Camping options near Gillett, Wisconsin span across the Nicolet National Forest with elevations ranging from 750 to 1,100 feet. This north-central region experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging 75-85°F and cooler nights dropping to the 50s. Most campgrounds in the area remain open from May through October, with varying levels of accessibility depending on seasonal road conditions.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Governor Thompson State Park offers extensive trail networks ranging from beginner-friendly paths to more challenging routes. "Very quiet and peaceful. Walked the loops looking at other campsites and most are very private. Did hear some bear walking the first night and some coyotes/or wolves howling literally right behind our tent the second night," notes Jeff F. at Governor Thompson State Park Campground.
Water recreation options: Boot Lake Campground provides swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities on its namesake lake. "We had an awesome campsite with access to the lake right from our site. Spent several hours kayaking & fishing on Boot Lake, along with several other lakes in the area," shares Vicki B. from Boot Lake Campground.
Seasonal activities: Many campgrounds offer specific seasonal programs. "Halloween starts early here! This weekend there was a screening of The Nightmare Before Christmas (one of our favorites) and loads of cool decked out campsites," reports Jaime N. about Pine Grove Campground.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Campsites at Governor Thompson State Park are known for their privacy and natural setting. "The camp ground was under expansion when we went, which is good cause there weren't many open sites when we booked. The bathrooms were clean and the site was a good wooded tent site," writes Christine W.
Water features: Tilleda Falls Campground offers unique water access with small cascades. "On the Embarrass River, a lovely small cascading falls and swimming area. Small store, nicely maintained grounds. Rachel, the owner is very nice," says Mary P.
Wildlife encounters: The Gillett area is home to diverse wildlife. "The park is nice, but a little underwhelming. Nice sites - both back-up and pull-thru. Bathrooms and showers were excellent. We found so many ticks on us!! Be careful!" warns Scott D. about his experience at Governor Thompson State Park.
What you should know
Tick prevention: The region has significant tick populations, particularly in spring and early summer. "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. Sprayed the entire site with Apple cider vinegar to try to keep the ticks off the dogs," advises Jill G.
Facility maintenance: Heavens Up North Family Campground offers well-maintained facilities. "The most beautiful showers and amenities I've seen camping so far! We are fairly new campers but this place wowed us! On our list of where we'd like a seasonal site!" shares Tami G.
Off-season advantages: Visiting during shoulder seasons can provide a more secluded glamping near Gillett experience. "We went the weekend after Labor Day and basically had the whole place to ourselves. The wood grab was very generous and 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," mentions Jeff F.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Diamond Lake Family Campground provides dedicated water play areas. "Stayed for 2 nights (Fri and Sat) in Aug and really enjoyed it. We don't have small kids but 2 of the couples we were with did and they had so much fun with the water chute and inflatables," notes Jennifer G.
Accommodation variety: Family camping options range from tent sites to full glamping setups with varying amenities. "My friends and I love camping here because of the huge wooded sites, quiet family environment, and excellent service provided by Jen, Joe and their whole family," shares Nathan C. F. about Diamond Lake Family Campground.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds enforce strict quiet hours while others may have more activity. "This was a fun place to go with a group of people. They had a DJ there which was fun to listen to in the common area while with others. Lots for kids to do in their kid-friendly pool, arcade, park, and bounce house area that our group of kids loved," explains Andrew C. about Pine Grove Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Apple Creek Campground accommodates larger rigs but site selection is important. "We stayed 6 nights in our 36 ft motor home with tow. Even though we were on a hill the campsite was level. We had plenty of room for rv and tow. The main campground (and amenities) were down the hill a bit. We liked being on the hill away from the pool," explains Robert O.
Hookup availability: RV sites with full hookups are limited in the region. "My wife and I usually do not like being so close to other campers... but we decided to stay here cause it's close to my in-laws. We wanted septic and they didn't tell us that the septic is a guy in a truck who comes by one or two times a week. There is a dump station however," shares Ross C. about Apple Creek Campground.
Location considerations: Proximity to major roads can affect the camping experience. "We camped here because it was close to an event we needed to attend. We enjoyed our stay here and felt very welcome. What wasn't so great was the proximity to the interstate, unfortunately, there is no changing that," notes Scott D.
