Tent camping in Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest presents opportunities across 1.5 million acres of northern Wisconsin forest. This region features over 2,000 lakes, streams, and rivers with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,600 feet above sea level. Campsites typically sit amid northern hardwood forests with sugar maple, yellow birch, and hemlock trees providing natural shade and habitat for wildlife.
What to do
Fishing in remote lakes: The Turtle Flambeau Scenic Waters Area offers excellent fishing across its 12,942-acre flowage with depths up to 50 feet. "The Turtle Flambeau Flowage is dubbed the 'Boundary Waters of Wisconsin' and for good reason! The quality of the waters, vast array of channels, islands and camping spots is simply amazing," notes Kim.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings provide prime opportunities for spotting local wildlife. "Wildlife is abundant with Bald Eagles, Loons, deer, coyotes, and sounds of wolves. I was lucky to enjoy nice weather but can imagine watching a beautiful rain storm passing through while sipping on a cup of coffee," shares Jay W. about his experience at Turtle Flambeau.
Hiking the Ice Age Trail: Camp New Wood County Park provides direct access to the Ice Age Trail. "The park includes the scenic Wisconsin River Segment of the Ice Age Trail," notes Amanda K. Hike through glacial formations and hemlock groves while exploring this national scenic trail.
What campers like
Island camping privacy: Campers appreciate the seclusion of island sites. "We settled on this amazing site called 'Zelda's' nestled in a bay which is off the main drag of boats. It was quiet, heavily wooded, secluded and perfect for two. This site (like many) was on its own private island," reports Kim about the Turtle Flambeau Scenic Waters Area.
Portage opportunities: Sylvania Wilderness Backcountry Camping in neighboring Michigan offers paddling options for various skill levels. "We did it the easy way, loaded our canoe, crossed the lake to our campsite and set up camp. No portaging with our gear," explains Ann M., who adds, "We rented our canoe and and a bear barrel from the Sylvania Outfitters, and they dropped the canoe off lakeside for us."
Quiet lakeside sites: The best tent camping near Chequamegon-Nicolet NF includes peaceful lakefront options. "The campground was always very peaceful and all the campsites on the lake had plenty of space for multiple tents or campers," shares Aaron D. about North Twin Lake Recreation Area, adding "It's a no wake lake so plan on just using a trolling motor or even a canoe to fish."
What you should know
Water availability varies: Bring sufficient water or purification methods. Dennis L. notes about Wabasso Lake Recreation Area: "There is a hand pump for water and vault toilet in the parking lot, where there is a boat landing, but no dock."
Site accessibility challenges: Many campgrounds require walking, hiking, or boating to reach sites. "There are only walk-in tent sites here. We missed that before we headed here so we needed to look elsewhere," reports Art S. about Wabasso Lake, adding "The boat launch is also the camping parking lot."
Tent placement issues: Many wilderness sites have uneven terrain. At Sylvania Wilderness, Danielle A. notes, "The area is covered in soft pine duff but finding a truly flat spot free of any small mounds of moss or decayed nurse logs can be a challenge."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with beach access: Some areas offer swimming opportunities with sandy shores. Kim reports about Turtle Flambeau: "Our site happened to have a mating pair of eagles about 50 yards from our landing. There was also a nice sandy beach 100 yards from our landing on an opposite strip of the flowage."
Consider noise factors: Campsite proximity matters, especially in wilderness areas. Jess R. warns about Sylvania Wilderness: "Problem was we ended up being 20 yards away from the next site... which was clearly visible through the clear old growth forest. Most sites in Sylvania are 2 sites very near to each other."
Look for nearby activities: Newman Lake Shelter offers day-use options if tent camping seems challenging. "I grew up in this region and this little spot is a hidden gem for day camping, fishing, picnicking, and swimming," says Lynette J.
Tips from RVers
Limited electric options: Most primitive camping in Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest lacks hookups, but some private campgrounds offer basics. Luis notes about Moen Lake Campground & RV Park: "The basic amenities are here, picnic table, fire pit, bath house with showers within walking distance, electrical (30amp) and water hookups, but don't expect them to be 5 star quality."
Firewood regulations: Wisconsin enforces firewood transportation restrictions due to invasive species. Luis adds about Moen Lake, "Apparently there have been beetle issues in Wisconsin and most campgrounds require you to buy your firewood locally or on-site."
Dump station availability: Plan ahead for sanitation needs. While most wilderness campgrounds lack facilities, Moen Lake Campground offers "No onsite sewer, but did have a dump station," according to Luis.
