Dispersed camping near Lakewood, Wisconsin offers multiple sites situated within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. The region lies at approximately 1,500 feet elevation with sandy soil typical of the Northern Highland geological region. Winter temperatures regularly drop below 0°F while summer camping season averages 75-80°F during July and August with moderate rainfall.
What to do
Water recreation access: Boulder Lake Campground features a shallow lake ideal for beginners. "The lake is not very deep, which is great for swimming or water recreation. Not the best fishing but excellent campground," notes Christopher R. The sandy bottom makes it suitable for wading.
Hiking opportunities: Governor Thompson State Park maintains several hiking trails through northern forest ecosystems. "There is swimming, boating, lots of hiking trails, and tons of waterfalls in the area," explains Rosemary S. The park offers trail maps at the entrance station.
ATV trail connections: Chute Pond Park provides direct access to extensive trail systems. "The access to the ATV trails really makes this campground a convenience gem!" states Shelby N. Riders can access thousands of miles of interconnected trails throughout the Northwoods region.
What campers like
Secluded lakeside sites: Bear Lake offers waterfront camping with minimal development. "The sites are large & private with a few waterfront sites... The lake has a swimming area & beautiful Sandy beach & is perfect for fishing, swimming and kayaking," reports Lisa R. Most sites include fire rings with cooking grates.
Clean facilities: While primitive, many campers note the well-maintained bathroom facilities. At Boulder Lake, "Shower house was nice and clean. The first night we did hear a bunch of teens yelling at the shower house around midnight, but they either got kicked out or left because we didnt hear them again," reports Julia B.
Natural sounds: Waterfront camping creates natural white noise for sleeping. At Bagley Rapids, "You can hear the constant rushing of the water over the rapids, which is so relaxing at night," notes Mary M. This ambient sound masks other campground noises throughout the night.
What you should know
Variable site conditions: Entrances to dispersed sites may present challenges. At McCaslin Brook Dispersed site, "The easements were a little washed out... we bottomed our minivan coming in but were able to leave going out on the far right edge," warns Robyn B. Many forest service roads receive minimal maintenance.
Payment procedures: Several primitive sites require payment at separate locations. For McCaslin Brook, "The cost is $5 a night to be paid at Wheeler Walker Beach," notes Robyn B. Carry exact cash as attendants are rarely present at remote locations.
Seasonal considerations: Bug activity varies significantly by season. At Governor Thompson State Park, campers report "a crazy amount of ticks in May. This could be why we were the only people in our loop of the campground so early in the season," warns Jill G. Late summer typically offers fewer insects.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Locations with designated swimming areas work best for children. Bear Lake offers "a nice size beach with a roped off swimming area that has plenty of space for the kids to swim and explore," reports Kimberly G. Check water levels before visiting as shallow lakes fluctuate seasonally.
Safety considerations: Natural water features require supervision. At Bagley Rapids, "small children should stay out of the river due to its strong current, so this might not be the best choice if you're going purely for the water," advises Chris B. Consider alternative swimming locations for young children.
Recreational rentals: Some campgrounds offer equipment for families without gear. At Chute Pond Park, "This year they also have now available kayaks for rent at $20 per hour," mentions Makenzie S., providing options for families without watercraft.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many forest service roads and campgrounds have restrictions. For McCaslin Brook, sites can fit "larger camper or RV in. Entrances need a lot of TLC washed out and large drop from paved road... you could go bigger 20 foot max," cautions hesselinkj@yahoo.com. Call ahead to verify current conditions.
Power considerations: Heavens Up North Family Campground offers full hookups uncommon in the region. "Nice and shady. Sights have space. Pool, showers, dump station, mini golf and other activities. Camp fire wood was nice and dry at a good price. Vary hilly," notes Kristine O. The campground accommodates larger rigs with 50-amp service.
Cell connectivity: Service varies dramatically between campgrounds. At Bagley Rapids, "T-Mobile signal is non-existent, Verizon had 1-2 bars of LTE which was enough to send out a few texts," reports Jacob V. Download maps and essential information before arrival as many sites lack reliable service.
