Primitive campsites near Mercer, Wisconsin provide access to Iron County's protected watersheds within a northern forest landscape. The region sits at approximately 1,600 feet elevation with over 200 lakes and streams surrounding the small town. Camping options range from waterfront tent spots on the Turtle Flambeau Flowage to walk-in tent areas near smaller lakes where temperatures typically drop into the 40s at night even during summer months.
What to do
Paddle between islands: The Turtle Flambeau Flowage offers extensive paddling routes connecting isolated camping areas. At Turtle Flambeau Scenic Waters Area, one camper noted, "The Turtle Flambeau Flowage is a 12,942 acre lake, located in Iron County, Wisconsin. It has a maximum depth of 50 feet. Great fishing as well."
Wildlife watching: Set up near eagle nesting areas for birdwatching opportunities. A camper at Turtle Flambeau described, "Our site happened to have a mating pair of eagles about 50 yards from our landing. There was also a nice sandy beach 100 yards from our landing on an opposite strip of the flowage."
Hiking forest trails: Follow marked paths from campgrounds to explore old-growth forests. At Union River Rustic Outpost Camp, campers can "access hiking trails from camp" and one reviewer mentioned, "Keep walking past campsites and over the bridge. Take the right trail and it connects with the Union River mine trail. It's 1 mile long and perfect for relaxing after dinner."
What campers like
Private island camping: Many tent campsites near Mercer offer complete seclusion on personal islands. One camper at Sylvania Wilderness Backcountry Camping shared, "Loved my first experience at canoe camping. We did it the easy way, loaded our canoe, crossed the lake to our campsite and set up camp. No portaging with our gear."
Natural sound environment: The sounds of rushing water and wildlife enhance the camping experience. At Burned Dam Campground, a camper wrote, "Camp is right on a river and the rapids will draw you in. Follow the trail 20 yards and you can find a variety of boulders or logs to perch upon."
Forest seclusion: Many sites offer deep woods privacy without excessive development. One reviewer at Moen Lake Campground described, "If you want a quiet, secluded campground where you can just sit back and enjoy being out in the woods(we had deer walk through the back of our campsite at night), then you will enjoy this campground."
What you should know
Bug protection essential: The northern Wisconsin environment requires comprehensive insect protection. A camper at Burned Dam Campground warned, "The flies were quite bothersome so we decided to move on... This would be an amazing place if the flies would leave us alone."
Limited amenities: Most sites provide only basic facilities with varying levels of maintenance. At Wabasso Lake Recreation Area, a visitor noted, "The campgrounds here have a fire ring and table, and plenty of room to set up in. The lake is gorgeous and swimmable. The only amenities are a vault toilet and water."
Water access challenges: Finding suitable water entry points requires scouting. One reviewer at Sylvania Wilderness commented, "Clark Lake is very pretty, good for swimming, and serves as the primary water source. The area is covered in soft pine duff but finding a truly flat spot free of any small mounds of moss or decayed nurse logs can be a challenge."
Tips for camping with families
Choose family-designated sites: Some campgrounds offer specific sites with additional amenities for families. A camper at Turtle Flambeau noted, "F 17 is a island family site. It is a larger site with the addition of a picnic table."
Consider walk-in camping: Easier access tent sites work well for families with younger children. At Wabasso Lake, a visitor observed, "There are only walk-in tent sites here... We walked in to see the sites and they are beautiful. Wabasso Lake is visible from campsite but step closer and it's beauty awaits."
Plan for wildlife encounters: Wildlife viewing opportunities double as educational experiences. One camper at Newman Lake Shelter recommended, "If you're looking for a place to rest and play for the day this is a good choice. I grew up in this region and this little spot is a hidden gem for day camping, fishing, picnicking, and swimming."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV capacity: Most primitive sites near Mercer cannot accommodate larger RVs. A camper at Moen Lake Campground shared, "The basic amenities are here, picnic table, fire pit, bath house with showers within walking distance, electrical(30amp) and water hookups, but don't expect them to be 5 star quality, they are there, they are functional, that's about all you can say."
Consider water access: Many lakes have boat ramps but limited docking facilities. One visitor to Wabasso Lake mentioned, "The boat launch is also the camping parking lot. We love the look of this small lake but wonder if we could have camped a night in the parking area."
Roads require caution: Access roads to remote sites may present challenges for trailers. A reviewer at Burned Dam noted, "The road in is a bit rough but it isn't too long."
