Primitive camping options dot the landscape around Lake Nebagamon, Wisconsin, with sites ranging from remote hike-in locations to accessible drive-up areas. The region sits within the transition zone between northern hardwood and boreal forests, creating diverse ecosystems for campers to explore. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-80°F with frequent rainfall, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can drop below freezing.
What to do
Dirt biking and ATV trails: Gafvert Campground in Nemadji State Forest offers extensive trail systems for off-road enthusiasts. "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," notes Elisha C.
Paddling the Namekagon River: The river provides excellent opportunities for multi-day float trips between campsites. "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," suggests Joseph L. who stayed at Namekagon Trail Bridge.
Exploring Jay Cooke State Park: Located near Cloquet-Duluth KOA, this park features dramatic river gorges and hiking trails. "Jay Cook has a lot to offer; a suspended cable walking bridge, great moderate hikes, waterfalls, climbing on rocks, and amazing river views. Great place to stop in for a couple hours or spend the whole day hiking," shares Sam C.
What campers like
Privacy at smaller sites: Many campers prefer the secluded spots available at Schoen Park for tent camping near Lake Nebagamon. "This is a great spot for the primitive campers. There are no real sites more of a dispersed camping area. No reservations. The reason we like it so much as it's very private and a beautiful view of the river," explains Clarke N.
Easy water access: Phipps Landing combines accessibility with riverside camping. "You can drive in and park at this site, or canoe down the Namekagagen and pull up. There are 2 small sites with fire pits near the parking & landing, and one large group site with fire pit to the far back of the site," notes Arctic D.
Escape from crowds: Less-developed sites offer solitude for those seeking a break from busier campgrounds. "I'd recommend Gafvert if you want a deeper woods experience without many people. Accessible trails, good, flat sizeable spots," writes Kraig E. about Nemadji State Forest camping.
What you should know
Security concerns: Some remote sites have reported issues with unattended property. At Big Rock Campground, Janet R. observed: "A concern for me was a notice up about frequent car break-ins and campsite vandalism there. We ended up not staying here because no one else was at any of the campsites and we wondered about security."
First-come, first-served challenges: Most primitive sites fill quickly during peak season. "It was hard to find a campsite because it's first-come-first-serve, but we were able to find a spot closer to the trails," reports Casie S. about Gafvert Campground.
Vehicle limitations: Many of the best tent camping spots near Lake Nebagamon have restricted access. Clarke N. warns about Schoen Park: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Proximity to amenities: Families often prefer sites with basic facilities within reach. At Howell Landing, Nickole D. notes: "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."
Nearby attractions: Plan day trips to supplement your camping experience. Cindy B. shares: "We rode the Gitchi Gami trail up along the north shore of Lake Superior, hiked around in Jay Cooke State Park and explored Duluth a bit. We liked the Streetcare Cafe in Carlton, The Cedar Coffee Co and Castle Danger Brewery."
Firewood availability: Some sites have natural deadfall while others require bringing your own wood. Josh M. notes about Nemadji State Forest: "If you are staying here, there is a lot of wood that is available to pick up for fire wood."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: RV campers should carefully select locations that offer some separation. Glenda D. shares about Cloquet-Duluth KOA: "We were about 20 feet from another campsite on one side and 50 feet on the other. There are a lot of trees and wooded areas so our site felt semi-private."
Dump station planning: Factor in potential delays when exiting popular campgrounds. "Dump station is conveniently located on your way out of the grounds but can get backed up at the end of a busy weekend and can make it difficult to exit the campground," warns Sam C.
Water sources: Know where to find potable water if your campsite lacks it. Eric from Big Rock Campground advises: "There's a great water source in Ashland next to the lake. We would fill our jugs here."
