Best Tent Camping near Stone Lake, WI
Tent camping near Stone Lake, Wisconsin provides access to several waterfront and forest sites within the Namekagon River area. Phipps Landing offers established tent sites along the Namekagon River with both drive-in and walk-in access options. Nearby Howell Landing provides tent-only camping with walk-in sites that offer river access. Sawmill Park in Birchwood, approximately 20 miles south of Stone Lake, maintains year-round tent campsites with basic amenities. Straight Lake State Park, though slightly farther, features hike-in backcountry tent camping with sites positioned near water.
Most primitive tent camping locations in the Stone Lake region require campers to bring their own water or filtration systems. Phipps Landing has three established tent sites with fire pits and pit toilets but no potable water on site. According to reviews, one site is more secluded than the others, offering more privacy for tent campers. First-come, first-served policies apply at most locations, with no reservations accepted at Phipps Landing and several other primitive sites. Summer brings mosquitoes, particularly at waterfront locations, so proper repellent is essential. Fire regulations vary seasonally, with some sites providing firewood while others require campers to bring their own or collect downed wood according to local regulations.
The backcountry tent camping experience near Stone Lake centers around water access and fishing opportunities. Campers noted that Phipps Landing allows both drive-in access and canoe access, making it versatile for different styles of tent camping. One visitor reported, "You can drive in and park at this site, or canoe down the Namekagon and pull up. There are 2 small sites with fire pits near the parking and landing, and one large group site." At Howell Landing, reviews indicate it's "a clean, well-kept little campground" with "tent only access to the Namekagon River," though the group site setup offers limited separation between parties. The Namekagon River corridor provides opportunities for multi-day paddling trips with primitive tent camping along the banks, ideal for anglers and paddlers seeking solitude.