Best Campgrounds near Hazelhurst, WI

Northern Wisconsin's forests around Hazelhurst offer diverse camping experiences through several established campgrounds in the Northern Highland American Legion State Forest. Hazelhurst serves as a gateway to outdoor recreation with options ranging from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV campgrounds. Campgrounds like Cedar Falls Campground in Hazelhurst and Patricia Lake Campground in nearby Minocqua provide tent sites, RV accommodations, and cabin rentals. Most facilities in the region operate seasonally, typically from May through October, with some forest campgrounds remaining accessible year-round.

Public lands in the Northwoods region feature varying levels of amenities and accessibility. Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak summer months when tourism surges. A camper noted, "We stayed for a week in the Indian Mounds loop campground. This site is a few miles from the camp registration but worth it. There is a paved bike path through the woods all the way to the registration area." The Northern Highland State Forest properties generally provide basic amenities including toilets, picnic tables, and drinking water. Cell service can be spotty throughout the region, with some campgrounds reporting 5G coverage while others have limited connectivity.

Waterfront sites are particularly coveted in this lake-rich region. The Clear Lake Campground receives consistently positive reviews for its pristine water and beach areas. According to one visitor, "Lake is big, clear and beautiful. Very peaceful, lots of wildlife and fishing is great too!" Several campgrounds offer boat-in access points, allowing campers to reach secluded shoreline sites. Fishing opportunities abound throughout the area's interconnected lake systems. Campgrounds designated as "quiet" zones, such as Cunnard Lake, prohibit generators and noise-producing devices, creating peaceful environments for nature appreciation. Sites with lakefront access typically fill quickly, requiring advance planning during summer months when Hazelhurst and the surrounding areas experience their highest visitor numbers.

Best Camping Sites Near Hazelhurst, Wisconsin (145)

    1. Clear Lake Campground — Northern Highland State Forest

    8 Reviews
    Woodruff, WI
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 356-3668

    "There is a paved bike path through the woods all the way to the registraion area. We arrived at our campsite, unloaded the bikes, then proceeded to ride to check in."

    "Campsite is very near a lake with plenty of wildlife. The weather is unpredictable so bring extra layers just in case."

    2. Musky Lake Campground — Northern Highland State Forest

    16 Reviews
    Sayner, WI
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 542-3923

    "Lakeside sites have their own path to the lake. Campers would leave their water “toys” ashore for use the next day. Loons singing; very peaceful."

    "Big Muskellunge Lake is one of many campgrounds situated in the North Highland American Legion State Forest and one of three in a two mile radius that offers modern facilities with showers and flush toilets"

    3. Cunnard Lake — Northern Highland State Forest

    6 Reviews
    Woodruff, WI
    7 miles
    Website

    "We had the perfect set up.. right on the water and tucked into the woods. Our neighbors were to far to hear us and the bathrooms were near by!"

    "Some provide camper access, walk in private access and water access. Cunard Lake allows non motorized watercrafts and has a great swimming area."

    4. Patricia Lake Campground

    3 Reviews
    Minocqua, WI
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 356-3198

    $30 - $43 / night

    "Great location to explore Minocqua. The campground is comprised mostly of seasonal folks, but offers 20 some sights to non-seasonal."

    "Small lake with swimming area. Fishing is good. 100 sites, most with full hookup. Laundry."

    5. Indian Shores

    3 Reviews
    Minocqua, WI
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 356-5552

    "The majority of the weekend campsites are located near the prime activity locations; the pool, playground and lake areas. There are full sun and full shade sites available."

    "It’s big and spacious and on the most beautiful clear lake. Good fishing and boating/skiing. Minoqua is easily accessible."

    6. Indian Mounds — Northern Highland State Forest

    3 Reviews
    Hazelhurst, WI
    4 miles
    Website

    "Nestled on Lake Tomahawk, this small campground is comprised of drive-in and walk-in sites. Walk-in sites being tent camp only, which is the option we took."

    7. Crystal Lake Campground — Northern Highland State Forest

    5 Reviews
    Sayner, WI
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 542-3923

    "The best sites are lake sites (obviously), but there are some better than others. Look along the east side of the lake for a sandy beach off of your site."

    "You can get sites that have your own beach pretty much with a trail right down to the lake. Very nice."

    8. Buffalo Lake Campground — Northern Highland State Forest

    3 Reviews
    Arbor Vitae, WI
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 356-3668

    "Buffalo Lake Campground in the Norther Highlands-American Legion State Forest is spectacular - the sites are large and beautiful - we had campsite 2020 which overlooked the lake, a perfect spot to hang"

    "Great state campground, near Minocqua WI. Was clean and was a busy weekend of people but great space, little to know bugs."

    9. Cedar Falls Campground

    1 Review
    Hazelhurst, WI
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 356-5396

    "Weather we stay in Wisconsin or not I’ll be back!"

    10. Carrol Lake — Northern Highland State Forest

    1 Review
    Arbor Vitae, WI
    7 miles
    Website

    "This is our second year camping at carol Lake. We got the site next to the beach nice site. Campsite very clean well taken care of bathrooms were exceptionally clean."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 145 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Hazelhurst, WI

345 Reviews of 145 Hazelhurst Campgrounds


  • D
    Oct. 7, 2025

    Wabasso Lake Recreation Area

    Forest and Lakes

    This campground has 4 walk-in campsites, each with a picnic table, and suitable areas for tents. There is a hand pump for water and vault toilet in the parking lot, where there is a boat landing, but no dock. 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. Cedar Lake has a portage/hiking trail within walking distance of the campground, but beware the lakeshore is boggy, bring high boots.

