The best camping near Governor Thompson State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Governor Thompson State Park adventure.

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Discover Governor Thompson State Park's natural beauty and outdoor activities.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Governor Thompson State Park

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River Forest Campground & Rafting

51 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · White Lake, WI

Immerse yourself in nature at our spacious campground, nestled on nearly 40 acres in the heart of the Nicolet National Forest. Every campsite boasts a private fire pit and picnic table for ultimate relaxation. Enjoy modern conveniences with clean flush toilets, individual tiled showers, 20 and 30amp service and our newly added dump station. Refresh and replenish with on-site amenities including water, firewood, and ice. Our convenient store offers everything from beer and liquor to camping essentials and groceries. Satisfy your sweet tooth at our ice cream parlor. Thrill-seekers and water lovers, get ready for an unforgettable adventure! The Wolf River offers something for everyone, from Safe and fun Whitewater Kayaking, to active white water tubing to heart-pounding whitewater rafting. Choose from guided or self-guided tours, and let us take the hassle out of transportation with our convenient shuttle service to any river access point. For an even more exhilarating experience, embark on the Big Smokey Falls Rafting adventure. This 3.5-hour journey takes you through a stunning 30-foot granite canyon, conquering two exhilarating waterfalls and navigating six sets of Class 2-3 rapids. Not only will you create lasting memories, but you'll also support the Menominee Tribe. Enjoy a delicious lunch mid-trip at a Menominee owned and operated snack shack before tackling the rest of the rapids. Their top-of-the-line self-bailing rafts are in high demand, so reserve your spot early with a $10 deposit. Guided tours fill up quickly, so call us after booking your campsite. Explore the great outdoors with hiking trails, fishing, boating, and swimming just a short distance away. Mountain biking enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby trails - Nicolet Roche. Call for pontoon rentals. Gather your group and make unforgettable memories at one of our spacious group sites, available with and without electric hookups. Unwind and relax with a delicious meal at one of the many local restaurants or taverns. Or stay in and enjoy live music at our campground! We host a variety of acts throughout the summer, culminating in our Your Good Fest over Memorial Day weekend, featuring a diverse lineup of alternative rock, indie folk, and other talented musicians. Rain or shine, the music plays on! Fuel up for adventure at Primal Eats! Satisfy your cravings with our made-to-order menu featuring mouthwatering brisket or pulled pork mac and cheese wraps, delicious pizza, crispy chicken wings, and more. Quench your thirst with a cold one from our on-site taproom, featuring local Wisconsin favorites like Spotted Cow, Appleton Beer Factory, and Stubborn Brothers. Your adventure awaits!

