The best forest campgrounds near Athens, Wisconsin

In Athens, you’ll find over 140 forest camping options, with prices ranging from $15 up to an average of $130 per night. You can escape into thick woods, breathe in pine air, and wake up to the sound of birds—not traffic. Campsites here offer showers, allow campfires, and welcome pets. Swimming, hiking, and horseback riding are the go-to activities; trails cut through dense stands of trees and wind along riverbanks. Top picks from locals and regulars include Riverside Roost (45 reviews), Rustic Log Cabin Retreat (9 reviews), and River Retreat Tiny Homes (8 reviews). You’ll find shady clearings for pitching a tent or parking your camper, and plenty of space to spread out under the trees. If you want forest camping that’s practical, unfussy, and close to real trails, Athens delivers.

100% (68)

Top-rated campgrounds

In Athens, you’ll find over 140 forest camping options, with prices ranging from $15 up to an average of $130 per night. You can escape into thick woods, breathe in pine air, and wake up to the sound of birds—not traffic. Campsites here offer showers, allow campfires, and welcome pets. Swimming, hiking, and horseback riding are the go-to activities; trails cut through dense stands of trees and wind along riverbanks. Top picks from locals and regulars include Riverside Roost (45 reviews), Rustic Log Cabin Retreat (9 reviews), and River Retreat Tiny Homes (8 reviews). You’ll find shady clearings for pitching a tent or parking your camper, and plenty of space to spread out under the trees. If you want forest camping that’s practical, unfussy, and close to real trails, Athens delivers.

100% (68)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Riverside Roost

99%

(65)

40mi from Athens · 2 sites · Tents · Custer, WI

** Celebrating our THIRD year of hosting in 2025!! All bookings during the month of October are 25% off with code “ F8P3QFHF”** **Due to several inquiries, We DO allow campers to camp in their vehicles down by the site if you have 4WD. Park at your own risk** New market items for sale on site, delivered right to your campsite including fresh, free-range chicken eggs 🐓 🥚, fresh baked Amish style bread, homemade jelly, jugs of water, and more! Follow us on Instagram (riverside_roost) for the latest updates on what's happening at the Roost! Special discounts will pop up randomly. Come and enjoy all of Central Wisconsins beauty! Situated on the shores of the Little Plover River, the site is ready for you to set up your tent and go! Kayaking, swimming, tubing, and excellent northern pike fishing is all available. We are a short 15 minute drive from the nearest town for any essentials. Area Attractions: -SentryWorld Golf Course in Stevens Point (10 miles from campsite) -Indianhead Golf Course in Mosinee (19 miles) -O'so Brewing Company Taproom in Plover (19 miles) -Stevens Point Sculpture Park (13 miles) -Jordan Bar and Grill in Stevens Point (6.5 miles) -Cedar Creek Cinema (Marcus Theatres) in Rothschild (26 miles) -Sawmill Adventure Park (mini golf and trampoline park) in Rothschild (26 miles)

2. Old Red Mill Oasis

100%

(15)

42mi from Athens · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Stevens Point, WI

This unique riverside retreat is located on the shores of the Plover River, on a dam remnant behind a former working mill. Campers will enjoy a park-like atmosphere with numerous benches, stone fire pits, and hidden trails among riverside, grassy, and forested areas. It's an ideal location to fish, kayak, or enjoy a 20-minute float from the dam to the Sharonwood bridge. The campground host offers guided kayak tours and/or shuttle services along the Big Plover River for an additional fee. The Old Red Mill Oasis is located on County Highway Y, 1.5 miles north of Jordan County Park and Jordan Pond, within 5 miles of the city of Stevens Point, Wisconsin, which offers numerous recreational opportunities. (See additional information section.) Site 1 – River Edge Site The River Edge site is a cleared area along the Plover River which includes a cracked granite fire pit, concrete bench, and nearby picnic table. It is an ideal site for tent camping. Site 2 – Woodland Fern Site The Woodland Fern site is a large shady site among mature trees ideal for tent or hammock camping. The site includes two cleared areas and a portable fire pit. There are lovely benches along the river and hammock chairs nearby. Site 3 – Boardwalk Trail Site The wooded Boardwalk Trail opens to secluded grassy site ideal for tent or hammock camping. A stone fire pit is included.

3. Booker's Northern Escape

48mi from Athens · 4 sites · RVs · Neillsville, WI

Welcome to Booker’s Northern Escape (BNE)! — Your Place for Makin’ Memories. It’s a place to reconnect, recharge, and make lasting memories. Whether it’s roasting marshmallows under a blanket of stars, swapping stories around the fire, or simply enjoying the stillness of nature, every moment here is special. If you prefer the cool shade of our wooded pine lots or the warmth of a sunny site, we’ve got the perfect spot for you. Each campsite includes electricity, water, a fire ring, picnic table, and access to hot showers, flush toilets, and a dump station—so you can enjoy the rustic charm of camping with the comfort of modern essentials. Enjoy the swimming pond, abundant wildlife, located on the Clark Co. ATV/UTV trails, plus nearby hiking trails, lakes, and easy access to public hunting land. Pair that with a friendly, welcoming community, and you’ve got everything you need for a memorable stay. Come for a weekend, or stay the season. Around here, it’s all about friends, campfires, and Makin’ Memories.

