Tent campsites near Irma, Wisconsin provide direct access to the Northwoods region with dense pine forests surrounding small glacial lakes. Many primitive camping areas in Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest remain open from mid-May through mid-October, though some locations close earlier due to seasonal conditions. Most campgrounds require a 10-minute to 30-minute drive on forest roads from Irma.
What to do
Fishing on electric-motor-only lakes: Ada Lake Recreation Area restricts watercraft to electric motors, creating peaceful fishing conditions. One camper noted, "Good fishing and quite. Dirty and gravel sites with no concrete pads. Great place to spend a week or two!" The lake is known for bass, bluegill and perch populations.
Hike the Ice Age Trail: Camp New Wood County Park provides direct access to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. A visitor mentioned, "It's right on the Ice Age Trail with lots of hiking to be enjoyed right from your camp site." The trail offers varying difficulty levels with terrain shaped by ancient glaciers.
Swimming at small beaches: Several campgrounds maintain small swimming areas with minimal development. At Wabasso Lake Recreation Area, "The lake is gorgeous and swimmable. The only amenities are a vault toilet and water." Most beaches lack lifeguards, with swimming seasons typically running June through early September.
What campers like
Walk-in camping privacy: Wabasso Lake Recreation Area features walk-in tent sites that provide exceptional lakeside privacy. A camper described, "There are only walk-in tent sites here... We walked in to see the sites and they are beautiful. Wabasso Lake is visible from campsite but step closer and it's beauty awaits."
Wildlife encounters: Many campsites offer opportunities to observe native Wisconsin wildlife. At Moen Lake Campground & RV Park, one visitor reported, "If you want a quiet, secluded campground where you can just sit back and enjoy being out in the woods, then you will enjoy this campground." The camper added specific details about wildlife sightings at their site.
Minimal light pollution: The remote nature of many campgrounds creates exceptional stargazing opportunities. At Picnic Point Campground, campers appreciate the "Amazing group tent site on Mondeaux" with boat landing access and connections to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. The distance from towns means dark skies for astronomy enthusiasts.
What you should know
First-come, first-served limitations: Many campgrounds don't accept reservations. At Ada Lake NF Campground, "A nice little beach, quiet well spaced sites, and nearby snowmobile/hiking trails. The camp host was great, keeping things clean and maintained a small camp library." Arriving mid-week increases your chances of securing lakeside sites.
Water access considerations: Water availability varies significantly by location. Camp New Wood County Park requires planning ahead: "The water is a bit of a hike down the trail and through the woods so you might want to bring your own." Pump stations may be turned off during freezing weather.
Limited cellular coverage: Most tent sites have minimal to no cellular reception. One visitor at Camp New Wood County Park shared practical advice: "The pit toilets are not in the best shape and have no lighting so bring a flashlight." Download maps and camping information before departure.
Tips for camping with families
Smaller lakes for safer swimming: Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest Backcountry Site offers family-friendly swimming: "This is a huge campsite on a dead end road. The parking area is huge so one could fit a trailer or pop up there. There is a sandy beach on a small lake full of fish."
Pet policies vary by location: Not all campgrounds allow pets, especially at beaches. A camper at Ada Lake NF Campground noted: "No dogs allowed on the beach or even in the beach area. Some beautiful lakeside sites available." Always check site-specific pet rules before arrival.
Kid-friendly exploration trails: Several campgrounds feature short trails suitable for families. The Sam Campbell trail near the Chequamegon-Nicolet backcountry site is "a nice walk to another tiny lake," perfect for young explorers without requiring long hikes.
Tips from RVers
Gravel pad considerations: Ada Lake Recreation Area has limitations for larger RVs. A recent visitor noted: "We were lucky and found one last spot to call home for the night. Great campground, albeit gravely." Leveling blocks are essential for most sites.
Limited RV amenities: North Twin Lake Recreation Area lacks electrical hookups and advanced facilities. A camper reported, "There are outhouses close to the campgrounds but that's about it for amenities." Most RV campers need to be fully self-contained with adequate water and power resources.
Alternative options during peak times: Holiday weekends often fill quickly. One camper shared their experience: "We decided to hit the road on Labor Day Weekend and took a chance on not knowing where we'd stay the night. This first come first served campground with only 7 sites still had some available." Having backup locations identified is essential for RVers during busy periods.
