Glamping close to Phillips, Wisconsin features diverse accommodations within the Northern Highland State Forest, Chequamegon National Forest, and nearby county parks. The region sits at approximately 1,450 feet above sea level with over 900 lakes within a 30-mile radius. Summer temperatures average 75-80°F during the day, dropping to 55-60°F at night, creating comfortable conditions for outdoor recreation.
What to do
Kayak pristine waters: At Clear Lake Campground — Northern Highland State Forest, visitors find excellent paddling opportunities. A camper notes, "Lake is big, clear and beautiful. Very peaceful, lots of wildlife and fishing is great too!" The lake connects to a trail system where you can discover hidden lakes.
Explore forest trails: The bike paths near Crystal Lake Campground offer extensive riding options through the northwoods. One reviewer exclaims, "The bike trails are endless! What fun." Most trails connect multiple lakes and campgrounds, allowing for half-day or full-day excursions.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings at Council Grounds State Park provide opportunities to spot deer, beavers, and various bird species. A visitor reports, "We enjoyed being able to rent kayaks and paddleboards and relax on the beach." The Wisconsin River shoreline offers prime locations for wildlife observation at dawn and dusk.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Big Falls County Park offers spacious, private camping areas. A camper describes it as "Very secluded/primitive. Outhouse only. Nice campsites & the river is gorgeous. Nice walking & exploring trails." The campsites are large with natural spacing between neighbors.
Clean swimming areas: The sandy-bottomed lakes provide refreshing swimming options. At Sandy Beach Lake Campground, visitors appreciate the water quality: "The campsite was huge and private, also our site was on the lake with access to it. Perfect for pitching up your hammock and just enjoy the scenery and sounds of the lake."
Northern lights viewing: Clear nights in this region sometimes offer glimpses of the aurora borealis. One Clear Lake camper shared, "Truly one of my favorite places, I even proposed to my wife here! And if you're lucky, you'll catch the Northern Lights too!"
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular sites fill quickly, especially lakeside options. A Clear Lake visitor advises, "You will need to reserve your site 11 months in advance because it fills up fast." Most reservations open on a rolling 11-month schedule.
Insect preparation: Biting flies can be problematic in early summer. A Sandy Beach Lake camper noted, "With covid changing campgrounds to require reservations, we found a spot here over the weekend. Upon arrival the horseflies greeted us with curiosity." Pack appropriate repellents and consider a screen shelter.
Weather variability: Northern Wisconsin weather can change rapidly. According to one camper at Chippewa NF Campground, "Most sites are level– we were only staying one night and didn't even need to unhook our pickup." Always pack additional layers as temperatures can drop significantly at night.
Tips for camping with families
Beach selection: Crystal Lake offers family-friendly swimming areas with gradual entry points. A regular visitor shares, "The water and beach is clean. The staff is friendly and helpful. I cannot say enough good things about this area and the campsites."
Double sites: For larger family gatherings, look for connected campsites. At Council Grounds State Park, one camper reported, "For this particular trip, we reserved group sites A and B. They each have concrete pads for 3 campers and TONS of space to spread out and/or set up tents."
Kid-friendly trails: Several short hiking routes suitable for younger children connect campgrounds to beaches. Clear Lake campers enjoy the trail system: "There aren't too many hiking trails, but there is a great one that wraps part of the lake, which will take you to 2 hidden lakes as well."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Research campsite dimensions carefully. At Big Falls County Park, a reviewer notes, "This campground and campsites are large and you can hear the falls in the background. Each site comes with a picnic table and wood that looks like leftovers from a lumber mill in the area."
Hookup availability: Electric services vary significantly between campgrounds. Cedar Falls Campground offers more modern amenities, with one camper simply stating, "We found this place this summer and it's the only camping I want to do."
Leveling requirements: Many sites in the region require minimal leveling. A Chippewa NF Campground visitor observed, "Sites are spread out with woods between the sites. Flush toilets with token operated showers. Waterfront sites are usually full, but shallow boat ramp for trailers is close by."
