Sherri D.
Scout
ScoutWeber Lake County Park
Weber Lake
It is an awesome campground and so close for a day trip. Sitting by the water is so relaxing after a long work week.
Camping near Boulder Junction, WI
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest dominates the camping landscape around Boulder Junction, Wisconsin, encompassing multiple campgrounds with varied options for overnight stays. The forest contains numerous lakeside camping areas including North Trout Lake, Crystal Lake, Musky Lake, and Firefly Lake campgrounds. Most sites accommodate both tent and RV camping, though amenities vary significantly between locations. Crystal Lake and Firefly Lake campgrounds offer shower facilities, while others like South Trout Lake maintain a more rustic experience with vault toilets and water pumps. Camping options range from basic tent sites to RV-friendly areas with electric hookups, particularly at Camp Holiday Campground, which caters to families seeking more amenities.
Reservations are required for most campgrounds in the area, with peak season running from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The region features an extensive paved bike trail network connecting the various camping areas to nearby towns like Boulder Junction and Sayner. "We loved the paved bicycle route that runs throughout the area. People were walking, running and biking - this is a great way to get out into the dispersed local community without touching your vehicle," noted one visitor. Cell service varies throughout the forest, with Verizon users reporting spotty coverage in heavily wooded sections. Water access represents a primary draw for many campers, with several campgrounds offering direct lake frontage and boat launches. Winter camping is available at some locations, though services are reduced outside the main season.
Lakefront sites consistently receive the highest ratings from campers, particularly those along the eastern shore of Crystal Lake which feature sandy beaches. Campgrounds like North Trout Lake provide waterfront views but campers note some road noise from nearby Highway M. Several visitors mentioned the quality of fishing opportunities and paddling experiences, especially at lakes that prohibit motorized boats. The campgrounds vary in size and privacy levels - South Trout Lake tends to be busier with boat traffic while more remote locations like Starrett Lake offer greater seclusion. As one camper observed, "This is a nice quiet campground with trees between the sites to give it a more private feel." Hiking trails, swimming areas, and abundant wildlife complement the camping experience throughout the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest.
Best Campgrounds near Boulder Junction (172)
1. Musky Lake Campground — Northern Highland - American Legion State Forest
"Just south of Boulder Junction, WI. New and clean bathroom facilities with showers and flush toilets. Lakeside sites have their own path to the lake."
"Quiet campground across the road from the busier Crystal Lake campground. Convenient to the lovely bike trail that takes you to Boulder Junction and Manitowish Waters."
from $25 / night
Check Availability2. North Trout Lake Campground — Northern Highland - American Legion State Forest
"Nice campground situated in Northern Wisconsin in the North Highland American Legion State Forest. Over 900 lakes and 225,000 acres."
"Loved the water view from our campsite, unfortunately on the other side was the main entrance and a highway so vehicular traffic sound was prominent. Sites are large, with some tree coverage."
from $19 / night
Check Availability3. Crystal Lake Campground — Northern Highland - American Legion State Forest
"The best sites are lake sites (obviously), but there are some better than others. Look along the east side of the lake for a sandy beach off of your site."
"You can get sites that have your own beach pretty much with a trail right down to the lake. Very nice."
from $25 / night
Check Availability4. Camp Holiday Campground
from $38 / night
Check Availability5. Firefly Lake — Northern Highland - American Legion State Forest
"This is a beautiful campground nestled in Wisconsin’s north woods. There are many choices for sites."
"Very nice campground in state forest in northern Wisconsin. NO electricity. Generators allowed from 10 am to 5 pm. "
from $25 / night
Check Availability6. Lake Gogebic State Park Campground
"We loved staying at Lake Gogebic! There’s a beach a short walk through the campground and the site hosts are super friendly."
"Loved the surrounding area also. Had fun walking around and the lake was beautiful though cold."
from $21 - $120 / night
Check Availability7. Upper Gresham Lake Campground — Northern Highland - American Legion State Forest
"This campground is really close to Boulder Junction."
