Northern Wisconsin's Arbor Vitae region sits at approximately 1,600 feet elevation within the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest where sandy glacial soil supports dense stands of pine, hemlock, and maple trees. The area experiences warm summers with average July temperatures around 80°F and cold winters that typically maintain snow cover from December through March. Most campgrounds in the region have sandy soil that drains quickly after rain, making tent platforms or extra ground padding recommended for comfortable sleeping.
What to Do
Kayaking on motor-free lakes: Crystal Lake Campground offers pristine paddling opportunities with restrictions that enhance the experience. "No motors are allowed which is why I chose it as it made paddling much easier," notes a camper, who also mentions the "lots of water sites so I would highly suggest getting one so that you can paddle right from the shoreline."
Biking the paved trail system: North Trout Lake Campground provides direct access to the extensive regional bike network. "The paved bike route is nearby and goes for miles. Town is a short bike ride away," shares one visitor. Another camper confirms, "Lots of paths for the bikes which is what a lot of the families were doing."
Nature hiking at Fallison Lake: Firefly Lake Campground serves as an ideal base for nearby hiking trails. "You can visit Fallison Lake to hike. This way accesses other campgrounds too. Keep riding and you will discover a corner store with ice cream," reports a reviewer who explored beyond the campground boundaries.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Musky Lake Campground offers well-spaced camping areas. "Sites are very wooded and quiet and clean," notes one repeat visitor. Another mentions, "Big clean sites. Clean bathrooms/showers. Between two lakes," highlighting the spaciousness and natural separation between camping spots.
Swimming beaches with sandy bottoms: Clear Lake Campground features exceptional swimming areas. A visitor describes, "Beautiful clear water and beach area. Nice to kayak. Only a few great sites by the water." Another camper explains the layout: "It is a popular campground so it can be busy and hectic but is nice for families. A lot of locals come to the swimming beach on the weekends."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Cunnard Lake Campground provides notable wildlife encounters. "Loved getting to paddleboard (brought my own) and listen to the loons day and night," shares a camper. The campground's quiet designation enhances nature observation, with another visitor noting it was "designated a 'Quiet' campground several years ago - one of only two in the 18 different Northern Highlands American Legion state forest campgrounds."
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements vary: Most state forest campgrounds now require advance booking. At Buffalo Lake Campground, campsites are first-come, first-served, though this is changing. A recent visitor notes it was "a busy weekend of people but great space, little to know bugs."
Cell service limitations: Service varies significantly by location and carrier. At Crystal Lake Campground, "We have Verizon service and it is spotty in areas, though given that you can see a cell tower towards Sayner it should be a lot better than it is. I think it is the heavy tree cover that impacts the reception."
Noise restrictions: Some campgrounds enforce strict quiet rules. At Cunnard Lake, regulations prohibit "noise producing devices, including generators, radios, TV's, video games, guitars, etc. No means none. Prohibited." As one camper discovered, "It is a quiet campground, I can respect that. But camp friend was not so friendly. If we laughed out loud she would warn us."
Tips for Camping with Families
Beach access from campsites: Look for shoreline sites at Crystal Lake Campground where "you can get sites that have your own beach pretty much with a trail right down to the lake." A frequent visitor explains, "I have been camping at Crystal Lake every year for 20+ years. The water and beach is clean."
Kid-friendly activities beyond swimming: Patricia Lake Campground provides additional recreational options. "Very nice. Quiet. Lots of trees and shade. Small lake with swimming area. Fishing is good," reports a visitor. The campground also features "large fenced in dog run and also area for dogs to swim."
Multigenerational camping traditions: Several campgrounds host families that return annually. One camper shares, "My father came here with his family growing up and brought us kids for the last 20+ years. Three different generations have seen this place and it will continue to be passed down," about their experiences at Cunnard Lake Campground.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: North Trout Lake Campground offers some sites with utilities, though they may be limited. "Sites are large, with some tree coverage. Many families with kids and dogs. Well maintained and great walking and biking trails in the park and surrounding area."
Seasonal camping options: Indian Shores offers extended-stay possibilities. "This is a larger campground with a good mix of seasonal and weekend campsites. The majority of the weekend campsites are located near the prime activity locations; the pool, playground and lake areas," describes a visitor who appreciated that "the seasonal campers I met and talked with were all friendly and did not have the 'why are you here' attitude."
Site selection for larger rigs: For those with bigger RVs, Lynn Ann's Campground provides appropriate spaces. "Nice clean well kept campground, nice sized sites, clean restrooms, some sites right on the water," notes a camper. Another mentions it's their "favorite campground in the area" with "very clean, family friendly" facilities and "sites are a decent size with shade."
