, Saturday 8AM-5PM.
  
  
• Do I need to bring a chair?
  Chairs will NOT be provided for you. If you would like to sit, you may bring a lawn chair for general admission seating, but it is not required. You may also bring a blanket to sit on the ground.

GENERAL

• What form of payment do you accept for food and drink?
  The Ashwabay Grille and the T-Bar accept both cash and credit/debit cards. There will NOT be an ATM onsite. Most food vendors (including Lake Effect Music Festival official merch) accept cards, some are cash only. A list of all food vendors will be available closer to the festival date.
  
  
• What type of Food & Drink will be available?
  Our Ashwabay Grille and T-Bar will also be open during concert hours. Lake Effect food and beverage vendors will be announced (and posted on our website) closer to the festival dates. 

• When will the set times be announced?
  Set times will be available closer to the festival dates.
  
  
• Is smoking allowed?
  Smoking is discouraged within the Stomping Grounds. Please be mindful of other guests and kindly locate a designated smoking area. Be mindful of smoking at your campsite by being aware of fire restrictions set by the DNR. Please do not litter any cigars, cigarettes, etc.
  
  
• What should I bring in with me?
  Lake Effect is an outdoor music festival. The event is rain or shine; you may want to bring a jacket, sunscreen, appropriate shoes, and bug spray. You can bring in an empty container to be filled with water inside the gates.  All items carried into the festival gates will be subject to search by Lake Effect Security. No food or beverage carry-ins are allowed in the concert area. Chairs are allowed in the concert area in designated areas but must be removed at the end of the day. If you are camping, we suggest bringing headlamps or other lightning as we are a dark sky region. 


• What time do the festival gates open?
  The festival gate hours are Thursday 3PM (for Early-Arrival pass holders only), Friday 8AM and Saturday 8AM. The Campground entrance gate hours are: Thursday 12PM-10PM (for Early-Arrival pass holders only), Friday 8AM-10PM, Saturday 8AM-5PM.


• When can I arrive at the Festival?
  2-day ticket holders can arrive starting Friday at 8AM. 1-day ticket holders can arrive starting Saturday at 8AM. Early-Arrival pass holders can arrive on Thursday at 12PM. 


• Is the festival kid friendly?
  Yes.  Children 16 and under are admitted free to the festival with a ticketed guardian.
  
  
  
• How do I get to Lake Effect?
  The Lake Effect Festival takes place at the Big Top Chautauqua located at 32525 Ski Hill Rd. Bayfield, Wisconsin 54814. 

 

• Can a General Admission pass be used for different people on different days?
  All General Admission passes are for 1 person only, tampering with or sharing wristbands is not permitted. Upon arrival, we will scan your ticket at the gate and you will receive a wristband that you will need to keep on for the entirety of the festival. Lost or broken wristbands will not be replaced.
  
  
• Can I take pictures?
  Yes, you may take pictures during the event. Please be sure to tag us @bigtopchautauqua if you post on social media!
  
  
• Are pets allowed?
  We’re sorry, but for the safety of your pet and other festival attendees, pets are not allowed. Qualified service animals are allowed and must stay leased at all times. *Campgrounds are located in the woods, please be aware that there are wild animals in the area including: foxes, bears, fishers, otters, mink, coyotes and martins.
  
  
• Do I need to bring a chair?
  Chairs will NOT be provided for you. If you would like to sit, you may bring a lawn chair for general admission seating, but it is not required. You may also bring a blanket to sit on the ground.
  
  
• How do I get children’s tickets?
  Good news! Children aged 16 and under can attend for free with a ticketed adult. Anyone 17 and older will need to purchase a full-price ticket. When buying your ticket, simply add a free “Child” ticket to your order.
  
  
• How much is daily parking?
  Parking is complimentary for all ticket holders. Onsite parking is first come first serve. Off-site overflow parking is located half a mile away. A free shuttle will be running to and from the offsite lot daily from 8AM until 12AM.
  

HOTELS & MOTELS

• I’d rather not camp. Do I have any other options?
  ​Plenty of options are within 15 miles of the Lake Effect Festival. Below are some of our wonderful lodging partners that we highly suggest.

The Bayfield Inn
Superior lodging on Superior’s shore. The Bayfield Inn features first-class amenities, sustainable luxuries, and unrivaled hospitality. Whether you are planning a quiet getaway, an adventure, or a company meeting, we’re at your service.

