Outdoor Group Camp

For Wisconsin's outdoor groups and those who relish a truly immersive and rustic camping experience, the Outdoor Group Camp at Point Beach State Forest in Two Rivers offers an exceptional setting. This dedicated group camping area is nestled within the sprawling nearly 3,000-acre state forest, providing ample space for large gatherings amidst the quiet beauty of a Lake Michigan shoreline environment. Unlike typical family campgrounds, the Outdoor Group Camp is specifically designed to accommodate numerous tents and small trailers, making it an ideal choice for scout troops, youth organizations, large family reunions, or any group seeking a back-to-basics adventure in a stunning natural landscape.

Point Beach State Forest is a crown jewel of Wisconsin's state forest system, boasting six miles of pristine, undeveloped Lake Michigan shoreline, towering sand dunes, and a diverse ecosystem of wooded trails. The Outdoor Group Camp reflects the forest's commitment to preserving this natural environment, providing a more primitive camping experience that encourages groups to connect with nature without the distractions of extensive modern amenities. Reviewers consistently praise the "awesome shape" of the campsites and the park's excellent recreational opportunities, particularly the "perfect condition" of the bike trails and the abundance of rocks for beachcombing along the Lake Michigan shore, even in cooler months. This focus on natural activities and a quiet atmosphere makes the Outdoor Group Camp a truly special place for groups looking to create lasting memories in a beautiful, unspoiled setting.

The allure of the Outdoor Group Camp lies in its ability to offer a vast, tranquil space for collective outdoor enjoyment. It strikes a balance for groups that desire a raw, unpretentious camping environment but still want access to a wealth of activities within a well-managed state forest. It’s a place where the sounds of the waves, the rustling of trees, and the crackle of a campfire define the experience, making it a perfect choice for many local Wisconsin groups seeking an authentic and engaging outdoor adventure.

Location and Accessibility

The Outdoor Group Camp is located within Point Beach State Forest, at 9710 S State St (also listed as 9400 Cty Rd O), Two Rivers, WI 54241, USA. This location places it strategically along the picturesque Lake Michigan shoreline in eastern Wisconsin. For residents across the state, its accessibility is quite good. Two Rivers is approximately a 30-minute drive south of Green Bay, about 45 minutes east of the Fox Valley cities (like Appleton and Oshkosh), and roughly a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Milwaukee or Madison. This makes Point Beach State Forest a manageable and attractive destination for groups coming from various parts of Wisconsin.

Access to the Outdoor Group Camp involves driving into Point Beach State Forest. While the main roads within the forest are well-maintained, the group camp area itself is designed for tents and smaller trailers up to 20 feet in length, meaning large motor homes and fifth-wheel units would need to utilize the family campground. This ensures the rustic character of the group camp is preserved. The forest's location directly on Lake Michigan provides unique opportunities for beach activities, including rock hunting, a favorite among visitors. Additionally, the park boasts extensive trail networks directly accessible from the camping areas. Although the group camp itself offers basic amenities, the proximity to Two Rivers means that essential services like grocery stores, gas stations, and local eateries are just a short drive away, providing convenience without detracting from the natural immersion of the forest experience.

Services Offered

The Outdoor Group Camp at Point Beach State Forest provides a rustic and fundamental camping experience, focusing on accommodating large groups. Based on available public information, here are the typical services:

• Group Campsites: The Outdoor Group Camp is designed to accommodate as many as 60 people. It is specifically intended for tents and small trailers (up to 20 feet in length). Large motor homes and fifth-wheel units are not suitable for this area and should use the family campground within the state forest.

• Hand Pump for Water: Potable water is available at the group camp through a hand pump, providing a more traditional camping feel.

• Vault Toilets: The group camp is equipped with vault toilets (also known as pit toilets), providing basic restroom facilities.

• Picnic Tables: Multiple picnic tables are provided at each group site to accommodate the larger number of campers for dining and communal activities.

• Large Fire Ring: Each group camp area includes a substantial fire ring, suitable for large campfires and cooking for bigger groups.

• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase in season at the forest office, ensuring campers can have campfires while adhering to regulations about not moving firewood to prevent pest spread.

