The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest spans over 1.5 million acres across northern Wisconsin, with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,800 feet above sea level. Winter temperatures often drop below zero, while summer brings pleasant 70-80°F days. The forest contains over 2,000 lakes and 1,200 miles of streams, creating numerous waterfront camping opportunities throughout its boundaries.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing opportunities: At Bear Lake Campground, visitors can enjoy electric-motor-only boating on a peaceful lake with minimal private properties. "The lake has a swimming area & beautiful Sandy beach & is perfect for fishing, swimming and kayaking," notes Lisa R., who appreciated the rustic setting.
Artesian well visits: Near Chipmunk Rapids Campground, campers can collect fresh water from a natural artesian well. "The best feature is the artesian well right at the entrance. We filled up with water and the line started just as we finished. Even if you camp elsewhere the water is worth a visit," explains one reviewer who found the resource popular among local campers.
Winter camping options: Unlike seasonal campgrounds, several locations offer year-round access for those seeking winter forest experiences. "Late Fall Getaway - Amazing little spot. Campground has only a handful of sites. Makes for a very secluded trip. Clean pit toilet. Easy access to trails and area lakes. Could canoe the river if you want. Very quiet," reports Kyle B. about Chipmunk Rapids.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Lost Lake Campground offers direct lake access for non-motorized boats. "We found openings early on a Friday afternoon. There are vault toilets and water available. The campground is along the lake. You can choose a spot lakeside or more wooded," shares a visitor who appreciated the choice of settings.
Clean facilities: Many campers mention the exceptional cleanliness at West Bass Lake. A 2024 reviewer noted, "As of this writing, 2024, they have recently installed new showers and flush bathrooms. Not much ambient light in this park, so it is great for viewing stars and Northern Lights."
Wildlife encounters: The forest provides opportunities to observe native animals. At Governor Thompson State Park, one camper reported: "Did hear some bear walking the first night and some coyotes/or wolves howling literally right behind our tent the second night." These natural encounters add to the authentic wilderness experience.
What you should know
Tick awareness: May through August can bring heavy tick activity. "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. Sprayed the entire site with Apple cider vinegar to try to keep the ticks off the dogs," warns one Governor Thompson State Park visitor.
Limited cell service: Many forest campgrounds have spotty or no cellular coverage. A Chipmunk Rapids camper stated, "ZERO WiFi and cell service," while another noted losing GPS signal on forest roads. Bring printed maps as backup when navigating to remote locations.
Firewood availability: Most campgrounds sell firewood onsite or nearby to comply with invasive species regulations. "The 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 and pay for it that way. Made for some great campfires," noted a camper at Governor Thompson.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Chain O'Lakes Campground offers family-friendly amenities including volleyball courts. "Lovely campground near the lakes. Tons of lake activities like renting boats to fish (like we did). Our campground was next to nice bathrooms and a sand volleyball court," shares a family who enjoyed the recreational offerings.
Beach options: Several campgrounds feature swimming beaches ideal for children. At Bear Lake, a reviewer mentioned, "The beach is nice size with a roped off swimming area that has plenty of space for the kids to swim and explore." Similar beach facilities exist at Boot Lake and West Bass Lake.
Star-gazing opportunities: The limited light pollution makes night sky viewing ideal for children. West Bass Lake gets specifically mentioned for this: "Not much ambient light in this park, so it is great for viewing stars and Northern Lights." Bring flashlights with red filters to preserve night vision.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for smaller rigs: Boot Lake Campground works well for modest-sized campers. "Sites are spacious, a little too close together for my taste. Other campers were quiet and friendly however," notes a camper who appreciated the atmosphere despite proximity to neighbors.
Electric service considerations: Several glamping sites in Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest offer electrical hookups. At Heavens Up North Campground, a visitor noted, "Nice large sights. Nice and shady. Sights have space. Pool, showers, dump station, mini golf and other activities. Camp fire wood was nice and dry at a good price. Vary hilly."
Weather preparedness: Temperature fluctuations can be significant, especially in spring and fall. A camper at Chain O'Lakes mentioned, "Big sites, paved roads, nice camp store," making it easier to stock up on supplies during unpredictable weather.
