Camping options in the Three Lakes area of Wisconsin include both established campgrounds and dispersed sites within the Nicolet National Forest. The Harbor Campground, situated on State Highway 32, provides tent and RV sites with electric hookups and water access, while Franklin Lake offers lakefront camping with direct water access. Further into the forest, dispersed sites like Wolf Lake and Woodbury Lake campsites provide free, more primitive camping experiences. The region also features cabin rentals at several locations including Hi-Pines Campground and Chain O'Lakes Campground, both within a short drive of Three Lakes.
Most developed campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, typically from May through mid-October. Winter weather in northern Wisconsin makes camping challenging outside this window. Reservations are recommended for established campgrounds, particularly for summer weekends when lakefront sites fill quickly. The Nicolet National Forest dispersed sites require no reservations but have limited amenities—no toilets, drinking water or trash service. Cell service varies throughout the region, with better coverage near towns and limited or no reception in remote forest areas. A visitor noted that "this is a beautiful campground nestled in Wisconsin's north woods" with many choices for campsites of varying sizes.
Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers in the Three Lakes region. Many campgrounds offer direct lake access with opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating. Several reviews highlight the quality of the lakes themselves, with one camper describing Franklin Lake as having "steps leading right down to your own private beach." The area's extensive paved bicycle trails connect multiple campgrounds and nearby towns, creating opportunities for exploration beyond individual campsites. Visitors frequently mention wildlife sightings, including deer walking through campsites at night. Mosquitoes can be problematic, especially in morning and early evening hours during summer months, so proper repellent is advised for comfortable camping experiences.
$15 - $25 / night
"I formally lived in northern Wisconsin and we would camp here quite often. Huge lake. Most sites are lake front with steps leading right down to your own private beach!"
"My family has been coming to Franklin Lake for decades. It’s hands down our favorite campground in Wisconsin."
"You are close to all of the activities Eagle River has to offer, although not directly on the chain of lakes."
"The entry to the laundry is a step up and I stubbed my toe because the threshold was not secured."
$16 - $35 / night
"Lovely campground near the lakes. Tons of lake activities like renting boats to fish (like we did). Our campground was next to nice bathrooms and a sand volleyball court."
"Big sites, paved roads, nice camp store, beach area is so so, but the multiple lakes and canal are awesome. We try to get to this park once a year."
$15 / night
"The lake has clear water and a sandy bottom"
"The campground has three spacious sites, while the Campground 1 in the lake has eight. A vault toilet and clean water well. The autumn weather is bright and fresh!"
$15 - $18 / night
"We stayed at site 2 in the first loop on White Deer Lake. Site 7 on the water seemed like it would be a good site too, although there were steps on site 7."
"Loved kayaking both lakes! Beautiful campground with a very nice swimming beach. Only draw back are the vault toilets. We always try to get a site away from the toilets."
"The small lake belongs to a pair of loons that will share their fish and sandy beach. The parking area is adequate, I’ve seen small trailers set up here. Many hiking trails are nearby."
"Seen two fire ring along the right shore of lake accessable by water."
"There is a sandy beach on a small lake full of fish. The Sam Cambell trail is right next door, it’s a nice walk to another tiny lake."
"There is access to a small lake. Across the road is a nice boardwalk to another lake. The Wilderness Headwaters trail is also close."
GuideNice campground, well maintained, next to a lake with a boat ramp. Ever site has a picnic table, fire ring, asphalt pad and drying stand. Vault toilets, very limited trash collection trash cans (2). No water or waste. Only a few pull through most are back in.
TravelerStayed here many times during bow hunting season. These are great sites along the river. Note: this is not a free place to camp as it's on Marinette count forest land and they charge $25 for two weeks or 1 night.
TravelerStayed here many times during bow hunting season. These are great sites along the river. Note: this is not a free place to camp as it's on Marinette count forest land and they charge $25 for two weeks or 1 night.
TravelerStayed here many times during bow hunting season. These are great sites along the river. Note: this is not a free place to camp as it's on Marinette count forest land and they charge $25 for two weeks or 1 night.
TravelerStayed here many times during bow hunting season. These are great sites along the river. Note: this is not a free place to camp as it's on Marinette count forest land and they charge $25 for two weeks or 1 night.
RangerBeautiful lake. Large parking area for oversized rigs. Camping is not allowed in the parking area but a small walk to the lake provides a decent tent site.
RangerScott Lake is not listed on the U.S. Forest Service dispersed page. This location is just off the forest service Road. A small parking area and a small walk to the lake with a fire pit and picnic table.
RangerMayflower Lake is another free dispersed site that is set back in the deep woods. There is a picnic table and fire pit you drive right up to. The trail leading in a little rough and I would advise having an SUV or truck.
RangerThis site is located a few miles off the main Forest Service Road. There is a camping location hidden under the large pines next to the lake. Nothing but you and nature here. Part of the trail is decent for most vehicles, however I would advise an SUV or truck as the trail gets a little technical closer to the lake
Dispersed camping in the Nicolet National Forest near Three Lakes, Wisconsin offers several primitive sites for those seeking a more secluded outdoor experience. The forest encompasses over 600,000 acres of northern Wisconsin wilderness with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,900 feet. Winter temperatures often drop below 0°F, while summer days typically reach 75-85°F with cooler nights around 50-60°F.