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Esker Ridge

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Townsend, WI

A hidden gem nestled between the comforts of lake living and a backdoor to the expansive Nicolet National Forest. Recreational opportunities are year-round, including recreational vehicle and fishing opportunities on and around the 417 acre lake flowage. The private +2 acre property has panoramic views of the secluded headwaters opening into the main flowage. Set back off the main lake, wildlife viewing, especially birding, is the best I have experienced. Neotropical migratory bird species are abundant in the Spring as well as a resident breeding pair of Trumpeter Swans, many ducks(!), Bald Eagles, Loons, Sand-Hill cranes; many woodpecker spp. including Pileated; Screech, Barred and Great horned owls. Some of the more entertaining wildlife include deer, otter, beaver, muskrats, red squirrels and the occasional wandering black bear (no problem bears). In the Spring, the esker's neighboring wetlands come alive with many frog and turtle species. For me, the allure of the wild still dominates here. The esker provides an amazing vantage point with nearly 270 degree panoramic views of the flowage. From the Gazebo, take one of two paths to the overlook before descending down to the lakefront. In 2021, I plan on adding a short pier but the natural rocky peninsula already provides excellent access into the deeper thalweg, an excellent fishing/ swimming hole! All pontoon and fishing boats can be accommodated here. Learn more about this land:The property is located towards the end of a Forest Service road (Meadowlark Lane) with one year-round resident at the end. There's a large turn-around for trailers and larger vehicles. Neighbors are well separated, located over the ridgeline and out of earshot. The property has a relatively wide, flat 100 foot driveway to the cabin from the road. Easy access to the cabin from the driveway. The cabin is surrounded by mature maple/birch/balsam/hemlock forest and several wetland/tamarack bogs (very diverse terrain bordering the lake). At the base of the cabin there's a small pier for direct kayak and canoe access. Larger boats can easily dock on the lake-end of the property, a short walk from the cabin. From the natural driveway a concrete paver staircase leads up to the main campsite (see pics). The campsite includes a 3 season 14 foot enclosed gazebo with electricity. Essentially, the land is a 2 acre esker (kettle moraine feature) that serpentines through the woods to Reservoir "Pond" lake system. Excellent views of the lake! The Flowage has headwaters from McCauslin brook and connects 3 lakes totaling 417 acres. Maximum depth 27 feet. Fishing and Pontoon boat docking on shoreline. The closest boat launch is on Horn Lake which is passed on the way to the cabin and approximately a half mile away as the crow flies. Plenty of areas for tenting/ wall tents, 2 picnic tables (one near the cabin and the other by the gazebo), and a separate outhouse with toiletries at the top of the hill. Attractions in the Area: Sleepy Hollow Minature Golf on Nicolet Rd (just East of Horn Lake) Sunset Resort of Townsend located on the SE end of the flowage. Accessible by boat or short drive from camp on Burnt Dam Road. Hill Crest Lodge Supper Club on Nicolet Rd (you'll pass on the way in) 4 Stars. Birch Hills Resort and Bar (over the bridge from Hill Crest) 5 Stars. Mike's Supermarket/ Pintsch's TrueValue (just thought I'd mention where to get provisions) (also on Nicolet Rd), TownsendPotawatomi Casino, CarterOld Town Hall cafe and bloody bar- Traditional American food, Townsend (Excellent Breakfast!)Sweet Memories Candy Store, Lakewood (If you have a sweet tooth, this place is over the top Willy Wonka style, many candy filled rooms that seem to never end!)Lakewood Ski and Sport- Outdoor Gear, Lakewood. Talk to Dave- great guy. Ski/ SUP and Bike rentals.Northern D'lites- Lakewood ice cream/ burgersLakewood Super Valu Grocery Store (has more to offer over Mike's grocery in Townsend)*Maiden Lake Supper Club- Excellent! Best Supper Club UpNort hands-down. Excellent sunset views over Maiden lake from the patio bar. Go Early!Cathedral of the Pines- Old Growth White and Red pine. I can't believe the whole state looked like this at one point. One tree is has enough wood to build a house!Maiden Lake, 3rd clearest lake in WI. Great snorkeling over the fish cribsBoot Lake -State Campground and Beach- Best swimming beach in the area.Jones Creek trails- year round hiking, Mt biking and Cross country skiingMcCauslin Brook Golf and Ctry Club, LakewoodWaubee Lake Lodge- worth the drive. Huge modern wood lodge live-edge bar and 40+ foot cathedral ceilings. Great buffet. Woodland Trail Winery, Lakewood (winery Northern woods style with craft beer selection)

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Northern Glamping Camp

2 sites · Lodging3 acres · Crivitz, WI

We are a small bar and grill 12 miles west of Crivitz WI. Conveniently located right on the ATV and Snowmobile trails. There are plenty of lakes and steams for the avid fisherman. We are located just a few miles east of the Nicolet National Forest. We have great food and always a friendly atmosphere. So come on up and join us for a relaxing week or just a weekend.Camp in our nicely furnished tent cabins, Site #1 ( Bri's Hideaway) is furnished with a queen bed, love seat and refrigerator. Site #2 ( Adam's Getaway ) is furnished with a full bed, 1 cot style bunk beds and a refrigerator. We recommend bringing sleeping bags for both sites during the cool weather camping, we furnish some blankets but may not be adequate for the chilly nights in the later season. We are right on the ATV trails, with many lakes, rivers and trout streams close by. There is whitewater rafting nearby for the trill seekers. Or if you enjoy hiking, the Nichole National Forest is minutes away. You can relax on the front deck of your tent cabin or sit by the campfire. We are a small country bar & grill. We have a great Friday night fish fry, or try our famous chicken dinner, or one of our homemade pizzas, we have wraps, sandwiches and more. We are located 1 hour north of Green Bay, WI. The tent cabins will be open May 1st through October 31st with a shower room available. There is limited heating available in the units. Please plan accordingly. Due to the somewhat limited internet access at the camp sites, we may be unable to respond in a timely fashion to your email.

