Tent camping opportunities near Arbor Vitae, Wisconsin extend across the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest with sites situated between 1,500-1,700 feet elevation. The region features over 2,000 lakes and streams within a 50-mile radius, creating numerous waterfront camping options. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during day and 55-65°F at night, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms in July and August.
What to do
Fishing at remote lakes: Three Johns Lake Dispersed offers a single tent site on a quiet lake with excellent fishing opportunities. "Tents only. Short walk to campsite only one on lake. 5 dollar parking national Forest," notes one camper about this primitive site.
Hiking near camp: Sylvania Wilderness Backcountry Camping provides access to numerous hiking trails through old-growth forest. One visitor describes the area as having "a good balance of open space and tree cover. Nearby Clark Lake is very pretty, good for swimming, and serves as the primary water source."
Wildlife viewing: At Boulder Junction, campers have opportunities to spot unique wildlife including white deer. As one visitor mentioned, "We were lucky enough to see a white deer. Mosquitos were horrible but we managed! Thankfully we had our bug rackets to fry those suckers."
What campers like
Secluded island camping: Turtle Flambeau Scenic Waters Area offers boat-in island camping across hundreds of islands. One camper notes, "The Turtle Flambeau Flowage is dubbed the 'Boundary Waters of Wisconsin' and for good reason! The quality of the waters, vast array of channels, islands and camping spots is simply amazing."
Lakeside tent sites: Wabasso Lake Recreation Area features walk-in tent sites near the water. A camper shares, "The campgrounds here have a fire ring and table, and plenty of room to set up in. The lake is gorgeous and swimmable. The only amenities are a vault toilet and water."
Easy day-use options: For those wanting the best tent camping near Arbor Vitae, Wisconsin without overnight stays, Newman Lake Shelter provides alternatives. "If you're looking for a place to rest and play for the day this is a good choice. I grew up in this region and this little spot is a hidden gem for day camping, fishing, picnicking, and swimming," writes one visitor.
What you should know
Rustic toilets: Many sites in the area have minimal facilities. At Turtle Flambeau, visitors should prepare for primitive conditions as "All sites have a pit toilet but be aware they are not covered."
Water sources: Most tent sites require filtering lake water for drinking. At Sylvania Wilderness, one camper explains, "Nearby Clark Lake is very pretty, good for swimming, and serves as the primary water source."
Campsite spacing: Some sites that appear remote on maps may be closer to neighbors than expected. At Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest Backcountry Site, visitors find "a huge campsite on a dead end road. The parking area is huge so one could fit a trailer or pop up there. There is a sandy beach on a small lake full of fish."
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra insect protection: The Northwoods region has significant mosquito populations in summer. A Boulder Junction camper warns, "Mosquitos were horrible but we managed! Thankfully we had our bug rackets to fry those suckers."
Consider canoe camping: Sylvania Wilderness offers beginner-friendly canoe camping options. One visitor shares, "Loved my first experience at canoe camping. We did it the easy way, loaded our canoe, crossed the lake to our campsite and set up camp. No portaging with our gear."
Look for beach access: Many sites offer swimming opportunities for children. At Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest Backcountry Site, "There is a sandy beach on a small lake full of fish. The Sam Cambell trail is right next door, it's a nice walk to another tiny lake."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most remote sites near Arbor Vitae are tent-only, but Moen Lake Campground & RV Park accommodates smaller RVs. "The basic amenities are here, picnic table, fire pit, bath house with showers within walking distance, electrical(30amp) and water hookups, but don't expect them to be 5 star quality, they are there, they are functional, that's about all you can say."
Private camping experience: Even RV sites can offer seclusion. A Moen Lake camper describes, "If you want a quiet, secluded campground where you can just sit back and enjoy being out in the woods(we had deer walk through the back of our campsite at night), then you will enjoy this campground."
Limited hookups: Few campgrounds offer full hookups. Moen Lake provides "No onsite sewer, but did have a dump station."
