Camping areas near Ogema, Wisconsin offer primitive to premium accommodation options within the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest. The region sits at approximately 1,600 feet elevation with sandy glacial soils supporting towering pine stands. The area lakes were formed during the last ice age, creating a network of connected waterways ideal for multi-day paddling trips between campsites. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F with cooler nights even during peak season.
What to do
Paddle between campgrounds: Cunard Lake at Northern Highland State Forest restricts motorized watercraft, making it perfect for paddleboarding or kayaking in calm waters. According to Jordan A., "Loved getting to paddleboard (brought my own) and listen to the loons day and night" at Cunard Lake Campground.
Explore hidden lakes: The trail system from Clear Lake connects to several smaller lakes. Elliot Q. notes there's "a great trail that wraps part of the lake, which will take you to 2 hidden lakes as well" at Clear Lake Campground.
Fish local waters: Many lakes in the region offer excellent fishing opportunities. At Sara Park, Delanie F. mentions "there is a boat launch down the road which we utilized. Overall very nice campground for a first trip."
Bike the paved forest paths: Several campgrounds connect via bike trails. Braden H. shares, "There is a paved bike path through the woods all the way to the registration area" at Clear Lake Campground, making it easy to access different recreation areas.
What campers like
Private beach access: Some campsites offer direct lake access with small beaches. Shannon B. notes at Crystal Lake Campground, "You can get sites that have your own beach pretty much with a trail right down to the lake. Very nice."
Quiet camping atmosphere: The area offers genuinely peaceful camping experiences. S.P. explains that Cunard Lake "was designated a 'Quiet' campground several years ago - one of only two in the 18 different Northern Highlands American Legion state forest campgrounds. That means no 'noise producing devices', including generators, radios, TV's, video games, guitars."
Wildlife viewing: The lakes attract diverse wildlife. AnneMarie C. shares at Cunard Lake, "You will wake up to the sound of loons and go to bed with the sound of them," creating a true northwoods atmosphere.
Spacious sites: Many glamping units near Ogema offer ample room for comfort. At Council Grounds State Park, Amanda G. describes, "group sites A and B... each have concrete pads for 3 campers and TONS of space to spread out and/or set up tents."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Premium glamping sites book quickly in this region. Joel N. advises about Clear Lake, "You will need to reserve your site 11 months in advance because it fills up fast."
Mosquito preparation: The forested setting can mean insects, particularly in early summer. At Big Falls County Park, UnnamedAdventures notes "The campground is primitive with new power, water or sewer but there is an out house near the park. The park is well maintained and the grass is cut which helps out with the mosquitoes."
Campsite selection: Sites vary dramatically in privacy and lake access. Scott M. advises at Crystal Lake, "Lots of water sites so I would highly suggesting getting one so the you can paddle right from the shoreline."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is spotty throughout the region. Mike R. reports from Crystal Lake, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Beach quality varies: Some lakes offer better swimming experiences than others. Laura L. notes at Crystal Lake, "The water and beach is clean," making it ideal for families with children.
Shower facilities: Only certain campgrounds offer shower facilities, important for extended family stays. Kristy mentions Crystal Lake has "Showers and bathrooms are available if desired and a crystal clear lake with sandy beaches."
Playground options: Some campgrounds feature play areas. Becky S. mentions at Chippewa NF Campground that they have a "playground" though notes it "was wet and with high grass" during her visit.
Weather preparedness: The northwoods experiences significant temperature swings. Kevin T. advises, "The weather is unpredictable so bring extra layers just in case" when visiting Clear Lake Campground.
Tips from RVers
Electric site availability: Electric sites for glamping near Ogema are limited to specific campgrounds. Philip M. notes at Chippewa Campground, "Sites are spread out with woods between the sites. Flush toilets with token operated showers."
Campsite leveling: Many sites require minimal setup. Erin A. shares about Council Grounds State Park, "Dirt pads but fairly level in our spot" though warns about drainage during storms.
Dump station access: Most glamping areas offer dump stations. Sharen indicates at Sara Park there is "a dump station nearby behind the city garage for $10."
Site spacing considerations: Some glamping sites offer more privacy than others. Cathy J. reports at Chippewa Campground, "All sites are heavily wooded in all the loops so solar is not a good option here."
