Tent camping around Athelstane, Wisconsin offers access to the Northern Highland region characterized by mixed hardwood forests, small glacial lakes, and the Peshtigo River watershed. At approximately 800-1,000 feet elevation, this area receives heavy snowfall in winter but transforms to moderate 70-80°F summer temperatures. Most primitive campsites in this region sit on sandy, acidic soil that drains quickly after rainfall.
What to do
Fishing access: East Bass Lake Park provides direct lake fishing opportunities with minimal competition. "While there is only 2 spots for camping in this town park. It is a great place for those who want some solitude. Small sites for tent or pop-up. No hook-ups. Pit toilets and right on the lake," notes GA J. about this East Bass Lake Park.
Waterfall exploration: The Marinette County area features multiple accessible waterfalls within short driving distance of most campgrounds. At Oconto River off Mountain Lake Road, campers report "the campsite is right along a deep, and steadily moving stream. Water is very cold, and flows from an aquifer upstream... with a waterfall (difficult to access) about a mile away."
ATV trail access: McClintock County Park sits directly adjacent to regional ATV trail networks. According to Jeremy S., this primitive camping area provides a "nice place if your in to ATV riding. Trails really close. Good view of the river. Bring ways to keep mosquitoes at bay though."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Old Veterans Lake County Park, the campground layout creates natural separation between campers. Paul&Faith B. noted their experience: "The site itself was open, yet private, and very flat. It was a short walk to the pit toilets... even with every other campsite occupied it was still a very peaceful time."
Lake swimming: Many Athelstane area campgrounds feature natural swimming areas without ropes or lifeguards. Families particularly value Old Veterans Lake for its clean water. Melissa K. reports, "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."
Digital disconnection: Most tent camping in the Athelstane region has minimal or no cellular service. Zachary S. appreciates this at Oconto River off Mountain Lake Road: "Loved this spot. Stayed two nights, and the first night was almost absolutely silent other than the waterfall... AT&T: No Service."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Some dispersed sites have challenging access roads requiring appropriate vehicles. At Oconto River camping areas, Michael U. warns, "4x4 recommended. 2wd truck couldn't make it easily." Similarly, Zachary S. advises, "Do not follow road past campsites, either way unless your vehicle is lifted."
Water sources: Most primitive tent camping areas near Athelstane require campers to bring their own water. Ada Lake Recreation Area provides potable water pumps during summer months, though some visitors recommend filtering lake water as backup during high-use periods.
Bathroom facilities: Expect basic sanitation at most sites. Kinni P. reports of Ada Lake: "Great campground, albeit gravely. The amenities were well kept and placed and having our dog with us wasn't a problem."
Tips for camping with families
Frog hunting: Children particularly enjoy the shallow water edges at Old Veterans Lake for amphibian spotting. Melissa K. notes this is a consistent attraction: "We come here with the kids every spring. They always catch frogs, fish, and turtles."
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds feature small, designated swimming areas with gradual entry. Paul&Faith B. describes Old Veterans Lake: "There's another path to a little beach behind the toilet building. It was great for swimming and finding more tiny fish."
Activity planning: Marinette County Goodman Park offers structured camping with more amenities than dispersed sites. According to Denise L., "We stayed here a few years ago and I would love to go back again. Very nice peaceful feels like youre kn the middle of nowhere."
Tips from RVers
Generator restrictions: Most primitive sites prohibit generators. Ann M. from Old Veterans Lake notes: "We did have someone ratted on us for using our generator to supply our CPAPs because there was no electricity or water."
Site limitations: Larger RVs face significant challenges at most Athelstane area campgrounds. Jen E. notes about Ada Lake: "It's rustic, so minimal amenities. First come, first served. We arrived mid-week and had no problem getting a lakeside campsite. The sites are low compared to the water level."
Electric-only lakes: Some campgrounds enforce motor restrictions, creating quieter environments. Haley C. explains: "Only electric motors on the lake so it is usually a quiet setting. Away from town for a nice relaxing time."