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Rich and Lori's Parkside Land

2 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Crivitz, WI

SUN FUN RELAX REPEAT! This is "High Falls Get-a-Way" a Northwoods RV Camping site with FULL HOOK UPs set-up on our private land in Twin Bridge area of Crivitz, Wisconsin. 1 hour 10 min north of Green Bay, WI. Dedicated driveway with level and cleared area for maneuvering ease. Surrounded by mature hardwoods. Plenty of room for parking. Great for full week, worry free stays with water spigot, 30 amp electric, and direct septic hook up. Fire-pit, picnic table, outdoor rug, 4 chairs and starter firewood set included. Explore during the day Relax around the crackling campfire- make smore's- enjoy your favorite beverage Wake to the birds chirping with your morning coffee SUN FUN RELAX REPEAT! ABOUT THIS AREA: Laid back vibe- Twin Bridge is a popular recreational area of Marinette County with many state and county parks close by boasting majestic waterfalls and beautiful walking trails for exploration. Large bodies of water High Falls Flowage & Caldron Falls Reservoir popular for fishing, boating, and swimming with sandy shorelines. Peshtigo River and nearby Menominee for rafting. Access hundreds of acres for ATV/UTV with adjacent Oconto County. THINGS TO DO: Boating, Fishing, Swimming, Rafting, ATV/UTV (direct Access), Hiking, Golfing, Crafting/Shopping, Food, Ice Cream, Rent a Paddle Board/Kayak/Row Boat/or Pontoon from Popp's Resort, ATV/UTV rentals nearby, Tube float on a Lazy Peshtigo River, or white water rafting. Explore Governor Thompson State Park or County Parks: Twin Bridge, Veteran's, Goodman or Mc Clintock. Take a short drive to town of Crivitz or Lakewood, WI with large grocery store, enchanted shops, candy shop/winery. Friendly bar and grills abundant. De Young Family Zoo in Michigan only a 45 minute drive! 1 hour south of Iron Mountain. Worried about supplies? Local Tall Oaks General Store right down the street from campsite, Dollar General and several gas stations, supper club, family friendly bar and grills close by. That "UP NORTH" feel without being to isolated. Please contact with any questions!

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Maple Creek Farm

1 site · RV, Tent87 acres · Foster City, MI

Welcome to our secluded retreat in the rolling hills of Dickinson County, Michigan! Tucked away at the end of a peaceful blacktop road, our tranquil haven offers the perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures, including ATV trails, rivers, and lakes, our property provides an ideal base camp for exploring the beauty of the Upper Peninsula. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or thrilling outdoor activities, you'll find it all right at your doorstep. Our RV sites feature 30 amp electrical outlets and potable water, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst nature's splendor. Enjoy the serenity of the morning shade and gather around the fire ring for cozy evenings under the stars. Embark on leisurely walks along the myriad of trails that wind through our 87-acre property, where you'll discover the beauty of the natural landscape and the calming presence of a spring-fed creek running through the back 40. While our location offers seclusion and tranquility, you'll find convenience just minutes away at a small store for any forgotten essentials and a nearby bar/restaurant when you prefer to dine out. Please note that as we operate a hay farm, you may occasionally see equipment running through the barnyard, adding to the rustic charm of our rural retreat. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature at our secluded sanctuary in Dickinson County. Experience the beauty of Michigan's wilderness and create unforgettable memories amidst the forest animals and rolling hills. Welcome to your home away from home in the heart of nature's paradise!