"This is good rustic campground with some really nice sites next to the lake. Lots of people here for the bike path as this area has a lot of access to the nearby towns from the bike paths."
from $19 / night
Check Availability8. Razorback Lake Campground — Northern Highland - American Legion State Forest
"We were surprised at the lack of mosquitoes, given that it was June in the woods in Wisconsin! The lakefront at our site was a little mucky, but became more sandy a few yards out."
"The lake is large enough to have motorboats towing people around. The campground beach was hopping when we pulled in. The campground itself is situated on a couple loops."
from $19 / night
Check Availability9. Big Lake Campground — Northern Highland - American Legion State Forest
"Big Lake Campground is a great spot if you’re looking for a simple and peaceful camping experience. The facilities are very basic—vault toilets and no showers—but they are clean and well-maintained."
"This is a nice campground located in a nice place that isn’t too rustic. Lots of sites in this large campground too. The road in is paved and yet nicely wooded."
from $19 / night
Check Availability10. South Trout Lake Campground — Northern Highland - American Legion State Forest
from $19 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 1 hr 22 min from Wausau, WI
- 2 hrs 42 min from Eau Claire, WI
- 2 hrs 44 min from Green Bay, WI
- 2 hrs 45 min from Duluth, MN
Recent Camping Photos near Boulder Junction, WI
229 Photos of 172 Boulder Junction Campgrounds
Art S.
North Trout Lake Campground — Northern Highland - American Legion State Forest
Zach P.
Camp Holiday Campground
Art S.
South Trout Lake Campground — Northern Highland - American Legion State Forest
Adrienne L.
Musky Lake Campground — Northern Highland - American Legion State Forest
Melinda K.
Plum Lake — Northern Highland - American Legion State Forest
Lesley R.
West Star Lake Campground — Northern Highland - American Legion State Forest
Linda C.
Arbor Vitae Campground
Steve H.
Lynn Ann's Campground
Art S.
Sandy Beach Lake Campground — Northern Highland - American Legion State Forest
Debra
Carrol Lake — Northern Highland - American Legion State Forest
David H.
Lac du Flambeau Campground and Marina
Patrick B.
Henry Lake Campground
Recent Reviews near Boulder Junction, WI
571 Reviews of 172 Boulder Junction Campgrounds
Madison J.ScoutGolden Lake Campground
Site 1
Beautiful lake with clear water there is no beach but peaceful surroundings. A perfect place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. I'd definitely come back!
- M
Melanie F.ScoutPrentice Riverside Campground
Nice spot for overnight
We just stayed for one night. The campground is well maintained. There are no facilities, other than a port a potty. It only has electric. So if you can get by with water and sewer it’s perfect for a short stay. They also have a wood rack where you can get firewood for a goodwill donation.
Ryan R.
GuideUnion Bay Campground — Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
Superior Lake Views
Breath taking sunrises and sunsets on the coast of lake Superior! Clean quite camp ground with access to beaches. Lake side sites give you the best experience!!
John P.
TravelerLake Gogebic State Park Campground
Camping with a view
Nice state park campground. A lot of flushable toilets, decent showers, well maintained, shaded campsites with electricity and a quiet, tranquil environment for the amount of people and pets. The campground has a nice boat landing, swings, volleyball net, basketball hoop and paved road for biking. One disappointment was the beach. The lake has beautiful clear water but the beach area could use some work. There is quite a bit of goose feces and the sand needs to be cleaned and sifted. A little attention to this would be a huge improvement. All in all I would highly recommend this campground.
- RRickGuide
Curry Park Campground
Convenient Location
Stayed two nights while visiting the area. Restroom are kept clean. Showers had great water pressure and hot, hot water. Fairly new electrical upgrades. Many lots are small in size and gravel pads uneven. Section with FHU sites are grouped together. Easy on/off US-2.
