Old Veteran's Lake Campground

For Wisconsin residents who truly appreciate a back-to-basics camping experience, Old Veteran's Lake Campground in Crivitz, WI, offers a genuine retreat into the heart of the Peshtigo River State Forest. This rustic and primitive campground is a beloved spot for those looking to disconnect from the constant buzz of modern life and immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of northern Wisconsin. It's a place where the sounds of nature, the crackle of a campfire, and the simple joys of outdoor living take center stage.

Old Veteran's Lake Campground is particularly appealing to campers who prioritize spaciousness and privacy over modern conveniences. Many long-time visitors and new discoverers alike are drawn to its large, naturally wooded sites that provide ample separation from neighbors, ensuring a peaceful and private stay. While it boasts no electricity or modern plumbing, this contributes to its charm as an authentic wilderness experience. Whether you're an avid angler, a keen hiker, or simply seeking a serene spot to relax with family (including your furry friends!), Old Veteran's Lake Campground provides a welcoming and rejuvenating environment. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional camping in Wisconsin's beautiful landscape.

Old Veteran's Lake Campground is located within the expansive Peshtigo River State Forest, with its general address being Crivitz, WI 54114, USA. This places it in Marinette County, a region celebrated for its vast forested lands, numerous lakes, and the famed Peshtigo River.

The campground is accessible via established roads within the state forest. While it is certainly a rustic setting, it's generally well-marked and navigable for most vehicles, including those with tents and smaller trailers. Its prime location within the Peshtigo River State Forest means campers have immediate access to miles of natural trails for walking and exploring the dense woods. A significant advantage for campers at Old Veteran's Lake is its relatively close proximity to Governor Thompson State Park. This is a key accessibility point, as the state park, just a "short drive" away, offers amenities that are not available at Old Veteran's Lake, such as "very nice and clean family showers." This allows campers to enjoy the rustic charm of Old Veteran's Lake while still having access to modern conveniences if desired. This blend of remote tranquility and convenient access to essential amenities makes it a practical choice for Wisconsin locals looking for a true outdoor escape.

Old Veteran's Lake Campground provides essential, rustic services designed to support a traditional camping experience while minimizing impact on the natural environment.

• Campsites: The campground features 16 sites suitable for tent and small trailer use. A significant highlight is that the "campsites along the river are spacious and private," offering ample room and natural screening between sites.
• Site Amenities: Each campsite is equipped with a fire pit for campfires and cooking, and generally includes a picnic table for convenience.
• Pit Toilets: Clean and regularly maintained pit toilets (outhouses) are available throughout the campground, providing basic restroom facilities. Visitors commend their cleanliness, noting "Pit toilets only but they were clean so that’s fine."
• Non-Potable Water: Water is available from a fountain or pump. However, visitors advise caution regarding its drinkability due to a "rusty" or "red and murky" appearance, even after running. It is "fine for cleaning up," but campers should "personally wouldn’t drink it" and should plan to bring their own potable water for drinking and cooking.
• Swimming Hole: A natural swimming hole is available for taking a dip and for kids to play in. While it "could use some TLC as it’s a bit over grown," the water itself is "clean and nice."
• Walking Trails: The campground offers "nice for walking" trails in the immediate vicinity, perfect for leisurely strolls through the woods.
• No Electricity: There are no electrical hookups at any of the campsites, reinforcing the primitive and off-grid nature of the campground.
• No Dump Station: There is no dump station on-site. However, a nearby state park (Governor Thompson State Park) offers such facilities, which campers can utilize.
• First-Come, First-Served: Many rustic campgrounds, including those in state forests, operate on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are typically not taken. Visitors should check for current policies, especially during peak season.
• Dog-Friendly: The campground is generally dog-friendly, allowing furry companions to join the outdoor adventure.

Old Veteran's Lake Campground distinguishes itself with several key features that cater specifically to those seeking a quiet, rustic, and nature-immersed camping experience in Wisconsin.

