Tent camping near Bloomer, Wisconsin provides access to the glaciated terrain of northwest Wisconsin's Chippewa County, where elevations range from 950 to 1,150 feet. The region receives approximately 32 inches of annual precipitation, creating lush forests dominated by maple, oak and pine species. Summer temperatures typically reach 80°F during the day with overnight lows dropping to 55-60°F, making proper sleeping gear essential for comfortable nights.
What to do
Swimming in no-motor lakes: Coon Fork Campground features a small lake where motorized boats aren't permitted, creating a peaceful swimming environment. "This was a beautiful camping spot with close water access. There was plenty of area nearby to hike or go swimming and there was a cool water run off that you can walk down the side of," notes Paige J.
Paddling opportunities: Rent canoes and kayaks directly at Coon Fork Campground for exploring the quiet waters. "Canoe and rowboat rentals are available at the office. Great private campsites. We love it here," shares Brook Jorgensen.
Hiking the Ice Age Trail: The Northside Lake Eleven Campsite provides access to the Ice Age Trail with its unique glacial formations. Steph H. describes: "It is an excellent diverse section of trail with many geologic wonders formed by continental glaciation, with the most recent effects formed at the end of the Wisconsin Glaciation, a period ending about 10,000 years ago."
Wildlife observation: The forests surrounding Bloomer host deer, wild turkeys, and numerous bird species. Early mornings and evenings offer the best viewing opportunities, particularly at lakeside campsites where wildlife comes to drink.
What campers like
Child-friendly amenities: Coon Fork Campground offers family-oriented facilities with well-maintained play areas. "Great for kids! Way more fun later in the summer so you can go swimming. Although, children don't seem to notice cold water anyway! Pine trees everywhere and some camp lots more open than others. Playground, shower/bathrooms are decent," reports Hannah E.
Lakefront camping: Several campers praise the waterfront sites at Coon Fork. Matt N. shares: "This is a great place to camp. We have been back a few times. They have sites on the lake and off. If you can get a site on the water I highly recommend."
Quiet camping atmosphere: Apple River County Park Campground provides a more secluded experience with only 15 campsites. Janet R. describes it as "a small county campground with 15 simple campsites geared towards tent camping, though 5 of the sites are equipped with electricity so folks with vans or small trailers might be comfortable here."
Affordability: Many campgrounds in the Bloomer area maintain reasonable rates compared to more developed tourist destinations, with basic sites typically ranging from $15-25 per night.
What you should know
Primitive site preparation: Backpacking campsites like Sailor Creek Campsite require proper preparation. "It is located in a grove of hemlocks about 150 feet away from your water source, Sailor Creek. The trees are lovely but the site is a bit rough for tents. Lots of roots and low dips make for uncomfortable, possibly damp sleeping," warns Steph H.
Wildlife precautions: Raccoons are particularly active in the area's campgrounds. Amy G. notes at Coon Fork: "Raccoons frequent the park, hence the name, so they will give you trash bags at check in to keep them at bay. That's a great way to help control the problem."
Seasonal considerations: Spring camping often means muddy conditions through May, while July and August bring the warmest temperatures for swimming. Fall brings spectacular color but cooler nights requiring warmer sleeping bags.
Water filtration: Most backcountry sites require water treatment. At Lake Eleven, campers report the lake water is "drinkable with a filtration system," making a portable filter or purification tablets essential equipment.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: K and C Country Air Campground provides cleaner facilities and more amenities for families with young children. "Great place water sewer electric sites. Very quiet campground," notes Forest R.
Biking opportunities: Coon Fork offers family-friendly biking trails appropriate for various skill levels. Kristen W. shares: "I have stayed here multiple times. Always a blast. The kids love swimming, kayaking, fishing, and bike trails."
Safety rules: Enforcement of quiet hours creates family-friendly environments at many local campgrounds. Hannah E. points out, "Quiet hours are reinforced early at night but it's an excellent campground small children."
Water temperature awareness: Swimming in the local lakes can be chilly outside of July and August. Parents should pack extra towels and warm clothes for after swimming sessions, especially for spring and fall camping trips.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Stargazen Retreat Center, RV campers should request sites away from tent camping areas for more appropriate hookup access and level parking surfaces.
Generator restrictions: Most campgrounds in the region either prohibit generators or have strict hours of operation. RVers should prepare for limited power usage at many locations.
Limited dump stations: Full-service RV amenities are limited in the immediate Bloomer area. Many RVers recommend using the sanitary dump station at Coon Fork Campground, which debe K. describes as having "waterfront and electric sites. Some sites reservable. Some loops better suited for tents, some for large RVs."
Site spacing: Amy G. comments on the generous spacing at Coon Fork: "The sites are very generous with a lot of green between spaces. You are not on top of your neighbor."
