Tent campsites near New Auburn, Wisconsin provide access to the glacial terrain of the Chequamegon National Forest region, where continental glaciation shaped unique geological features 10,000 years ago. The area receives moderate summer rainfall with July temperatures averaging 80°F during the day and 60°F at night. Most primitive camping locations in this region sit on forest floors covered with pine needles, offering natural padding under tents.
What to do
Paddle the lakes: The lakes near New Auburn prohibit motorized watercraft, creating ideal conditions for canoeing and kayaking. At Coon Fork Campground, "Canoe and rowboat rentals are available at the office. Great private campsites. We love it here," reports reviewer Brook Jorgensen.
Hike the Ice Age Trail: Backpack sections of this 1,200-mile National Scenic Trail that showcases Wisconsin's glacial landforms. At Northside Lake Eleven Campsite, you can experience "geologic wonders formed by continental glaciation, with the most recent effects formed at the end of the Wisconsin Glaciation, a period ending about 10,000 years ago."
Fish the waterways: Rainbow trout and other species populate the lakes and streams throughout the region. At Straight Lake State Park Campground, campers appreciate "Remote, hike in, Rainbow trout" fishing opportunities near the connecting stream between Straight Lake and Rainbow Trout Lake.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Tent campers consistently mention the spacious layouts and natural buffers between campsites. At Coon Fork Campground, reviewers note that "the sites are very generous with a lot of green between spaces. You are not on top of your neighbor."
Non-motorized lakes: Many campgrounds prohibit motorized watercraft, creating peaceful environments for swimming and paddling. One reviewer specifically appreciated that at Coon Fork, "No outboard motors allowed on this lake," contributing to the tranquil atmosphere.
Natural tent pads: Several campsites feature soft, natural surfaces for tent setup. At Sailor Creek Campsite, "It is located in a grove of hemlocks" though campers should note there are "Lots of roots and low dips" that can affect tent placement.
What you should know
Pack in necessities: Most primitive sites require bringing your own drinking water and supplies. At Northside Lake Eleven, the lake "provided ease of access to water that was drinkable with a filtration system," but no potable water is available without treatment.
Variable facilities: Comfort stations range from flush toilets to primitive options or none at all. Sailor Creek has "no pit toilet and not a lot of 'privacy' so finding a place to do your business is not for the modest."
Seasonal pest considerations: Bugs can be abundant in summer months. At Lily Springs Regenerative Farm, "The mosquito situation was very good" during one stay, but at the White Pine Meadow site, visitors "managed to pick up one tick walking through the trail."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming: Several campgrounds offer beach access for children. One Coon Fork camper noted it's "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!"
Playground access: Some campgrounds include recreational facilities for younger visitors. A reviewer mentioned Coon Fork has a "Playgroud, shower/bathrooms are decent" making it more appealing for families with small children.
Quiet enforcement: Rangers actively maintain peaceful environments in many campgrounds. At Coon Fork, "Quiet hours enforced, DNR on duty and sheriff tends to drive through," providing security and structure for family camping.
Tips for RVers
Limited big-rig access: Most tent campsites near New Auburn have restricted access for larger vehicles. At Apple River County Park Campground, only "5 of the sites are equipped with electricity so folks with vans or small trailers might be comfortable here."
Self-contained loops: Some campgrounds have designated areas for RVs away from tent camping. Coon Fork has "a totally separate loop (Loop D) for units that are self contained," allowing for separation of camping styles.
Utility limitations: Many primitive sites lack hookups entirely. Apple River is described as having "15 simple campsites geared towards tent camping," with limited amenities for recreational vehicles requiring power or water connections.
