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.
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