Best Dispersed Camping near Summit Lake, WI

Alaska offers a diverse range of camping experiences across its vast wilderness areas, with numerous established campgrounds and backcountry options. The region includes developed facilities like Homer Spit Campground along the coastline and Eklutna Lake Campground in Chugach State Park, providing amenities for tent campers, RV travelers, and those seeking cabin accommodations. Several campgrounds feature waterfront locations with views of glaciers, mountains, and wildlife, while others are nestled in forested settings that offer more seclusion.

Seasonal considerations heavily impact camping in Alaska, with most campgrounds operating from May through September. Winter camping is available at select locations like Riley Creek Campground in Denali National Park, which remains open year-round. Many sites require advance reservations during peak summer months when tourism surges. Facilities vary widely, from primitive sites with basic pit toilets to developed campgrounds offering electric hookups, showers, and dump stations. Weather conditions can change rapidly, particularly in mountainous areas. A visitor noted, "This is a great, smaller campground to choose when the popular nearby spots fill up with anglers. For some reason, this spot is not as in demand as the Russian River campground, despite having many of the same amenities."

Campers consistently highlight the spectacular natural settings as the primary draw of Alaska's campgrounds. Waterfront sites along lakes and rivers receive particularly high ratings, with many offering views of glaciers or mountain ranges. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, though visitors should be prepared for encounters with bears and other large mammals. Several reviewers mentioned the importance of mosquito protection during summer months. Proximity to hiking trails, fishing spots, and boating access points enhances the camping experience at many locations. According to one camper, "The campground was quiet but we could walk the Trail of Blue Ice which had an entrance in the campground. Cell service in Alaska is hit or miss but AT&T was pretty much useless and Verizon was not much better…but who comes out here for that."

Best Dispersed Sites Near Summit Lake, Wisconsin (16)

    1. Horn Lake Camping

    4 Reviews
    Irma, WI
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 539-1034

    "Land to the north is private property, so keep that in mind. You'll see a few houses on the way in.
    If you travel to the left where the road "T's" off, take care."

    "We camped here in May not much for skeeters, good sites on the lake with a fire pit on a dead end road with a boat landing."

    2. Oconto River off Mountain Lake Road

    4 Reviews
    Mountain, WI
    33 miles

    "Stayed two nights, and the first night was almost absolutely silent other than the waterfall (difficult to access) about a mile away. The campsite is right along a deep, and steadily moving stream."

    "Decent amount of off-road vehicle traffic. No service :)"

    4. McCaslin Brook Dispersed site

    5 Reviews
    Lakewood, WI
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 362-1300

    "Entrances need a lot of TLC washed out and large drop from paved road. Middle camp site has best access to brook I put a 8 foot pop up in it you could go bigger 20 foot max."

    "The first site, east side, is a pull in right off the road with the pit and table a few steps down from the parking pad. The second site is a pull through facing west right off the road."

    5. Woodbury Lake Campsite

    1 Review
    Hiles, WI
    30 miles

    "Tent spot by lake boat access."

    6. Octonto River - South Branch

    1 Review
    Townsend, WI
    31 miles

    "There are 2 campsites at this trailhead, pretty well spaced apart. 

    The first has more of an opening if solar and Starlink matter to you."

    7. Wolf Lake Campsite

    1 Review
    Three Lakes, WI
    32 miles

    "I had 8 foot pop up could fit a 20 footer easy or tent camp. Seen two fire ring along the right shore of lake accessable by water."

    8. Mountain Lakes Rd Dispersed

    1 Review
    Mountain, WI
    34 miles

    "Small pull off little ways off 64 on mountain lakes Rd. Pick nik table and fire ring. Big site for ATV campers right off trail can probably get toy hauler in here easy."

    9. Three Johns Lake Dispersed

    1 Review
    Three Lakes, WI
    39 miles

    "Short walk to campsite only one on lake. 5 dollar parking national Forest."

    10. McKinley Lake Dispersed

    1 Review
    Three Lakes, WI
    39 miles

    "A single campsite can park next to tent only. Access to lake"

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Showing results 1-10 of 16 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Summit Lake, WI

22 Reviews of 16 Summit Lake Campgrounds



Guide to Summit Lake

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Summit Lake, Wisconsin, where nature lovers can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of spots that cater to different camping styles, from lakeside retreats to secluded forest hideaways.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Summit Lake, Wisconsin

  • For those seeking a peaceful experience, Horn Lake Camping provides a quiet spot right on the water, perfect for enjoying the tranquility of nature.
  • If you prefer a more rustic experience, the Oconto River off Mountain Lake Road offers two dispersed sites with a charming river view, ideal for fishing and relaxing by the water.
  • Be prepared for a bit of a trek to reach Woodbury Lake Campsite, which is accessible via a dirt road but rewards campers with beautiful lake views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Enjoy fishing and water activities while free camping near Summit Lake

  • The Wolf Lake Campsite is a great choice for anglers, featuring a small lake where you can cast your line and enjoy a quiet day by the water.
  • At Harriet Lake Campsite, you can take advantage of the serene surroundings for kayaking or canoeing, as the lake is motor-free, ensuring a peaceful experience.
  • For those who enjoy boating, Horn Lake and Lincoln County Forest has a boat launch nearby, making it easy to explore the waters and enjoy a day on the lake.

Dispersed campers should check out McKinley Lake

  • The McKinley Lake Dispersed site offers a unique opportunity to camp right next to the water, providing easy access for swimming and fishing.
  • With only one campsite available, this location ensures a private experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in nature without distractions.
  • The area surrounding McKinley Lake is perfect for hiking, with trails that lead to stunning views and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Summit Lake, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Summit Lake, WI is Horn Lake Camping with a 4.5-star rating from 4 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Summit Lake, WI?

TheDyrt.com has all 16 dispersed camping locations near Summit Lake, WI, with real photos and reviews from campers.