Dispersed camping options surrounding Athelstane, Wisconsin range from lakeside settings to forest-enclosed sites within the Nicolet National Forest. The area sits at approximately 1,250 feet elevation with a typical camping season from May through October when temperatures average 45-75°F. Autumn campers can experience vibrant fall colors while spring camping often requires preparation for muddy conditions during snowmelt.
What to do
Water recreation: Caldron Falls Reservoir offers quiet paddling opportunities with minimal boat traffic. "We stayed at the Heron's Retreat campsite on the Caldron Fall Reservoir. We checked in at the Gov. Thompson State Park headquarters then launched our canoe from the boat launch at the state park. From there it was a short 1 mile paddle to our campsite on the northside of the lake," notes Steven U. at Old Veterans Lake Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Old Veterans Lake Park provides opportunities to spot local wildlife. "Beautiful little spot. Clear swim area, decent fishing. Saw turtles, snakes, and frogs. Wild blackberries along the trails and camp sight," reports Molly M.
ATV trail access: The trail systems connect directly to several campgrounds. "If outdoor recreation is your thing, this is the perfect base camp. The campground entrance is right off the ATV/Snowmobile/Horse Trails which connect to thousands of miles of trail systems all throughout the Northwoods of Wisconsin," states a visitor at Tranquil~Vista Campground. Shane adds, "There are miles of ATV and Side x side trails down the road. We spend the whole day riding and never see it all and they are well groomed."
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: Many campgrounds offer well-separated sites. "The sites are a perfect size, and people are generally very kind and respectful," notes Lauren P. about Governor Thompson State Park. Another camper, Jeff F., shares: "We went the weekend after Labor Day and basically had the whole place to ourselves. Very quiet and peaceful. Walked the loops looking at other campsites and most are very private."
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness receives consistent positive mentions. "Clean showers that are their own facility on the back side of building for restrooms, single shower, toilet and sink with locking door," reports Lula L. about Governor Thompson State Park.
Firewood availability: Several campgrounds offer generous wood supplies. Jeff F. notes, "The wood grab was very generous and rather than them taking 5 small pieces and wrapping them together with cellophane, you fill up a wheelbarrow via honor system with large split dry logs and pay for it that way. Made for some great campfires."
What you should know
Tick prevalence: Multiple campers report ticks, particularly in spring. "Beautiful Lakes secluded areas and a crazy amount of ticks in May. This could be why we were the only people in our loop of the campground so early in the season. Sprayed the entire site with Apple cider vinegar to try to keep the ticks off the dogs," warns Jill G.
Cell service limitations: Coverage becomes unreliable in more remote areas. A camper at Twin Bridge County Park reports, "The drive is lovely thru the Nicollet State forest. Although, you will lose service and if your relying on GPS directions, you'll find yourself in a bind like us."
Site variation: Campsite quality and privacy vary significantly. Stacey N. writes about Twin Bridge County Park, "Our site is huge and wooded and three sides. Quiet. Clean toilets. Friendly staff… and a whole wheelbarrow of firewood for 10 bucks."
Seasonal operational hours: Services have limited availability. "Firewood can only be purchased on site from 3:30-4:00 daily," notes Stacey N.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds offer swimming access for children. At Peshtigo River Campground, Tayah H. shares, "It's right by an elementary school so it's a very safe area, across the road from an AMAZING playground that all ages will love, also about 50ft from a beach! The beach isn't huge, and is open to the public so at times it gets crowded but is very safe and clean."
Wildlife observation opportunities: Children enjoy spotting local animals. "We come here with the kids every spring. They always catch frogs, fish, and turtles. They also enjoy swimming across, and hiking and biking around the lake," notes Melissa K. about Old Veterans Lake County Park.
Tubing excursions: River tubing provides family-friendly entertainment. Kelly L. says about Peshtigo River Campground, "Great experience for small or large groups. Have a blast every time I go. Kids love it."
Geocaching availability: Some parks offer geocaching opportunities. "Lots of geocaches in the park to keep us busy," mentions Jill G.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Confirm site sizes before booking. PJ F. explains about Governor Thompson State Park, "For reference: We have a 19ft travel trailer and a ford truck. We stayed at site 19, it is pull in and it was perfect, with plenty of room for everything. We took a walk to be nosy and also liked site 20, it was even bigger! Site 14 looked great for a pull thru site."
Access road conditions: Some campgrounds require navigation through forest roads. Paul and Faith B. report, "This is a little campground a short drive down some narrow, twisty backroads from Governor Thompson State Park."
Power needs for medical equipment: Plan for electricity requirements. "We stayed at Site 10 and LOVED it. Very private and our dog was able to roam at will. We did have someone ratted on us for using our generator to supply our CPAPs because there was no electricity or water," shares Ann M.
Amenities for longer stays: Full-hookup sites are available at several campgrounds. "This campground is a mix between RV's and tenting so you get the best of both worlds!" notes Tayah H. about one of the best places to camp near Athelstane, Wisconsin.
