Campers exploring the Hiles, Wisconsin area can access several Forest Service campgrounds within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. This northwoods region sits at approximately 1,650 feet elevation with heavily forested terrain composed primarily of northern hardwoods and pine stands. Most forest campgrounds operate seasonally from late April through mid-October due to winter snowfall averaging 50-70 inches annually.
What to do
Swimming opportunities: Franklin Lake Campground features a sandy beach area with crystal clear water. "The beach is great, but if you have a site on the lake you can walk in and swim right there," reports a camper. Water visibility remains exceptional throughout summer months.
Fishing access: Morgan Lake Campground provides shoreline fishing and non-motorized boating options. "It is located on Morgan lake with non-motorized boating," notes one visitor. Nearby lakes contain walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass and panfish species.
ATV/UTV trail riding: Holly Wood Hill Campground connects to regional trail systems. "The campground is ATV/UTV friendly but the area 'trails' are gravel roads except the ATV park east of Crandon," explains a recent camper. Forest Service roads permit ATV use with proper registration.
Wildlife viewing: The secluded nature of these campgrounds provides wildlife spotting opportunities. "We had deer walk through the back of our campsite at night," reports a camper at Moen Lake Campground. Early mornings and dusk offer best viewing times.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Franklin Lake offers premium lakefront camping. "You can get campsites on the lake, or you could get more secluded sites further back into the woods," explains a regular visitor. Some waterfront sites include private beach access with steps leading directly to the water.
Star viewing: Minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. "The stars at night are some of the best I've seen with so little light pollution up there," notes a camper at Franklin Lake. Clear nights showcase the Milky Way with exceptional clarity.
Seasonal camping options: Borderline RV Park accommodates longer-stay campers. "Great community in the park for summer/early fall living. Numerous lakes nearby for fishing; a boat ramp into the Wisconsin River for canoes/kayaks is just across 45," shares a seasonal resident who stays April through October.
Spacious sites: Most Forest Service campgrounds provide ample space between sites. "The sites were large and decent spacing between sites. Heavy tree cover with mostly shade," reports a Franklin Lake visitor. This contributes to the quiet, secluded camping experience.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity remains unreliable throughout the region. "Cell service is awful, you can get service sort of by the lake depending on your provider, but don't count on it," warns a Franklin Lake camper. Download maps and information before arrival.
Insect preparation: Biting insects can be numerous during summer months. "Hoped to stay a few nights, chased out by mosquitoes after first one," reports one camper about Morgan Lake Campground. Bring repellent containing DEET or permethrin-treated clothing.
Water availability: Many campgrounds provide non-potable water only. "There's well water pumps throughout the campground but it's not good for drinking," notes a Franklin Lake visitor. Bring drinking water or water purification methods.
Road conditions: Forest Service campgrounds often require travel on unpaved roads. "4+ miles of good gravel roads to arrive at the campground. We passed more ATVs than cars. Keep an eye out for the logging trucks," advises a Morgan Lake visitor. High-clearance vehicles recommended during wet conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Beach safety: Franklin Lake provides supervised swimming areas during peak season. "The water is crystal clear and there's a beach that can be used if you don't have a lake site," notes a regular visitor. Water remains relatively shallow near shore.
Nature activities: Several campgrounds maintain interpretive trails. "My family loves the nature trail that takes us through bogs and past maiden hair ferns," shares a Franklin Lake visitor. Trail maps available at ranger stations.
Group site options: Morgan Lake offers dedicated group camping. "The group site is to the right. It was filled with maybe 10 vehicles and it looked like a fun family or friends adventure was happening," observes one camper. Advance reservations required for group sites.
Recreational facilities: Lake Hilbert Campground provides additional amenities for families. "This campground is huge, it is a lot of permanent RV park sites but there's a significant amount of sites available," notes a visitor. Playground equipment and open spaces accommodate family activities.
Tips from RVers
Dump station considerations: Pay attention to dump station grades when planning visits. "Dump site is unlevel and leans away from hose hookup making it difficult to fully flush holding tanks," warns a Holly Wood Hill visitor. Some RVers recommend emptying tanks before arrival.
Site leveling: RV site conditions vary significantly between campgrounds. "All the RV pads have concrete in their leveled," reports a Holly Wood Hill camper, while others note less developed sites at Forest Service campgrounds.
Hookup configuration: Check hookup locations before selecting sites. "Power/water hookups at lower sites are designed for motorhomes, not travel trailers," advises an RVer. Bring extra-length water and electrical cords to accommodate various layouts.
Seasonal RV options: For extended stays, select RV campgrounds near Hiles with seasonal packages. "Excellent for adults, fishing base camp, we stayed there May - Sept 2022 and loved it!" shares a visitor at Borderline RV Park. Seasonal rates offer significant savings over daily fees.
