Nicolet National Forest manages this two-site dispersed camping area along the Oconto River, where the water runs cold and steady, fed by an aquifer upstream. Both sites sit close to the river, with a short path connecting campers to the bank, and each is marked with a brown "campsite" sign off Mountain Lake Road. Boulder Lake Lodge Campground lies roughly 1.6 miles to the northwest, and North branch oconto river is another option in the same corridor for those exploring the area.
Road access is the most consistent concern across reviews. A sedan can make it to the sites with care, but at least one reviewer found a 2WD truck struggled, and the consensus is that a high-clearance or 4x4 vehicle is the safer choice. Do not continue past the campsites in either direction unless the vehicle is lifted. The entrance to the second site may be slightly easier to navigate. Expect no cell service; AT&T users report a complete dead zone.
Cleanliness has been inconsistent. One visitor found trash left behind, so arriving prepared to pack out more than your own waste is worth considering. An in-ground fire pit and an outdoor toilet are on-site. Off-road vehicle traffic moves through the area with some regularity, which affects the noise level. Zachary S. notes the water is "very cold, and flows from an aquifer upstream," a detail worth knowing for anyone planning to use the river. Bring water filtration and plan for limited amenities beyond the basics.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsOconto River off Mountain Lake Road is located in Wisconsin near Mountain
Coordinates
45.14818 N
88.597145 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 9/4/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 9/4/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 17 min from Green Bay, WI
- 1 hr 19 min from Wausau, WI
- 1 hr 26 min from Appleton, WI
- 1 hr 44 min from Oshkosh, WI











