Dispersed camping near Gleason, Wisconsin offers experiences in the northern sections of Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest where coniferous trees dominate the landscape. Most sites sit at elevations between 1,500-1,700 feet, creating cool, shaded camping environments. Winter camping is possible but requires appropriate cold-weather gear as temperatures regularly drop below zero between December and February.
What to do
Paddling options: Small, secluded lakes provide ideal paddling opportunities for kayakers and canoeters. At Woodbury Lake Campsite, "This remote site has a sandy beach great for swimming or paddling," according to Kay K., making it suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
Fishing access: Several dispersed sites offer direct water access for fishing. At Wolf Lake Campsite, one visitor reported: "fishing was so so" in September, suggesting seasonal variations in catch rates. Most lakes contain panfish, bass, and northern pike.
Hiking proximity: Many sites connect with forest service roads and trails. Near Indian Lake, Kay K. notes, "Many hiking opportunities are nearby," with trails typically unmarked but following old logging roads through the forest.
What campers like
Waterfront locations: Campers consistently highlight lakeside settings as a major draw. One visitor to Three Johns Lake Dispersed described it as a "Walk in campsite. Tents only. Short walk to campsite only one on lake," offering solitude with water views.
Wildlife viewing: Natural encounters enhance the camping experience. A camper at Wolf Lake mentioned loons: "The small lake belongs to a pair of loons that will share their fish and sandy beach," providing bird watching opportunities from camp.
Spacious sites: Some locations offer room to spread out. At McCaslin Brook Dispersed site, Robyn B. found "The site is so spacious and could easily be for a large group," allowing for comfortable setups with multiple tents.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access varies significantly by location and weather. At Oconto River off Mountain Lake Road, Michael U. warns, "4x4 recommended. 2wd truck couldn't make it easily," while other sites require minimal clearance.
Campsite entrances: Several locations have challenging entry points. At McCaslin Brook, a camper noted, "Entrances need a lot of TLC washed out and large drop from paved road," requiring careful driving even in good conditions.
Fee structure: Most sites remain free, but exceptions exist. At Octonto River - South Branch, "Unless you have the Golden or Access pass, it is $5/day," while McCaslin Brook Dispersed site requires "$5 a night to be paid at Wheeler Walker Beach."
Facility limitations: Most sites have minimal or no facilities. Some offer wilderness toilets, but campers report variable conditions: "Wilderness toilet but they look pretty full" at McCaslin Brook Dispersed site.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose locations with water features for entertainment. McKinley Lake Dispersed offers a "single campsite can park next to tent only. Access to lake," providing swimming opportunities during summer months.
Space considerations: Some sites accommodate family setups better than others. Horn Lake Camping has "Two camp sites 10 yards apart" according to Jay S., allowing families to claim adjacent spots when camping with multiple groups.
Safety preparation: Limited cell service requires advance planning. Several visitors report no service at multiple sites, with one mentioning, "AT&T: No Service" at Oconto River, making emergency communication difficult without satellite phones or devices.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed sites accommodate only smaller rigs. At Horn Lake Camping, Skip H. advises: "Anyone up to 20' would be OK going to the right where the established 2 sites are," while cautioning against larger vehicles on certain access roads.
Entrance challenges: Approach with caution when towing. At McCaslin Brook Dispersed site, campers warn about "the easement was really washed out and we bottomed our minivan coming in but were able to leave going out on the far right edge," suggesting scouting approaches before committing.
Solar considerations: Tree cover limits power options at most sites. One RVer at McCaslin Brook noted the sites were "so shaded. While that made it nice and cool, it made solar & Starlink impossible," requiring alternative power sources for extended stays.
