Top Free Dispersed Camping near Athelstane, WI

Searching for a dispersed camping spot near Athelstane? The Dyrt can help you find the best dispersed campsites for your next trip. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campgrounds for your Wisconsin camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Athelstane, WI (4)

    Camper-submitted photo from McCaslin Brook Dispersed site
    Camper-submitted photo from McCaslin Brook Dispersed site
    Camper-submitted photo from McCaslin Brook Dispersed site
    Camper-submitted photo from McCaslin Brook Dispersed site
    Camper-submitted photo from McCaslin Brook Dispersed site
    Camper-submitted photo from McCaslin Brook Dispersed site

    1. McCaslin Brook Dispersed site

    2 Reviews
    13 Photos
    47 Saves

    Dispersed camping is the type of recreational experience that is outside the confines of a developed campground setting. It’s just you and the woods without latrines, fire rings, or any other type of amenities you’d find in a campground. There are still some rules that need to be followed to preserve places for others to enjoy.

    There are still some rules that need to be followed to preserve places for others to enjoy.

    Please follow Leave No Trace practices to make sure no evidence of your visit remains. This means packing out all garbage and supplies you brought with you– leave the site cleaner than when you found it. Where toilets are not provided, bury and cover waste in a shallow trench at least 200 feet away from any water. Be aware of fire restrictions that apply to campfires outside of developed campsites. In dry conditions, campfires may be banned in the general forest, but still allowed in campgrounds. Never leave a campfire unattended. Be sure your fire is out before you leave the campsite. Check the most up to date Motorized Vehicle User Map (MVUM) to make sure the Forest Service road you wish to drive on is open to motorized vehicles. Please contact your local Forest Service office to obtain the latest copy of the MVUM map. Motor vehicles may be parked up to 30 feet from the edge of the road surface when it is safe to do so without causing damage to National Forest resources or facilities, unless prohibited by state law, a traffic sign, or special closure order. Parking motor vehicles or trailers is not allowed where it will impede traffic, harm vegetation, or impact soils. For example, driving and parking in open fields beyond the shoulder of a road right-of-way. Parking in front of gates is prohibited. RV or vehicle campers may utilize shoulder parking pull off areas or closed roads with a berm to park and camp. Visitors who are tent camping should be a minimum of 150 feet from the edge any trail or Forest Service road. Camp sites must be 200 feet away from any water or lakeshore. You may not construct any “improvements” at your camp. Examples of prohibited improvements include digging ditches, cutting of live trees or other vegetation, or construction of permanent fire rings. Disperse all signs of a campfire once it is extinguished, if you use one, or use a camp stove. You may not leave your camping equipment unattended for more than 24 hours. Occupancy is limited to 21 days at the same site within a 30 day period, one mile away from previous site. Be considerate of other campers or users that may be in the area. Hold down the noise please. Use only dead and downed material for firewood. Do not carve, chop, cut, peel bark, install nails or screws, or do any other damage to live trees. Use of wheeled carts or any mechanized or motorized equipment is prohibited in all designated wilderness areas.

    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Oconto River off Mountain Lake Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Oconto River off Mountain Lake Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Oconto River off Mountain Lake Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Oconto River off Mountain Lake Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Oconto River off Mountain Lake Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Oconto River off Mountain Lake Road

    2. Oconto River off Mountain Lake Road

    3 Reviews
    9 Photos
    91 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
    Camper-submitted photo from Mountain Lakes Rd Dispersed
    • No image available

    Recent Dispersed Reviews In Athelstane

    6 Reviews of 4 Athelstane Campgrounds


    • hesselinkj@yahoo.com The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from McCaslin Brook Dispersed site
      Aug. 22, 2024

      McCaslin Brook Dispersed site

      Nice sites along brook

      There are three sites two small one large site which you can fit larger camper or RV in. Entrances need a lot of TLC washed out and large drop from paved road. Middle camp site has best access to brook I put a 8 foot pop up in it you could go bigger 20 foot max. One site I would say is tent only very tight. Wilderness toilet but they look pretty full.

