Northern Highland State Forest encompasses over 232,000 acres of wilderness in north-central Wisconsin, with more than 900 glacial lakes scattered throughout the area. The forest sits at an elevation of approximately 1,600 feet above sea level and experiences distinct seasons, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 55-80°F. Glamping accommodations near Arbor Vitae remain available from late May through early October, with most sites requiring reservations well in advance during peak season.
What to do
Paddle on non-motorized lakes: Crystal Lake at Crystal Lake Campground offers pristine waters where motorized boats aren't allowed. "This is a great campground in a group of the campgrounds in the area. Lots of water sites so I would highly suggesting getting one so that you can paddle right from the shoreline. Good fishing as well. No the rules when you come onto the lake as motors are not allowed which is why I chose it as it made paddling much easier," notes camper Scott M.
Listen for loons on quiet lakes: The undeveloped shorelines at Cunnard Lake provide habitat for native wildlife. "You will wake up to the sound of loons and go to bed with the sound of them," shares AnneMarie C. Another camper, Jordan A., confirms: "Loved getting to paddleboard (brought my own) and listen to the loons day and night."
Explore paved bike trails: The network of paved bike paths throughout the forest connects various recreation areas. "There is a paved bike path through the woods all the way to the registration area," notes Braden H. about Clear Lake Campground. At Big Lake Campground, "We loved the bicycle route that runs throughout the area. People were walking, running and biking - even one wheels were in play. This is a great way to get out into the dispersed local community without touching your vehicle."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Sandy Beach Lake Campground offers secluded camping spots. "The campsite was huge and private, also our site was on the lake with access to it. Perfect for pitching up your hammock and just enjoy the scenery and sounds of the lake," writes Jeanna Marie C. Another reviewer adds, "Sites are fairly private because of the lower vegetation so you don't feel as though you are right on top of your neighbors."
Clean facilities with proper maintenance: Several glamping locations near Arbor Vitae maintain well-kept amenities. At Clear Lake Campground, Joel N. mentions, "There are 2 beaches, trails, beautiful wooded sites, and the lake's water is as clear as advertised." At Chain O'Lakes Campground, a camper notes, "The bathroom was clean, but we didn't try the showers."
Family-friendly atmosphere: Several campgrounds emphasize activities for children. At Hi-Pines Campground, a reviewer states, "We enjoyed the amenities and activities this campground had to offer. Great activities for kids…fishing presentation, movie, kickball." Another camper adds, "This campground is wide and very open. We arrived on a Sunday and the weekend crowd had cleared out, so nice and quiet."
What you should know
Reservation timing is crucial: Popular sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. "You will need to reserve your site 11 months in advance because it fills up fast," advises Joel N. about Clear Lake Campground.
Quiet designation changes the experience: Cunard Lake Campground has specific noise regulations. "Lake Cunard campground was designated a 'Quiet' campground several years ago - one of only two in the 18 different Northern Highlands American Legion state forest campgrounds. That means no 'noise producing devices', including generators, radios, TV's, video games, guitars, etc. No means none. Prohibited," explains reviewer S P.
Cell service varies by location: Digital connectivity fluctuates throughout the forest. "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. Even when we had 3 bars, it wasn't much better than the 1 bar at our site," reports Mike R. from Crystal Lake Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for lakeside sites with direct beach access: Buffalo Lake Campground offers prime waterfront locations. "Buffalo Lake Campground in the Northern Highlands-American Legion State Forest is spectacular - the sites are large and beautiful - we had campsite 2020 which overlooked the lake, a perfect spot to hang our hammock and relax," shares Krissy G.
Consider campgrounds with dedicated swimming areas: Sandy Beach Lake provides safe places for children to swim. "I did go down to the swimming beach and watch some turtles laying eggs," mentions Scott M. At Clear Lake, Matthew K. notes, "Beautiful clear water lake with only a handful of houses. 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."
Select campgrounds with organized activities: Some glamping sites near Arbor Vitae offer structured recreation options. "Lots of things for families," notes David W. about Chain O'Lakes Campground. Hi-Pines Campground receives praise for their "fishing presentation, movie, kickball" programming specifically designed for children.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability is limited: Arbor Vitae Campground provides complete utilities but has some drawbacks. "Clean bathrooms and shower areas. Easy hook up for water, electric and sewer. RV sites nice but would prefer more trees. Nice fire pits. Wood available for purchase," reports Linda C.
Consider electrical safety when setting up: Some campgrounds have outdated electrical systems. At Arbor Vitae Campground, a camper warns: "Electricity has no breakers to shut the juice off before hook up which is very dangerous. Water is good pressure."
Choose loops appropriate for your RV size: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. At Big Lake Campground, reviewer Larry L. notes it's "Just your basic campground with pit toilets and pump water. Firewood available for $5 or $6 when I was there." The road quality varies, with Art S. observing at Big Lake: "The road in is paved and yet nicely wooded. It feels like a more upscale location than some other more remote campgrounds."
