Camping near Long Lake, Wisconsin encompasses a range of options within the Northwoods region, from rustic forest service campgrounds to lakeside sites with direct water access. The area sits within the Chequamegon National Forest, providing access to numerous lakes and extensive trail systems. Notable campgrounds include Chipmunk Rapids and Stevens Lake Campground in Long Lake proper, while nearby Franklin Lake and Laura Lake Recreation Area offer additional established camping experiences. The region is characterized by dense forests, clear lakes, and abundant wildlife typical of northern Wisconsin's lake country.
Most campgrounds in the Long Lake area operate seasonally from late April through mid-October, with peak season running from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Wisconsin state parks and forest service campgrounds require reservations, with Wisconsin state parks requiring an additional admission sticker. Cell service is limited throughout the region, with spotty coverage even for text messages in many areas. Summer brings warm days and cool nights, while mosquitoes and ticks are prevalent from May through August. Firewood restrictions are common due to invasive beetle concerns, with most campgrounds requiring purchase of wood on-site or from local vendors.
The camping experience varies significantly across the area's facilities. Lakefront sites are highly coveted, with many campers noting they provide direct water access for swimming and boating. According to reviews, the paved bicycle trail system is a major attraction, connecting multiple campgrounds and nearby towns. One visitor described the region as "the bicycle trail capital in the State of Wisconsin," with trails linking campgrounds to amenities in towns like Boulder Junction. Facilities range from primitive tent sites with vault toilets to more developed campgrounds with electric hookups, though even the more developed sites maintain a rustic Northwoods character. ATV enthusiasts will find dedicated trails near several campgrounds, including access to the 160-mile Blue Ox trail system.
"Easy access to trails and area lakes. Could canoe the river if you want. Very quiet."
$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."
"The site was very nice and had buffers all around, with only a neighbor to one side. We chose 61 because on the map it appeared close to the bathrooms and park."
"The B loop is close to hot showers and clean bathrooms. Plenty of room between neighbor campers. I enjoyed the hiking trails. Grocery and hardware store is close by."
$50 - $85 / night
"Tall trees stand guard as you enter an even more peaceful area than the forest you were driving through. There is a communal parking area with a few of the cabins in sight."
"The cabins are large and the area is nice and secluded right on a lake. Swimming, boating, fishing, walking trails. Great family camping spot."
$15 / night
"The campground is along the lake. You can choose a spot lakeside or more wooded. Some sites are reservable and others are first come first serve. We found openings early on a Friday afternoon."
"It is right off of lost lake which is a small lake that can swim in, small boating, fishing. A hiking trail backs up to the campground!"
$15 - $35 / night
"With sites right next to the lake, you’re sure to enjoy some of Wisconsin’s beautiful north woods."
"We rolled in at dark and we’re enchanted by trees, falling leaves and mystic lake. There aren’t many spots, but they all quintessential WI. Free water is available via a hand pump."
$40 - $50 / night
"Tipler Trails is a great Wisconsin spot to camp, especially if you like riding ATV's or fishing! Check them out and leave a review about your stay on the Dyrt!"
"Beautiful view on the lake and great access to the water from the campsite. Since it is located on the top of a hill, little windy at times."
"We grabbed the last site with direct lake access. Vault toilets and garbage bins are in each loop. We were impressed with the size of our site. Our setup only filled half the space."
$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."
GuideSite (gravel pad) was roughly 50x25... lot of room for our large tent, kitchen set up, portable shower and screen tent. Fishing was good! views were great! Mosquitoes were thick! Be prepared for the Mosquitoes! Quiet and private. Lots of room between sites. We will be back! Biking, Kayaking, swimming, Hiking...
TravelerFirst time on this campground and I would 100% recommend. Campsites are surrounded by tall trees unlike your usual campsites where you can see your next door neighbor. Our campsite lead directly to the lake and was right in the middle so the view was perfect. Easy to navigate and not a very far drive to Minoqua. Very quiet, especially at night. We were able to catch fish and look at the stars very clearly!
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.
ScoutNice big sites
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.
The Long Lake area of northern Wisconsin contains 18 lakes and many streams within the Chequamegon National Forest. Campsites near Long Lake, Wisconsin typically sit at elevations between 1,600 and 1,700 feet, experiencing temperature swings from daytime highs in the 70s to nighttime lows in the 40s even during summer months. Several campgrounds offer vault toilets with hand pumps for water access, though campers often collect drinking water from the artesian well at Chipmunk Rapids.