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Whispering Woods

2 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Mountain, WI

Located in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest is four acres of beautiful woods with three different clearings perfect for your up north retreat! Whether it’s hitting the Atv/Utv trails, fishing, hiking, swimming, or just absorbing the peace Whispering Woods brings you access to it all! Located on a dead end road near Maiden Lake, Whispering Woods is private and secluded. Whispering Woods has a beautiful crystal clear creek flowing through it that leads to a private no motor lake. Enjoy fishing for panfish right off the pier or use the paddle boat provided to meander down the creek and catch rock bass. The lake is known for panfish, bass, walleye, and northern. The crystal clear water in both the lake and the creek make for beautiful paddling as you watch the fish swim right underneath you and observe the turtles. Please be respectful of the nesting loon platforms and other lake owners. Please do not use their floating rafts. Enjoy the numerous surrounding lakes such as Chute Pond, Maiden Lake, Boot Lake, Townsend Flowage and more! Bagley Rapids is minutes away. Located near Townsend, Mountain and Lakewood which provide multiple dining options, bait shops, gas stations, and more. Please be respectful of this land. Please do not tamper with the campers or shed. Please feel free to use any wood you find already down in the woods or take from the numerous stick piles found near the campsites. Please do not use the cut firewood. The wood in the stick piles has been stacked for your use and is good dry wood that will provide you with hot fires. We do not even use the cut wood in the summer, spring, or fall. My young children and I have worked hard to clear those sites and cut wood for our own personal use in the winter so please respect the effort we have put in so we can continue to enjoy our land and share this beautiful location with others. There is no electric or water so please plan your trip accordingly. Please leave no trace and carry out what you bring in. There are no toilets available so you will need to provide your own portable toilet. Peeing on a tree is fine, but no pooping in holes. If you chose to drive down to the campsite by the creek you are doing so at your own risk as vehicles have gotten stuck trying to get back up especially after a rain fall and had to get towed out. It is recommended you park up on top and walk the short distance down. ATV/UTV are fine going down to the creek campsite. The long driveway has plenty of room for multiple vehicles, trailers, and boats. Absolutely no hunting or shooting of guns is allowed on the property. Bears have been seen on the property so please use bear safe camping practices. If your children use the ninja line or hammocks on site they do so at their own risk and we are not held liable for any injuries that may occur. You may notice a zip line. The seat will be removed and is not to be tampered with or used. Quiet time is between 10pm-6am. No illegal activity (including fireworks) are allowed. You may see us up there but we will respect your privacy and space. We welcome company and conversation but also respect you may prefer to be left alone. Please feel free to send me a message with any questions you may have and enjoy your time up north!

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Kiesners getaway

4 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Dunbar, WI

I have a place to rest for a couple nights, there is a small non motorized lake across the road. Dunbar is not to far away and there you can find Thermal Chaos, it's a great bbq place, they also have burgers. I am also right on the atv trail. Marinette country has many waterfalls to explore also. Please follow the golden rule of camping and hiking is “leave no trace.” Anything you bring in, must be carried out. Please pack your waste, trash and recyclables, and take it with you when you leave. You may use dead and downed wood as firewood, but do not cut live trees or brush. Keep fires small and make sure your campfire is out before you leave. I hope you have a great time!

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My Happy Place

1 site · RV, Tent4 acres · Suring, WI

Peaceful 4.25 wooded property on the North Branch of the Oconto River. Open area for tents, fire pit to sit around and cook over, take the path to the river to swim or try out my 2 kayaks. No running water or electricity. ATV trails less than a mile away. 2 mile drive, walk or bike to town. Nicolet State Trail passes thru and goes past the ice cream stand!

Abby's Peshtigo River Camp

1 site · Tent11 acres · Athelstane, WI

Welcome to Abby's Peshtigo River Camp. Situated on 11 acres of forested land. There are a few hundred feet of Peshtigo river front if you make the hike through the woods and down the hill. Lots of great fishing along the Peshtigo river and a great place for camp when hunting. The property is on the edge of 100's of acres of county forest that can be used for hiking and hunting. Huge Elm trees to block out the sun on hot days. And every morning you'll wake up to the sounds of different bird species. There is a driveway that goes back about 200 feet from the road. Where there is a fire pit. People usually setup their tents or RV on the driveway. If you walk through the woods west and continue down the big hill you'll reach the Peshtigo river. You are also free to camp near the water but that requires you to take a boat/canoe to the property. Please pack out all garbage. The driveway is on the northern most edge of the property so please stay to the south.