WEBSITE

Legendary Waters Resort & Casino
Every room features a beautiful Lake Superior view! We offer a wide range of amenities. Free WIFI, Spectrum TV, mini-fridge and microwave in every room, toiletries, and more! Our Pool and Hot Tub are the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of excitement on the casino floor. They are open and ready to take your stress away!

WEBSITE

The Washburn Inn
Come stay at The Washburn Inn, right in the middle of it all. In the heart of Lake Superior’s Chequamegon Bay, we take pride in giving our guests a great stay. Each of our rooms was recently remodeled and we work hard to ensure a great experience in clean, comfortable rooms with easy parking. ​

WEBSITE

RV / RESERVED CAMPSITE

• Do you offer RV waste disposal?
  No, there is no RV waste disposal onsite. There are three campsites that we suggest using on our way out of the area in Apostle Islands, Washburn & Herbster.
  
  
• Can I camp in a tent on my Reserved Site?
  Yes, tents are allowed. The main requirement is that you stay within the bounds of your Reserved Campsite. Dimensions for Reserved RV Camping Sites are 30 x 50 feet
  
  
• Will a water fill service be available for my RV?
  No, there is not a water fill service available for your RV onsite. Apostle Islands, Washburn, Herbster
  
• Are RVs/pop-up campers allowed?
  Yes! If you plan to bring an RV, pull behind/trailer, or pop-up/tear-drop camper you will need to purchase a RESERVED RV site. You will need to have an RV pass to gain access to the RV area. For safety reasons, your RV will need to stay in the campground for the duration of the festival. 
  
  
• How many people can camp on my reserved campsite?
  You’re welcome to use your entire campsite to fit as many people as you’d like, as long as you’re not encroaching on neighboring campsites. The campsite dimensions are 20’x20’. Please note that every person in your group must have their own festival ticket.
  

TICKETS

• Will tickets be available at the gate?
  If the event is not sold out then 2-day and 1-day (Saturday) tickets will be available for purchase at the gate. *Only cards will be accepted for ticket purchases. No cash.
  
  
• Do I need to print off my ticket?
  No, we accept both printed and digital tickets at the gate. If you choose digital, please try to download your ticket to your phone prior to your arrival so that it's ready for us to scan. Once we scan your ticket you will receive a wristband which must be worn the entire weekend.
  
  
• Can I camp with my 1-day ticket?
  Those with a Saturday 1-day ticket can camp Saturday into Sunday 1:30PM. Campground check-in on Saturday* is from 8AM to 5PM. *You will not be able to drive your car to your unreserved campsite to drop off your camping gear when you arrive on Saturday. You must park your car in the free parking lot and walk your camping gear to your campsite.  Packing a wagon will make this process easier. If our onsite lot is full, you will be parking at our overflow lot half a mile from the campground/festival. A free shuttle will be running to and from the offsite lot daily from 8AM until 12AM. All tent campers will be able to drive back to your campsite on Sunday to pack up. The campgrounds will close at 1PM on Sunday.
  
  
• What if I lost my ticket?
  If you lose your ticket, bring a valid government issued ID to the gate and we will be able to look up your purchase. If someone else purchased your ticket, you will need the order number from the person that placed the order AND a valid government issued ID.  
  
• What if I experience problems printing my ticket or other problems?
  If you have a problem printing your ticket, please head over to our will-call area with your order number and a valid government issued ID.
  
  
• Do you offer payment plans?
  No.
  
  
• What is your refund policy?
  ​Lake Effect is rain or shine. All sales are final. No refunds or rollovers. Event dates, entertainment and times subject to change without notice.

UnRESERVED CAMPING

• What if I don't have a car camping pass?
  If you're camping in unreserved tent camping without a car camping pass, you can drop off your belongings at your campsite until 10PM on Thursday* and Friday. After unloading, you must move your car to one of our free parking lots. If you arrive on Saturday, you will need to carry your belongings from the parking lot, as vehicle access to campsites will not be available. *Must have an Early-Arrival.


• Can I camp with my 1-day ticket?
  Those with a Saturday 1-day ticket can camp Saturday into Sunday 1:30PM. Campground check-in on Saturday* is from 8AM to 5PM. *You will not be able to drive your car to your unreserved campsite to drop off your camping gear when you arrive on Saturday. You must park your car in the free parking lot and walk your camping gear to your campsite.  Packing a wagon will make this process easier. If our onsite lot is full, you will be parking at our overflow lot half a mile from the hill. A free shuttle will be running to and from the offsite lot daily from 8AM until 12AM. All tent campers will be able to drive back to your campsite on Sunday to pack up. The campgrounds will close at 1PM on Sunday.