Tent campsites near Pembine, Wisconsin provide access to the dense forests and waterways of the state's northeastern region where the Menominee River forms a natural boundary with Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The area features multiple small lakes scattered throughout mixed hardwood forests at elevations ranging from 800-1,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F with cooler nights around 55°F, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for temperature swings and occasional precipitation.
What to do
Kayaking on Veterans Lake: The small, motorboat-restricted lake at Old Veterans Lake County Park offers calm waters perfect for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. According to one visitor, "It was perfect for kayaking. There is a beach which I hung out at all afternoon with my dog and read a book. We never saw anyone." The lake's smaller size makes it easy to explore in a single morning or afternoon.
ATV trail access: McClintock County Park provides direct access to extensive ATV trail networks throughout Marinette County. A camper notes, "Nice place if you're into ATV riding. Trails really close. Good view of the river." The park serves as an excellent base camp for day trips on the extensive trail system that connects to multiple nearby communities.
Nature watching at Goodman Park: The secluded setting offers opportunities to observe deer, small mammals, and numerous bird species in their natural habitat. "Very nice peaceful feels like you're in the middle of nowhere," reports one visitor to Marinette County Goodman Park. The park's trail system winds through varied terrain with minimal crowds even during peak seasons.
What campers like
Lake access from private trails: Several campsites at Old Veterans Lake provide direct lake access via short trails. One camper at Old Veterans Lake County Park reports, "We stayed at site 10 and LOVED it. Very private and our dog was able to roam at will." Sites 11, 12, and 13 are particularly noted for their lake access points.
Swimming opportunities: The small beach areas provide swimming access without crowds or boat traffic. A family notes, "It was great for swimming and finding more tiny fish. I think we stayed over a busier time of year, but even with every other campsite occupied it was still a very peaceful time." The shallow entry points make these swimming areas appropriate for various age groups.
Tent-specific campsites: East Bass Lake Park in Homestead offers sites designed specifically for tent camping with level tent pads. A visitor to East Bass Lake Park mentions, "While there is only 2 spots for camping in this town park. It is a great place for those who want some solitude. Small sites for tent or pop-up. No hook-ups." The limited number of sites reduces competition for space even during busy weekends.
What you should know
Limited site availability: Several campgrounds in the area offer very few sites, making advance planning essential. At East Bass Lake Park, "there is only 2 spots for camping in this town park" with a "2 day maximum consecutive days stay." Arrive early in the day during peak season to secure a site at non-reservable locations.
Access to facilities: Many campgrounds require driving to access additional amenities. For Old Veterans Lake, "You can drive back to the Governor Thompson building and get firewood, ice, and use the shower building and flushing toilets." The main shower facilities are approximately 10 minutes by car from the campground.
Generator restrictions: Some campgrounds have restrictions or limitations on generator use, especially during quiet hours. One camper at Old Veterans Lake County Park reported, "We did have someone ratted on us for using our generator to supply our CPAPs because there was no electricity or water." Check with park management about specific policies if you require power for medical devices.
Insect preparation: Summer months bring significant mosquito activity, particularly near water sources. A camper at McClintock County Park advises, "Bring ways to keep mosquitoes at bay though." Long sleeves, pants, and repellent are recommended, especially during evening hours.
Tips for camping with families
Frog and turtle catching: The shallow areas of Old Veterans Lake provide excellent opportunities for children to observe small wildlife. One family shares, "We come here with the kids every spring. They always catch frogs, fish, and turtles. They also enjoy swimming across, and hiking and biking around the lake." The calm, shallow waters along the shoreline are ideal for younger children to explore safely.
Swimming access: The small beach area behind the toilet building at Old Veterans Lake County Park provides a safe swimming area for families. "It was a short walk to the pit toilets and there's another path to a little beach behind the toilet building," notes one camper. The gradual entry point makes it appropriate for different swimming abilities.
Bike-friendly terrain: The relatively flat terrain surrounding Old Veterans Lake provides appropriate biking opportunities for various skill levels. A regular visitor mentions, "They also enjoy swimming across, and hiking and biking around the lake. Nearby trail to the Peshtigo River Flowage." The connecting trails offer extended riding options for more experienced young cyclists.
Tips from RVers
Limited accommodations for larger units: Most tent campgrounds in the area have restrictions on RV size and limited amenities for RVs. At New Prospect, facilities are primarily designed for tent camping with limited parking areas for larger vehicles. RVers with units over 25 feet should verify access and turning radius details before arrival.
CPAP users need power planning: With limited electrical hookups available, CPAP users need alternative power solutions. One camper noted the challenges: "We did have someone ratted on us for using our generator to supply our CPAPs because there was no electricity or water." Battery packs or solar options provide quieter alternatives to generators at non-electric sites.
