Dispersed camping options in northern Wisconsin provide rustic camping near Marinette, Wisconsin with minimal amenities and maximum wilderness experience. The forest roads northwest of Marinette access several primitive camping areas in the Nicolet National Forest. Sites typically feature simple amenities like fire rings, and some offer nearby water access with temperatures reflecting the region's natural springs and aquifers.
What to do
Creek exploration: At Oconto River off Mountain Lake Road, campers can access a nearby waterfall approximately one mile from camp. One reviewer notes: "The campsite is right along a deep, and steadily moving stream. Water is very cold, and flows from an aquifer upstream."
Stargazing opportunities: The secluded forest camping spots provide excellent night sky viewing during clear conditions. A visitor to Sturgeon Bay Canal commented: "We stayed here the night of the Fourth of July and it was pretty quiet. The stars were beautiful. Built a small fire and toasted marshmallows!"
ATV trail access: Several sites connect to the regional ATV trail system. At Mountain Lakes Rd Dispersed, a reviewer mentioned: "Big site for ATV campers right off trail can probably get toy hauler in here easy."
What campers like
Peaceful water sounds: Sites along brooks and rivers provide natural white noise. A camper at Oconto River - South Branch appreciated the "Peace for $5" and noted the two well-spaced campsites available at this trailhead.
Natural privacy: Many sites offer seclusion from neighboring campers. At McCaslin Brook, the third site is described as "a deep, large site away from the road facing west" and "spacious and could easily be for a large group."
Affordable options: Most dispersed sites in the region require minimal fees or are free. A reviewer at McCaslin Brook Dispersed site explained: "The cost is $5 a night to be paid at Wheeler Walker Beach."
What you should know
Vehicle clearance challenges: Many sites require careful navigation of forest roads. A visitor to Mountain Lakes Road mentioned: "4x4 recommended. 2wd truck couldn't make it easily."
Limited facilities: Most areas have basic or no toilets. At Oconto River off Mountain Lake Road, a reviewer pointed out the "outdoor toilet" and attempted to identify it in their photos.
Connectivity limitations: Cell service varies significantly by carrier. A recent camper noted about McCaslin Brook: "There was no AT&T to speak of, but TMobile had 20 down/1 up."
Wildlife awareness: Ticks are common in grassy areas. At Sturgeon Bay Canal, one group reported: "a couple told us that the longer grass near the gravel lot had a lot of ticks but would still be camp-able. Neither my friend or I got any ticks but we did spray pretty heavily."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for children: Choose sites with safe water access for supervised play. The sites at McCaslin Brook are described as "three sites each with a table, fire pit, a toilet pit and right off the brooke."
Safety considerations: Some less-developed areas may present challenges for younger campers. One reviewer traveling with another young woman at Pioneer Park noted: "Buggy and Noisy. You're right next to the highway and the area is covered in mosquitos."
Space requirements: Larger groups need specific sites. A reviewer explained about McCaslin Brook: "There are three sites two small one large site which you can fit larger camper or RV in."
Tips from RVers
Solar considerations: Some sites limit access to sunlight for solar panels. A camper at McCaslin Brook decided against staying because "it was so shaded. While that made it nice and cool, it made solar & Starlink impossible."
Site access evaluation: RV campers should scout entrances before attempting access. At McCaslin Brook, a reviewer warned: "Entrances need a lot of TLC washed out and large drop from paved road. Middle camp site has best access to brook I put a 8 foot pop up in it you could go bigger 20 foot max."
Turnaround space: Check for adequate maneuvering room when choosing sites. A visitor to Sturgeon Bay Canal appreciated the "Good gravel road, easy turn around" and described it as "Flat, serviceable."