- AAnna K.Traveler
Quartz Lake
First time dispersed camping
After scouting different campsites around this area I was really hoping to get to stay here and when we went to set up the spot was available and I was beyond ecstatic. This was a gorgeous campsite with an easy walk from the car to the site. Large area for tent and living space. Fire pit with 2 grill tops to put over the fire. Picnic table as well which was perfectly placed to face the lake. Spot also has a thunderbox for doing your business so that was helpful. The lake access as well directly from the site was awesome and allowed us to keep our canoe there and go out fishing on a private lake. I did not want to leave this place and I will absolutely be back to either this spot or similar spots near
- JJim P.Scout
Union Bay Campground — Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
Like a parking lot
Th upper camping area has 3x the number of sites there is space for. The lake and perimeter sites are much better. In the upper space, it's like a group camp on a large patch of grass. Firepits are only 10 feet apart in most areas. Shameful for a state park facility. Staff was very friendly though.
Carrie P.GuideLuna Lake
Beautiful Dispersed Site
Follow the dirt road to Luna Lake of Forest Road 2140. There are 2 dispersed sites on this road. We stayed 3 nights at the second one. We had our own private sand beach! There is a picnic table and fire ring as well as a pit toilet that seems to be well kept. There is a level spot at the top where you could park an over landing vehicle or a small camper. Road is Rough and narrow. I would suggest only bring down a camper with off road capabilities. There are 2 good spots for tents. When we were there this lake had loons and it was so lovely to hear them. Pay your nightly fee at the drop box at Divide road and rte. 70. Sites are first come, first served.
Guide to Boulder Junction
Boulder Junction, Wisconsin sits within the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest at an elevation of 1,660 feet. The area contains over 900 lakes with crystal clear waters spread across 225,000 acres of public land. Temperatures in summer typically range from 70-85°F during the day, while winter camping experiences temperatures well below freezing, often dropping to single digits.
What to do
Biking paved trails: North Trout Lake Campground connects to an extensive paved bike trail system. "This is a great campground situated in Northern Wisconsin in the North Highland American Legion State Forest. This is the bicycle trail capital in the State of Wisconsin for sure! There are paved bicycle trails connecting every campground and every town," notes Jay W.
Kayaking motor-free lakes: Crystal Lake Campground offers pristine paddling conditions. "Know 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," explains Scott M. The sandy lake bottom is ideal for swimming while the ban on motorized boats creates a peaceful paddling experience.
Wildlife viewing and listening: Focus early mornings on spotting and hearing local wildlife. "Loons will sing you to sleep. Sites are big and nicely spaced out. Nice shower-restrooms. Lots of mature trees mean lots of places to hang your hammock," shares Rebecca B. about Firefly Lake Campground.
What campers like
Private lakeside sites: Musky Lake Campground offers secluded waterfront camping. "Big clean sites. Clean bathrooms/showers. Between to lakes. Near hiking, kayaking, swimming," reports Rebecca B. Sites with lake access are consistently rated highest by campers.
Dark skies for stargazing: Several campgrounds in the area have minimal light pollution. "Loved this site. Big open site. Great for star viewing. In between two great lakes. With hiking, biking trails," explains another reviewer about camping at Musky Lake.
Quiet, non-motorized lakes: Firefly Lake Campground maintains a ban on motorized boats. "The lake is clear, sandy with many areas where you can swim. No electric motors on lake so it is nice for kayaking. All the sites are large and surrounded by trees, shady," notes Mary.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Verizon coverage is spotty throughout the forest. "Cell phone service is minimal with Verizon. We could send and receive texts," reports Mary about Firefly Lake. Service tends to be better near towns and more open areas.
Reservation requirements: All campgrounds now require advance booking. "New rules say that you must have reservations but we had cell service so you can do things when you show up if there's room," explains Art S.
Generator rules: Upper Gresham Lake Campground and other rustic sites have specific generator usage times. "Generators allowed from 10 am to 5 pm," clarifies Mary about Firefly Lake, important information for campers requiring power.
Winter services: "Dump and clean water available at next campground, Crystal Lake, which is a mile away," notes Mary, highlighting limited facilities during off-season camping.