• Spacious and Private Campsites: A consistent highlight from visitor reviews is the generous size and natural privacy of the campsites, particularly those situated along the river. "Plenty of woods for privacy between each site" ensures a serene and undisturbed stay.
• Authentic Rustic Experience: The absence of electricity and modern plumbing (flush toilets, showers) is a defining feature. This appeals to campers who prefer a true "roughing it" experience, fostering a deeper connection with nature and encouraging self-reliance.
• Clean Pit Toilets: Despite being pit toilets, multiple reviews praise their cleanliness, which is a significant plus for rustic campgrounds.
• Natural Swimming Hole: The availability of a swimming hole, even if a bit overgrown, provides a refreshing option for cooling off during warmer months and a safe place for children to play in clean water.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: As one reviewer noted, if you're "just coming to fish, this might be OK for you." The presence of Old Veteran's Lake and the surrounding Peshtigo River State Forest suggests ample opportunities for freshwater fishing.
• Tranquil and Quiet Atmosphere: The campground is consistently described as quiet, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. This makes it ideal for relaxation, reading, or simply enjoying the sounds of nature.
• Accessibility to Modern Amenities Nearby: While rustic, its proximity to Governor Thompson State Park is a significant advantage. Campers can drive a short distance to access "very nice and clean family showers" and potentially acquire firewood or other supplies.
• Early Season Availability: One of its practical highlights is its accessibility "late April" when "a little else was open," making it a valuable option for early-season campers.
• Nature Trails: The "nice for walking" trails around the campground provide easy opportunities for short hikes and exploring the surrounding woods, with less concern about ticks depending on the time of year.
• Dog-Friendly Environment: Being a natural, rustic setting, it's generally well-suited for dogs, allowing them to enjoy the outdoor adventure alongside their owners.

Old Veteran's Lake Campground is part of the Wisconsin State Forest system, specifically within the Peshtigo River State Forest. While it's a rustic campground without an on-site office for direct contact, you can typically reach the managing Ranger Station or the Wisconsin DNR for information.

Address: Crivitz, WI 54114, USA (This is a general area address, as specific street numbers are usually not associated with rustic forest campgrounds).

For general inquiries about Old Veteran's Lake Campground, current conditions (such as fire bans or water advisories), or specific details about camping within the Peshtigo River State Forest, it is best to contact the Wisconsin DNR or the relevant forest office.

Phone: (715) 757-3965

Mobile Phone: +1 715-757-3965

These numbers likely connect to the local DNR office or a regional forest management office responsible for the area. It's always advisable to consult the official Wisconsin DNR website for the most up-to-date information, maps, and any guidelines before your visit.

Old Veteran's Lake Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination for Wisconsin locals who cherish authentic, rustic outdoor experiences. For those who appreciate the true essence of primitive camping, this campground delivers with its spacious, private, and naturally wooded sites, providing a much-needed escape from the hustle of modern life. It's the perfect spot for Wisconsinites seeking tranquility, a place where the sounds of the forest replace city noise, and privacy is a given.

The "no frills" approach – no electricity, no dump station on-site, and pit toilets – is a defining characteristic that appeals to locals who are experienced campers and prefer self-reliance. While the water source requires pre-planning for drinking, its availability for cleanup and the presence of a natural swimming hole add to the genuine outdoor feel. Anglers will find the area particularly appealing for its fishing opportunities, while families looking for a quiet, dog-friendly retreat will appreciate the ample space and privacy.

Furthermore, its strategic location within the Peshtigo River State Forest offers direct access to hiking trails and the natural beauty of Marinette County. The short drive to Governor Thompson State Park for modern amenities like clean showers provides a perfect balance, allowing campers to enjoy the wilderness without completely sacrificing comfort. For Wisconsin residents who yearn for a quiet, back-to-nature camping trip, Old Veteran's Lake Campground is a tried-and-true local favorite, promising a rejuvenating and memorable experience in our state's beautiful Northwoods.