    • Zachary S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Oconto River off Mountain Lake Road
      Oct. 11, 2023

      Oconto River off Mountain Lake Road

      Quaint and quiet. (Two campsites, dispersed from each other)

      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. Water is very cold, and flows from an aquifer upstream.

      There is an outdoor toilet, and I've attempted to point it out in the pictures.

      The entrance was doable for my sedan, but was tricky. I believe a camper could make it going slowly. The second campsite entrance may have an easier time in.

      Do not follow road past campsites, either way unless your vehicle is lifted my sedan would have gotten stuck if I tried.

      Both campsites are accessed from the main road and have a brown "campsite" sign.

      AT&T: No Service.



    Guide to Athelstane

    Camping near Athelstane, Wisconsin, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

    What to do:

    • Fishing and swimming: Many campers enjoy fishing in the nearby lakes. One reviewer at Boulder Lake mentioned, "Boulder lake is amazing and is located conveniently close to the Wolf river, which has whitewater rafting and trout fishing." The lake is also great for swimming, making it a perfect spot for families.
    • Hiking: Explore the trails around the campgrounds. A visitor at Governor Thompson State Park noted, "This park is big, with lots of trails, clean bathrooms, water access, and great campsites that offer privacy when the foliage is grown in."
    • Kayaking and canoeing: Many campgrounds have access to water activities. A reviewer at Bagley Rapids NF Campground shared, "Tranquil nights next to the rapids makes this campground great," highlighting the peaceful atmosphere for paddling.

    What campers like:

    • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One guest at Kleinke Park Campground said, "Great showers and playground, day camping areas abound," emphasizing the family-friendly environment.
    • Friendly staff: Many reviews mention helpful campground hosts. A visitor at Peshtigo River Campground remarked, "The owners are awesome and worked with us on our reservation," showcasing the welcoming atmosphere.
    • Scenic views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. One reviewer at J.W. Wells State Park Campground noted, "Great views of Lake Michigan! Beautiful sandy beach just a short walk away!"

    What you should know:

    • Site conditions: Some campgrounds have grassy sites that can be tricky for larger campers. A reviewer at J.W. Wells State Park Campground warned, "The views are beautiful but all the camping spots are grass; we instantly sunk the second we tried to park!"
    • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive facilities. A visitor at Governor Thompson State Park mentioned, "Heads up - not many electric sites but nice hiking trails and small lake nearby."
    • Wildlife: Be prepared for some critters. A camper at Bear Lake Campground noted, "If it were hot, I would imagine a lot of mosquitos," so bring bug spray!

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Playgrounds and activities: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. A reviewer at Kleinke Park Campground mentioned, "Great showers and playground, day camping areas abound," making it a hit for families.
    • Choose quieter times: Visiting during weekdays can lead to a more peaceful experience. A guest at Governor Thompson State Park said, "Weekdays in the fall... so quiet and peaceful."
    • Plan for activities: Bring games and outdoor gear to keep kids entertained. A visitor at Chute Pond Park shared, "There’s lots to do the whole weekend whether you want to go hiking, fishing, boating, small cliff jumping."

    Tips from RVers:

    • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Peshtigo River Campground mentioned, "We thought we had a small site- until we got there," highlighting the importance of checking dimensions.
    • Bring leveling blocks: Some sites may not be perfectly flat. A camper at J.W. Wells State Park Campground advised, "Bring blocks if you want to stay!"
    • Be prepared for limited hookups: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. A visitor at Bear Lake Campground noted, "Rustic with no electric hook-ups," so plan accordingly.

    Camping near Athelstane, Wisconsin, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Enjoy the great outdoors and make some lasting memories!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Athelstane, WI?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Athelstane, WI is McCaslin Brook Dispersed site with a 3.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

    • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Athelstane, WI?

      TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Athelstane, WI, with real photos and reviews from campers.