Beach access and swimming: The water at Franklin Lake Campground stays crystal clear throughout the summer. "Private sites, great beach, beautiful buildings built by the CCC. There is even a small nature center," notes reviewer Kay K. The beach area includes a sandbar directly across from the shore which offers the best swimming according to regulars.
Hiking trails: Multiple walking paths connect the various campgrounds. At Laura Lake Recreation Area, "Hiking trail around the lake, well marked and easy to do," according to Artem I. Laura Lake features a scenic peninsula about 50 yards from the campsites where visitors gather to watch sunsets.
Fishing opportunities: Both lakes and streams offer fishing throughout the region. The Pine River near Lost Lake Campground provides "prime for trout fishing" according to Rachel C. Most lakes allow small boats, with some restricting motors to electric-only to preserve water quality and quiet environment.
Artesian well water: Located at Chipmunk Rapids Campground, the artesian well draws visitors from surrounding campgrounds. "The best feature is the artesian well right at the entrance. We filled up with water and the line started just as we finished. Even if you camp elsewhere the water is worth a visit," says Art S. The well provides drinking water superior to most pump stations.
Secluded camping experience: Despite being popular, many sites maintain a private feel. At Perch Lake Walk-in Campground, "The sites still feel very secluded and private. There is a fire ring and picnic table at each site," reports Kirsty G. The short hike-in requirement creates an additional buffer from crowds and noise.
Wildlife viewing: The forests and waterways support diverse animal populations. At Chipmunk Rapids, camper Adam reports, "Lots of deer and turkeys. Heard wolves at night." The relatively undeveloped shorelines create natural wildlife corridors, especially in early morning and evening hours.
Bear safety required: Bears inhabit the region, making proper food storage essential. At Perch Lake, "There is no bear box and there definitely are bears (during one camping trip some hunters treed and shot a bear in the early morning and we saw them carrying it while hiking out) so you'll want to hang your food," warns Kirsty G.
Insect preparation: Beyond what's mentioned in the existing description, mosquitoes can be particularly intense. At Franklin Lake, Sue B. reported they were "chased out by mosquitoes after first one" night despite planning a longer stay. Ticks remain active through September, requiring daily checks.
Primitive facilities: Most campgrounds provide only basic amenities. Stevens Lake Campground has a hand pump for water but limited facilities otherwise. Max S. notes, "Free water is available via a hand pump" but also warns about "Poor cell service for AT&T."
Water activities: Lakes with beaches provide ideal settings for children. At Lost Lake Cabins, Robert C. explains the setup is ideal for families: "It was a really nice place to go to introduce the kids to the camping experience while they're young without having to pitch a tent or 'rough it' right away." The cabins sleep multiple people with shared common areas.
Charging options: When camping without electric hookups, community buildings sometimes offer alternatives. At Franklin Lake, a camper discovered: "For those without power there is outlets in shelter in middle of campground to charge batteries."
Educational opportunities: Nature centers provide learning experiences during weather breaks. Franklin Lake features a "small nature center" and a nature trail that "takes us through bogs and past maiden hair ferns," according to Kay K. The trail system is designed for all skill levels.
Site selection: RV campers should research specific sites before booking. At Bewabic State Park Campground, Pat H. notes "There are a lot of sites to choose from, but it's a tight squeeze in some sites." Loop A gets particular praise as "nice and wooded and private" while the larger loop has sites positioned much closer together.
Loop recommendations: Specific campground sections offer better amenities. Brandon B. recommends "The B loop is close to hot showers and clean bathrooms. Plenty of room between neighbor campers." These facilities become particularly important during extended stays or rainy weather.
Water fill stations: Since most campgrounds lack water hookups, RVers should plan accordingly. Suzanne B. advises: "There is a dump station there. They have electrical hook-ups but no water hook-ups you have to fill before you come in." The artesian well at Chipmunk Rapids provides an excellent water source when entering the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Long Lake, WI?
According to TheDyrt.com, Long Lake, WI offers a wide range of camping options, with 211 campgrounds and RV parks near Long Lake, WI and 46 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Long Lake, WI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Long Lake, WI is Chipmunk Rapids with a 4.3-star rating from 4 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Long Lake, WI?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 46 free dispersed camping spots near Long Lake, WI.
What parks are near Long Lake, WI?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks near Long Lake, WI that allow camping, notably Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and Ottawa National Forest.
Keep Exploring
