The Nicolet National Forest region surrounding Athelstane covers over 661,000 acres of northern Wisconsin, with elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach highs in the mid-70s to 80s, while fall brings temperatures between 45-65°F. This area contains over 2,000 lakes and numerous rivers that offer water-based recreation options alongside camping.
What to do
Geocaching adventures: Governor Thompson State Park contains numerous geocaches throughout its wooded areas. Visitor Jill G. notes, "Lots of geocaches in the park to keep us busy" despite dealing with seasonal ticks during their May visit.
ATV trail access: West Bass Lake offers direct connections to extensive trail systems. According to Adam A., the park "is situated near the ATV trail, and has access to the 160 mile Blue Ox trail system," making it popular with off-road enthusiasts.
Kayaking on secluded lakes: Bear Lake Campground provides excellent paddling opportunities on a motor-restricted lake. "The lake has a swimming area & beautiful Sandy beach & is perfect for fishing, swimming and kayaking," shares Lisa R., highlighting the benefits of limited boat traffic.
Night sky viewing: The remote location makes stargazing exceptional. Adam A. describes West Bass Lake as having "Not much ambient light in this park, so it is great for viewing stars and Northern Lights," offering optimal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
What campers like
Private campsites: Governor Thompson State Park Campground receives praise for its secluded sites. Jeff F. reports, "Walked the loops looking at other campsites and most are very private. Did hear some bear walking the first night and some coyotes/or wolves howling literally right behind our tent."
Spacious wooded sites: Campers appreciate the natural surroundings at many area campgrounds. Nathan C.F. praises Diamond Lake Family Campground, citing "huge wooded sites, quiet family environment, and excellent service provided by Jen, Joe and their whole family."
Firewood availability: Several campgrounds offer convenient firewood access. Jeff F. notes Governor Thompson's "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."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high standards for bathrooms and showers. A camper at West Bass Lake explains, "As of this writing, 2024, they have recently installed new showers and flush bathrooms," showing continued improvements to facilities.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: The camping season typically runs May through October with variable conditions. PJ F. cautions about J.W. Wells State Park Campground: "You will lose service & if your relying on GPS directions, you'll find yourself in a bind like us. But we got out our trusty map & winged it."
Tick awareness: Tick populations can be significant in late 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," warns Jill G. about Governor Thompson State Park.
First-come availability: Some campgrounds don't accept reservations. Art S. describes West Bass Lake as "pretty popular" with limited shade, noting "Campers had their a/c on in their smaller RVs on this warm July weekend."
Wildlife encounters: Campers should prepare for potential wildlife interactions. Jeff F. recounts at Governor Thompson State Park: "Did hear some bear walking the first night and some coyotes/or wolves howling literally right behind our tent the second night."
Tips for camping with families
Beach options: Boot Lake Campground provides family-friendly swimming. Haley C. recommends, "Even though I am from the town of Townsend, which is about 5 miles from boot lake, this has always been my favorite campground, with hiking trails that aren't usually that busy to a beach you can relax on."
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature recreation areas for children. Art S. observes that West Bass Lake has "a large playground next to a small beach. Many people used the boat launch to go out on the water."
Site selection: Choose sites that provide both space and privacy. Christopher R. notes about Boot Lake, "The beach is nice and the location is nicely nestled in the Nicolet National Forest near the town of Townsend and Lakewood," offering options for family activities.
Water activities: Area lakes provide recreational options beyond swimming. Margaret D. shares a Boot Lake tip: "There is a trail that goes along the lakeshore and if you follow it going clockwise, you'll find a rope swing for jumping in to the lake."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Shakey Lakes Park Campground earns high marks for RV amenities. Charles F. notes, "Clean bath house, reasonable fee, spacious sites, great staff," making it suitable for RV campers.
Electrical service: Check which campgrounds offer power connections. Many sites offer 30-amp service, but some like Shakey Lakes also provide 50-amp options for larger rigs with higher power demands.
Pull-through availability: Site selection matters for easier parking. PJ F. recommends site 14 at J.W. Wells as "great for a pull thru site. There were also some much larger sites for bigger rigs."
Shade considerations: Art S. cautions about West Bass Lake: "While you can find a site separate from others or even one in the shade, it seems as if many tall trees are gone," which affects comfort during summer camping.
