Old Veteran's Lake Campground

For Wisconsinites, the vast, wild expanse of our Northwoods offers a quintessential escape, a place where the air is fresh, the sounds of nature prevail, and the pace of life slows to a tranquil rhythm. Marinette County, known as the "Waterfall Capital of Wisconsin," embodies this spirit, providing abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation and peaceful retreats. Tucked within this beautiful region, specifically within the Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest, lies Old Veteran's Lake Campground – a destination for those who truly appreciate rustic camping and an immersive natural experience.

Old Veteran's Lake Campground stands as a testament to the simpler pleasures of camping. It’s a place designed for adventurers and nature lovers who prioritize privacy, quiet, and direct access to outdoor activities over extensive modern amenities. While it might not offer the full suite of conveniences found in larger, more developed campgrounds, it delivers an authentic, serene, and deeply connecting experience with Wisconsin's wilderness. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Old Veteran's Lake Campground, helping local users in Wisconsin determine if this peaceful retreat aligns with their ideal outdoor adventure. We'll delve into its secluded yet accessible location, the essential services it provides, its unique features, and why it's a perfect fit for those seeking a genuine Northwoods escape.

Camping in Wisconsin means embracing the diversity of our landscapes, from bustling lakeside resorts to secluded forest havens. Old Veteran's Lake Campground exemplifies the latter, offering a chance to truly unwind and appreciate the raw beauty of our state. Let's explore what makes this Crivitz, WI, campground a compelling choice for your next journey into the heart of the Northwoods.

The Old Veteran's Lake Campground is located within the expansive Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest, near Crivitz, WI 54114, USA. Its address is often listed simply as "Unnamed Road" in Crivitz, highlighting its placement within a natural forest setting rather than a developed town center. This location places it in Marinette County, a prime area in northeastern Wisconsin renowned for its abundant forests, numerous waterways, and diverse outdoor recreational opportunities.

Accessibility to Old Veteran's Lake Campground is straightforward for most Wisconsin residents, particularly for those familiar with state forest roads. The campground is reachable via well-maintained routes within the Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest. While it offers a rustic and secluded feel, it’s not overly remote, making it a manageable drive for campers from various parts of the state. It's important to note that a vehicle admission sticker is required for entry into the state forest.

The campground's location provides excellent access to the natural features of the Peshtigo River State Forest. Campers are positioned to explore the Peshtigo River, known for its fishing opportunities and scenic beauty. Reviewers highlight that campsites along the river are "spacious and private." The surrounding area offers a variety of trails suitable for walking and exploring the forest. While the campground itself has limited facilities, the proximity to Governor Thompson State Park is a significant advantage. This neighboring park, just a short drive away, offers additional amenities like "very nice and clean family showers," which can be utilized by Old Veteran's Lake campers. The charming community of Crivitz, though not directly adjacent, is also within a reasonable driving distance, providing access to essential supplies, dining options, and local services. This combination of deep wilderness immersion with convenient access to supporting facilities makes Old Veteran's Lake Campground an accessible and appealing choice for rustic camping enthusiasts in Wisconsin.

Old Veteran's Lake Campground, as a rustic Wisconsin State Forest campground, focuses on providing fundamental services that support a traditional outdoor experience while minimizing impact on the natural environment. It's important for prospective campers to understand these offerings to ensure it aligns with their expectations for a wilderness retreat.

• Rustic Campsites: The campground features 16 sites, each equipped with a picnic table, a fire ring, and parking space for two vehicles. These sites are described as "spacious and private" with "plenty of woods for privacy between each site," ideal for tents, pop-ups, and smaller RVs (up to 92 feet in length for some gravel driveways). Note that no electricity is available at the sites.
• Pit Toilets: The campground utilizes pit toilets (vault toilets) rather than flush toilets. Reviewers note that these facilities are kept "clean," which is a positive highlight for a rustic setting.
• Potable Water (with caveats): A solar-powered drinking fountain is available. However, reviewers indicate the water can be "red and murky" or "a bit rusty," suggesting it's fine for cleaning up but "personally I wouldn’t drink it." Campers are advised to bring their own potable water for drinking and cooking.
• No Dump Station On-Site: The campground does not have an on-site dump station. However, a sanitary dump station is conveniently located "nearby at Governor Thompson State Park," which is open from May through October.
• Firewood Availability: While not explicitly stated for sale directly at Old Veteran's Lake, firewood is typically available for purchase at the state forest headquarters or nearby vendors, adhering to regulations to prevent the spread of invasive species.
• Pet-Friendly: Individual sites are pet-friendly, allowing campers to bring their dogs, provided they are leashed and cleaned up after. Pets are not allowed in buildings, beaches, playgrounds, or picnic areas.
• Swimming Access: The campground offers a "swimming hole" on the lake. While one review mentions it could "use some TLC as it’s a bit over grown," the water itself was "clean and nice to take a dip and for kids to play in."

These services underline the rustic nature of Old Veteran's Lake Campground, appealing to those who embrace a more traditional camping experience with minimal modern conveniences.

