Old Veterans Lake Campground — Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest
Reviewed Sep. 4, 2018

Secluded Hideaway

We stayed at the Heron's Retreat campsite on the Caldron Fall Reservoir. We checked in at the Gov. Thompson State Park headquarters then launched our canoe from the boat launch at the state park. From there it was a short 1 mile paddle to our campsite on the northside of the lake. 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.

Bathrooms consisted of a pit toilet on site, about 40 yards back into the woods along a path.

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. Many downed trees provided enough firewood that we needed for the couple of days we were there.

The lake had very little boat traffic considering it was a holiday weekend when we stayed. This is definitely a site to consider if you are seeking seclusion as the next nearest campsite is a half mile paddle away.

SiteHeron's Retreat
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Old Veterans Lake Campground — Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest by Steven U., September 4, 2018
  • Review photo of Old Veterans Lake Campground — Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest by Steven U., September 4, 2018
  • Review photo of Old Veterans Lake Campground — Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest by Steven U., September 4, 2018
  • Review photo of Old Veterans Lake Campground — Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest by Steven U., September 4, 2018
  • Review photo of Old Veterans Lake Campground — Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest by Steven U., September 4, 2018
  • Review photo of Old Veterans Lake Campground — Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest by Steven U., September 4, 2018
  • Review photo of Old Veterans Lake Campground — Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest by Steven U., September 4, 2018
  • Review photo of Old Veterans Lake Campground — Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest by Steven U., September 4, 2018
  • Review photo of Old Veterans Lake Campground — Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest by Steven U., September 4, 2018
  • Review photo of Old Veterans Lake Campground — Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest by Steven U., September 4, 2018
  • Review photo of Old Veterans Lake Campground — Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest by Steven U., September 4, 2018