Glamping in Pearson, Wisconsin offers visitors access to the Nicolet National Forest's 661,000 acres where summer temperatures typically range from 68-80°F. Located in Langlade County at an elevation around 1,700 feet, this area experiences significant seasonal shifts with fall color changes starting in mid-September. Most glamping sites maintain moderate accessibility through forest service roads until early November when seasonal closures begin.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Boot Lake Campground offers multiple fishing spots accessible directly from campsites. "We had an awesome campsite with access to the lake right from our site. Spent several hours kayaking & fishing on Boot Lake, along with several other lakes in the area," mentions Vicki B. Be prepared to bring your own gear as rental options are limited.
Hiking trails: At Governor Thompson State Park Campground, visitors can access several well-maintained trails through northern Wisconsin forests. "There are a few hiking trails which i enjoyed spending time on. If you go down the street a bit you will find Old Veterans state park which has a secluded quiet lake and beach," notes Tammie R. The park connects to additional trail networks extending into surrounding state forest land.
Water recreation: The area's lakes provide opportunities for swimming and boating during summer months. "Boot lake is actually the shape of a boot. It provides some decent fishing from shore but excellent fishing from a boat. The beach is nice," shares Christopher R. Most swimming areas remain open through Labor Day weekend, with some extending operations through mid-September.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Bear Lake Campground earns high marks for site spacing. "Camp sites are large and private. There is drinking water and pit toilets. The pit toliets were the cleanest I have ever used," explains Kimberly G. Most sites feature natural barriers of pine and deciduous trees creating separation between camping areas.
Clean facilities: Despite being rustic campgrounds, several locations maintain impressive cleanliness standards. "The bathrooms were clean and the site was a good wooded tent site," writes Christine W. about Governor Thompson State Park. Most campgrounds feature vault toilets throughout camping loops with centralized shower buildings at larger facilities.
Lake access: Many campers appreciate direct water access from their sites. At Council Grounds State Park Campground, "Trail to river is short and easy to access. Lots of places along river to geocache, walk, or just relax and watch the world go by," according to Stacey N. Most waterfront sites require early reservation, often filling 3-4 months in advance during peak season.
What you should know
Limited services: Many campgrounds in the area have minimal amenities. "Be sure to get you firewood & ice in town, as there is none available in the campground," advises Vicki B. about Boot Lake. Most locations lack stores, requiring campers to stock up in nearby towns before arrival.
Insects: Depending on season and weather conditions, bugs can be abundant. "Fair warning, both campsites we were at had poison ivy around them so watch out. Though there was a lot of standing water and a fairly large swamp across the road, mosquitoes were not bad at all," notes Margaret D. Bug activity typically peaks in June-July, with lower populations in August-September.
Weather preparedness: Northern Wisconsin experiences significant temperature fluctuations. "We were at site 25. Lots of wet swampy areas around this site. If it were hot, I would imagine a lot of mosquitos," shares Jenna R. about Bear Lake Campground. Nights can drop below 50°F even in summer months, requiring appropriate clothing and bedding.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer specific features for children. At Pine Grove Campground, "Lots for kids to do in their kid-friendly pool, arcade, park, and bounce house area that our group of kids loved," reports Andrew C. Many family-oriented campgrounds schedule weekend activities during summer months.
Beach areas: Several locations feature designated swimming areas ideal for families. "The lake has a swimming area & beautiful Sandy beach & is perfect for fishing, swimming and kayaking," Lisa R. explains about Bear Lake. Most designated beaches have gradual entries suitable for younger swimmers, though supervision remains necessary as lifeguards are rarely present.
Wildlife viewing: The surrounding forests provide opportunities to observe local animals. "We even got to see some otters in the pond," shares Elizabeth about Birkensee Campground. Early mornings and evenings offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities, with white-tailed deer being the most commonly spotted species.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When selecting an RV site, consider the variable terrain. "Sites are wooded and offer plenty of shade. Well spaced so you feel like you're all alone. Dirt pads but fairly level in our spot," Erin A. mentions about Council Grounds State Park. Many campgrounds feature older loops with tighter turns unsuitable for larger rigs.
Hookup limitations: Full-service sites remain limited in the Pearson area. At West Bay Camping Resort, "Located down a quiet paved road just 2 miles outside of town. You are close to the action but dont have to listen to it. Some sites are tight/close and others you could turn around in," notes Charles M. Campers requiring full hookups should reserve well in advance as these premium sites fill quickly.
Access considerations: Forest roads can present challenges for larger RVs. "For reference: We have a 19ft travel trailer & a ford truck. We stayed at site 19, it is pull in & it was perfect,with plenty of room for everything," shares PJ F. about Governor Thompson State Park. Many secondary access roads narrow considerably, with limited turnaround options for units exceeding 30 feet.
