Primitive camping near Sarona, Wisconsin offers overnight options on public lands without developed facilities. The area features sandy soils and a mix of northern hardwood and conifer forests at elevations between 1,000-1,300 feet. Winter camping is possible but access roads to most dispersed sites remain unplowed, with temperatures frequently dropping below zero from December through February.
What to do
Mountain biking access: The FlowMama Trail Head Dispersed camping area connects directly to the CAMBA trail system. "Nice clean and quiet site. No facilities or cell service. Easy access to mountain bike trails," notes Mike B., emphasizing the importance of responsible use with "Keep it clean if you use it."
Fishing opportunities: Grace Lake Road Dispersed provides direct water access for anglers. According to Michael S., "Stayed a night here on our way up to the boundary waters... You're about 20 foot from the water and fishing is good." Many dispersed sites around Sarona allow shore fishing without needing a boat.
Riverside hiking: Sandy Cove on the St. Croix River offers trail access in both directions. Travis B. describes, "Well managed gravel trail to the south and single wide footpath to the north... The crushed gravel path to the south makes travel to the nearby Lions park easy."
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Primitive camping sites near Sarona generally offer peaceful surroundings. At FlowMama Trail Head, Chris P. notes the area has a "Small parking lot located off well-maintained gravel roads. Nice and quiet flat no facilities."
River views: Sandrock Cliffs within the Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway provides elevated camping with scenic views. Cody M. describes it as a "Nice place for camping, on the sandstone cliffs, beautiful area. Good location."
Accessibility options: Some dispersed sites include accommodations for different needs. At Sandy Cove, Travis B. notes "The table has an extra long side for those in a wheelchair," indicating at least some consideration for accessible camping at primitive sites.
What you should know
Site conditions vary seasonally: Riverside areas can experience significant changes after weather events. At Sandy Cove, a visitor observed, "We visited in April after historic snowfall and thaw causing the river to flood... I'd imagine when the river is lower with the fire ring and table where they're supposed to be this would be a nice place for the night."
Narrow access roads: Some sites have challenging entry points. At Grace Lake, Michael S. warns, "Gate is very narrow had to fold the mirrors on my Tacoma to squeeze through but if you park at the entrance it's a short walk."
Weekend crowding: Proximity to populated areas means some sites receive heavy use. At Sandrock Cliffs, Joslyn H. experienced issues when "the parking lot was also full of cars... Since this spot is accessible by road I'm assuming that its best not to visit in the summer, it seems to be a place that gets abused by the locals as a party area."
Permit requirements: Some riverway sites require camping permits, while most forest dispersed sites do not. Always check current regulations before setting up camp.
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Not all roadside camping areas feel secure for everyone. At Chinty Lake Roadside Camp, aly E. noted, "This is literally just a roadside pull off... two girls traveling did not feel comfortable spending the night here and went somewhere else."
Location verification: GPS coordinates for some sites may be inaccurate. Julia D. advises about Grace Lake Road Dispersed, "This spot was super nice and peaceful! Lots of different dispersed spots. Go down Tamarack Forest Road, which is a little further than the location on here."
Facilities planning: Most dispersed sites have no restroom facilities. Emily notes that at Sandrock Cliffs, "There is a pit toilet by the parking lot. No trash, showers or water that we saw."
Tips from RVers
RV access limitations: Most dispersed camping areas near Sarona have restricted access for larger vehicles. At Grace Lake Road, Lizzy K. observed "A lot of ATV traffic but super friendly people, really buggy but a few nice spots to pull into for the night," suggesting the area can accommodate smaller RVs.
Parking alternatives: When road conditions or space limitations prevent direct access, consider parking strategies. For narrow entries like at Grace Lake, one camper suggests folding mirrors in or parking at the entrance and walking gear to your site.
