Camping options around Gillett, Wisconsin include areas for both tent and RV camping within a region characterized by the northern hardwood forests of the Nicolet National Forest. The area sits at approximately 800 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging in the mid-70s and cooler nights in the 50s. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from May through October, closing during Wisconsin's harsh winter months.
What to do
Water activities on Boulder Lake: Boulder Lake Campground offers swimming in a sandy-bottomed lake that isn't very deep, making it ideal for families. "The lake is super clean, the sites are very nice, and it's nice and secluded," notes camper Brandon L. The shallow shore is particularly good for casual swimmers and paddlers.
River tubing adventures: Peshtigo River Campground provides tube rentals for $14 per person with cooler floats available for $8, including bus transportation to the launch point. "They have trips to tube down the river," shares Jill G., while another camper reports, "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."
Outdoor recreation beyond water: Access to hiking trails, parks, and outdoor activities makes Boulder Lake a versatile destination. "Boulder lake is amazing and is located conveniently close to the Wolf river, which has whitewater rafting and trout fishing," writes Christopher R. The campground connects to trails in the Nicole National Forest for hiking opportunities.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathhouses and shower facilities across multiple campgrounds. At Peshtigo River Campground, visitors appreciate "some of the cleanest bathrooms we've ever found," according to Mike W. Similarly, at Boulder Lake, Julia B. notes, "Shower house was nice and clean."
Family-friendly amenities: Multiple campgrounds offer recreational facilities specifically designed for children and families. Tayah H. describes the Peshtigo River area as "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!" The area includes pavilions with grills and picnic tables.
Peaceful atmosphere: Campers value the quiet environment at River Forest Campground. "Rustic, peaceful and quiet," writes John G., while Crystal H. calls it a "Phenomenal views, family friendly, accommodating and peaceful" destination. Seasonal sites often offer additional privacy and space.
What you should know
Limited dump stations: Not all campgrounds provide sewer hookups or dump stations. At Countryside Motel & RV Sites, a reviewer cautions, "NO DUMP STATION AT ALL. No garbage dumpster. Water and electric only. I thought they had to have a dump station by law to be an rv park." Always confirm waste disposal options before arrival.
Size restrictions and site variations: At Fawn Lake Campground, the layout provides different camping experiences based on location. "The tent sites at this camp ground are in the back of the campground located in the woods," explains Rachel C., providing better privacy for tent campers compared to RV sites.
Operating seasons: Most RV campgrounds near Gillett operate seasonally. Mohican North Star RV Park runs from April 1 to November 1, Tranquil Timbers operates May 1 to mid-October, and Kewaunee RV & Campground is open May 1 to October 1. Winter camping options are extremely limited in this region.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with accessible water features. Fawn Lake Campground offers "a small pond with in the campground which you are able to swim in, kayak in and go frogging in," according to Rachel C., while McKenna R. adds, "They have a nice pond for swimming and a playground right by it for the kids."
Budget-friendly alternatives: Consider state parks as lower-cost alternatives to private RV parks. One camper at Tranquil Timbers notes, "I'd just assume go to Peninsula State Park instead for a much better camping experience for a small fraction of the price." State parks typically have fewer amenities but offer natural settings at reduced rates.
Activity-centered campgrounds: Some campgrounds specialize in recreational programming. Crystal H. shares that at River Forest Campground, "We took our 3 girls there this last week for their very first time camping. The kids got to sing karaoke and go tubing among many other activities."
Tips from RVers
Electrical service variations: RV campgrounds in Gillett region offer different electrical capabilities. John G. reports about River Forest, "The site has water and 20 amp electric service, the power is substantial to power the necessities." Always check amperage before booking if you have specific electrical requirements.
Road noise considerations: When selecting an RV site, consider proximity to highways. David V. notes about Maple Heights Campground, "Busy highway noise all night. Showers pool mini-golf. No lake river or fishing." Sites further from main roads typically provide a quieter experience.
Site spacing and privacy: Many rv campgrounds near Gillett, Wisconsin have varying site sizes. Jennifer G. at Kewaunee RV & Campground observed, "The sites are a little small but the hospitality of the owners/hosts ensure that we'll be back." At Peshtigo River Campground, Kelli V. had a different experience: "We thought we had a small site- until we got there. Site 86 is the smallest on the map but it is not small at all!"
