Northern Wisconsin's forest area surrounding Wabeno sits at approximately 1,540 feet above sea level, with mixed hardwood forests dominated by maple, birch, and pine trees. The region receives about 33 inches of annual precipitation, creating ideal conditions for its numerous lakes and rivers. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F, while winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop well below 0°F.
What to do
Fishing brook trout: Access the Oconto River's Second Branch near Oconto River-2nd Branch for excellent trout fishing. "This area is close to Boulder Lake Campground. If you cannot find the campsite or wish to camp closer to a small river with trout, this is a great location," notes Christopher R.
Swimming in natural lakes: The lakes in this region are typically clean with sandy beaches. At Bear Lake Campground, "The lake has a swimming area & beautiful Sandy beach & is perfect for fishing, swimming and kayaking," according to Lisa R. Many lakes prohibit or limit motorized boats.
Explore artesian wells: Visit Chipmunk Rapids Campground for natural spring water. "The best feature is the artesian well right at the entrance. We filled up with water and the line started just as we finished. Even if you camp elsewhere the water is worth a visit," recommends Art S.
Quiet water activities: Boot Lake Campground offers a unique boot-shaped lake perfect for paddling. "Boot lake is actually the shape of a boot. It provides some decent fishing from shore but excellent fishing from a boat," says Christopher R. Many campers bring canoes or kayaks for exploring.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campsites in the Wabeno area offer secluded spots. At Bear Lake, "Camp sites are large and private. There is drinking water and pit toilets. The pit toliets were the cleanest I have ever used," mentions Kimberly G.
Electric motor-only lakes: Several lakes in the region prohibit gas motors. At Lost Lake Campground, "The campground is very rural, the closest town being Florence which is 20 miles away. It is right off of lost lake which is a small lake that can swim in, small boating, fishing," explains Rachel C.
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Wabeno host diverse wildlife. At Chipmunk Rapids, one camper reported, "Lots of deer and turkeys. Heard wolves at night. It was great!" Many campers recommend early morning or evening for best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Quiet atmosphere: Most campgrounds maintain peaceful environments, especially during weekdays. "This campground is secluded. Campers had their a/c on in their smaller RVs on this warm July weekend," notes Art S. about West Bass Lake.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have spotty or no coverage. One visitor to Boot Lake noted, "ZERO WiFi and cell service." Download maps before arrival as GPS may fail in remote areas.
Insects can be significant: Ticks and mosquitoes are common, especially in May through August. "Beautiful Lakes secluded areas and a crazy amount of ticks in May. This could be why we were the only people in our loop of the campground so early in the season," warns Jill G. from Governor Thompson State Park Campground.
Firewood regulations: Most campgrounds prohibit bringing outside firewood due to invasive species concerns. At Boot Lake, a camper advised, "Be sure to get you firewood & ice in town, as there is none available in the campground."
Water access varies: Some campsites have direct water access while others require a walk. "We had an awesome campsite with access to the lake right from our site. Spent several hours kayaking & fishing on Boot Lake," shares Vicki B.
Tips for camping with families
Large campsites for group setups: Bear Lake offers spacious sites for families. "The sites are large & private with a few waterfront sites. Vault toilets are available. The lake has a swimming area & beautiful Sandy beach," notes Lisa R.
Playgrounds at select sites: Some campgrounds offer play areas for children. At West Bass Lake, "There is a large playground next to a small beach. Many people used the boat launch to go out on the water," according to Art S.
Yurt camping options: For families seeking yurt camping near Wabeno, Wisconsin, Wildman Adventure Resort offers sturdy yurts with electricity and water hookups. These structures provide comfortable glamping accommodations without requiring extensive camping gear.
Shallow swimming areas: Many lakes feature gradual entry points ideal for younger children. Boot Lake has "a beach nice size with a roped off swimming area that has plenty of space for the kids to swim and explore," according to previous visitors.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Most campgrounds near Wabeno accommodate smaller RVs only. At Oconto River-2nd Branch, Skip H. advises, "Absolutely no trailers larger than a teardrop. Even that is questionable. I wouldn't recommend anything larger than a van or sprinter."
Limited hookups: Many sites offer electric only or no hookups. "We have been camping here twice this year & absolutely love it! Rustic with no electric hook-ups. There is a pump for drinking water," shares Lisa R. about Bear Lake.
Level sites available: Despite the forest setting, many campsites are surprisingly level. At West Bay Camping Resort, Charles M. notes, "Most are fairly level or it doesnt take much to make your camper level."
Generator restrictions: Most forest service and state park campgrounds prohibit generator use. Check specific campground rules before arrival if you require power. At Governor Thompson State Park, most RVers stay in the electric sites section rather than the rustic loops.
