Mercer's camping spots sit within Wisconsin's northern lake country, featuring over 200 lakes in Iron County alone. Camping facilities remain accessible from May through mid-October, with limited winter camping options when seasonal roads close. The area experiences temperature swings from daytime highs in the 70s to nighttime lows in the 40s even during summer months.
What to do
Explore island camping opportunities: The Turtle Flambeau Scenic Waters Area offers unique island camping experiences across its 12,942-acre lake. "If your looking for camping in the woods and privacy this is your spot. The Turtle-Flambeau Flowage is a 12,942 acre lake, located in Iron County, Wisconsin. It has a maximum depth of 50 feet. Great fishing as well," notes camper Kelli D.
Paddle secluded waterways: The extensive water system provides exceptional canoeing and kayaking routes with minimal motorized traffic in certain zones. "There are several public boat launches for launching a canoe, kayak or fishing boat... We settled on this amazing site called 'Zelda's' nestled in a bay which is off the main drag of boats. It was quiet, heavily wooded, secluded and perfect for two," shares Kim from Turtle Flambeau.
Utilize nearby hiking trails: The Wabasso Lake Recreation Area connects to the Headwaters Lakes Natural Area with century-old forest roads. "There is a nearby Headwaters Lakes Natural Area with a hundred year old road that hikers will enjoy. It takes you back a mile or longer into the forest, between Wabasso and Emily Lakes," explains Dennis L.
What campers like
Spacious, private campsites: Sandy Beach Lake Campground offers exceptionally large sites with natural barriers. "We loved the amount of greenery between sites that kept us feeling secluded. The tall trees provided shade," reports Art S., while Scott M. 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."
Direct waterfront access: Many campsites provide immediate lake access for fishing and water activities. At Lake of the Falls County Park, "We stayed in #19 which is in area 2... We also pulled our boat right up to our site even though it said the site wasn't waterfront," explains Cathy J. Another camper notes, "Our neighbor, another Dyrt camper!, launched his boat right from his site."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The lakes around Mercer support diverse wildlife populations that campers frequently observe. "We saw deer and fawn, rabbits and so many mallards in a couple hikes," reports a visitor to Twin Lakes. Another camper describes "Mornings were beautiful with the pines mirrored on the lake and the crying Loons" at Sandy Beach Lake Campground.
What you should know
Insect management is essential: The region's lakes and forests support heavy insect populations during summer months. "Upon arrival the horseflies greeted us with curiosity. They seemed to leave us after we finished setting up but we still put up our screen room," reports Art S. at Sandy Beach Lake. Another camper advises, "Don't forget a water filter for drinking water and some toilet paper for bathroom uses."
Campground facilities vary significantly: Emily Lake NF Campground demonstrates the range of amenities available. "Great little campground in a woodsy setting on the lake. Good cell service, vault toilets, and dumpsters. At the moment, it's first-come first-serve and $15/night," notes Meghan B. Another visitor mentions, "There is a hand pump well for fresh water, and although safe and tastes great, clarity is not its strong suit (harmless tannins)."
Limited connectivity across campgrounds: Cell service remains inconsistent throughout camping areas near Mercer. While Emily Lake offers "good cell service," other campgrounds have limited coverage. "The town of Mercer is 15 minutes away and that was our only Verizon cell signal - but a strong one," reports a Lake of the Falls camper.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for children: Big Lake Campground provides family-friendly swimming areas. "The real highlight is the beautiful natural surroundings. The campground is nestled in a quiet, wooded area, perfect for relaxing and disconnecting," shares Malte W. The campground sits "in between two great lakes. With hiking, biking trails," according to another camper.
Multi-use recreational paths: Several campgrounds connect to paved bike trails suitable for all ages. At Big Lake, "We loved the bicycle route that runs throughout the area. People were walking, running and biking - even one wheels were in play," notes a visitor. The Crystal Lake area similarly offers "many different hiking and biking trails to explore and you definitely have to visit the Corner Store just a few miles down the road for some delicious ice cream!"
Consider weekday visits: Weekend traffic increases substantially on popular lakes and campgrounds. "Weekdays were beautiful with the pines mirrored on the lake and the crying Loons," notes a Sandy Beach Lake camper, while Twin Lakes visitors report having the entire campground to themselves on weekdays, making it "perfect. Very rustic campground. I was actually the only one here this weekend."
