The Wausaukee area sits within northeastern Wisconsin's mixed hardwood forests, where the Peshtigo River and numerous lakes create a patchwork of water features. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F, while evening temperatures can drop to 55°F even during peak camping season. Most campgrounds in this area operate from May through October, with limited winter accessibility.
What to do
Water activities on Peshtigo River: At Peshtigo River Campground, tubing is a popular summer activity. "They rent tubes for $14/person. Cooler floats are $8. This includes the bus service to the drop off anytime between 10 and 3pm. I would dedicate 3-4 hours to the tube trip," notes reviewer Mike W.
Fishing opportunities: River Park in nearby Stephenson offers fishing access right from campsites. "My wife and I were blessed to spend a night at this idyllic site as my mother graciously watched our daughter for the night to let us enjoy camping together. We brought the dogs with; and we were able to kayak and fish along the river within view of our campsite," writes David K.
Geocaching adventures: Governor Thompson State Park Campground offers geocaching for those seeking outdoor scavenger hunts. "Lots of geocaches in the park to keep us busy," mentions Jill G., who adds that the park has "beautiful lakes, secluded areas" worth exploring.
ATV trail access: Tranquil~Vista Campground provides direct access to ATV recreation. "There are miles of ATV and Side x side trails down the road. We spend the whole day riding and never see it all and they are well groomed," according to Shane's review.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the secluded feeling of sites at many Wausaukee-area campgrounds. Jeff F. notes about Governor Thompson State Park Campground: "Walked the loops looking at other campsites and most are very private. The wood grab was very generous and rather than them taking 5 small pieces and wrapping them together with cellophane, you fill up a wheelbarrow via honor system with large split dry logs."
Clean facilities: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Wausaukee maintain well-kept restrooms and showers. At Twin Bridge County Park, Stacey N. reports, "Clean toilets. Friendly staff… and a whole wheelbarrow of firewood for 10 bucks. Two things to note: bring quarters for the showers… and firewood can only be purchased on site from 3:30-4:00 daily."
Lake and water access: Old Veterans Lake Campground offers swimming opportunities. "This site was wooded, with many tall trees which gave great shade, and also spots for hammocks. A fire ring and grate were included along with a picnic table and two chairs," writes Steven U., who stayed at Heron's Retreat campsite nearby.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife. "We came across plenty of wildlife including herons as well as deer, turtles, wild turkey, and loons while hiking and paddling around the reservoir," notes Alex L. about Peshtigo River State Forest.
What you should know
Bear and wildlife awareness: Some campgrounds require proper food storage. At Heron's Retreat in Peshtigo River State Forest, Steven U. shares: "This was our first time in 'bear country' so we found trees to hang our food and garbage from to keep from attracting wildlife at night."
Seasonal pest considerations: Ticks are prevalent in spring months. "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. Sprayed the entire site with Apple cider vinegar to try to keep the ticks off the dogs," warns Jill G. about Governor Thompson State Park.
Road access challenges: Some pet-friendly accommodations near Wausaukee have difficult access roads. A reviewer notes about River Park: "I would not recommend this campground for anyone with a larger camper. I have a 38' long, 12'+ tall bumper pull and was scraping the roof on trees and struggled to get backed into the site."
Limited services: Many campgrounds have restricted operating hours. Stacey N. points out that at Twin Bridge County Park, "firewood can only be purchased on site from 3:30-4:00 daily," requiring planning ahead for evening fires.
Tips for camping with families
Beach and playground access: Diamond Lake Family Campground offers activities for children. Jennifer G. reports: "We don't have small kids but 2 of the couples we were with did and they had so much fun with the water chute and inflatables."
Frog catching and fishing spots: Several campsites feature accessible wildlife areas for children. At Old Veterans Lake Campground, Melissa K. shares: "We come here with the kids every spring. They always catch frogs, fish, and turtles. They also enjoy swimming across, and hiking and biking around the lake."
Quieter options for sensitive children: Some campgrounds enforce quiet hours for family-friendly environments. Nathan reports about Diamond Lake Family Campground: "As a privately owned campground, they take their rules and security seriously to make sure their campground is safe, clean, fun, and quiet (during quiet hours)."
Seasonal berry picking: Foraging opportunities exist at some sites. "Wild blackberries along the trails and camp sight," mentions Molly M. about Old Veterans Lake Campground, providing a natural snacking activity.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Choose carefully at pet-welcoming campgrounds around Wausaukee. PJ F. advises about Governor Thompson State Park: "For reference: We have a 19ft travel trailer & a ford truck. We stayed at site 19, it is pull in & it was perfect, with plenty of room for everything. We took a walk to be nosy & also liked site 20, it was even bigger! Site 14 looked great for a pull thru site."
Full hookup availability: Peshtigo River Campground offers complete services for RVers with pets. Mike W. notes: "There are several full hook up sites that are nicely spaced. All in all, it is a peaceful, clean, well run campground that I highly recommend."
Seasonal considerations: Campground accessibility changes throughout the operating season. "The park is nice, but a little underwhelming. Nice sites - both back-up and pull-thru. Bathrooms and showers were excellent. There are also pit toilets in the loops," shares Scott D. about Governor Thompson State Park.
