Tent camping opportunities in Wisconsin's northern forests offer primitive sites for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude near Lublin. The region sits at an elevation of 1,365 feet and features unique glacial formations from the Wisconsin glaciation period. Winter camping requires extra preparation as temperatures can drop below -20°F, while summer humidity levels can make nights sticky and uncomfortable without proper ventilation.
What to do
Fishing on smaller lakes: North Twin Lake Recreation Area offers excellent fishing with bass, bluegill and perch populations in a no-wake environment. "There is excellent fishing mostly consisting of Bass and Bluegills and Perch. It's a no wake lake so plan on just using a trolling motor or even a canoe to fish," notes camper Aaron D.
Hiking the Ice Age Trail: Camp New Wood County Park provides direct access to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. According to Kendra N., "It's right on the Ice Age Trail with lots of hiking to be enjoyed right from your camp site." The trail highlights unique glacial formations created approximately 10,000 years ago.
Seasonal swimming: During warmer months, Coon Fork Campground offers swimming opportunities. Hannah E. mentions, "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!"
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campsites offer good separation from neighbors. Amy G. at Coon Fork Campground notes, "The sites are very generous with a lot of green between spaces. You are not on top of your neighbor."
Hammock camping options: Some sites work better than others for hammock campers. "I like to hammock, and while not a lot of the sites are ideal, there are a few that are. A3 was one ($17 non lake) and 2LR ($20 lakeside). The latter was perfect for several hammocks," reports Amy G.
Lake access: Picnic Point Campground offers tent-only sites with lake frontage. Mark B. describes it as an "Amazing group tent site on Mondeaux recreation area. Boat landing, Ice Age National Scenic Trail. Part of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest."
What you should know
Hunting season impacts: During fall hunting seasons, campsites may be occupied by hunters. Aaron D. from North Twin Lake Recreation Area explains, "The campground was always very peaceful and all the campsites on the lake had plenty of space for multiple tents or campers. The people that live/have cabins on the lake are all extremely friendly."
Water filtration required: Most primitive sites lack potable water. For backcountry camping at Lake Eleven and Sailor Creek, bring filtration systems for stream and lake water.
Limited facilities: Most tent-only sites have minimal amenities. "There are only pit toilets here, no showers," reports Amanda K. about Camp New Wood County Park. "The pit toilets are not in the best shape and have no lighting so bring a flashlight," adds Kendra N.
Difficult terrain: Some sites present challenges for tent setup. At Sailor Creek Campsite, Steph H. found "The site is located in a grove of hemlocks about 150 feet away from your water source, Sailor Creek... the site is a bit rough for tents. Lots of roots and low dips make for uncomfortable, possibly damp sleeping."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly locations: For the best tent camping near Lublin with kids, choose established campgrounds. Benjamin O. recommends, "Coon Fork is always a great experience! Two great beaches on a small, no-motor lake with a large campground and several nature trails."
Water activities: Coon Fork Campground offers boat rentals for family enjoyment. "The kids love swimming, kayaking, fishing, and bike trails," mentions Kristen W.
Noise considerations: Family campers should note quiet hours are enforced. Hannah E. points out, "Quiet hours are reinforced early at night but it's an excellent campground for small children."
Motor restrictions: Some lakes prohibit gas motors. Brook Jorgensen notes, "No outboard motors allowed on this lake. Canoe and rowboat rentals are available at the office."
Tips from RVers
Electric site options: For RV camping near Lublin, Wisconsin, Coon Fork Campground offers electric hookups. According to debe K., "Campsites are private with waterfront and electric sites. Some sites reservable. Some loops better suited for tents, some for large RVs."
Site selection by vehicle size: Choose your campground loop carefully based on RV size. "There is a totally separate loop (Loop D) for units that are self contained," mentions Amy G.
Dump station available: Coon Fork provides sanitary dump facilities for RVs. debe K. notes, "Flush toilets and hot showers" are available, making it more suitable for RV campers wanting some amenities while still enjoying a forest setting.