4. Council Grounds State Park

100%

(4)

55 sites · Merrill, Wisconsin

Discover Council Grounds State Park's scenic trails and waterfront fun.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. Chequamegon National Forest

75%

(4)

351 sites · Rhinelander, Wisconsin

Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, what a unique name and deservedly so as the forest itself is as diverse and attention getting as it’s namesake! The deep northwoods of Wisconsin offers a ton of hiking, biking, and camping to get stoked about; there’s 800 miles of hiking trails alone. But if you’re looking for a truly unique outdoor experience, try offroading or cross country skiing old military roads in the winter. There’s stunning Lake Superior views from St. Peter’s Dome and 70 foot Morgan Falls is sure to cool you off on a hot summer day. We dig the Quartz Trail where you can see giant quartz deposits discovered by the Native Americans who used to inhabit the area. There’s plenty of camping options to make this a wilderness weekend (or more) and with over 1.5 million acres to explore, we doubt you’ll be running out of rad things to discover!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. Ice Age Glamping

22mi from Athens · 1 site · Lodging · Rib Lake, WI

Welcome to Ice Age Glamping, a peaceful, off-grid escape nestled just 80 yards from Wisconsin’s iconic Ice Age Trail. Whether you’re thru-hiking, weekend adventuring, or simply craving quiet, this site offers a cozy and unique back-to-nature experience—with thoughtful touches of comfort. Set on private land with a short trail walk from your designated parking spot, the spacious canvas tent sits on a raised platform tucked beneath the trees. Inside, you’ll find a comfy queen bed made up with fresh linens, cozy blankets, and extra towels for your stay. The site includes solar lighting, a private portable toilet, and a solar shower for refreshing outdoor rinses. Enjoy evenings around the fire pit with complimentary firewood and seating provided. Cook up your camp favorites with included tools like pudgie pie makers, hot dog roasting sticks, plates, cups, and utensils. 5 gallons of fresh drinking water is provided with each stay. Your dog is welcome here, too! We’re pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your four-legged hiking buddy—just keep them leashed and clean up after them. The best part? Step out your tent and onto the Ice Age Trail. Whether you’re stargazing, sipping coffee under the pines, or heading out for a day of hiking, you’ll be surrounded by the quiet magic of Wisconsin’s Northwoods. Please note: This is a true off-grid experience—there’s no electricity or running water. We encourage guests to pack in food, flashlights, and a sense of adventure. Book your stay at Ice Age Glamping and experience the wild in comfort and simplicity.

Public campgrounds near Athens

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(4)

Council Grounds Campground

19mi from Athens · 55 sites · Tents, RVs · in Council Grounds State Park

North Twin Lake Recreation Area and Campground

25mi from Athens · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chequamegon National Forest

Picnic Point Campground

26mi from Athens · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Chequamegon National Forest

West Point Recreation Area and Campground

26mi from Athens · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chequamegon National Forest

Spearhead Point Campground

27mi from Athens · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chequamegon National Forest

Eastwood Campground

27mi from Athens · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chequamegon National Forest

Kathryn Lake Recreation Area and Campground

29mi from Athens · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chequamegon National Forest

Chippewa Campground

33mi from Athens · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chequamegon National Forest

Stories from the community

S

Susan

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Old Red Mill Oasis

Pretty spot along the river. Access to kayaking and tubing during warm weather. Michael was a friendly host. Good privacy between sites. One heads up, Google maps will tell you that you’ve arrived, but you’ll need to go just a little further before you see the red building.

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Annabelle

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Riverside Roost

We had such a wonderful time at Riverside Roost! The campsite right along the river is stunning and the fresh eggs, bread, & jam were delicious. If you are a big critter fan this is the spot for you! Lots of frogs, fish, turtles, crawdads, bugs, etc. as well as the chickens that wander around! Paddling along the water is a treat and the dam, albeit a little noisy, brought a nice cool air to the site. The campsite itself is nestled into the property and I think it’s a great site, though if you want more options for walking trails/exploring I’d utilize the plenty of parks and public sites in the area as well. We can’t wait to come back!

O

Olivia

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Riverside Roost

we had an amazing time at Kelli’s campsite!! everything was so beautiful and well maintained. We got a wheelbarrow of wood which was perfect for us! We loved saying hi to the chickens. She was very kind and accommodating. Would love to come back soon!!

E

Eric

October 2025

3 nights at Old Red Mill Oasis

Michael is an incredible host! He had everything ready for us upon arrival. We will definitely be back!

