Wisconsin's Upper Peninsula region around Crivitz sits at elevations between 600-800 feet, with a continental climate featuring dramatic seasonal variations. Winters can drop to single-digit temperatures while summer days regularly reach the 80s. The area contains over 250 inland lakes connected by the Peshtigo River watershed, creating diverse camping environments from dense forest to waterfront settings.
What to do
Hiking trails with wildlife viewing: Governor Thompson State Park offers several miles of hiking trails with opportunities to spot local wildlife. "We found so many ticks on us! Be careful! Would be a great park if you had a boat. Once in the water at the beach, the water turns black," notes Scott D., emphasizing the need for proper tick prevention during summer months.
Geocaching adventures: Multiple parks in the area offer geocaching opportunities for tech-savvy outdoor enthusiasts. At Governor Thompson State Park, one visitor mentioned, "Lots of geocaches in the park to keep us busy," while another camper noted, "Geocaches can be found on the hiking trails which is always fun!"
Lake activities: Shakey Lakes Park Campground provides swimming and boating opportunities with clean facilities. A camper shared, "Clean bath house, reasonable fee, spacious sites, great staff," making it ideal for water-based recreation during summer months when temperatures consistently reach the high 70s.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded camping spots with natural buffers between sites. At Governor Thompson State Park, a camper noted, "We went the weekend after Labor Day and basically had the whole place to ourselves. Very quiet and peaceful. Walked the loops looking at other campsites and most are very private."
Clean, modern facilities: Wagon Trail Campground receives consistent praise for its well-maintained amenities. "The bathrooms were comparable to Fort Wilderness. This is probably the nicest, most well run campground we have ever stayed at. The staff is friendly and welcoming, they are pet friendly, and their sites are spacious and private," one reviewer wrote.
Seasonal variety: Fall camping offers unique experiences with changing foliage and fewer crowds. According to a camper at Diamond Lake Family Campground and Trout Farm, "They have a playground as well as nice beaches to access the lake from. Minigolf is yet another feature on site. If you want one place that has it all for the many types of camping you may like to do, Diamond Lake is a great camp."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds operate on limited schedules. J.W. Wells State Park Campground maintains year-round operation but with reduced services during winter months, while River Park Campground operates from May 15 to October 15.
Insect preparation: Multiple reviews mention insects as a concern. At J.W. Wells State Park Campground, a visitor warned, "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."
Reservation requirements: Popular glamping accommodations near Crivitz fill quickly during peak season. A camper at Wagon Trail Campground advised, "We go here every labor day. We bank from 6-8 sites next to each other," suggesting early booking for holiday weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Kleinke Park Campground features family-friendly amenities with beachfront access. One camper shared, "Great showers and playground, day camping areas abound," making it suitable for families with children of various ages.
Water recreation options: Several campgrounds offer swimming beaches with designated safe areas for children. River Park Campground includes fishing spots and boat launches suitable for family outings. A visitor noted, "The river is on one side of the park with a canal on two sides. If you bring a boat you can beach it in the park."
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer ranger programs and educational activities during summer months. Peninsula State Park provides environmental education programs at the nature center, with trails designed for young explorers.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RV campers should note varying hookup availability across campgrounds. At Heavens Up North Family Campground, a visitor observed, "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."
Utility specifications: Electric amperage varies by location. Governor Thompson State Park offers 50-amp service, while some smaller campgrounds only provide 30-amp connections.
Seasonal considerations: Water access points close during winter at most campgrounds. As one RV camper at Menominee River City Park advised, "We travel to the U.P. every year from Iowa and stay here every time we can," suggesting reliable year-round accessibility for larger rigs.
