Pearson, Wisconsin offers multiple camping options across the Nicolet National Forest region. Campgrounds in this area sit at elevations between 1,500-1,700 feet in northern Wisconsin's mixed hardwood forests. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing from November through March, with summer daytime highs typically reaching 75-85°F. Most local campgrounds operate seasonally from May through October.
What to do
Hiking on the Ice Age Trail: Langlade County Veterans Memorial Park provides direct access to Wisconsin's famous Ice Age Trail. "The Ice Age trail, the 1000 mile trail that goes throughout Wisconsin, also passes right by the campground," notes Jimmy P. The park also offers canoe access on Game Lake with free canoe use.
Swimming in shallow waters: Boulder Lake Campground features a sandy shoreline with gradual depth. "The shore is shallow and mostly sand. Nice for swimming," according to Julia B. The lake's accessibility makes it ideal for families with children who want water recreation without steep drop-offs.
Whitewater rafting: The Wolf River offers rafting opportunities near several campgrounds. Christopher R. mentions, "Boulder lake is amazing and is located conveniently close to the Wolf river, which has whitewater rafting and trout fishing." Many outfitters in the area provide equipment rentals and guided trips during summer months.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Langlade County Veterans Memorial Park maintains well-kept bathrooms and showers. Rebecca B. appreciates that the park offers "nice restrooms with flush toilets/showers" among its amenities, making longer stays more comfortable even when primitive camping.
Quiet, secluded sites: River Forest Campground provides peaceful camping experiences away from crowds. John G. reports, "We arrived on a Sunday and probably missed the crowds, but that was deliberate... the site has water and 20 amp electric service, the power is substantial to power the necessities." The campground's natural setting balances convenience with wilderness immersion.
Wildlife viewing: Moen Lake Campground offers opportunities to observe local fauna. Luis notes in his experience: "If you want a quiet, secluded campground where you can just sit back and enjoy being out in the woods (we had deer walk through the back of our campsite at night), then you will enjoy this campground."
What you should know
Limited amenities at some parks: While many campgrounds offer electric hookups, full-service facilities vary significantly. Luis explains about Moen Lake Campground: "The basic amenities are here, picnic table, fire pit, bath house with showers within walking distance, electrical (30amp) and water hookups, but don't expect them to be 5 star quality, they are there, they are functional, that's about all you can say."
Firewood regulations: Wisconsin's beetle control measures restrict bringing outside firewood. "Apparently there have been beetle issues in Wisconsin and most campgrounds require you to buy your firewood locally or on-site," reports Luis from Moen Lake Campground. Most campgrounds sell approved firewood at their offices.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds despite forest settings. David V. notes about Maple Heights Campground: "Busy highway noise all night. Showers pool mini-golf. No lake river or fishing." Consider site location when booking if seeking quieter experiences.
Tips for camping with families
Beach and playground access: Langlade County Veterans Memorial Park offers multiple recreational facilities. Darlene S. recommends the park because it "has it all lake, campfire wood, store, fishing, nice swim beach, park to play volley ball play ground and modern showers."
Diverse activities: River Forest Campground provides family-oriented recreation. Crystal H. shares, "We took our 3 girls there this last week for their very first time camping. The kids got to sing karaoke and go tubing among many other activities." The variety keeps children engaged throughout multi-day stays.
Noise considerations: Campgrounds vary in noise levels and quiet hours enforcement. Joshua K. notes about Boulder Lake: "We stayed in site 18, non electrical but right across from the bath house which was always clean!" However, another camper mentioned hearing "a bunch of teens yelling at the shower house around midnight" before they were apparently removed.
Tips from RVers
Concrete pad availability: Holly Wood Hill Campground offers level concrete pads for RVs. John V. comments, "All the RV pads have concrete in their leveled. Every campsite has a fire pit." However, Tonya B. warns that "Yards on the lower sites are large, lots of room with concrete pads, but power/water hookups at lower sites are designed for motorhomes, not travel trailers. Yards on upper sites are cramped and unlevel." The campground layout varies significantly between sites.
Dump station access: Boulder Lake Campground provides dump station facilities, but no sewer hookups at individual RV sites near Pearson, Wisconsin. Christopher R. notes the campground "has showers and up to date bathrooms" making it suitable for longer stays despite the lack of full hookups.
Electrical limitations: West Bay Camping Resort offers full hookups but has reported electrical issues during peak usage times. Vincent S. experienced problems during hot weather when multiple RVs were running air conditioning units simultaneously.
