Primitive camping areas surround Rib Lake, Wisconsin in the heart of Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, where glacial formations shaped the terrain thousands of years ago. Most tent sites near Rib Lake sit at elevations between 1,500-1,700 feet with dense northern hardwood and conifer forests providing natural windbreaks. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F with higher humidity levels than western Wisconsin.
What to do
Fishing from canoes or kayaks: North Twin Lake Recreation Area offers excellent catch opportunities on a no-wake lake. "There is excellent fishing mostly consisting of Bass and Bluegills and Perch. It's a no wake lake so plan on just using a trolling motor or even a canoe to fish," notes Aaron D.
Hiking the Ice Age Trail: The 1,200-mile trail crosses through several camping areas near Rib Lake, featuring unique glacial formations. At Sailor Creek Campsite, you'll experience "the mile-long Hemlock Esker. An Esker is basically an inverted river... It also provides incredible views as you're about 80 feet up," according to Steph H.
Swimming in natural lakes: During summer months, several forest lakes provide refreshing swimming options. A camper at Wabasso Lake Recreation Area mentions, "The lake is gorgeous and swimmable. The only amenities are a vault toilet and water."
What campers like
Primitive lake access: The tent sites at Wabasso Lake Recreation Area provide walk-in access directly to the shoreline. "There are only walk-in tent sites here... Wabasso Lake is visible from campsite but step closer and it's beauty awaits," writes Art S.
Privacy between sites: Many tent camping areas near Rib Lake offer secluded spots despite being established campgrounds. At Northside Lake Eleven Campsite, one camper reports, "This site also provided excellent space for hammock camping. Located next to the lake, it provided ease of access to water that was drinkable with a filtration system."
Wildlife viewing: The forest settings provide opportunities to observe deer and smaller forest creatures. At Moen Lake Campground, a camper notes, "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 facilities: Most tent sites near Rib Lake offer minimal amenities. A camper at Northside Lake Eleven states, "This site has a nice stone fire pit with log benches surrounding it. Plenty of downed/dead trees provide firewood. There is no pit toilet at this location but plenty of open wooded area to find a spot to do your business."
Seasonal restrictions: Many sites close during winter months or late fall. Picnic Point Campground operates from "April 29 to October 30" according to site information, while other primitive sites may not be maintained during off-seasons.
Water filtration requirements: Backcountry tent camping near Rib Lake typically requires treating water. At Sailor Creek Campsite, campers find that "It is located in a grove of hemlocks about 150 feet away from your water source, Sailor Creek," requiring proper filtration equipment.
Reservation limitations: Several camping areas operate on first-come, first-served basis. At Camp New Wood County Park, Kendra N. mentions, "This first come first served campground with only 7 sites still had some available... Others we spoke to that stayed there before said its hardly ever full and you can easily get a spot."
Tips for camping with families
Consider accessibility needs: Some sites require significant walking to reach facilities. At Wabasso Lake Recreation Area, Dennis L. notes, "This campground has 4 walk-in campsites, each with a picnic table, and suitable areas for tents. There is a hand pump for water and vault toilet in the parking lot."
Day use alternatives: For families with young children, consider day-use areas that offer similar experiences without overnight commitment. A reviewer at Newman Lake Shelter suggests, "If you're looking for a place to rest and play for the day this is a good choice. I grew up in this region and this little spot is a hidden gem for day camping, fishing, picnicking, and swimming."
Plan for limited shower facilities: Most tent camping areas near Rib Lake lack shower facilities. Camp New Wood County Park campers report, "There are no showers but that didn't bother us for the 2 nights we were there," making it better for shorter family trips.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions matter: Large RVs face challenges at most camping areas near Rib Lake. At Camp New Wood County Park, Amanda K. mentions, "There is only 7 sites," which limits space for larger vehicles.
Prepare for electrical limitations: When tent camping near Rib Lake with equipment requiring power, options are limited. At Moen Lake Campground, Luis notes, "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."
Firewood regulations: Wisconsin enforces strict firewood transport rules due to invasive species. "Apparently there have been beetle issues in Wisconsin and most campgrounds require you to buy your firewood locally or on-site," advises a Moen Lake camper.
