Cable, Wisconsin sits within the Chequamegon National Forest at approximately 1,500 feet elevation, featuring a mix of dense pine forests and over 900 lakes within a 30-mile radius. Winter temperatures regularly drop below zero, while summer days typically range from 65-80°F with cooler evenings that can dip into the 40s even in July and August.
What to do
Lake fishing opportunities: At Reel Livin Resort and Campground, visitors can access Lost Land Lake with affordable boat rentals. "Cheap boat and pontoon rental, very friendly and kind staff," notes camper Eve. The lake offers good fishing, with another reviewer mentioning "Lost Land Lake offers good fishing and boating."
Hiking trails exploration: The Brule River State Forest features multiple trail systems with varying difficulty levels. "We did a little hiking. Trails are good and well marked. Looked like folks were enjoying the fishing too," mentions Jules L. about the Boise Brule Campground. The campground offers riverside access with sites stretching along the forest road.
Winter fat biking: Winter visitors can enjoy fat biking on groomed trails accessible from several campgrounds. Cabins at some locations accommodate winter guests with proper heating systems. The area transforms into a winter sports hub with trails connecting multiple use areas. A visitor to Roam Base Camp shared, "It's connected to miles of trails for multiple uses like mountain biking, hiking, running, snow shoeing, cross country skiing, and winter fat biking."
What campers like
Heated pool amenities: The Hayward KOA offers a large heated pool among numerous recreational facilities. "Large 9ft heated pool, mini golf, large playground, horse shoes, volleyball, nice size water slide, covered stage for music, ice cream shop, huge jump pillow, and much more," writes Nate C. This campground specializes in family-oriented camping with organized activities.
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural privacy offered at several campgrounds. At Reel Livin Resort, a reviewer noted sites are "Very wooded, big lots not at all over crowded and quiet!" This setting creates a more secluded camping experience while maintaining access to amenities.
Sauna facilities: Post-adventure relaxation options include sauna facilities at select campgrounds. Visitors appreciate this distinctive amenity not commonly found at standard campgrounds. The sauna provides a welcome recovery option after cold weather activities or strenuous trail use during any season.
What you should know
Tick prevalence: The dense woodland areas surrounding Cable harbor ticks, particularly in early summer. "Solid hiking trail and good campsites. The campsites have adequate space and decent amenities. The biggest issue however was ticks. Been an outdoor person my whole life and more ticks than I've ever seen before. Pulling 10 or more off an hour," warns Zachary G. at Wisconsin Brule River State Forest.
Non-resident fees: Wisconsin state parks and forests charge additional fees for out-of-state visitors. "If you're from out of state like we are, there's also a $15 charge for that. And then, that doesn't include admission to the area, so you pay $11 and change for that. It ended up being about $50 total," explains Amy G. about Brule River State Forest.
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have limited or no cell coverage. Exceptions exist with a reviewer noting "Surprisingly decent Verizon and ATT service" at Wanoka Lake, but this isn't typical for the region. Prepare for disconnection and bring necessary maps or information.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Treeland Farm RV Resort provides access to water activities ideal for families. "You can also use peddle boats, kayaks, canoes, etc for FREE! Or rent a boat or pontoon, which we did," shares Kim L. The resort includes amenities that appeal to various age groups.
Family-sized accommodations: Cabin options accommodate larger family groups with appropriate sleeping arrangements. Some cabins can house up to six people comfortably with kitchen facilities. Extended-stay families appreciate the added space and comfort compared to tent camping.
Playground availability: Not all campgrounds include playground facilities, so research is essential for families with young children. Jane B. notes about Boise Brule Campground, "Not a lot of entertainment for small children--i.e. no playground, for instance, although the fish hatchery is 1/2 mi. away. If they like fishing, it's great though."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds present leveling difficulties for larger RVs. "Not sure of the length limit here but we had no problems in our 26ft class c. Roads are narrow and the low hanging branches scraped along the top and sides of our rig, but no damage," reports Laura M. about Wanoka Lake Campground.
Big rig accessibility: For larger vehicles, some campgrounds present significant challenges. "Love all this campsite has to offer with amenities! Beautiful area as well. But there are alot of trees that make it very challenging for larger rigs. There are a handful of sites that would be easy to access, I recommend calling first. We have a 43ft 5th wheel," advises Sheila H. about Hayward KOA.
Yurt camping options: While traditional yurt camping in Cable, Wisconsin is limited, several campgrounds now offer yurt-style accommodations as alternatives to standard camping. These structures provide a middle ground between tent camping and cabin rentals, with some featuring heating options for winter use.