Old Veteran's Lake Campground, nestled within the Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest, offers several distinctive features and highlights that draw in campers seeking a more natural and private outdoor experience in Wisconsin:

• Spacious and Private Campsites: A consistently praised highlight is the "very spacious and clean" sites with "plenty of woods for privacy between each site." This sense of seclusion is a major draw for campers looking for a quiet retreat away from crowded areas. Sites along the river are particularly noted for their privacy.
• Immersive Natural Beauty: The campground is situated in a "dense forest" on the "shore of a lake," providing a truly immersive experience in Wisconsin's Northwoods. The surrounding area offers picturesque landscapes ideal for photography, wildlife viewing, and simply enjoying the tranquility of nature.
• Direct Access to Walking Trails: Reviewers highlight that the "trails around are nice for walking," allowing campers to easily explore the natural surroundings directly from their site.
• Ideal for Fishing: For anglers, the campground's location on Old Veteran's Lake and its proximity to the Peshtigo River make it an excellent base for fishing. One review explicitly states, "If you’re just coming to fish, this might be OK for you."
• Clean Pit Toilets: While a rustic amenity, the "clean" pit toilets are noted positively by campers, indicating that even in a less developed setting, hygiene is maintained.
• Early/Late Season Accessibility: One reviewer noted staying in "late April" because "a little else was open," suggesting it can be an option for those looking to camp outside the peak summer months when other facilities might still be closed. The campground is generally open from April through December for family camping.
• Proximity to Governor Thompson State Park Amenities: Although Old Veteran's Lake is rustic, the short drive to Governor Thompson State Park provides access to "very nice and clean family showers," offering a convenient upgrade for personal hygiene when desired.

These features underscore Old Veteran's Lake Campground's appeal to campers who value privacy, natural beauty, and a more rugged, authentic camping experience in the heart of Wisconsin's outdoors.

As a campground operated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) within a state forest, Old Veteran's Lake Campground typically adheres to standardized pricing and policies rather than offering commercial "promotions" or "special offers." However, there are inherent aspects of state park/forest camping that can be seen as advantageous or "offers" for local Wisconsinites:

• Wisconsin State Park System Passes: A vehicle admission sticker is required for entry into the Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest, and by extension, the campground. Purchasing an annual pass (available for Wisconsin residents) offers significant cost savings for frequent visitors to any Wisconsin State Park or Forest throughout the year, making multiple trips to Old Veteran's Lake or other state properties more economical.
• Standardized & Affordable Rates: Camping fees are set by the DNR and are generally consistent across similar site types within state forests. These rates are designed to be affordable, making nature accessible to all citizens while contributing to park maintenance.
• First-Come, First-Served & Reservation Options: While reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance for peak season, some sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis, offering flexibility for spontaneous trips.
• Off-Season Camping: The campground is open from April through December for family camping, with a conversion to "primitive status" in the spring and fall, and open for winter camping from November 1 through March 31. This extended operating season at potentially lower usage times can be seen as a benefit for those seeking solitude and a unique experience.
• Remote Sites for Free (with permit): The state forest also offers remote canoe and backpack campsites that are free of charge (though a permit from the state forest headquarters is required), offering an even more rustic and cost-effective option for adventurous campers.

For the most current and detailed information on camping fees, park pass requirements, and reservation procedures, prospective campers should always consult the official Wisconsin DNR website (dnr.wisconsin.gov) or contact the Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest headquarters directly at the provided phone number. Reservations for state forest campgrounds are typically made online via the Wisconsin State Parks reservation system.

For inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about Old Veteran's Lake Campground within the Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest, please use the following contact details:

• Address: Crivitz, WI 54114, USA (The physical location is within Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest. For more precise directions, consult official DNR maps or GPS coordinates when planning your trip.)
• Phone: (715) 757-3965 (This is the main phone number for the Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest, which manages Old Veteran's Lake Campground.)
• Mobile Phone: +1 715-757-3965

Reservations for Wisconsin State Forest campgrounds, including Old Veteran's Lake, are typically made online through the Wisconsin State Parks reservation system. Due to the popularity of state park and forest camping, especially for prime sites, booking in advance is highly recommended.

For Wisconsinites who truly appreciate the rugged beauty and serene solitude of our state's Northwoods, Old Veteran's Lake Campground in the Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest offers an exceptionally suitable and authentic camping experience. Its appeal to locals stems from its dedication to providing a traditional, rustic getaway that perfectly encapsulates the wild heart of Marinette County.

The primary draw for locals seeking a genuine outdoor escape is the campground's emphasis on privacy and spacious, wooded sites. In a world increasingly filled with crowded spaces, the "spacious and private" sites with "plenty of woods for privacy" at Old Veteran's Lake provide a much-needed sense of seclusion and tranquility. This allows campers to fully immerse themselves in the "absolute silence" and natural sounds of the forest, creating a deeply relaxing and restorative experience.

Furthermore, for those who prioritize activities like fishing and exploring natural trails, this campground is ideally situated. Its direct access to Old Veteran's Lake and the Peshtigo River makes it a prime spot for anglers, while the "nice for walking" trails invite exploration of the surrounding forest. While modern amenities are deliberately minimal (like pit toilets and non-potable well water), this aligns with the expectations of many seasoned Wisconsin campers who prefer a more traditional, less developed environment. The availability of clean pit toilets and the option to use showers at nearby Governor Thompson State Park provide a manageable balance of rustic charm and essential convenience.

Ultimately, Old Veteran's Lake Campground is perfect for the Wisconsinite who values genuine wilderness, appreciates the quietude of nature, and is prepared for a rustic camping adventure. It's a place where the focus is on the beauty of the outdoors, the warmth of a campfire, and the simple joy of disconnecting from the everyday hustle. For a truly authentic Northwoods experience, Old Veteran's Lake Campground remains a compelling choice for locals seeking their next great outdoor memory.