Primitive camping near Suamico, Wisconsin includes several National Forest sites within the Nicolet portion of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. These dispersed camping locations sit on predominantly sandy soil with mixed hardwood and conifer forests. Most sites experience seasonal changes that affect accessibility, particularly during spring thaw and after heavy rains when forest roads become difficult to navigate even with appropriate vehicles.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Multiple dispersed sites provide stream access, with the Sturgeon Bay Canal attracting fishermen throughout the season. As one camper noted, "We stayed here the night of the Fourth of July and it was pretty quiet. There's another spot slightly up the road and we saw a couple people RV camping."
Stargazing: The limited light pollution at these remote sites creates exceptional night sky viewing. At Sturgeon Bay Canal, a visitor shared: "Overall really nice, the stars were beautiful. Built a small fire and toasted marshmallows!"
ATV trail access: Several sites connect directly to the regional trail system. The Mountain Lakes Rd Dispersed site offers "Big site for ATV campers right off trail can probably get toy hauler in here easy," according to a recent visitor.
Stream exploration: Cold water streams and small waterfalls provide natural features to explore. Some sites require hiking to reach these features, with varying degrees of difficulty.
What campers like
Isolation: The remote nature of these sites appeals to those seeking solitude. According to a camper at Oconto River off Mountain Lake Road: "Loved this spot. Stayed two nights, and the first night was almost absolutely silent other than the waterfall (difficult to access) about a mile away."
Natural water features: Several sites offer direct access to rivers or streams. At Oconto River, a visitor described: "The campsite is right along a deep, and steadily moving stream. Water is very cold, and flows from an aquifer upstream."
Basic infrastructure: Some sites provide minimal but appreciated amenities. At Mountain Lakes Rd Dispersed camping, a review mentioned, "Small pull off little ways off 64 on mountain lakes Rd. Pick nik table and fire ring."
Gravel parking areas: Several sites feature level, gravel areas suitable for overnight parking. At Sturgeon Bay Canal, a reviewer noted: "Mostly gravel parking lot with a mowed area for tenting. Im in a van/RV. Parked in the lot overnight. Flat, serviceable."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to dispersed sites often require high-clearance vehicles. One camper at Oconto River stated, "4x4 recommended. 2wd truck couldn't make it easily."
Limited amenities: Most sites lack basic facilities. A visitor to Sturgeon Bay Canal described it as having "No hiking trails, no amenities, just a place to stay."
Cellular coverage: Connectivity varies significantly between sites. An Oconto River camper reported "AT&T: No Service" while Sturgeon Bay Canal had "Good WiFi" according to one visitor.
Insect activity: Sites near water typically have substantial mosquito populations. One visitor to Pioneer Park warned the area is "covered in mosquitos. Easy access and large site, but I wouldn't stop here unless you have to."
Site cleanliness: Previous camper impact varies between locations. At Oconto River, a visitor found "a lot of trash left" and noted a "short path to river this is a two site spot good distance between them."
Tips for camping with families
Tick prevention: Grassy areas near some sites harbor ticks. At Sturgeon Bay Canal, a 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. Neither my friend or I got any ticks but we did spray pretty heavily."
Noise considerations: Some sites experience vehicle traffic or highway noise. A visitor to Pioneer Park warned, "You're right next to the highway and the area is covered in mosquitos."
Water safety: Streams near camping areas can have swift currents and cold temperatures. At Oconto River, a camper observed the water was "very cold, and flows from an aquifer upstream."
Campsite selection: Choose sites based on vehicle capabilities. For Oconto River, a reviewer advised: "Do not follow road past campsites, either way unless your vehicle is lifted. My sedan would have gotten stuck if I tried."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs only. At Mountain Lakes Rd, a visitor noted the site was suitable for "toy haulers" but most sites have limited turning room.
Surface conditions: Expect unimproved parking areas. A visitor to Sturgeon Bay Canal described: "Easy to find. Plenty of room. Good gravel road, easy turn around."
Leveling requirements: Bring leveling blocks as sites are rarely perfectly flat. Sturgeon Bay Canal was described as "Flat, serviceable" but conditions vary seasonally.
Entry considerations: Scout approaches before committing to entry. For Oconto River, a camper advised: "The entrance was doable for my sedan, but was tricky. I believe a camper could make it going slowly. The second campsite entrance may have an easier time in."
