Northern Highland State Forest offers cabins and glamping options for visitors seeking rustic accommodations near Hazelhurst, Wisconsin. The area spans over 236,000 acres with more than 900 lakes and features various yurt camping experiences. The forest sits at an elevation between 1,500 and 1,700 feet, creating distinct microclimates throughout the region with summer temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F during peak camping season.
What to do
Beach swimming in crystal-clear lakes: At Crystal Lake Campground, the water clarity allows for exceptional swimming experiences. "You can get sites that have your own beach pretty much with a trail right down to the lake," notes Shannon B., who particularly appreciates the private beach access from certain sites.
Biking through forest trails: Clear Lake Campground maintains paved bike paths through the woods. "There is a paved bike path through the woods all the way to the registration area," shares Braden H., who enjoys the trail network connecting various camping loops.
Kayaking on motor-free waters: The lack of motorized boats on some lakes creates peaceful paddling experiences. "No motors are allowed which is why I chose it as it made paddling much easier," explains Scott M. about Crystal Lake Campground. The restriction creates ideal conditions for kayakers and paddleboarders seeking quiet waters.
Geocaching adventures: The area has numerous geocaching locations hidden throughout the forest. "Geocaching is hot in this area too!" mentions Jaimie G., who found multiple caches during her stay at Cunnard Lake Campground while enjoying the lakeside setting.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Buffalo Lake Campground offers generous campsites with good separation. "The sites are large and beautiful. We had campsite 2020 which overlooked the lake, a perfect spot to hang our hammock and relax," writes Krissy G., highlighting the spaciousness that creates a sense of seclusion.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Sandy Beach Lake Campground offers excellent wildlife viewing. "Mornings were beautiful with the pines mirrored on the lake and the crying Loons," recounts Jeanna Marie C., who appreciated the natural soundtrack during her stay at the campground.
Clean facilities: Hi-Pines Campground maintains well-kept common areas. "Clean bathrooms and laundry room. Great activities for kids...fishing presentation, movie, kickball," notes Amanda D., appreciating both the cleanliness and organized activities.
Designated quiet camping: Cunnard Lake Campground provides a specially designated quiet camping experience. "Lake Cunard campground was designated a 'Quiet' campground several years ago - one of only two in the 18 different Northern Highlands American Legion state forest campgrounds," explains S P., detailing the campground's strict noise regulations that prohibit generators, radios, TVs, and other noise-producing devices.
What you should know
Reservations essential for summer: For Crystal Lake Campground, planning ahead is critical. "You will need to reserve your site 11 months in advance because it fills up fast," advises Joel N., emphasizing the high demand for sites, especially during peak season.
Potential for biting insects: Sandy Beach Lake Campground has seasonal insect challenges. "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., who recommends bringing proper protection during fly season.
Cell service varies by location: Coverage can be inconsistent throughout the forest. "We have Verizon service and it is spotty in areas. Even when we had 3 bars, it wasn't much better than the 1 bar at our site. I think it is the heavy tree cover that impacts the reception," shares Mike R. from Crystal Lake Campground.
Firewood availability: Most campgrounds sell firewood on-site. "They also had firewood for sale for $5 (cash or check)," mentions Caroline C. about Sandy Beach Lake, while Stacey N. notes "Great firewood... only 5$ per bundle" at Clear Lake Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Choose yurt or safari tent options: For families new to yurt camping in Hazelhurst, Wisconsin, Hi-Pines Campground offers family-friendly glamping structures. "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," recommends Amanda C., highlighting the additional amenities that appeal to children.
Look for double sites: Clear Lake provides options for larger family groups. "If you have a lot of people there are no group sites but there are some double sites that work great," advises Joel N., who regularly camps with multiple families.
Consider the beach proximity: Crystal Lake Campground offers excellent swimming areas for children. "A nice quiet campground with trees between the sites to give it a more private feel. Showers and bathrooms are available if desired and a crystal clear lake with sandy beaches," describes Kristy, noting the family-friendly beach areas.
Check activity schedules: Some campgrounds offer regular programming for children. "Great activities for kids...fishing presentation, movie, kickball," mentions Amanda D. about Hi-Pines Campground, which schedules regular events to keep younger campers engaged.
Tips from RVers
Electrical capacity concerns: Watch for potential power issues during peak usage times. "We had nothing but electrical issues the entire time we stayed there in a very hot part of summer," reports Vincent S. from West Bay Camping Resort, suggesting that RVers monitor their electrical usage during heat waves.
Site levelness varies: Cedar Falls Campground and other area campgrounds have sites with different leveling requirements. "Sites are fairly level or it doesn't take much to make your camper level," observes Charles M., indicating minimal setup effort for most RVs at campgrounds in the region.
Full hookup availability: Arbor Vitae Campground provides complete RV services. "Clean bathrooms and shower areas. Easy hook up for water, electric and sewer. RV sites nice but would prefer more trees," notes Linda C., who appreciates the convenience of full hookups despite the less wooded setting.
Passport America discounts: Some private campgrounds honor discount camping programs. "Passport America discount honored for 7 days and Coast to Coast," mentions Charles M. about West Bay Camping Resort, offering a potential cost-saving opportunity for RV travelers with membership in these programs.
