Camping sites near Rib Lake, Wisconsin offer a mix of National Forest, state, and county camping options across northern Wisconsin. Located within the glacial landscape of the Wisconsin Northwoods, the region sits at approximately 1,500 feet elevation and receives around 45 inches of snow annually. Average summer temperatures range from 55-80°F, creating ideal camping conditions from late spring through early fall.
What to do
Fishing access: Spearhead Point campers catch abundant panfish in the Mondeaux Flowage. "The fishing is great- lots of bluegill!! Will catch on almost every throw! Great for taking kids fishing. You get a pier at your campsite to tie your boat up at," notes Kalene H.
Ice Age Trail hiking: Camp New Wood County Park provides direct access to the Wisconsin River Segment of the Ice Age Trail. "It's right on the Ice Age Trail with lots of hiking to be enjoyed right from your camp site," explains Kendra N. Hikers can experience the glacial terrain that shaped this region.
Water recreation: Paddling opportunities abound at various waterfront campgrounds. "We enjoyed being able to rent kayaks and paddleboards and relax on the beach," shares Tate T. about their experience at Council Grounds State Park. The Wisconsin River and several lakes offer both motorized and non-motorized boating options.
What campers like
Solitude and privacy: Big Falls County Park offers secluded camping with river sounds in the background. "Very secluded/primitive. Outhouse only. Nice campsites & the river is gorgeous. Nice walking & exploring trails," reports Dani M. The park provides a true wilderness feel while remaining accessible.
Dark night skies: Eastwood NF Campground provides excellent stargazing opportunities. "Dark and quiet at night," notes Greg D. The minimal light pollution throughout the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest creates ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
Well-spaced sites: Campers frequently mention the generous spacing between sites. "We stayed 3 nights at site number 9 in the midst of the pandemic. Overall fairly quiet and private," writes Anikka T. about Eastwood NF Campground. Most national forest campsites provide buffer zones of trees between neighboring sites.
What you should know
Water availability: Several campgrounds have limited or seasonal water access. "One drawback was the water at the campground is shut off due to bad water tests. Plan ahead - there is a glacial spring within driving distance," notes Anikka T. about Eastwood Campground. Always check current water status before arrival.
Reservation systems vary: While some campgrounds like Council Grounds State Park Campground require reservations, others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. "We decided to hit the road on Labor Day Weekend and took a chance on not knowing where we'd stay the night. This first come first served campground with only 7 sites still had some available," reports Kendra N. about Camp New Wood County Park.
Toilet facilities: Most camping near Rib Lake features vault toilets rather than flush facilities. "Pit toilets were very clean and didn't stink," writes Anikka T. about Eastwood NF Campground. However, availability varies by location, with Big Falls County Park offering just "outhouse only" according to Dani M.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly swimming: Picnic Point Campground offers tent-only group camping with lake access. "Tent only, reservable group site at Mondeaux recreation area. Boat landing, Ice Age National Scenic Trail," explains Mark B. The Mondeaux Flowage provides gentle swimming areas suitable for children.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forests around Rib Lake host diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. "The campground is primitive with new power, water or sewer but there is an out house near the park. The park is well maintained and the grass is cut which helps out with the mosquitoes," notes UnnamedAdventures about Big Falls County Park, where maintained grounds enhance wildlife viewing while reducing pest encounters.
Plan for minimal amenities: When camping with children in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, prepare for basic facilities. "Clean pit toilets and campsite facilities (fire pit and picnic table). Only stayed a night, but happy to have found this tranquil gem off the beaten path!" shares Amanda P. about Eastwood NF Campground.
Tips from RVers
City park options: Medford City Park offers more amenities than forest campgrounds. "30/50 amp on the west side of the street. 30/20 on the east side of the street against the river. Beautiful little city park. Empty when we got here on a Wednesday although it's on a fairly busy road which kinda sucks," advises Scott K.
Site selection for larger rigs: Choose campsites carefully as many in the national forest aren't designed for large RVs. "Our site was large though not real flat. We fit a car, suv and 17 ft boat," mentions Anikka T. about Eastwood NF Campground. Council Grounds State Park typically accommodates larger units better than forest campgrounds.
Cell service considerations: Cell reception varies significantly throughout camping areas near Rib Lake. "43mbps TMobile and 24mbps Verizon (visible)," reports Scott K. about Medford City Park, making it a good option for those needing connectivity while camping.