Tips for camping with families
Motor-free swimming beaches: Families appreciate the safer swimming environments. "This is a nice quiet campground with a motor free swimming lake and additional fishing lakes, nearby small town with cute shops and good food," explains Lori H. about Musky Lake.
Ice cream access: Local treats are available near many campgrounds. "Many different hiking and biking trails to explore and you definitely have to go visit the Corner Store just a few miles down the road for some delicious ice cream!" recommends Mark E. about Firefly Lake.
Family-friendly lakes: Camp Holiday Campground features amenities specifically designed for children. "The beach area was nice with a nice big sandy beach for the kids. They also have a mini store for all your necessities from mustard, ketchup, tent stakes, tarps, and of course beer," reports Zach P.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling equipment. "Most sites accommodate both tent and RV camping, though sites are not very level," notes Larry L. about camping in the area.
Electric hookups: Electric options vary across campgrounds. Camp Holiday offers electric hookups with "a mini concession stand in store with hot dogs and stuff but also a game room with pool tables arcade games," according to Zach P.
Shoulder season advantages: Fall camping provides unique benefits. "Best time to camp here is in the fall as the leaves were great!" recommends Scott M. about Upper Gresham Lake, noting fewer crowds and spectacular foliage in September and October.
Frequently Asked Questions
What campgrounds are available in Boulder Junction, Wisconsin?
What campgrounds are available in Boulder Junction, Wisconsin?
Boulder Junction offers several excellent campgrounds within the Northern Highland State Forest. Musky Lake Campground is a popular option with lakeside sites, new bathroom facilities with showers, and easy access to the town. Upper Gresham Lake Campground provides a more rustic experience with beautiful lakeside sites. Other options include North and South Trout Lake campgrounds, Firefly Lake Campground, and Crystal Lake Campground. Most of these campgrounds offer water access and basic amenities, with sites ranging from tent-only to those that can accommodate RVs.
How far are the closest campgrounds from Boulder Junction, WI?
How far are the closest campgrounds from Boulder Junction, WI?
Several campgrounds are located within minutes of Boulder Junction. Upper Gresham Lake Campground is very close to town, making it convenient for visitors to enjoy local attractions like the weekly Lyons Club flea market. North Trout Lake Campground is situated nearby in the Northern Highland American Legion State Forest, with easy access to the extensive bicycle trail system that connects to Boulder Junction. Musky Lake Campground is just south of town, and Firefly Lake Campground is nestled in the nearby north woods, all within a short driving distance of Boulder Junction's amenities.
What amenities does Crystal Lake Campground in Boulder Junction offer?
What amenities does Crystal Lake Campground in Boulder Junction offer?
Crystal Lake Campground in the Northern Highland State Forest offers several amenities for a comfortable camping experience. The campground features clean bathroom facilities with showers and flush toilets. Water access is available, making it suitable for swimming and boating activities. The campground provides pumped water and is accessible by vehicle with drive-in sites. Crystal Lake is more developed than some nearby options like Musky Lake (which is located across the road). While specific site information varies, the campground is reservable and can accommodate various camping setups. Its proximity to Boulder Junction provides convenient access to town amenities and the popular bicycle trail system connecting Boulder Junction and Manitowish Waters.
Where can I find quiet camping spots in Boulder Junction, Wisconsin?
Where can I find quiet camping spots in Boulder Junction, Wisconsin?
Musky Lake Campground is frequently described as a peaceful option, offering a quieter alternative to the busier Crystal Lake campground across the road. Campers report enjoying the sounds of loons and serene water views. Firefly Lake in the Northern Highland State Forest provides a beautiful, tranquil setting in Wisconsin's north woods with various site sizes. For those seeking even more solitude, Sailor Lake NF Campground offers a more secluded experience nestled within the Wisconsin forest, with both waterside and interior sites. The waterside sites at these campgrounds tend to be especially peaceful, though they may be in higher demand.
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