Dispersed camping in the Nicolet National Forest near Three Lakes, Wisconsin offers several primitive sites for those seeking a more secluded outdoor experience. The forest encompasses over 600,000 acres of northern Wisconsin wilderness with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,900 feet. Winter temperatures often drop below 0°F, while summer days typically reach 75-85°F with cooler nights around 50-60°F.
What to do
Hiking trails: Access the Wilderness Headwaters trail system near Scott Lake, where campers can explore boardwalks connecting multiple lakes. "The campsite is on a gravel road. There is access to a small lake. Across the road is a nice boardwalk to another lake," notes reviewer Kay K.
Paddling: Launch kayaks or canoes at Wolf Lake Campsite for a peaceful experience on smaller lakes. One camper shares: "I love this campsite. The small lake belongs to a pair of loons that will share their fish and sandy beach."
Beach activities: Multiple lakes offer swimming opportunities with varying features. At Woodbury Lake Campsite, Kay K. notes: "This remote site has a sandy beach great for swimming or paddling. There is space for a trailer."
Fishing: Cast for bass and panfish from shoreline access points. At Luna White Deer Campground, a visitor reports: "He caught a 9 inch bass and some panfish. Mosquitos were present, but not the worst I've ever experienced, the biting flies were plentiful, but stayed away with the help of a thermacell."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds in the area offer good spacing between sites. At Franklin Lake, campers appreciate the layout: "Sites are large and decent spacing between sites. Heavy tree cover with mostly shade. The site was mostly gravel with nice fire ring and picnic table."
Water clarity: The lakes in this region are known for exceptional water quality. As one camper at Franklin Lake notes: "The water is crystal clear, you can get campsites on the lake, and it's pretty quiet."
Charging access: For those staying at non-electric sites, some campgrounds offer alternatives. A Franklin Lake reviewer shares: "For those without power there is outlets in shelter in middle of campground to charge batteries."
Wildlife viewing: The remote setting provides opportunities to spot local animals. At Wolf Lake Campsite, a camper mentioned: "The small lake belongs to a pair of loons that will share their fish and sandy beach."
What you should know
Cell service: Connectivity varies widely throughout the area. A Franklin Lake camper warns: "Cell service is awful, you can get service sort of by the lake depending on your provider, but don't count on it."
Insects: Biting insects can be problematic during warmer months. A Franklin Lake review notes: "No power, no water, clean pit toilets, beautiful water view sites, no dump station, LOTS of mosquitos. Hoped to stay a few nights, chased out by mosquitoes after first one."
Water sources: Many campgrounds lack drinking water. At Hi-Pines Campground, visitors note: "There's well water pumps throughout the campground but it's not good for drinking."
Seasonal timing: Consider visiting during fall for fewer crowds. One camper at Franklin Lake shares: "We camped here in October, the last week the National Forest was open. It seemed that we had 10,000 acres to ourselves. Area was spotless!"
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Campgrounds with beach areas provide entertainment for children. At Hi-Pines Campground, one visitor mentions: "This campground is very clean and nice with tons of things to do! The sites are nice and big and the pond has inflatables that are very fun."
Organized activities: Some campgrounds offer structured programming for children. A Hi-Pines Campground reviewer notes: "Great activities for kids…fishing presentation, movie, kickball."
Space needs: When camping with multiple families, consider site layout. A Hi-Pines visitor advises: "Perfect location to plan multi-family camping. Lots of amenities on site and nearby."
Nature education: Several campgrounds incorporate educational elements. At Luna White Deer Campground, visitors appreciate: "This campground has our favorite hiking trail. The sites are spacious with privacy and shade."
Tips from RVers
Site surfaces: Note ground conditions when selecting sites. At Franklin Lake, one camper shares: "The site was mostly gravel with nice fire ring and picnic table."
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs. For Woodbury Lake Campsite, a visitor notes: "Nice spot to camp can fit trailer in parking area. There are two picknick tables and fire ring. Tent spot by lake boat access."
Electric options: Some campgrounds have added services. At Franklin Lake, a camper mentions: "They just added electric hook up to some sites in the South End. Right now the price is the same for electric or non-electric sites."
Parking accessibility: For those with larger setups, look for information about parking areas. A Scott Lake visitor shares: "This is a huge campsite on a dead end road. The parking area is huge so one could fit a trailer or pop up there."
