Planning the Perfect Wisconsin Northwoods Camping Trip
What a wonderful, practical guide for heading into the Northwoods, Bob!
I love the trick with the tiki torches at 6:00 p.m.—such a clever, proactive way to keep the mosquitoes down before they even become an issue.
There really is nothing quite like that quiet morning cup of coffee by the campfire surrounded by the pines.
Thanks for sharing the great tips!
Planning the Perfect Wisconsin Northwoods Camping Trip
There's something special about waking up beside a quiet northern Wisconsin lake. The call of a loon drifting across the water, a morning cup of coffee by the campfire, towering pines overhead, and evenings filled with stars instead of city lights. Whether you're planning your first trip or you've been camping in the Northwoods for years, like we have, a little preparation can make the difference between a good vacation and a great one.
Choose Your Style of Camping
Northern Wisconsin offers something for everyone.
Developed Campgrounds
If you enjoy amenities like bathrooms, showers, drinking water, and picnic tables, Wisconsin's state parks, county parks, and private campgrounds provide excellent options.National Forest Camping
The Chequamegon–Nicolet National Forest offers numerous developed campgrounds along with opportunities for dispersed camping in many areas. If you enjoy a little more solitude, this can be an outstanding choice.State Forest Camping
Wisconsin's state forests also provide excellent camping opportunities, many with access to hiking trails, lakes, rivers, and wildlife viewing.What Should You Pack?
While every trip is different, don't forget the essentials:
- Tent, stakes, and rain fly
- Sleeping bag and sleeping pad
- Camp chairs
- Cooler with plenty of ice
- Camp stove and fuel
- Matches or lighter (stored in a waterproof container)
- Flashlights and headlamps with extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Pocket knife or multi-tool
- Water bottles and drinking water
- Rain gear
- Extra clothing, including warm layers for cool evenings
- Hiking boots or comfortable shoes
- Firewood (purchase locally whenever possible to help prevent the spread of invasive insects)
Don't Forget the Mosquito Plan
Anyone who has camped in northern Wisconsin knows mosquitoes can become active around dusk.
Many campers immediately reach for bug spray, but I've found another trick works surprisingly well.
Around 6:00 p.m., light two or three tiki torches around the perimeter of your campsite. By the time you're sitting around the fire later in the evening, the mosquito population around camp is often noticeably reduced. It creates a pleasant atmosphere while helping keep those pesky insects at bay.
You may still want insect repellent available for hikes or fishing trips, but a combination of tiki torches, long sleeves during peak mosquito hours, and choosing breezy campsites can make evenings much more enjoyable.
Be Ready for Wisconsin Weather
Weather in the Northwoods changes quickly.
A sunny afternoon can become a thunderstorm within minutes, and even during July, nighttime temperatures may fall into the 40s or 50s.
Pack:
- Rain jacket
- Sweatshirt or fleece
- Extra socks
- Waterproof footwear if possible
It's always better to bring one extra warm layer than wish you had.
Campfire Cooking Makes Everything Taste Better
Some of the best camping memories happen around the fire.
Simple favorites include:
- Brats
- Burgers
- Foil packet meals
- Pancakes
- Fresh fish, remember your fishing license.
- S'mores, of course
Don't forget coffee. Everything tastes better around a morning campfire.
Respect the Woods
The Northwoods remain beautiful because visitors help care for them.
Remember to:
- Pack out your trash.
- Leave campsites cleaner than you found them.
- Respect quiet hours.
- Store food securely to discourage wildlife.
- Never cut standing trees for firewood.
- Follow local fire restrictions.
Explore Beyond the Campsite
Northern Wisconsin offers much more than camping.
Take time to:
- Paddle a quiet lake.
- Hike a forest trail.
- Watch for bald eagles, deer, black bears, and loons.
- Fish one of Wisconsin's incredible lakes or rivers.
- Visit a nearby small town for ice cream or a local fish fry.
Often, the best memories aren't planned—they happen when you slow down and simply enjoy the woods.
Final Thoughts
Camping in northern Wisconsin isn't about rushing from one activity to another. It's about reconnecting—with nature, with family and friends, and with yourself.
Pack well, prepare for the bugs and the weather, respect the forest, and enjoy everything the Wisconsin Northwoods has to offer.
You may discover that after one trip, you'll already be planning your next.
sidebar graphics "10 Things People Forget to Pack" (extra batteries, phone charger, tarp, toilet paper, can opener, sunscreen, etc.)
and "Northwoods Safety Tips" covering ticks, bears, poison ivy, keeping food secure, checking weather forecasts, and letting someone know your itinerary if you're boondocking.
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The Woodland Companies
Nick Crane, Forester, Real Estate Sales Agent, Woodland Real Estate KW Diversified
Bob Crane, Forester, Coach, Real Estate Referral Agent
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2933 Church St,
Stevens Point, WI 54481
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