The Nicolet National Forest surrounds Boulder Junction, Wisconsin, a region characterized by more than 2,500 lakes within a 20-mile radius. Winter temperatures often drop below 0°F, while summer highs reach the low 80s with significant rainfall averaging 32 inches annually. Most campgrounds sit on mixed coniferous-deciduous forest terrain with sandy soil conditions typical of northern Wisconsin.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Franklin Lake Campground offers trails through forests and bogs. "The nature trail takes us through bogs and past maiden hair ferns," notes one camper at Franklin Lake.
Water recreation opportunities: Canoeing and kayaking are popular on numerous lakes. At Sylvania Clark Lake Campground, "There are 4 campground loops and many campsites out around the lakes. We can see our neighbors but there is plenty of greenery deflecting our view for enough privacy."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer the best chance to spot deer, eagles, and loons. "Loons are always on the lake. The water is crystal clear," reports a visitor at Franklin Lake.
Stargazing conditions: The area has minimal light pollution for astronomy. "The stars at night are some of the best I've seen with so little light pollution up there," according to a Franklin Lake camper.
What campers like
Site privacy: Many campgrounds feature well-spaced sites with natural buffers. At Presque Isle - Porcupine Mountains State Park, "We camped in the 'walk-in' sites which were a short walk from our cars. These were definitely the best sites for tree cover and privacy with a separate trail to each campsite."
Clear water quality: Many lakes feature exceptional visibility. One camper at Presque Isle noted, "Short walk down stairs to Lake Superior which offered some great sunset views."
Quiet atmosphere: Most campgrounds enforce quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM. "Campground was quiet and clean. For those without power there is outlets in shelter in middle of campground to charge batteries," reports a visitor at Franklin Lake.
Forest surroundings: Pine and hardwood forests provide shade and natural beauty. "Sites are large and decent spacing between sites. Heavy tree cover with mostly shade," notes a camper at Franklin Lake.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds require advance booking through recreation.gov from May to October. First-come, first-served sites at Alpine Campground & RV Park fill quickly during summer weekends.
Limited cell coverage: Service varies significantly throughout the region. "Cell service was really spotty (can be a good thing when camping), and I wasn't able to pick up a lot of radio stations either," reports a Presque Isle visitor.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes are abundant, especially May through August. "Shady private sites with ample mosquitoes," notes a Sylvania Clark Lake camper.
Water sources: Many campgrounds have hand pumps or wells. "There's well water pumps throughout the campground but it's not good for drinking," reports a Franklin Lake visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas with gradual entry. At Frontier RV Park and Campground, "Large playground, biking, hiking" are available for children.
Safety considerations: Store food securely due to wildlife presence. "Bear and Wolf precautions, please," advises a Sylvania Clark Lake camper.
Bathroom facilities: Most campgrounds have vault toilets, with limited shower access. "Clean bathrooms and shower areas. Easy hook up for water, electric and sewer," notes a visitor at Arbor Vitae Campground.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers offer programs during summer months. Franklin Lake has "a small nature center" according to one visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV campgrounds near Boulder Junction offer varying levels of service. "We were in a tent so did not appreciate the asphalt, but this site would be great for a small trailer," notes a Sylvania Clark Lake camper.
Site conditions: Many RV sites are gravel or asphalt with leveling required. "Site was mostly gravel with nice fire ring and picnic table," reports a Franklin Lake visitor.
Power options: Several campgrounds have recently added electrical service. "They just added electric hook up to some sites in the South End. Right now the price is the same for electric or non-electric sites," notes a Franklin Lake camper.
Size restrictions: Most RV sites accommodate units up to 35 feet. At Alpine Campground & RV Park, "Our pull thru sites where just long enough for our 35' trailer and truck to stay connected. Sites were grass, a little un-level but were very spacious."
