Wisconsin's Northern Highland region near Rhinelander sits at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 1,700 feet, creating distinct microclimates across the area's extensive lake systems. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F with higher humidity in July and August. Winter glamping options remain available at select locations with temperatures often dropping below 0°F between December and March.
What to do
Paddleboarding on quiet lakes: Buffalo Lake Campground provides direct lake access in the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest. "Buffalo Lake Campground is spectacular - the sites are large and beautiful - we had campsite 2020 which overlooked the lake, a perfect spot to hang our hammock and relax," notes Krissy G.
Fishing from your campsite: At Sara Park, campsites offer immediate river access for fishing enthusiasts. Sharen reports, "Campground has 10 sites for $30 a day, all with electricity and water. There is a dump station nearby behind the city garage for $10. The sites have immediate access to the river for fishing."
Geocaching adventures: The Cunard Lake area offers abundant geocaching opportunities. "Geocaching is hot in this area too!" mentions Jaimie G., who enjoyed staying right on the water while tucked into the woods at Cunard Lake Campground.
Nature trails exploration: West Bay Camping Resort provides access to wildlife viewing trails. Charles M. explains, "Located down a quiet paved road just 2 miles outside of town. You are close to the action but dont have to listen to it... Dogs are welcomed, no barking allowed."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites for a more secluded experience. At Chain O'Lakes Campground, campers appreciate the layout. Nova O. comments, "Our campground was next to nice bathrooms and a sand volleyball court. Good privacy from neighboring campsites."
Listening to loons: The distinctive call of loons is frequently mentioned as a highlight at Cunard Lake. Jordan A. shares, "Cunard Lake Campground was the perfect, beautiful 5-day getaway we were looking for. Not too busy, noisy or fancy. Loved getting to paddleboard (brought my own) and listen to the loons day and night."
Extended stays possible: Multiple campgrounds welcome longer visits. At West Bay Camping Resort, Charles M. notes, "Passport America discount honored for 7 days and Coast to Coast."
Quiet atmosphere: Several glamping locations near Rhinelander offer designated quiet camping experiences. S P. explains that "Lake Cunard campground 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, etc."
What you should know
Weekend crowds: Popular sites fill quickly during summer weekends. At Clear Lake Campground, Joel N. advises, "You will need to reserve your site 11 months in advance because it fills up fast."
Train noise: Some campgrounds have nearby train tracks. At Sara Park, Sharen mentions, "Trains do go by at different times of the day. Heard one at 2:30 this morning."
Rustic facilities: Amenities vary widely between locations. S P. notes about Cunard Lake: "It is an older, more rustic property - and could use some updates (ie new toilets), but if you're looking for that serene Northwoods experience - Go!!"
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds operate from May through early October. Cedar Falls Campground runs from "early May to October 1," while Chain O'Lakes lists its season as "May 1 - October 7."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with activities: Hi-Pines Campground offers family-friendly amenities. Amanda D. reports, "Great activities for kids…fishing presentation, movie, kickball. The site was full sun which got hot. There were shaded sites, but we couldn't get sites together in the woods."
Consider beach access: Several campgrounds have swimming areas for children. Matthew K. says of Clear Lake, "Beautiful clear water lake with only a handful of houses. It is a popular campground so it can be busy and hectic but is nice for families. A lot of locals come to the swimming beach on the weekends."
Check for inflatable water features: Some locations offer additional water attractions. Amanda C. notes about Hi-Pines, "This campground is very clean and nice with tons of things to do! The sites are nice and big and the pond has inflatables that are very fun."
Seek out paved bike paths: Buffalo Lake offers paved trails suitable for family cycling. Zachary J. comments, "Great state campground, near Minocqua WI. Was clean and was a busy weekend of people but great space, little to know bugs."
Tips from RVers
Limited big rig access: Many forest service campgrounds have size restrictions. At Birkensee Campground, RVers should note the lack of big rig accessibility according to site features, though the campground does offer glamping options.
Electric hookup availability: Some campgrounds offer electric but not full hookups. Elizabeth from Birkensee shares, "Our campsite was just in view of the pond on the campground. Everything was clean. There was a bar on the campground that had pool tables and some other games."
Consider cell service needs: Cell coverage varies by carrier and location. Charles M. reports about West Bay Camping Resort, "Full hookups, no wifi or at least we couldnt find it. Dogs are welcomed, no barking allowed. Cell phone service was good so you can work if you have too. AT&T and Verizon."
Dump station fees: Some locations charge extra for dump stations. At Sara Park, there's a "dump station nearby behind the city garage for $10," according to Sharen.
