Primitive tent camping opportunities dot the Namekagon River watershed near Trego, Wisconsin, with most sites situated along the Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway. The region features diverse ecosystems spanning boreal forest and wetland environments, with approximately 25 miles of designated water trails suitable for paddling excursions. Campsites typically range from 8 to 12 miles apart along the river corridor, creating natural stopping points for multi-day paddling trips.
What to do
River paddling access points: Namekagon Trail Bridge provides direct river access for canoe and kayak paddlers. "Beautiful river! Instead of paddling down the river I'd recommend turning this into a nice float/fishing trip. They provide nice maps depicting where off shore camping sites are," notes Joseph L., who spent three days paddling and camping along the waterway.
Fishing opportunities: The Namekagon River system contains smallmouth bass, northern pike, and panfish populations in deeper pools. "Caught great fish and camping off the rice banks was great," reports one visitor who stayed at the Dog Town campsite along the river corridor.
Dispersed riverside camping: Schoen Park offers primitive camping without designated sites. "There's another small site cut out from the road that's somewhat separated from the main sites. There's enough room for small campers," explains Michael U. The location provides direct access to the water for fishing or swimming.
What campers like
Secluded camping options: Phipps Landing features three designated sites with varying privacy levels. "Lovely spot on the Namekagan River. Three established tent sites, one is more secluded than the others," describes Paul H., noting that some road noise from the nearby highway can be heard.
Free, first-come camping: Several riverside camping areas operate without reservation systems or fees. "Camping is free, FCFS," mentions Arctic D. about Phipps Landing, which offers both drive-in access and water-based camping opportunities for paddlers.
Primitive amenities: Sites maintain minimal development to preserve the natural environment. Clarke N. appreciates Schoen Park as "a great spot for the primitive campers. There are no real sites, more of a dispersed camping area. No reservations."
What you should know
Vehicle access limitations: Many tent camping areas have restricted vehicle access or turnaround space. "Don't try to bring anything too big into here or you will be in trouble. We have a 19' travel trailer and it wasn't a problem but turning around is tight," cautions Clarke N. about accessing Schoen Park.
Water availability: Most tent camping locations require campers to bring their own drinking water or filtration equipment. Arctic D. advises visitors to Phipps Landing: "Bring your own water or filtration. No rubbish bins."
Site configurations: Howell Landing features a group camping arrangement rather than individual sites. Nickole D. notes it consists of "one large group site. Tent only with access to the Namekagon River. Plenty of parking. The only downside was no separation from other parties due to the group site setup."
Tips for camping with families
Basic site selection: Choose riverside locations with easy water access for activities with children. The best tent camping near Trego, Wisconsin for families includes sites where kids can safely explore shorelines. Michael U. recommends the separated site at Schoen Park as it provides more privacy from other campers.
River float planning: Plan shorter paddling segments when traveling with children. Joseph L. suggests: "Instead of paddling down the river I'd recommend turning this into a nice float/fishing trip. They provide nice maps depicting where off shore camping sites are."
Insect preparation: Bring appropriate protection against mosquitoes, especially during early summer months. "Bring your bug spray!" emphasizes Joseph L. about camping along the Namekagon, particularly at secluded sites like Dog Town.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: K and C Country Air Campground provides options for small RVs seeking more amenities than river landings offer. Forest R. describes it as a "great place water sewer electric sites, very quiet campground" located approximately 20 miles from Trego.
Primitive RV options: Several river landings accommodate small trailers but lack hookups. Clarke N. reports successfully bringing a 19-foot travel trailer to Schoen Park but cautions about tight turns and limited maneuvering space.
Seasonal considerations: River access campgrounds may become difficult to access during spring flooding or following heavy rainfall events. Road conditions can deteriorate quickly, particularly at sites with unimproved access routes.