  • Nancy May The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Laurel Lake Campground — Chequamegon Nicolet NF

    Another Excellent Camp-out at Campground 2 Laurel Lake

    Dark and quiet at night time. The site would be a perfect canoe landing, the water is within a few yards. 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!

  • D
    Oct. 2, 2025

    Emily Lake NF Campground

    Relax by the Lake

    Among the 11 campsites there are a few that will accommodate small rvs. There is a hand pump well for fresh water, and although safe and tastes great, clarity is not its strong suit (harmless tannins). Two vault toilets that are kept very clean and odorless. Emily lake is pretty and I’ll probably try camping here again.

  • Nancy May The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Franklin Lake

    Season's Best at Franklin Lake

    We have had an excellent camp-out this year here. Maybe because our site is only a yard away from the water, and with ample living space for multiple tents and a vehicle. A fire ring and a picnic table. A set of vault toilets nearby. We didn't expect to find flushing toilets in a campground anywhere, but, we have a choice here to drive up further and use the facility. The wood forest is nicely maintained. Falling off branches are taken care of off the roads right away. And, that's all we care about in enjoying the outdoors this year.

  • Nancy May The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Laurel Lake Campground — Chequamegon Nicolet NF

    Laurel Lake Campground

    We don't have any RVs, no RV's cleaning and dumping facility required. It's good enough with its regular and standard trash disposal site. The wood forest is nicely maintained. I have no fear of falling timbers or branches at all times. And, the nicest thing about the campground is the few square-footages of level and compacted square on each site, ready to spread your tent on it. It's great! 👍

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Franklin Lake

    Excellent sandy beach

    Private sites, great beach, beautiful buildings built by the CCC. There is even a small nature center. My family loves the nature trail that takes us through bogs and past maiden hair ferns. With a boat one can visit an island that once had a cabin. The best swimming is on a sandbar directly across from the beach.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Scott Lake

    Remote site on quiet lake

    The campsite is on a gravel road. There is access to a small lake. Across the road is a nice boardwalk to another lake. The Wilderness Headwaters trail is also close.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Indian Lake

    Single site on small lake

    The campsite is just off a paved road making it easily accessible. It’s intended for tents, but a small trailer might fit in the parking area. Many hiking opportunities are nearby.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest Backcountry Site

    Amazing find

    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. 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.


Guide to Hazelhurst

Camping near Hazelhurst, Wisconsin, offers a fantastic escape into nature with a variety of campgrounds that cater to different preferences. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there's something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the scenic trails around the area. Campers at North Trout Lake Campground rave about the “paved bike route that goes for miles,” making it perfect for biking enthusiasts.
  • Swimming and Fishing: Enjoy the clear waters at Franklin Lake. One visitor mentioned, “The water is crystal clear, you can get campsites on the lake, and it’s pretty quiet,” making it a great spot for a refreshing swim or a day of fishing.
  • Canoeing and Kayaking: The Turtle Flambeau Scenic Waters Area is known for its beautiful canoeing spots. A reviewer noted, “The quality of the waters, vast array of channels, islands, and camping spots is simply amazing.”

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained amenities. At Musky Lake Campground, one visitor said, “Showers and bathrooms are very clean,” which is a big plus for many.
  • Privacy: Many sites offer a sense of seclusion. A family at Clear Lake Campground enjoyed their stay, stating, “Neighbors are not on top of us… and it’s quiet!”
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Hi-Pines Campground are great for families. One reviewer mentioned, “Great activities for kids…fishing presentation, movie, kickball.”

What you should know:

  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Cunnard Lake advised, “You will need to reserve your site 11 months in advance because it fills up fast.”
  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty reception. A visitor at Franklin Lake noted, “Cell service is horrible, you can get service kind of by the lake depending on your provider.”
  • Rustic Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Turtle Flambeau, offer rustic camping experiences. A reviewer mentioned, “All sites have a pit toilet but be aware they are not covered.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. At Hi-Pines Campground, one parent said, “The site was full sun which got hot. There were shaded sites, but we couldn’t get sites together in the woods.”
  • Pack Bug Spray: The area can have pesky bugs, especially in warmer months. A camper at Franklin Lake reminded others, “Don’t forget the bug spray! Those northwoods bugs are lethal.”
  • Plan for Quiet Time: Some campgrounds, like Cunnard Lake, have quiet hours. A visitor noted, “It is a quiet campground, I can respect that.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check for Electric Hookups: If you need power, make sure to choose a campground that offers it. Hi-Pines Campground has electric hookups, which many RVers appreciate.
  • Space Between Sites: Look for campgrounds with spacious sites. A reviewer at North Trout Lake Campground mentioned, “Sites are large and have some older trees that are tall so it kept the sun out.”
  • Plan for Waste Disposal: Make sure to know where the sanitary dump stations are located. Campers at Franklin Lake noted, “There are outlets in the shelter in the middle of the campground to charge batteries.”

Camping near Hazelhurst, Wisconsin, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your next adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Hazelhurst, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, Hazelhurst, WI offers a wide range of camping options, with 145 campgrounds and RV parks near Hazelhurst, WI and 12 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Hazelhurst, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Hazelhurst, WI is Clear Lake Campground — Northern Highland State Forest with a 4.6-star rating from 8 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Hazelhurst, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 12 free dispersed camping spots near Hazelhurst, WI.