Tent campsites near Custer, Wisconsin are situated within the Central Wisconsin glacial plain, an area characterized by rolling hills, mixed forests, and proximity to the 6,618-acre Tomorrow River State Trail system. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with July and August experiencing average high temperatures around 80°F. Most established sites in this region require advance planning as facilities are limited and dispersed options are scarce.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Camp Wilderness offers access to a small lake where campers can practice basic fishing skills. The lake is stocked seasonally and doesn't require a Wisconsin fishing license for youth under 16. Tent campers should bring their own equipment as rentals aren't available.
Trail exploration: Hiking options range from beginner to intermediate difficulty levels on the nearby Ice Age Trail segments. Most trails within 15 miles of Custer tent campsites feature minimal elevation gain (under 200 feet) and run through mixed hardwood forests and occasional wetland areas.
Obstacle course activities: Camp Wilderness maintains a dedicated obstacle course designed for team-building exercises. This facility includes rope challenges, balance beams, and climbing structures that remain available to registered campers throughout their stay. The course is typically open from 9am to 6pm daily during peak season.
What campers like
Basic amenities: The availability of drinking water and toilets at Plover River Retreat provides comfort without sacrificing the primitive camping experience. The walk-in tent sites require minimal hiking (usually under 500 feet from parking) while maintaining a sense of separation from neighboring campsites.
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the natural buffers between most tent sites in the Custer area. Sites are typically spaced at least 50 feet apart with vegetation screening that provides visual separation without complete isolation.
Night sky viewing: Due to minimal light pollution, the tent camping areas offer excellent stargazing opportunities. The best viewing occurs between 10pm and 2am, particularly during new moon phases. Summer months provide clear views of the Milky Way when weather conditions permit.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Oakwood Campsites Bar and Grill in nearby Wild Rose operates under strict leave-no-trace principles with no on-site water, toilets, or trash collection. Campers must pack in all supplies and pack out all waste. The campsite enforces a no-fire policy year-round due to surrounding vegetation.
Reservation requirements: Most tent sites near Custer require advance booking during peak summer months (June-August). Weekends typically fill 2-3 weeks in advance, while holiday weekends may require reservations up to 2 months ahead. Several locations maintain first-come, first-served policies for weekday arrivals.
Wildlife considerations: Black bears occasionally move through the camping areas, particularly in late summer. Food storage precautions are essential at all tent campsites. The Wisconsin DNR recommends hanging food at least 10 feet high and 4 feet from tree trunks or using sealed containers stored in vehicles when available.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Camp Wilderness provides structured outdoor experiences designed specifically for children. As one camper noted, "The camp is primarily used for a program similar to Boy Scouts called Royal Rangers. There's primarily tent sites with trails, a lake, an obstacle course and more right nearby."
Beginner-friendly sites: For families new to camping, look for tent sites that offer drive-up access with shorter walks to facilities. Most family-oriented campgrounds near Custer offer sites within 250 feet of restrooms and water sources, minimizing middle-of-the-night treks.
Weather preparedness: Summer storms can develop quickly in Central Wisconsin. When camping with children, select tent sites with natural wind breaks and slightly elevated ground. Most family-suitable locations feature tree coverage that provides both shade and some rain protection without presenting falling branch hazards.
Tips from RVers
Alternative accommodations: While primarily focused on tent camping, some locations near Custer can accommodate small camper vans or pop-up trailers. Vehicle size restrictions typically limit RVs to under 20 feet in length at most established campgrounds.
Water access points: RV campers should note that potable water fill stations are limited in the immediate Custer area. The nearest reliable fill location is approximately 12 miles away in Stevens Point, where public water is available at designated recreation areas for a nominal fee.
