Tent camping near Dunbar, Wisconsin spans several distinct forest regions including the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, Peshtigo River State Forest, and Menominee River State Recreation Area. The forested terrain features numerous small lakes and rivers across elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,600 feet. Winter conditions typically close most tent camping areas from November through April, with forest roads often becoming impassable during spring thaw.
What to do
Kayaking on quiet lakes: Old Veterans Lake County Park offers exceptional paddling opportunities on a small, motor-free lake. Campers report "It's the perfect lake for kayaking. There is a beach which I hung out at all afternoon with my dog and read a book. We never saw anyone." The lake perimeter can be paddled in under an hour.
Fishing for panfish: East Bass Lake Park provides lakeside access with consistently good fishing. According to one visitor, "While there is only 2 spots for camping in this town park. It is a great place for those who want some solitude. Small sites for tent or pop-up. No hook-ups. Pit toilets and right on the lake."
Wildlife observation: Chequamegon National Forest Perch Lake Campground offers chances to see diverse wildlife including bears. One camper notes, "We stayed on the south loop which has 6 sites. The sites still feel very secluded and private. There is no bear box and there definitely are bears... so you'll want to hang your food."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Tent camping at Old Veterans Lake features well-separated sites. One camper explains, "Each site was by itself. The campground is very small and has no running water or campstore. They don't even sell firewood. But, the lake is beautiful and a few of the sites have lake access."
Short walk-in experiences: Marinette County Goodman Park provides the feeling of backcountry camping without difficult hikes. As one visitor describes, "Very nice peaceful feels like youre in the middle of nowhere." Sites maintain privacy while offering basic amenities.
Lakeside tent sites: The tent camping options at Old Veterans Lake County Park include some with direct water access. According to one visitor, "We stayed at site 11 which had an awesome little trail to the lake. Tons of tiny fish everywhere that are very interactive. The site itself was open, yet private, and very flat."
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most tent camping areas near Dunbar provide minimal facilities. At Old Veterans Lake, "They only have pit toilets but I never smelled them. No bath house. Seriously, nothing but a lake. I didn't even see a boat launch and I hiked all around the lake."
Reservation requirements: For many primitive tent sites, first-come, first-served is standard, but New Prospect requires planning. One visitor found confusion: "This one appears to now be a veteran memorial. There is a pavilion and playground. A hand pump for water is right by the parking area. We saw plenty of space for tents with some raised grills. However we couldn't find any info on if camping is allowed/not allowed or how to register."
Generator policies: Electricity is unavailable at most tent camping areas, with restrictions on generator use. One camper at Old Veterans Lake reported, "We did have someone ratted on us for using our generator to supply our CPAPs because there was no electricity or water."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming: McClintock County Park offers river access that works well for supervised children. "Nice place if your in to ATV riding. Trails really close. Good view of the river. Bring ways to keep mosquitoes at bay though."
Wildlife education opportunities: Perch Lake walk-in sites provide chances for children to observe aquatic life. One camper describes, "Loved the hike in, decided to walk the whole loop and unfortunately the bridge at the end was under water and we had to turn around and walk back instead. Lake was gorgeous and the hike in wasn't too bad."
Easy outdoor activities: Multiple generations can enjoy Old Veterans Lake. According to one family, "We come here with the kids every spring. They always catch frogs, fish, and turtles. They also enjoy swimming across, and hiking and biking around the lake. Nearby trail to the Peshtigo River Flowage."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations for larger units: Most tent camping areas near Dunbar can accommodate small pop-ups but not larger RVs. At East Bass Lake Park, "Small sites for tent or pop-up. No hook-ups. Pit toilets and right on the lake. First come first serve. And 2 day maximum consecutive days stay if I believe."
Access road challenges: Forest roads to primitive tent sites require careful navigation. Many secondary roads are narrow with limited turnaround points. Tent camping areas in Menominee River State Recreation Area require significant planning as they're primarily accessible by boat rather than vehicle.
