Dispersed camping sites near Gordon, Wisconsin offer outdoor experiences along the Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway system within northern Wisconsin's mixed hardwood forests. The area sits at approximately 1,066 feet elevation with seasonal temperature variations from summer highs around 80°F to winter lows well below freezing. Most camping opportunities focus on primitive sites requiring self-sufficiency with minimal facilities.
What to do
River paddling: Tent campers access multiple water routes along the Namekagon River system. "Beautiful river! Instead of paddling down the river I'd recommend turning this into a nice float/fishing trip. They provide nice maps depicting where off shore camping sites are," notes Joseph L. about the Namekagon Trail Bridge area.
Fishing: Catch smallmouth bass, northern pike and panfish in local waterways. "Caught great fish and camping off the rice banks was great," shares a visitor to Namekagon Trail Bridge. Some sites provide direct water access for shore fishing.
ATV trail riding: The neighboring Garfvert campground offers "miles and miles of easy/intermediate OHV/ATV trails. A little sandy, but still fun," according to Casie S. The Nemadji State Forest contains extensive trail networks suitable for various skill levels.
What campers like
Secluded spots: Many sites provide separation from neighboring campers. "This is a great spot for the primitive campers. There are no real sites more of a dispersed camping area. No reservations," explains a camper about Schoen Park. Primitive camping areas typically offer fewer amenities but greater privacy.
Multiple entry points: The waterway system provides various launch options. "You can drive in and park at this site, or canoe down the Namekagagen and pull up," explains Arctic D. about Phipps Landing, adding that "Sites are N74.5 and group site is N73.6. Bring your own water or filtration. No rubbish bins. Camping is free, FCFS."
Lower traffic: Many sites remain relatively undiscovered. "I'd recommend Gafvert if you want a deeper woods experience without many people. Accessible trails, good, flat sizeable spots," writes Kraig E. about camping options across the state line in Minnesota.
What you should know
Limited turning space: Larger vehicles face challenges at certain sites. "Don't try to bring any thing to big into here or you will be in trouble. We have a 19' travel trailer and it wasn't a problem but turning around is tight," warns a camper about Schoen Park's limitations.
Group camping configurations: Some sites accommodate multiple parties without privacy barriers. "Clean, well kept little campground, which consisted of one large group site. Tent only with access to the Namekagon River. Plenty of parking. The only downside was no separation from other parties due to the group site setup," notes Nickole D. about Howell Landing.
Access road challenges: Some sites have tight entry points. "Very quit night. Stayed a night here on our way up to the boundary waters gate is very narrow had to fold the mirrors on my Tacoma to squeeze through but if you park at the entrance it's a short walk," mentions Michael S. about camping at Grace Lake Road Dispersed.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple site options: Family groups sometimes find better accommodations in specific areas. "There's another small site cut out from the road that's somewhat separated from the main sites. There's enough room for small campers. Road is good," shares Michael U. about alternative spots at Schoen Park.
Recreation variety: Different recreation options keep children engaged. "My family has stayed here many times to use the dirt bike and atv trails. There is a lot of variety for different levels of difficulty," writes Elisha C. about trails accessible from nearby campgrounds.
Water proximity: Consider safety with small children as many sites sit close to water. "You're about 20 foot from the water and fishing is good," notes a camper about Grace Lake Road Dispersed camping.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most tent camping areas near Gordon accommodate only small trailers. "This spot was super nice and peaceful! Lots of different dispersed spots. Go down Tamarack Forest Road, which is a little further than the location on here," advises Julia D. about finding more suitable spots for small campers.
Weekend noise levels: Some areas experience higher traffic on weekends. "There is a lot of variety for different levels of difficulty. It can get busy. I don't think I would like to stay here if I wasn't using the trails due to the noise even though there are sites on a nice lake," cautions Elisha C. about campgrounds with motorized trail access.
Supply preparation: No services exist at most sites. "Lovely spot on the Namekagan River. 3 established tent sites 1 is more secluded than the others. Pit toilets. A little road noise from nearby highway," notes Paul H. about Phipps Landing.
