Rustic camping options abound in northern Wisconsin, with several campgrounds surrounding Long Lake. This area sits in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest at roughly 1,600 feet elevation where the mixed hardwood forests provide natural shade for many campsites. Summer temperatures typically range from 55°F at night to 80°F during day, with mosquitoes most active from June through August.
What to do
Lakeside fishing access: Chipmunk Rapids Campground offers direct access to fishing spots. "On the water. Lots of deer and turkeys. Heard wolves at night. It was great!" notes one camper who awarded the site 4 stars.
Artesian well visits: Both Lost Lake Campground and Chipmunk Rapids feature natural springs. "The best feature is the artesian well right at the entrance. We filled up with water and the line started just as we finished. Even if you camp elsewhere the water is worth a visit," explains one Lost Lake Campground visitor.
ATV trail riding: West Bass Lake connects to the local trail system. "This park also is situated near the ATV trail, and has access to the 160 mile Blue Ox trail system," shares a West Bass Lake camper who gave the campground 5 stars.
Off-grid hiking: Explore secluded forest trails at multiple locations. "Easy access to trails and area lakes. Could canoe the river if you want. Very quiet," reports a Chipmunk Rapids visitor who enjoyed the late fall season.
What campers like
Secluded lakeside sites: Bear Lake offers private waterfront locations. "This is a great campground in the north woods. It is rustic, so limited services. The lake is electric motors only, so boat traffic is quiet, and there are minimal private properties on the lake," notes a Bear Lake camper.
Quiet glamping experiences: Visitors seeking glamping close to Long Lake, Wisconsin appreciate the peaceful surroundings. "Amazing little spot. Campground has only a handful of sites. Makes for a very secluded trip," reports a camper at Chipmunk Rapids.
Elevated lake views: Several campgrounds offer unique vantage points. "We liked the sites that are lakeside. The road rises so you are elevated above the lake. It's an interesting perspective," shares a visitor to Bear Lake, adding practical context to the area's terrain.
Clean facilities: Standards remain high at most locations. "The pit toilets were the cleanest I have ever used," mentions a Bear Lake camper who awarded 4 stars.
What you should know
Limited cellular service: Many campgrounds have spotty reception. "ZERO WiFi and cell service," notes a Bear Lake visitor about their site experience.
Seasonal considerations: Weather changes dramatically across seasons. "When we showed up the lakeside sites were filled leaving many of the woods side," reports a visitor describing Bear Lake's popularity patterns.
Wildlife encounters: Local fauna includes both pleasant and challenging encounters. "Heard wolves at night," mentions one Chipmunk Rapids Campground visitor, while another Governor Thompson camper warns, "We found so many ticks on us!! Be careful!"
Rustic amenities: Most forest campgrounds offer basic services. "Rustic without water or electricity. Vaulted toilets (4)," explains a Lost Lake visitor describing the available facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated recreation areas. "There is a large playground next to a small beach. Many people used the boat launch to go out on the water," explains a West Bass Lake visitor.
Family-friendly water activities: Multiple lakes offer swimming options. "The lake has a swimming area & beautiful Sandy beach & is perfect for fishing, swimming and kayaking," notes a Governor Thompson State Park Campground camper.
Activity planning: Some campgrounds organize events for children. "Great activities for kids...fishing presentation, movie, kickball," shares a Hi-Pines camper who rated their experience 4 stars.
Spacious sites: Look for larger sites when camping with groups. "If you cant have or don't want a lake site, site #4 is the largest. It is almost 35 yards across the front," advises a West Bass Lake visitor about specific site dimensions.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on your specific needs. "We were at site 25. Lots of wet swampy areas around this site. If it were hot, I would imagine a lot of mosquitos," cautions a Bear Lake RVer.
Glamping alternatives: For those seeking luxury glamping near Long Lake without roughing it, Peaceful Pines Resort offers upscale options. "Wonderful RV Resort! Brand New and Wow what a Bathhouse! The lake is right there steps away that is crystal clear and sandy bottom!!" shares an enthusiastic visitor.
Hook-up availability: Electric options vary by location. "Electric hook up & a great rate!" notes a Governor Thompson camper about their accommodations, detailing the practicality of their site.
Access considerations: Some areas have challenging approaches. "This camp is well off the beaten path, narrow windy roads abound. But all paved & no traffic," explains a Governor Thompson visitor sharing details about the drive in.
