Tent campers exploring the Nicolet National Forest near Lakewood, Wisconsin will find diverse primitive camping options between 1,400-1,600 feet elevation. The region's northern Wisconsin climate creates distinct camping seasons with peak periods from May through September when overnight temperatures average 45-65°F. Spring campers should prepare for muddy conditions on forest service roads, particularly during April thaw periods.
What to do
Kayaking on small lakes: Ada Lake Recreation Area offers excellent kayaking opportunities on a motor-restricted lake. "We stayed at Site 10 and LOVED it. Very private and our dog was able to roam at will," notes a visitor to Old Veterans Lake County Park.
Fishing close to camp: Many tent sites provide direct water access for fishing. A camper at Oconto River off Mountain Lake Road describes it as a "Very cool spot right on the river. In ground fire pit. Decent amount of off-road vehicle traffic. No service."
Wildlife observation: The quiet forest settings create excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, especially during early morning hours. "We come here with the kids every spring. They always catch frogs, fish, and turtles," says a camper about Old Veterans Lake, where small wildlife interactions are common near water edges.
Hiking nearby trail networks: Several camping areas connect to broader trail systems. "There is an ATV trail right at the entrance. This trail connects to others and gave us some nearby hiking options. I didn't find these on the maps that I had so it was a good bonus!" reports one Ada Lake camper.
What campers like
Peaceful water access: Tent campers consistently mention the quiet waterways as a major draw. "Small site little rough to get into a lot of trash left. Short path to river this is a two site spot good distance between them," notes a reviewer about Oconto River camping.
Dark night skies: The remote forest location provides minimal light pollution for stargazing. "Once the night settled in it became very dark. I'm glad we sought out the toilet before having to find it by flashlight," writes a visitor to Ada Lake Recreation Area.
Privacy between sites: Most primitive camping areas offer good separation between sites. "The sites are relatively spread out. The lake is electric motors only so the watercraft were generally quiet," mentions a camper about Ada Lake Recreation Area.
Swimming opportunities: Natural swimming spots are available at several campgrounds. "It was a short walk to the pit toilets and there's another path to a little beach behind the toilet building. It was great for swimming and finding more tiny fish," explains a camper at Old Veterans Lake.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most tent sites have basic amenities only. "It's rustic, so minimal amenities. First come, first served. We arrived mid-week and had no problem getting a lakeside campsite," reports an Ada Lake camper.
Challenging access roads: Many dispersed sites require careful navigation. "The entrance was doable for my sedan, but was tricky. I believe a camper could make it going slowly," notes a visitor to Oconto River - South Branch.
First-come availability: Most primitive sites don't accept reservations. "A nice up north campground. No reservations so it is first come first serve. Only electric motors on the lake so it is usually a quiet setting," explains a camper at Ada Lake.
Water sources vary: Tent campers should plan for water needs accordingly. "There is a clean and maintained vault toilet. Unless you have the Golden or Access pass, it is $5/day," mentions an Oconto River South Branch camper, but many sites lack drinking water.
Tips for camping with families
Easy fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer kid-friendly fishing spots. "They also enjoy swimming across, and hiking and biking around the lake. Nearby trail to the Peshtigo River Flowage," shares a visitor about family activities at Old Veterans Lake.
Swim-friendly beaches: Look for camping areas with designated swimming spots. "The site we choose is right on the water. A few trees added to the scenic view of Ada. Sites vary quite a bit," notes an Ada Lake camper about the swimming options.
Nature exploration: Kids enjoy discovering small wildlife near tent sites. "Tons of tiny fish everywhere that are very interactive. The site itself was open, yet private, and very flat," mentions a family camper at Old Veterans Lake about the natural attractions for children.
Low-traffic areas: Some campgrounds offer safer environments for kids. "While there is only 2 spots for camping in this town park. It is a great place for those who want some solitude," notes a visitor to East Bass Lake Park.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness varies: RV campers should check site conditions before setting up. "We were lucky and found one last spot to call home for the night. Great campground, albeit gravely," shares a reviewer about Ada Lake NF Campground.
Limited electrical options: Most forest service sites lack hookups. "We did have someone ratted on us for using our generator to supply our CPAPs because there was no electricity or water," notes a camper at Old Veterans Lake about the challenges of RV camping.
Access road clearance: Larger vehicles face constraints at many sites. "This one appears to now be a veteran memorial. There is a pavilion and playground. A hand pump for water is right by the parking area," reports a visitor to New Prospect.
Campsite size constraints: Many tent camping areas near Lakewood have limited space for larger vehicles. "Nice place if your in to ATV riding. Trails really close. Good view of the river. Bring ways to keep mosquitoes at bay though," mentions a camper about McClintock County Park's sites.
