Dispersed camping near Pulaski, Wisconsin offers solitude within the Nicolet National Forest, where elevation ranges from 800-1200 feet above sea level. Seasonal temperature fluctuations are significant, with summer highs averaging 75-85°F and winter lows often below freezing. The mixed hardwood forests transform dramatically through Wisconsin's distinct seasons, creating different camping experiences throughout the year.
What to do
Fishing access: The Oconto River at South Branch campground provides good fishing spots within walking distance of campsites. "There are 2 campsites at this trailhead, pretty well spaced apart," notes Rebecca B., who appreciated that "there is a clean and maintained vault toilet" at this $5/day site.
Brook exploration: McCaslin Brook Dispersed site offers water-based recreation along its peaceful stream. "The McCauslin Brook runs through Townsend and Lakewood. There are a total of 3 sites in this location and all are on the Brook," explains Christopher R. Campers can wade in the shallow parts during summer months.
ATV trail access: Mountain Lakes Road provides direct trail access for ATV enthusiasts. "Small pull off little ways off 64 on mountain lakes Rd. Pick nik table and fire ring. Big site for ATV campers right off trail can probably get toy hauler in here easy," reports a reviewer who found it suitable for off-road vehicles.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront spots: Oconto River off Mountain Lake Road receives praise for its natural setting. Zachary S. shared: "Loved this spot. Stayed two nights, and the first night was almost absolutely silent other than the waterfall about a mile away. The campsite is right along a deep, and steadily moving stream. Water is very cold, and flows from an aquifer upstream."
Spacious sites: The third site at McCaslin Brook offers exceptional room. Robyn B. found it "so spacious and could easily be for a large group." She noted all three sites include "a table, fire pit, a toilet pit and right off the brooke. The cost is $5 a night to be paid at Wheeler Walker Beach."
Night sky viewing: Sturgeon Bay Canal campers particularly enjoy stargazing. "Overall really nice, the stars were beautiful. Built a small fire and toasted marshmallows!" reports Abigail K., who stayed on July 4th and found it "pretty quiet" despite the holiday.
What you should know
Vehicle clearance requirements: Access to many sites requires appropriate vehicles. Nick H. found Oconto River to be a "Very cool spot right on the river" with an "in ground fire pit," but cautions about "decent amount of off-road vehicle traffic."
Site entrances need attention: At Octonto River - South Branch, the first site "has more of an opening if solar and Starlink matter to you. The second was tucked in the back where the road turns around," according to Rebecca B., who noted Golden or Access pass holders can avoid the $5/day fee.
Variable site quality: Campsite conditions can fluctuate throughout the season. Hesselinkj@yahoo.com found one Oconto River site had a "small site little rough to get into a lot of trash left. Short path to river this is a two site spot good distance between them."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for children: The pull-through sites at Mountain Lakes Rd Dispersed provide easier setup with children. "Big site for ATV campers right off trail can probably get toy hauler in here easy," notes a reviewer, making it suitable for families with recreational vehicles.
Safety considerations: Pioneer Park offers large sites but comes with challenges for families. Jack H. warns: "You're right next to the highway and the area is covered in mosquitos. Easy access and large site, but I wouldn't stop here unless you have to."
Tick prevention: Some areas have reported tick issues. At Sturgeon Bay Canal, one camper noted "a couple told us that the longer grass near the gravel lot had a lot of ticks but would still be camp-able." She added: "Neither my friend or I got any ticks but we did spray pretty heavily."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: McCaslin Brook can accommodate smaller RVs only. Hesselinkj@yahoo.com reports: "Middle camp site has best access to brook I put a 8 foot pop up in it you could go bigger 20 foot max. One site I would say is tent only very tight."
Connectivity options: For digital nomads, connectivity varies significantly. At McCaslin Brook, Rebecca B. found: "We ultimately decided not to stay here simply because it was so shaded. While that made it nice and cool, it made solar & Starlink impossible. There was no AT&T to speak of, but TMobile had 20 down/1 up."
Parking surface quality: Scott S. describes Sturgeon Bay Shipping Canal as "Mostly gravel parking lot with a mowed area for tenting. Im in a van/RV. Parked in the lot overnight. Flat, serviceable. No hiking trails, no amenities, just a place to stay. Good WiFi."
