Dispersed camping sites near Mountain, Wisconsin offer rustic outdoor experiences within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. The area's mixed hardwood forests sit at approximately 1,400 feet elevation with temperatures ranging 25-80°F seasonally. Most primitive sites require campers to navigate forest service roads with varying conditions throughout different seasons, often deteriorating after heavy rainfall.
What to do
Swimming opportunities: At Ada Lake Recreation Area, campers enjoy a small beach area perfect for cooling off during summer months. "A nice little beach, quiet well spaced sites, and nearby snowmobile/hiking trails," notes one visitor who appreciated the lake's restrictions on motors.
Fishing excursions: Electric motors only at Ada Lake NF Campground create ideal conditions for anglers seeking peaceful water activities. A camper confirms "trolling motors only on this lake. Good fishing and quite."
Waterfall exploration: Several primitive camping spots provide access to local waterfalls. One visitor at Oconto River noted hearing "the waterfall (difficult to access) about a mile away," making these natural features worth the extra hiking effort.
Trail access: Forest service trails connect many dispersed sites, providing options for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. Multiple campers mention trail accessibility as a key benefit of staying at these primitive locations.
What campers like
Riverside locations: The Oconto River - South Branch sites offer budget-friendly camping with water access. One camper shared, "There are 2 campsites at this trailhead, pretty well spaced apart... Unless you have the Golden or Access pass, it is $5/day."
Privacy between sites: Even at established campgrounds like Old Veterans Lake County Park, campers value the separation. "I stopped into the campground while at Governor Thompson state park. It was perfect, for me. Each site was by itself," reported one visitor.
Wildlife viewing: The area's lakes and streams support diverse aquatic life. At Old Veterans Lake, campers report: "Tons of tiny fish everywhere that are very interactive... It was great for swimming and finding more tiny fish."
Cool water access: Many campers appreciate the natural cold-water streams. The temperature difference provides welcome relief during hot summer days, with some campers noting the cold water flows from natural aquifers.
What you should know
Access challenges: Forest road conditions vary significantly and deteriorate after rain. A visitor to one site reported, "The entrance was doable for my sedan, but was tricky. I believe a camper could make it going slowly."
Limited cell service: Expect communication gaps throughout the area. One camper at East Bass Lake Park appreciated that it's "a great place for those who want some solitude" with only two camping spots available.
Stay limits: Several locations enforce maximum stays. East Bass Lake Park limits consecutive camping to "2 day maximum consecutive days stay," according to a visitor, while other sites may have different restrictions.
Season considerations: Most dispersed sites lack winter maintenance. The camping season typically runs May through October, with Ada Lake NF Campground specifically open "May 3 to October 11."
Tips for camping with families
Best swim areas: Marinette County Goodman Park provides safer swimming options with more amenities. A visitor describes it as "very nice peaceful feels like youre in the middle of nowhere," making it ideal for families wanting both wilderness and basic facilities.
Wildlife education: Many campsites offer excellent opportunities to introduce children to aquatic ecosystems. One camper at Old Veterans Lake notes "We come here with the kids every spring. They always catch frogs, fish, and turtles."
Insect preparation: Mosquito populations peak from June through August, particularly near water. A camper at McClintock County Park advises to "bring ways to keep mosquitoes at bay" when visiting sites near rivers or streams.
Toilet considerations: Prepare children for vault toilets at primitive sites. Facilities vary widely, with some campers noting "the vault toilets are well kept" while others recommend visiting facilities before dark.
Tips from RVers
Site surface conditions: Most dispersed areas have uneven, natural surfaces. At Ada Lake, campers note "dirty and gravel sites with no concrete pads" that require careful leveling for comfort.
Clearance requirements: High-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended for accessing remote sites. Multiple reviews warn against attempting certain forest roads without appropriate vehicles.
Parking limitations: Space constraints affect larger rigs at most primitive sites. A visitor to Oconto River advised, "Do not follow road past campsites, either way unless your vehicle is lifted" to prevent getting stuck.
Electric limitations: Bring alternative power sources for necessary equipment. One camper at Veterans Lake shared, "We did have someone ratted on us for using our generator to supply our CPAPs because there was no electricity or water."
