Dispersed camping near Amberg, Wisconsin offers wilderness options throughout the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. The forest encompasses over 1.5 million acres of northern Wisconsin terrain, with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,200 feet above sea level. Winter temperatures frequently drop below 0°F, while summer camping season typically runs June through September when temperatures average 65-80°F.
What to do
Fishing access: The South Branch Oconto River campground provides excellent fishing opportunities. "Loved this spot. Stayed two nights, and the first night was almost absolutely silent other than the waterfall (difficult to access) about a mile away. The campsite is right along a deep, and steadily moving stream," notes camper Zachary S. about the Oconto River off Mountain Lake Road.
ATV trails: The network of forest roads surrounding dispersed sites creates ideal conditions for off-road enthusiasts. "Big site for ATV campers right off trail can probably get toy hauler in here easy," reports one camper about Mountain Lakes Rd Dispersed. Many sites feature direct trail access.
Water exploration: Several sites offer direct creek or river frontage. As one camper described, "The campsite is right along a deep, and steadily moving stream. Water is very cold, and flows from an aquifer upstream." Swimming options exist during summer months when water levels are appropriate.
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: The remote nature of these sites appeals to those seeking seclusion. "There are two campsites at this trailhead, pretty well spaced apart," reports Rebecca B. about the Octonto River - South Branch. The $5 daily fee is waived for those with Golden or Access passes.
Riverside settings: Multiple sites feature water access as their primary appeal. Nick H. reports about one location, "Very cool spot right on the river. In ground fire pit. Decent amount of off-road vehicle traffic. No service." These waterfront settings provide natural cooling during summer heat.
Shade coverage: Dense forest canopy characterizes many sites. "They are shaded and right by the creek, which gurgled along happily," notes Rebecca B. about McCaslin Brook Dispersed site. This shade provides natural cooling but impacts solar capabilities.
What you should know
Access challenges: Most sites require navigating rough forest roads. As Michael U. reports, "Turn off is rough. 4x4 recommended. 2wd truck couldn't make it easily." Vehicle clearance is particularly important during spring thaws or after heavy rains.
Variable site sizes: Accommodations range from small tent-only clearings to larger areas for RVs. "There are three sites two small one large site which you can fit larger camper or RV in," notes one camper. Site selection should match vehicle requirements.
Limited amenities: True to dispersed camping principles, facilities remain minimal. "Small site little rough to get into a lot of trash left. Short path to river this is a two site spot good distance between them," reports a camper about one location. Pack-in, pack-out principles apply at all sites.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity remains virtually nonexistent throughout the forest. Multiple campers specifically note "No service" across various carriers, making these locations suitable for digital detox but requiring advance preparation.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection criteria: Choose sites with safe water access and adequate space. "There are three pull-in areas, with picnic tables and fire rings just off the road. Two may be large enough to handle more than 1 small rig/tent/popup," notes Rebecca B. The first site at most locations typically offers easier access.
Water safety considerations: The rivers and streams fluctuate seasonally. "The campsite is right along a deep, and steadily moving stream," one camper reports. Children require supervision near all waterways regardless of apparent depth or current.
Toilet facilities: Vault toilets exist at some but not all sites. "There is a clean and maintained vault toilet," reports one camper about pioneer park, though other reviews note this site can be "buggy and noisy" due to highway proximity.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: RV access varies significantly between sites. "The third site is a deep, large site away from the road facing west, with a bad easement. There was some occasional traffic on the main road and a quite a few UTVs," reports Robyn B.
Clearance requirements: Forest road conditions demand adequate vehicle clearance. "Do not follow road past campsites, either way unless your vehicle is lifted," warns one camper, who noted their sedan nearly became stuck.
Solar considerations: Dense tree coverage impacts power generation capabilities. "We ultimately decided not to stay here simply because it was so shaded. While that made it nice and cool, it made solar and Starlink impossible," reports one RVer. The first site at many locations offers better sun exposure if solar power is needed.