Tom

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Riverside Roost

Beautiful spot next to a river. We rented kayaks as well and had a wonderful time. River was very pretty and easy to navigate. Even caught some fish. Kelli was great. Will be back.

Leng

October 2025

Tent

5 nights at Riverside Roost

Relaxing and pretty secluded. This was the 2nd time returning and I decided to stay sun-fri. We saw, maybe 2 other people there. Still very very low to no light pollution to do stargazing weather permitting of course. Kelli reached out more than a few times to make sure we were doing ok and if we needed anything and to make sure to let her know if we did. Great hosts. We definitely be back next year.

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Tony

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Old Red Mill Oasis

Sanctuary vibes. The waterfall sound at site #1 and the stream trickle sound at site #2 were both serene to sleep near to. Michael also kindly allowed me to borrow one of his kayaks, and of course, from up river the flow leads directly to his Oasis.

Kate

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Riverside Roost

Kelli did such an awesome job hosting us! It was an amazing place to camp and we will definitely be back! I highly recommend the Amish bread and home grown eggs! Huge fire pit and the dam provided the best atmosphere ever. The stargazing at night was just the cherry on top!

S

STEPHANIE

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Old Red Mill Oasis

The Old Red Mill Oasis is heaven on earth in Central Wisconsin! The whole property along the Big Plover River has been carefully curated, with gazing benches showcasing meditative views. I loved to listen to the rush of the river at the Red Mill, and walk the manicured trails. My doodle dog Yummy is in absolute bliss on the land! The mushroom hunting was sublime in the prime! Michael is such a gracious host and wants to make your experience a memory to last forever. The kayaking is supreme, with a few different options. It's a treat when the heron leads you back to camp. Thank you, Michael!

J

Joanna

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Old Red Mill Oasis

Michael was a lovely host and the campsite was gorgeous!! Only wish we could have stayed longer!

T

Tara

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Riverside Roost

Beautiful campsite by the water. The sound of the waterfall from the dam was so calming! The hosts were extremely responsive and nice. It was super easy to find. We had a great time.

J

Jillian

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Riverside Roost

We had a fantastic camping experience. Kelli has put a lot of work & thoughtfulness into the site. Do yourself a favor and order her homemade bread! It was still warm when we arrived. We recommend opting for the full wheelbarrow of wood! It’s pleasant to sit around the campfire and listen to the dam sounds, pared with watching the birds dive into the water for fish. The river was pleasant to kayak down even in 50/60° weather. Coming back up to the launch site was a great work out!

M

Marret

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Riverside Roost

We loved our stay at River Roost!! It was magical hearing the waterfall by the Dam, the view is amazing. Kelli your host is awesome, so attentive, kind, and makes the best Amish Bread and Jam, we loved the farm fresh eggs . We wanted a private, romantic getaway to unplug and it was everything we hoped for! We will be back

Jennifer

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Old Red Mill Oasis

The campsite was lovely. Michael was such a great host! He delivered wood and even started our fire for us Friday night when I didn’t have a lighter 😌 He told us where to start upstream for a paddling trip and also was welcoming and sweet to our dog. We plan on visiting again!

J

Jack

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Riverside Roost

What a GREAT camp site. Next to a water fall and gentle river. It was like a noise machine which both of my kiddos need. We had friends and put all the kids down at 7, then sat at the fire for an extended meaningful conversation time. Kelli was AWESOME, and very communicative. Thanks for caring for us!

If you are in a camper this is an open area overlooking the rapids that is used for this site.

N

Noelle

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Old Red Mill Oasis

Michael was an amazing host. He had everything there available that you could possibly want. It is a really secluded and beautiful spot. We definitely want to come back again to kayak or go tubing down the river.

M

Melissa

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Riverside Roost

This campsite was magical! Our party of 8, including 4 kids, enjoyed fishing, kayaking, and sitting around the fire. Kelli is a phenomenal host; very communicative and made sure we had everything we needed. We took advantage of the opportunity to purchase homemade bread and jam and it was amazing. The mosquitos were biting but so were the northern! Bring bug spray and fishing poles and you’ll be set. We will definitely camp here again.

M

Mike

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Old Red Mill Oasis

Great host and sites had a blast. Beautiful scenery too

Leng

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Riverside Roost

Loved the setting. If you love fishing right next to your tent. This is the place. The dam area holds a lot of different fish species. Very to no light pollution. If the sky's clear, the stary sky is amazing. The dam can be a little loud but if you like that kinda white noise to sleep. Won't be a problem. Highly recommended. The hosts were amazing and never felt unwanted or rushed. Will definitely be back.

M

Maud

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

2 nights at Old Red Mill Oasis

What an indescribably beautiful place on this sweet earth. Michael's land, a long strip of wooded shoreland on the Plover river, is one man's life's wo. It is a gorgeous mix of wild wonder and gentle landscaping. Michael is a wonderful host. He did all he could to make our stay as memorable as possible. I cannot recommend his little paradise more.