Northern Highland State Forest encompasses over 232,000 acres of forests, lakes, and wetlands near Sayner, Wisconsin. Elevations range from 1,500 to 1,750 feet above sea level with 900 lakes scattered throughout the region. Winter temperatures often drop below zero, while summer months typically range from 55-80°F with relatively low humidity.
What to do
Swimming in crystal-clear lakes: Crystal Lake Campground features two sandy beaches with clear water for swimming. "This is a great campground. The best sites are lake sites (obviously), but there are some better than others. Look along the east side of the lake for a sandy beach off of your site," notes Mike R. at Crystal Lake Campground.
Fishing without motors: Several lakes prohibit motorized watercraft, creating peaceful fishing environments. "This is a great campground in a group of the campgrounds in the area. Lots of water sites so I would highly suggesting getting one so the you can paddle right from the shoreline. Good fishing as well. No the rules when you come onto the lake as motors are not allowed," explains Scott M. about Crystal Lake.
Winter camping options: Big Lake Campground remains open year-round with accessible sites even in snow. "The road in is paved and yet nicely wooded. It feels like a more upscale location than some other more remote campgrounds," states Art S. from Big Lake Campground.
Biking on paved trails: The area features extensive paved bike paths connecting campgrounds. "We loved the bicycle route that runs throughout the area. People were walking, running and biking - even one wheels were in play. This is a great way to get out into the dispersed local community without touching your vehicle," mentions Art S. about Big Lake.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Cunard Lake is officially designated as a "Quiet" campground. "Cunard Lake 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," explains S P. from Cunnard Lake.
Beach access from sites: Several campgrounds offer direct beach access from your site. "You can get sites that have your own beach pretty much with a trail right down to the lake. Very nice," shares Shannon B. about Crystal Lake Campground.
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds feature natural vegetation buffers. "A nice quiet campground with trees between the sites to give it a more private feel. Showers and bathrooms are available if desired and a crystal clear lake with sandy beaches," reports Kristy about Crystal Lake.
Yurt camping options: While traditional yurt camping in Sayner, Wisconsin isn't widespread, several campgrounds offer alternative glamping accommodations. "Wonderful RV Resort! Brand New and Wow what a Bathhouse! The lake is right there steps away that is crystal clear and sandy bottom!!" exclaims Chris W. about Peaceful Pines Resort, which offers modernized glamping options similar to yurts.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly. "You will need to reserve your site 11 months in advance because it fills up fast," advises Joel N. from Clear Lake Campground.
Campground noise regulations: Different campgrounds have varying noise rules. "It is a quiet campground, I can respect that. But camp friend was not so friendly. If we laughed out loud she would warn us," notes Gina G. about Cunard Lake.
Cell service variability: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. "We have Verizon service and it is spotty in areas, though given that you can see a cell tower towards Sayner it should be a lot better than it is. I think it is the heavy tree cover that impacts the reception," reports Mike R. about Crystal Lake.
Seasonal insects: Bug protection is essential. "2 day stay in mid august was absolutely lovely (bring bug spray)," recommends Ellery K. from Sylvania Clark Lake Campground.
Bear and wolf precautions: Some areas require wildlife safety measures. "Lovely old and second growth trees. Bear and Wolf precautions, please. Hiking was good, fishing was good," advises Juliana about Sylvania Clark Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with kid activities: Some locations offer organized activities. "We enjoyed the amenities and activities this campground had to offer. Clean bathrooms and laundry room. Great activities for kids…fishing presentation, movie, kickball," shares Amanda D. about Hi-Pines Campground.
Choose campgrounds with swimming beaches: Clean, shallow swimming areas are ideal for children. "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," explains Matthew K. about Clear Lake Campground.
Consider all-season options: Some family-friendly sites work year-round. "Great to camp anytime of year. Though there aren't really electric sites, having showers and flush toilets is a huge plus," suggests Mike R. about Crystal Lake.
Plan for multi-generational trips: The area has tradition-rich camping spots. "My father came here with his family growing up and brought us kids for the last 20+ years. Three different generations have seen this place and it will continue to be passed down," shares AnneMarie C. about Cunard Lake.
Tips from RVers
Select sites based on shade needs: Open sites can get hot in summer. "The site was full sun which got hot. There were shaded sites, but we couldn't get sites together in the woods to be close to friends so we had to be in the field sites," cautions Amanda D. about Hi-Pines.
Laundry availability: Plan laundry days strategically. "The personnel use all the machines to wash linens and towels from the cabins after folks check out on Monday. One dryer did not heat very well," warns Brenda A. about Hi-Pines Campground.
RV site privacy varies: Some locations offer better separation between sites. "Lovely campground near the lakes. Tons of lake activities like renting boats to fish (like we did). Our campground was next to nice bathrooms and a sand volleyball court. Good privacy from neighboring campsites," describes Nova O. about Chain O'Lakes Campground.
Check water/electric/sewer availability: Full hookups aren't universal. "Clean bathrooms and shower areas. Easy hook up for water, electric and sewer. RV sites nice but would prefer more trees. Nice fire pits. Wood available for purchase," shares Linda C. about Arbor Vitae Campground.
