Tent camping opportunities around Jim Falls, Wisconsin extend beyond established parks to more isolated wilderness settings. Located in Chippewa County at roughly 950 feet elevation, this area features diverse camping terrain from riverside spots to wooded retreats. Winter tent camping is possible but challenging, with temperatures frequently dropping below 10°F between December and February.
What to do
Water activities on motorless lakes: At Coon Fork Campground, visitors enjoy a lake where only non-motorized craft are permitted. "Canoe and rowboat rentals are available at the office," notes camper Brook Jorgensen, who appreciates the quiet water atmosphere.
Hiking local trail systems: The Picnic Point Campground connects to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail with marked paths for day hikes. Mark B. describes it as a "tent only, reservable group site at Mondeaux recreation area" with convenient access to "boat landing, Ice Age National Scenic Trail."
Wildlife observation opportunities: Early mornings at North Twin Lake Recreation Area offer prime wildlife viewing when deer and waterfowl are most active. Camper Aaron D. mentions the "excellent fishing mostly consisting of Bass and Bluegills and Perch" on this "no wake lake" where a "trolling motor or even a canoe" works best for fishing.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: K and C Country Air Campground receives praise for its quiet setting. "Very quiet campground," writes Forest R., who appreciates the full-service sites with "water sewer electric."
Pine forest camping surfaces: The soft pine needle ground cover at many sites provides natural padding for tent floors. At Sailor Creek Campsite, one reviewer noted the site is "located in a grove of hemlocks" though warns of "lots of roots and low dips" that can make ground tent camping challenging.
Swimming options for hot days: Many Jim Falls area tent sites provide lake access for cooling off. Matt N. from Coon Fork Campground recommends: "If you can get a site on the water I highly recommend. There is a trail between the site and the water but still is great."
What you should know
Weather preparation essentials: Late fall camping in this region requires proper cold-weather gear with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing at night.
Campground noise considerations: Some campgrounds actively enforce quiet hours. At Coon Fork Campground, Hannah E. mentions "quiet hours are reinforced early at night but it's an excellent campground small children."
Site reservation timing: Most popular lakefront tent sites book 3-4 months in advance, especially for summer weekends. Non-reservable sites like those at North Twin Lake Recreation Area provide alternatives but with fewer amenities—"There are outhouses close to the campgrounds but that's about it for amenities."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly swimming spots: Sites with shallow entry points work best for younger children. A Coon Fork camper, Kristen W., reports: "I have stayed here multiple times. Always a blast. The kids love swimming, kayaking, fishing, and bike trails."
Playground access considerations: When selecting family-friendly tent sites, check for dedicated play areas. "Great for kids! Way more fun later in the summer so you can go swimming. Although, children don't seem to notice cold water anyway!" shares Hannah E. about Coon Fork Lake County Park.
Wildlife education opportunities: Many campgrounds near Jim Falls have evening ranger programs in summer months that teach children about local wildlife. According to Benjamin O., Coon Fork "is always a great experience! Two great beaches on a small, no-motor lake with a large campground and several nature trails."
Tips from RVers
Low-clearance access routes: Some of the best tent camping near Jim Falls, Wisconsin requires high-clearance vehicles due to unpaved access roads. RV access is limited at sites like Sailor Creek Campsite which is primarily accessible by "backcountry site located within the Chequamegon National Forest."
Limited hookup availability: RVers should note that many primitive tent sites have no hookups. At Coon Fork, debe K. explains there are specific camping areas designed for different needs: "Some loops better suited for tents Some for large RVs."
Generator restrictions: Most tent-focused campgrounds prohibit generator use to maintain natural quiet. Those requiring electricity should look for designated electric sites rather than primitive tent areas.
