Tent campsites near Cable, Wisconsin cluster around the Namekagon River watershed, where National Park Service regulations permit stays up to 14 days on riverfront lands. The region sits within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest at approximately 1,200 feet elevation, characterized by second-growth northern hardwood forests. Winter camping access becomes limited after November when forest service roads close to vehicle traffic until spring thaw.
What to do
Paddle the Namekagon River: Howell Landing provides direct access to the Namekagon River with a large group tent site. According to Nickole D., it offers "clean, well kept little campground, which consisted of one large group site. Tent only with access to the Namekagon River. Plenty of parking."
Trout fishing: The streams around Big Rock Campground offer productive trout fishing. Lesley R. noted it as a "great location on a river and was there when no one else was. Stayed two nights and moved to a site further into the woods the second night. Great, secluded spot to stay while exploring the areas many hiking opportunities."
Winter recreation: The Cable area maintains over 100 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails accessible from several camping areas. Some primitive campsites remain accessible by snowshoe during winter months, though services are limited.
What campers like
River accessibility: Most tent sites near Cable provide direct water access. At Schoen Park, Clarke N. explains "This is a great spot for primitive campers. There are no real sites more of a dispersed camping area. No reservations. The reason we like it so much as it's very private and a beautiful view of the river."
Seclusion from crowds: Several Cable area campgrounds offer isolation during weekdays. Michael U. notes about Schoen Park: "There's another small site cut out from the road that's somewhat separated from the main sites. There's enough room for small campers. Road is good."
Multi-night base camp: Campers appreciate using the area for exploring regional attractions. One camper at Big Rock Campground wrote, "Found this backside campground when everything else was full. Great location on a river and was there when no one else was. Stayed two nights and moved to a site further into the woods the second night."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most Cable area tent sites provide minimal amenities. Arctic D. notes about Phipps Landing: "Camping is free, FCFS. In the center are pit toilets in a secure building. Bring your own water or filtration. No rubbish bins."
Security considerations: Some remote camping areas report occasional property concerns. At Big Rock Campground, Janet R. observed: "Although this is in a beautiful setting with decent campsites, and not far from Ashland for day trips, a concern for me was a notice up about frequent car break-ins and campsite vandalism there."
Claim retention issues: At less regulated campgrounds, unattended sites can be problematic. Eric from Big Rock Campground explained: "The only drawbacks were that some people seemed to be staying for extended periods and if you leave your campsite for any period of time it can be reclaimed. Even if you have paid."
Tips for camping with families
Water access safety: Parents should supervise children at riverfront tent sites. The Namekagon River current varies seasonally with stronger flows during spring runoff.
Group camping options: For family gatherings, seek designated group sites. According to Arctic D., at Phipps Landing there is "one large group site with fire pit to the far back of the site that is easily accessed by water as well or a little walk from the parking area."
Water sourcing: Teach children proper water treatment when camping at primitive sites. Eric mentioned, "There's a great water source in Ashland next to the lake. We would fill our jugs here." Bring containers for transporting clean water to camp.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many Cable area campsites cannot accommodate large RVs. Clarke N. warns about Schoen Park: "Don't try to bring anything too big into here or you will be in trouble. We have a 19' travel trailer and it wasn't a problem but turning around is tight."
Limited hookups: Most campgrounds near Cable Wisconsin lack water, electric, and sewer connections. Sites typically have space for smaller trailers but few amenities.
Access road conditions: Forest service roads to tent campsites deteriorate after rain. Michael U. observed about Schoen Park: "Road is good," but conditions change seasonally, particularly during spring thaw and after heavy rainfall.
