Dispersed camping near Townsend, Wisconsin offers sites within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest where elevations range from 1,200 to 1,600 feet. Winter temperatures often drop below zero, while summer days typically reach 75-85°F with cooler nights in the 50s. Forest roads throughout the area open seasonally, with many accessible from mid-May through October depending on snow conditions and spring thaw status.
What to do
Paddle quiet waters: Three Johns Lake Dispersed campsite provides a secluded tent-only option with a short walk to your site. "Tents only. Short walk to campsite only one on lake. 5 dollar parking national Forest," notes one camper who appreciated the privacy.
Fish from shore: Wolf Lake Campsite offers fishing opportunities right from your camp. A visitor reported, "Stayed two nights in September it was quiet fishing was so so." The small lake hosts wildlife including loons, creating a peaceful angling experience.
Explore hiking trails: Indian Lake provides a convenient base for trail exploration. "The campsite is just off a paved road making it easily accessible. Many hiking opportunities are nearby," mentions a reviewer who gave the site five stars.
Cool off with swimming: Several lake sites feature small sandy beaches perfect for swimming. Woodbury Lake receives praise for its "sandy beach great for swimming or paddling," making it ideal for hot summer days when temperatures climb into the 80s.
What campers like
Solitude and wildlife: Woodbury Lake Campsite offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. One visitor noted, "This remote site has a sandy beach great for swimming or paddling. There is space for a trailer."
Water access: McKinley Lake Dispersed site provides direct lake access with parking adjacent to the tent area. A camper described it as "A single campsite can park next to tent only. Access to lake," highlighting the convenience for those bringing kayaks or canoes.
Riverside camping: Oconto River off Mountain Lake Road draws visitors seeking moving water. "Very cool spot right on the river. In ground fire pit. Decent amount of off-road vehicle traffic. No service :)" shared one camper who appreciated the riverside location despite occasional ATV traffic.
Small lakes: Many visitors appreciate the intimate nature of the smaller lakes. Several sites feature just one campsite per lake, allowing campers to experience the feeling of having an entire lake to themselves, especially during weekdays.
What you should know
Access challenges: Many sites have difficult entrances that may require high-clearance vehicles. At Oconto River, a visitor warned, "Very cool spot. Turn off is rough. 4x4 recommended. 2wd truck couldn't make it easily." Always assess road conditions before attempting access.
Payment locations: Most paid sites ($5 fee) require self-payment at designated locations. For McCaslin Brook sites, payment is collected at Wheeler Walker Beach rather than at individual campsites.
Limited parking: McCaslin Brook Dispersed site has specific size restrictions. A camper noted, "There are three sites two small one large site which you can fit larger camper or RV in. Entrances need a lot of TLC washed out and large drop from paved road." Advance scouting is recommended for larger vehicles.
Cell service: Connectivity varies dramatically across the area. Many sites report no service, while others have limited carrier-specific coverage. At Oconto River South Branch, campers can find "Peace for $5" with minimal connectivity, making these locations ideal for those seeking a digital detox.
Tips for camping with families
Lakefront options: McKinley Lake Dispersed offers a family-friendly setting with easy water access. "A single campsite can park next to tent only. Access to lake," notes a visitor, making it suitable for families who want swimming opportunities directly from their campsite.
Toilet facilities: Sites with wilderness toilets provide better options for families with young children. South Branch of Oconto River features "a clean and maintained vault toilet," according to a recent visitor, making longer stays more comfortable.
Swimming beaches: Several sites feature natural sandy beaches that gradually slope into the water. Woodbury Lake's "sandy beach great for swimming or paddling" offers safer water entry points for children compared to rocky or steep-banked locations.
Space considerations: For families requiring more room, look for the larger sites. The third site at McCaslin Brook "is a deep, large site away from the road facing west" and "is so spacious and could easily be for a large group," according to a visitor who stayed there.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller trailers only. A Wolf Lake visitor noted, "I had 8 foot pop up could fit a 20 footer easy or tent camp," providing a specific size reference for potential campers.
Solar considerations: Oconto River - South Branch offers varying sun exposure between its two sites. A camper observed, "The first has more of an opening if solar and Starlink matter to you. The second was tucked in the back where the road turns around," which is important information for those relying on solar power.
Mountain Lakes access: The Mountain Lakes Rd Dispersed site caters specifically to ATV enthusiasts with trailers. One visitor described it as a "Big site for ATV campers right off trail can probably get toy hauler in here easy," making it one of the few areas suitable for specialized RV setups.
Entrance challenges: Many sites have difficult approaches that may damage lower-clearance RVs. At McCaslin Brook, a camper warned about the third site having "a bad easement" where they "bottomed our minivan coming in but were able to leave going out on the far right edge," highlighting the need for careful navigation.