Uncle Ben’s Camping

2 sites · Lodging10 acres · Abrams, WI

One of my favorite home away from home’s. This property will help you reground and connect with nature. I have added the necessities of life, while keeping the property as natural as possible. My goal is to share this great experience I’ve created with you and your family. From the outdoor shower to the walking trails that weave through the woods and over Tibbet Creek you will love your stay! A couple of the sites are more remote than others by design. Not all can be driven up to. The furthest would be approximately a 500’ walk. A wagon is available to carry your items to your site. There is a large pond if you would like to fish or swim, and a John boat and a paddle boat to use also. Each site has its own fire pit with a cooking grate. Firewood available for purchase on site. Most sites are set with views of a water feature. Some tents are available to rent if you don’t have your own.

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Blazing Bear Homestead

1 site · Tent3 acres · Peshtigo, WI

Welcome to Blazing Bear Homestead located in the Town of Peshtigo, Wisconsin just up the road from the Peshtigo Harbor State Wildlife Area and the Peshtigo River Delta Marshes State Natural Area. Our little piece of heaven is carved out of a large forested area, and across the road from us is beautiful upland prairie all in its natural state. We have some trails on our property that bring you to your campsite, and back to the farm and garden closer to our house. We keep a small herd of miniature dairy goats and often have goat kids running around. There is also free-range chickens, a little family of geese, a coupe of old rabbits, and an orange farm cat that is very friendly. Our campers are welcome to hang out with our critters. Just 7 minutes away in the City of Peshtigo is Badger Park where you can swim, picnic, play volleyball, or enjoy the skate park; all for FREE! There is also a fenced horseshoe pit, brand new modern playground, and a disc golf course. The areas above and below the dam in Peshtigo are popular fishing spots that contain warm water fish populations of northern pike, walleye, large mouth bass and pan fish. In recent years the area below the dam has become a popular brown and rainbow trout fishing area. The Peshtigo Harbor boat launch is just an 8 minute drive from our homestead. This area offers a vibrant, rural community full of friendly people. There are a wide variety of outdoor activities within close reach. Opportunities for camping, boating, fishing, and sightseeing added to tours of our many area museums will make your stay as relaxing, informative, or invigorating as you choose it to be. Our natural beauty coupled with the friendliness of our small town atmosphere will make your stay enjoyable and, we hope, keep you coming back for more.

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Luci's Lilly Pad

2 sites · Lodging3 acres · Gillett, WI

Fully furnished 21 foot camper tucked into mostly wooded 2.6 acres with water frontage on private Warrington Lake just north of Shawano Lake. Bonfires... fishing...boating... Snowmobile and ATV trails. We have electric and heat for the camper. Ice fishing for crappies is a lot of fun, I can pretty much guarantee bites. Summer fishing for bluegills and largemouth bass is a blast. I love watching a bonfire and listening to the bullfrogs and wood ducks at dusk. I personally am not much for ATV or snowmobile trail riding due to my fishing addiction but the trails are right there and you can hop on your machine and go right from the camper. Canoe and four person paddle boat available in the summer. Camper has an upper and lower queen bed along with the side benches that fold down which makes two more large sleeping areas. There is a sand point well with a pitcher pump that also works in the winter for non-potable water. Camper plumbing works in the summer and doodie/comode bags available for the winter months. I am looking forward to meeting you!

The best camping near Governor Thompson State Park guide

Overview

About

Governor Thompson State Park: A Place for all the Seasons! While we’re working on the motto, get out there and see what all the fuss is about. Head out to hike, camp, boat, swim, the list doesn’t seem to stop! When you’re sweating in the summer, jump in the lake to cool, hike among the changing leaves in fall, picnic in the breezy spring, and play in the snow all winter long. Every day brings about a new adventure at Governor Thompson State Park. Hey, that wasn’t a bad motto either, right?

When to go

The ideal time to visit Governor Thompson State Park is during the warmer months, from late spring to early fall, when the park's full splendor is on display. Winter can be harsh, with some activities limited by snow and ice, making it less ideal for those seeking the full array of outdoor experiences.

Know before you go

Ensure your vehicle has a valid admission sticker before entering the park.
Check the park's official website for any property notices or closures prior to your visit.
Prepare for your outdoor adventure by packing essentials like water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Respect the park's natural habitat by staying on designated trails and observing wildlife from a distance.
Take advantage of the park's amenities, including picnic areas, boat launches, and fish cleaning facilities.