Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest spans over 1.5 million acres across northern Wisconsin, with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,900 feet above sea level. The forest features over 2,000 lakes and numerous streams, creating abundant fishing opportunities throughout the region. Winter temperatures often drop below zero, while summer brings warm days with cooler nights, typically in the 60-80°F range from June through August.
What to do
Fishing access: At Twin Lakes NF Campground, anglers can take advantage of stocked trout waters. "This campground is a true gem...Site 8 is a larger site that would be perfect for sunset. Most sites have a way to the water and some have stairs down to the water," notes Scott M. The campground includes a boat launch right in the camping area.
Waterfall viewing: Located within 30 minutes of many forest campgrounds, Copper Falls State Park Campground offers multiple waterfall viewing opportunities. "If you like waterfalls, then this is the area that you want to visit. You can hike here and see 3 different waterfalls or take a short drive to numerous others in the area," states Jeanne M. The park contains both the Doughboys Trail to see the namesake falls and access to the North Country Scenic Trail leading to Red Granite Falls.
Trail exploration: Multiple trail systems crisscross the forest for hiking, ATV riding, and seasonal snowmobiling. "ATV trails as well as non-motorized trails are plentiful. We hiked on them and it was nice. Minimal cell signal encourages disconnecting for your stay," reports Art S. at Sailor Lake, where trails connect directly from the campground.
What campers like
Lake views: Many campsites throughout Chequamegon-Nicolet offer direct lake access. "Our campsite was right on the water. Our neighbor, another Dyrt camper!, launched his boat right from his site," explains Art S. about his stay at Lake of the Falls County Park. This park features three separate camping loops with varying levels of amenities and proximity to water.
Privacy between sites: Several forest campgrounds provide well-spaced sites with natural screening. "If you prefer a little rustic and secluded and don't mind vault toilets if you don't have your own, this is a perfect place. It's very wooded and the sites are private," writes Lynette J. about Sailor Lake NF Campground, which offers both lakeside and forest sites.
Stargazing opportunities: With minimal light pollution throughout much of the forest, nighttime skies provide exceptional viewing. "Loads of stars here!" exclaims Scott M. about Twin Lakes NF Campground. The remote location of many Chequamegon-Nicolet NF camping areas creates ideal conditions for astronomical observation when skies are clear.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most forest campgrounds have spotty or non-existent cell reception. "The town of Mercer is 15 minutes away and that was our only Verizon cell signal - but a strong one," reports Art S. about Lake of the Falls County Park. Plan accordingly with downloaded maps and emergency communication alternatives.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be abundant, particularly in early summer. "The mosquitoes were terrible," warns Kelly M. at Lake of the Falls County Park. Campers should bring appropriate repellent, especially during June and early July when insect activity peaks.
Reservation requirements: Many rv parks near Chequamegon-Nicolet NF require advance booking. "We reserved through the park website the week before due to Covid, all sites had to be reserved ahead," notes Cathy J. about Lake of the Falls. This practice continues at many locations, particularly for weekend stays during peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Several campgrounds offer swimming opportunities for children. "Kids swam a lot in the lake. There's a pay boat launch," mentions Devon C. about Lake of the Falls County Park. For developed beach facilities, the town of Mercer provides "a playground for our littles about 15 minutes away, but it did include a beach area," according to Kelly M.
Playground availability: Limited playground facilities exist within forest campgrounds. "Not a lot to do with young kids (ours were 8, 6, and 18 months old)," cautions Kelly M. about Lake of the Falls. Alpine Campground & RV Park received positive family feedback: "Large playground, biking, hiking," notes heide B.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe deer, waterfowl, and small mammals throughout the forest. "We saw deer and fawn, rabbits and so many mallards in a couple hikes," reports Art S. about trails near Twin Lakes NF Campground. Early morning and dusk provide the best viewing times.
Tips from RVers
Site specifications: RV parks around Chequamegon-Nicolet NF vary significantly in site size and hookup availability. At Frontier RV Park and Campground, "Nice level gravel pads, some have full hookups. Ok for a one night stopover," reports Jackie M. The park accommodates larger rigs with pull-through access.
Seasonal availability: Limited RV parks in the region operate year-round. "We booked this campground so we could spend some time exploring up north. The site we got had full hookups, a fire ring and a picnic table," notes Laura B. about Frontier RV Park, which maintains year-round operations with water and electric hookups.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity can affect some RV camping experiences. "We had a lovely spot looking at beautiful trees and the river. But the sounds of big semi trucks going down and up the big hill got old pretty quick," cautions Meredith J. about Alpine Campground & RV Park. Sites further from main roads offer quieter stays.
