Tent campsites near Medford, Wisconsin offer a mix of secluded primitive sites and established campgrounds within the dense forests of northern Wisconsin. The region has a continental climate with warm summers reaching 80°F and cold winters, making late spring through early fall the primary camping season. Many backcountry tent sites sit at elevations between 1,500-1,700 feet, providing natural drainage during the region's frequent summer thunderstorms.
What to do
Paddle on small lakes: North Twin Lake Recreation Area provides access to a no-wake lake perfect for canoeing. "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 Aaron D., highlighting the peaceful atmosphere.
Hike geological formations: Along the Ice Age Trail in the Sailor Creek Campsite area, campers can traverse unique formations. One review mentions "you cross over the mile-long Hemlock Esker... an inverted river. Look it up, it's fascinating. It also provides incredible views as you're about 80 feet up."
Swimming at nearby spots: While some tent sites lack swimming areas, nearby recreation areas provide options. A camper at Coon Fork Campground mentions, "Two great beaches on a small, no-motor lake with a large campground and several nature trails," making it worth the short drive from Medford for day trips.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds in the Medford area provide good separation between campsites. At Coon Fork Campground, campers appreciate that the "sites are very generous with a lot of green between spaces. You are not on top of your neighbor."
Natural tent pads: Several backcountry sites feature pine needle-covered ground. At Northside Lake Eleven Campsite, one review describes the area as "situated under a grove of pines so we had adequate protection from the sleet storm that was coming as well as a soft pad of needles for all 5 of our tents."
Group camping options: For those seeking tent sites that accommodate larger parties, Picnic Point Campground offers dedicated group areas. A reviewer notes it has a "Tent only, reservable group site at Mondeaux recreation area. Boat landing, Ice Age National Scenic Trail."
What you should know
Limited facilities at backcountry sites: Most primitive tent sites require self-sufficiency. At Sailor Creek Campsite, "This site has no pit toilet and not a lot of 'privacy' so finding a place to do your business is not for the modest. You are also directly in contact with the trail."
Weather preparedness: The Medford area experiences rapid weather changes even in summer. A Lake Eleven camper reported needing "adequate protection from the sleet storm" during their October visit, underscoring the importance of proper rain gear and tent setup.
Campfire regulations: Fire regulations vary by site. Camp New Wood County Park provides "fire rings are quite large and hold a lot of fire wood. There are no grates for cooking over the fire ring but there are stand alone grills at each site that would require charcoal."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: For family tent camping, established campgrounds offer more comforts. A reviewer describes Coon Fork as "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!"
Consider activity options: Sites with multiple recreation options keep children engaged. "The kids love swimming, kayaking, fishing, and bike trails," writes a camper about their family experience at Coon Fork.
Check enforcement policies: Some family-friendly tent campgrounds maintain stricter quiet hours. At Pioneer Park & Campground, rangers actively enforce quiet times, creating a more controlled environment for families with young children who need consistent sleep schedules.
Tips from RVers
Water access points: Even tent-focused campgrounds sometimes accommodate small RVs. At Camp New Wood, "The water is a bit of a hike down the trail and through the woods so you might want to bring your own," which affects both tent campers and small RV users without hookups.
Non-electric alternatives: Many tent sites in the Chequamegon Forest allow small, self-contained RVs. Campers at North Twin Lake Recreation Area note the campground offers "excellent fishing" with "plenty of space for multiple tents or campers," though hookups aren't available.
