Best Dispersed Camping near Bangor, WI

Dispersed camping options near Bangor, Wisconsin include several primitive sites that require boat, hike, or walk-in access. Crater Island offers free boat-in camping with no facilities. The site features sand beaches and water access but lacks amenities such as drinking water, toilets, or trash service. According to recent visitors, Crater Island becomes quite busy during summer weekends and may be closed during dredging operations.

Richard J Dorer Memorial State Forest Reno Unit provides free dispersed camping on the Minnesota side of the Mississippi. This area requires hiking in and offers spectacular views of the driftless region and Mississippi River. Campers report steep trails with significant drop-offs, making it unsuitable for those uncomfortable with heights. Camp spots are not clearly marked, and visitors should be prepared for primitive conditions with no water, toilets, or other facilities.

Root River Canoe Campsite represents another primitive option accessible by boat, bike, or foot. This site maintains basic amenities including pit toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings. The site was originally built by Boy Scouts, and while still usable, visitor reviews indicate the river has changed course and now flows farther from the campsite than in previous decades. A bike trail with a fork leads directly to this location, making it accessible for cyclists as well as paddlers.

All these dispersed camping areas permit fires (when no fire bans are in effect) and allow pets. Visitors must pack in all necessary supplies including drinking water and pack out all trash. These sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation systems. Proper preparation for self-sufficient camping is essential when visiting these primitive locations.