Dispersed camping areas near Phillips, Wisconsin offer options in the surrounding Chequamegon National Forest with varying levels of remoteness. The region sits at approximately 1,500 feet elevation with a humid continental climate featuring long, cold winters and short, mild summers. Camping access is often restricted by snowfall from November through April, with forest roads typically opening by mid-May depending on spring conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Connors Lake Campground — Flambeau River State Forest, anglers can target various species. "Caught a nice muskee on it! Wouldn't swim in it but definitely good for fishing and boating. Also caught a lot of bluegill," reports one camper who visited during the July 4th holiday when crowds were minimal.
Hiking trails: The Ice Age Trail runs through Eastwood NF Campground, connecting to the Mondeaux Esker segment. A camper notes, "Our site had a wooded trail down to the flowage and onto the Mondeaux Esker Trail segment of the Ice Age Trail. The Mondeaux Esker segment was challenging (muddy) but fun."
Paddling routes: The Flambeau River provides canoeing opportunities for different skill levels. A visitor at Lake of the Pines mentioned, "After all this, we had a nice time paddling the milder sections of the Flambeau River. Shuttle prices for private canoes at local tavern/outfitters were reasonable."
ATV trail access: Multiple campgrounds connect to the regional ATV trail network including the Trans Wisconsin ATV Trail. A visitor staying at Lake of the Pines noted that while they expected some noise from being located on an ATV trail, it wasn't disruptive.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Sailor Lake NF Campground, campers appreciate the seclusion. "There are a lot of sites here, but we were essentially alone with only one other party on our loop! Extremely quiet! We saw only one fishing boat during our four night stay," shares a recent visitor.
Night sky viewing: The remote location offers exceptional stargazing. At Twin Lakes NF Campground, one camper reports, "Loads of stars here! Lots of trails to hike. I spent the day hiking the Round Lake trail and had it all to myself."
Wildlife encounters: The northern Wisconsin forests provide habitat for diverse wildlife. A camper at Lake of the Pines mentioned, "Beautiful campground. Early season camping, only a few other sites reserved. First time here, would definitely go back, and bring a canoe. I imagine the sites would be fairly private once the leaves fill in for the season. Great nature trail, saw a porcupine, heard loons and an owl."
Waterfront access: Many sites offer direct water views. At Twin Lakes, "Most sites have a way to the water and some have stairs down to the water," making lake access convenient for campers.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others are first-come, first-served. At Hines Park & Campground, sites are "Non-reservable, first-come-first-serve," though many sites remain available even during peak season as noted by a camper who found they "were the only campers for 4 of the six nights."
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have minimal or no cell coverage. A visitor to Connors Lake noted, "There is no cell service at Connors Lake Campground. I could not even make an emergency call which was a concern for me. There are many signs that say to go to the ranger station, about 4 miles to make an emergency call."
Water availability concerns: Some campgrounds have intermittent water issues. At Eastwood, a camper reported, "One drawback was the water at the campground is shut off due to bad water tests. Plan ahead - there is a glacial spring within driving distance and other federal campgrounds that you might be able to get water from."
Firewood restrictions: Local regulations typically require purchasing firewood within 10 miles of your campsite to prevent spread of invasive species. A Lake of the Pines visitor noted, "Found wood in the site but no nearby sales within the required 10 miles. Not sure what typical conditions are for finding wood in summer."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: For families with children, Big Falls County Park offers river access though without lifeguards. A visitor notes the "river is gorgeous" with "nice walking & exploring trails" suitable for family exploration.
Playground access: Smith Lake County Park features a playground adjacent to a sandy beach and pavilion, making it ideal for families with children of different ages. A visitor noted, "A sandy beach is next to a large pavilion and playground."
Bug preparation: The region's numerous lakes and wetlands create ideal mosquito breeding grounds. Pack appropriate repellent, especially for early summer camping. A Twin Lakes camper advised, "This is a wonderful spot but bring something to keep the mosquitoes at bay."
Safety considerations: Limited emergency services mean families should come prepared. At Connors Lake, "There is no weather safe shelter at the campground," and the need to travel to the ranger station for emergency calls requires planning ahead.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: For RVers seeking full amenities, Hines Park offers "all nine sites are full hookup and are just $35 a night," providing good value for fully-equipped sites overlooking the Flambeau River.
Site access challenges: Many national forest campgrounds have limited facilities for larger rigs. At Connors Lake, a visitor noted that while there are electric sites, "This was our first camping trip into the beautiful Flambeau River State Forest... Only 7 electric sites right now."
Dump station locations: Plan waste disposal carefully as not all campgrounds have dump stations. Smith Lake County Park does offer this amenity, with a visitor noting, "Garbage and even a RV dump station are available."
Campsite sizing: Site dimensions vary significantly throughout the area. At Sailor Lake, one camper detailed their site's capacity: "Our site was large though not real flat. We fit a car, suv and 17 ft boat."