Hiking trails: Access the Wilderness Headwaters trail system near Scott Lake, where campers can explore boardwalks connecting multiple lakes. "The campsite is on a gravel road. There is access to a small lake. Across the road is a nice boardwalk to another lake," notes reviewer Kay K.
Paddling: Launch kayaks or canoes at Wolf Lake Campsite for a peaceful experience on smaller lakes. One camper shares: "I love this campsite. The small lake belongs to a pair of loons that will share their fish and sandy beach."
Beach activities: Multiple lakes offer swimming opportunities with varying features. At Woodbury Lake Campsite, Kay K. notes: "This remote site has a sandy beach great for swimming or paddling. There is space for a trailer."
Fishing: Cast for bass and panfish from shoreline access points. At Luna White Deer Campground, a visitor reports: "He caught a 9 inch bass and some panfish. Mosquitos were present, but not the worst I've ever experienced, the biting flies were plentiful, but stayed away with the help of a thermacell."
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds in the area offer good spacing between sites. At Franklin Lake, campers appreciate the layout: "Sites are large and decent spacing between sites. Heavy tree cover with mostly shade. The site was mostly gravel with nice fire ring and picnic table."
Water clarity: The lakes in this region are known for exceptional water quality. As one camper at Franklin Lake notes: "The water is crystal clear, you can get campsites on the lake, and it's pretty quiet."
Charging access: For those staying at non-electric sites, some campgrounds offer alternatives. A Franklin Lake reviewer shares: "For those without power there is outlets in shelter in middle of campground to charge batteries."
Wildlife viewing: The remote setting provides opportunities to spot local animals. At Wolf Lake Campsite, a camper mentioned: "The small lake belongs to a pair of loons that will share their fish and sandy beach."
Cell service: Connectivity varies widely throughout the area. A Franklin Lake camper warns: "Cell service is awful, you can get service sort of by the lake depending on your provider, but don't count on it."
Insects: Biting insects can be problematic during warmer months. A Franklin Lake review notes: "No power, no water, clean pit toilets, beautiful water view sites, no dump station, LOTS of mosquitos. Hoped to stay a few nights, chased out by mosquitoes after first one."
Water sources: Many campgrounds lack drinking water. At Hi-Pines Campground, visitors note: "There's well water pumps throughout the campground but it's not good for drinking."
Seasonal timing: Consider visiting during fall for fewer crowds. One camper at Franklin Lake shares: "We camped here in October, the last week the National Forest was open. It seemed that we had 10,000 acres to ourselves. Area was spotless!"
Water activities: Campgrounds with beach areas provide entertainment for children. At Hi-Pines Campground, one visitor mentions: "This campground is very clean and nice with tons of things to do! The sites are nice and big and the pond has inflatables that are very fun."
Organized activities: Some campgrounds offer structured programming for children. A Hi-Pines Campground reviewer notes: "Great activities for kids…fishing presentation, movie, kickball."
Space needs: When camping with multiple families, consider site layout. A Hi-Pines visitor advises: "Perfect location to plan multi-family camping. Lots of amenities on site and nearby."
Nature education: Several campgrounds incorporate educational elements. At Luna White Deer Campground, visitors appreciate: "This campground has our favorite hiking trail. The sites are spacious with privacy and shade."
Site surfaces: Note ground conditions when selecting sites. At Franklin Lake, one camper shares: "The site was mostly gravel with nice fire ring and picnic table."
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs. For Woodbury Lake Campsite, a visitor notes: "Nice spot to camp can fit trailer in parking area. There are two picknick tables and fire ring. Tent spot by lake boat access."
Electric options: Some campgrounds have added services. At Franklin Lake, a camper mentions: "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."
Parking accessibility: For those with larger setups, look for information about parking areas. A Scott Lake visitor shares: "This is a huge campsite on a dead end road. The parking area is huge so one could fit a trailer or pop up there."
Frequently Asked Questions
What do reviews say about Three Lakes Campground?
The Three Lakes area is home to several highly-rated campgrounds within the Northern Highland American Legion State Forest. West Bass Lake recently upgraded its facilities with new showers and flush bathrooms in 2024. The campground offers various site options, with site #4 being notably spacious for those who don't require lakefront access. Many campers appreciate the region's natural beauty, noting the abundance of lakes, extensive forest acreage, and excellent opportunities for fishing, bicycling, and hiking throughout the area.
What are the best campgrounds near Three Lakes, WI?
Several outstanding campgrounds surround Three Lakes in Northern Wisconsin. Franklin Lake is highly recommended for its lakefront sites with private beach access. Firefly Lake — Northern Highland State Forest offers a peaceful setting with clear waters, sandy shores, and proximity to paved bike trails. Other excellent options include Laura Lake Recreation Area with spacious sites overlooking the water, and Upper Gresham Lake Campground, which provides easy access to Boulder Junction's attractions. The region's campgrounds generally feature rustic amenities in beautiful north woods settings.
Are there glamping options available in Three Lakes?
While traditional glamping (luxury tents, yurts, etc.) is limited in Three Lakes, several campgrounds offer upgraded experiences that bridge the gap between camping and comfort. Rohr's Wilderness Tours provides a private campground with the natural beauty of a state park but with added amenities. For RV travelers seeking more comfort, Borderline RV Park offers seasonal accommodations with access to numerous lakes and the Wisconsin River. For those willing to venture slightly outside Three Lakes, nearby Eagle River has additional options with more developed facilities and rental accommodations.
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