• Access to Showers (at Family Campground): While not directly at the Outdoor Group Camp, flush toilets and shower buildings are available in the main family campground area (e.g., across from sites 31 and 120), accessible by a short drive or walk.

• Dump Station (at Family Campground): A dump station for RV waste is available near the main entrance to the family campground for registered campers.

• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally allowed at campsites within Point Beach State Forest, including the Outdoor Group Camp, provided they are kept on a leash and adhere to park pet regulations. Specific areas like picnic areas, buildings, and certain trails may have restrictions.

Features / Highlights

• Expansive Lake Michigan Shoreline: The forest boasts six miles of undeveloped sandy beach along Lake Michigan, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and "rock hunting," a popular activity for visitors.

• Extensive Biking and Hiking Trails: Point Beach State Forest offers over 20 miles of trails for various uses, including 4 miles of surfaced biking trail, 4 miles of mountain bike trail, and 11 miles of hiking and ski trails. These trails are frequently praised for being in "perfect condition."

• Rawley Point Lighthouse: A historic and popular feature within the forest is the Rawley Point Lighthouse, which has been operated by the U.S. Coast Guard since 1853, offering scenic views and a point of interest.

• Ice Age Trail Access: Portions of the National Scenic Ice Age Trail run through the forest, providing opportunities for long-distance hiking and backpacking directly from the park.

• Wooded Campsites: All sites, including the Outdoor Group Camp, are wooded, providing natural shade and a more secluded, immersive forest experience.

• Quiet and Natural Atmosphere: Being designed for group camping with a rustic focus, the area maintains a quiet and peaceful ambiance, ideal for groups seeking a true escape into nature.

• Year-Round Recreation: The forest is open year-round, offering opportunities for winter activities like cross-country skiing directly from certain campsites, even in the colder months (as suggested by the December review).

• Ample Space for Groups: The specific design of the Outdoor Group Camp ensures plenty of space for large gatherings, multiple tents, and communal activities.

• Proximity to Two Rivers: While offering a wilderness feel, the forest is conveniently close to the city of Two Rivers, providing access to restaurants, shops, and other amenities when needed.

• Wildlife Viewing: The diverse ecosystem of the state forest provides opportunities for observing local wildlife and birdwatching.

Contact Information

Address: 9710 S State St, Two Rivers, WI 54241, USA (located within Point Beach State Forest)

Phone: (920) 794-7480 (This is the main contact number for Point Beach State Forest, through which inquiries about the Outdoor Group Camp can be made.)

For group campsite reservations, which are highly recommended, it is best to use the Wisconsin DNR's online reservation system or call their central reservation line, as the Outdoor Group Camp is part of the state park system.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Wisconsin residents, the Outdoor Group Camp at Point Beach State Forest offers a distinct and highly suitable camping experience, particularly for those organizing larger gatherings or seeking a more traditional, rustic outdoor adventure. Its prime location along the Lake Michigan shoreline in Two Rivers provides convenient access from many parts of the state, making it an excellent choice for local scout troops, family reunions, school groups, or friends looking to bond in nature without extensive travel.

The core suitability for locals lies in its specialized design for groups. With ample space for up to 60 people and catering specifically to tents and smaller trailers, it solves the challenge of finding a cohesive camping spot for larger parties. While it embraces a rustic approach with hand pump water and vault toilets, this simplicity encourages groups to connect with nature on a deeper level, fostering teamwork and a sense of self-sufficiency – qualities often cherished in outdoor education and family bonding. The well-maintained condition of the campsites and trails, as noted by local reviewers, ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience despite the basic amenities.

Furthermore, the wealth of activities available within Point Beach State Forest itself is a significant draw. Direct access to six miles of Lake Michigan beach offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, and the unique local pastime of "rock hunting." The extensive network of biking and hiking trails, including parts of the Ice Age Trail, caters to active groups eager to explore. For Wisconsin locals, who appreciate both the tranquility of a quiet, wooded setting and the recreational opportunities of a Great Lakes shoreline, the Outdoor Group Camp at Point Beach State Forest provides an ideal and memorable backdrop for their next group adventure, allowing them to truly experience the natural beauty of their home state.

Outdoor Group Camp

9710 S State St, Two Rivers, WI 54241, USA