Camping options near Crivitz, Wisconsin center around the Peshtigo River watershed at approximately 700 feet elevation. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer daytime temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Most campgrounds in this northwoods area operate seasonally from mid-April through October due to harsh winter conditions and significant snowfall.
What to do
Tubing adventures: Peshtigo River Campground offers affordable river trips with equipment rentals. One visitor noted, "We waited for about 40 minutes for the bus. Once the bus came, everyone piled on. We had our own tubes so we put them on ourselves as well as our cooler."
Geocaching opportunities: Governor Thompson State Park Campground maintains several geocaches along its trail system. A camper mentioned, "Lots of geocaches in the park to keep us busy," making it an excellent activity for tech-savvy outdoor enthusiasts.
Swimming access: Many local campgrounds provide river or lake swimming options. A visitor to Governor Thompson described, "There is a small lake which is great for kayak and swimming. This park also has a boat launch onto the Cauldron Falls Reservoir."
Casino entertainment: For evening activities, Island Resort and Casino RV Park offers gaming options with convenient transportation. As one RVer explained, "There is a phone at the shower house that can be used to request a free shuttle to the casino."
What campers like
Private campsites: Many campgrounds in the area feature secluded sites with natural barriers. At Governor Thompson State Park, "Almost all the campsites are private and hidden away in their own little spots," according to one reviewer who appreciated the layout.
Clean facilities: Peshtigo River Campground maintains well-kept bathrooms that visitors consistently praise. One camper stated it "has some of the cleanest bathrooms we've ever found," reflecting the management's commitment to maintenance.
Fall foliage viewing: The area transforms during autumn with vibrant colors. A visitor to Egg Harbor Campground mentioned, "We stayed in a pull through full hookup 30amp site with our Class C in the fall, and the leaves were beautiful."
Wildlife encounters: The region's forests support diverse wildlife. A camper at Governor Thompson noted, "Did hear some bear walking the first night and some coyotes/or wolves howling literally right behind our tent the second night," highlighting the authentic northwoods experience.
What you should know
Tick awareness: The wooded environment hosts ticks, particularly in spring. A camper at Governor Thompson 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."
Limited amenities: Some campgrounds offer minimal services. Regarding Countryside Motel & RV Sites, one reviewer cautioned, "NO DUMP STATION AT ALL. No garbage dumpster. Water and electric only."
Firewood availability: Most campgrounds sell firewood on-site, with varying distribution systems. At Governor Thompson, "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."
Seasonal berry picking: Wild raspberry bushes grow throughout the area. One camper at Governor Thompson noticed, "There were raspberry bushes everywhere! They were just coming in, but if you catch it right, you'll be up to your eyeballs in fresh raspberries."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Tranquil Timbers offers numerous recreational facilities. A satisfied camper shared, "Lots to do for kids. Pool, mini golf, game room, tennis courts, soccer, volleyball a rec center with games, TV ect."
Beach proximity: Several campgrounds provide easy access to swimming areas. Peshtigo River Campground is "right by an elementary school so it's a very safe area, across the road from an AMAZING playground that all ages will love, also about 50ft from a beach!"
Game room availability: Indoor recreation options exist for rainy days. A visitor to Peshtigo River observed, "It even has a game room with a SouthPark Pinball that is fully working," providing entertainment regardless of weather.
School-year scheduling: Local campgrounds become significantly quieter during weekdays when school is in session. According to one camper, "We went the weekend after Labor Day and basically had the whole place to ourselves. Very quiet and peaceful."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Choose sites carefully based on your specific needs. At Hy-Land Court RV Park, "Sites are all quite spacious. Plenty of room to setup just about anything you could bring with. It is quite easy to maneuver any size RV into any of the sites."
Dump station availability: Not all RV camping near Crivitz, Wisconsin includes dump stations. A reviewer at Countryside Motel & RV Sites warned, "I thought they had to have a dump station by law to be an rv place. They said in 2018 they were working on it."
Leveling requirements: Some sites may require equipment for proper leveling. A reviewer noted that at Governor Thompson, "The sites are a perfect size, and people are generally very kind and respectful," but advised bringing leveling blocks.
Winter access limitations: For off-season RV camping near Crivitz, options are restricted. As one camper explained, "The park is located in the Peshtigo River state forest" with "narrow windy roads abound. But all paved & no traffic."
