Northern Highland American Legion State Forest spans 225,000 acres with over 900 lakes near Sayner, Wisconsin. The region sits at an elevation of approximately 1,700 feet, creating a cool, moderate summer climate with average temperatures between 65-75°F in peak camping season. Dragonflies are abundant throughout the area, which naturally reduces mosquito populations during summer months.
What to Do
Kayaking on motor-free lakes: Crystal Lake Campground offers pristine waters ideal for paddling. "Nice quiet campground across the road from the busier Crystal Lake campground. Convenient to the lovely bike trail that takes you to Boulder Junction and Manitowish Waters," notes reviewer Shelley F.
Biking the paved trail system: North Trout Lake Campground connects to an extensive trail network. "The campground has a nature trail and is also located on a paved bike path that runs between nearby towns and connects to the other camping areas," explains Stephanie F., adding that the paths are "well-maintained and great walking and biking trails in the park and surrounding area."
Geocaching adventures: Cunnard Lake Campground offers opportunities for this modern treasure hunt. "Geocaching is hot in this area too!" mentions Jaimie G., who enjoyed their lakeside site "tucked into the woods."
Fishing in crystal-clear waters: Clear Lake provides excellent fishing opportunities. "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," shares Matthew K.
What Campers Like
Spacious, private sites: Crystal Lake Campground offers well-separated campsites. "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," advises Mike R.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campers enjoy the local fauna. "My family have been camping at Firefly for years! Beautiful campground with private campsites. Quiet lake that's great for swimming and kayaking," notes Mark E.
Clean facilities: Firefly Lake Campground maintains excellent bathrooms. "Very nice campground in state forest in northern Wisconsin. NO electricity. Generators allowed from 10 am to 5 pm. Clean showers and bathrooms with water as well as several pit toilets," states Mary.
Sandy beaches: Clear Lake has excellent swimming areas. "Beautiful clear water and beach area. Nice to kayak. Only a few great sites by the water," mentions Adrienne L.
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds now require advance booking. "New rules say that you must have reservations but we had cell service so you can do things when you show up if there's room," explains Art S. about Firefly Lake.
Limited cell service: North Trout Lake Campground has spotty coverage. "Cell phone and data are okay. There is tire noise from Highway M," warns Lawrence B.
Noise restrictions: Some campgrounds enforce quiet rules. "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.," explains S P.
Limited electric sites: Most state forest campgrounds lack hookups. "Generators allowed from 10 am to 5 pm... NO electricity. Dump and clean water available at next campground, Crystal Lake, which is a mile away," notes Mary about Firefly Lake.
Tips for Camping with Families
Water activities for kids: Clear Lake Campground offers excellent swimming options. "Great park with lots of different types of sites," notes Katie B., while Joel N. adds, "My family, along with a couple other families, used to camp here for a week every year when we were kids. There are 2 beaches, trails, beautiful wooded sites, and the lakes water is as clear as advertised."
Bike-friendly loops: Many campgrounds feature safe cycling areas. "This campground is on a large chain of lakes. I recommend heading into the town of Minocqua for shopping or just a night on the town. Hiking/biking trails are very close by," shares Braden H.
Ice cream stops: Corner stores near campgrounds offer treats. "You definitely have to go visit the Corner Store just a few miles down the road for some delicious ice cream!" recommends Mark E. about Firefly Lake.
Walk-in site options: Families seeking more privacy should consider walk-in sites. "One part of the campground has a parking area with a handful of walk-in sites, but the walk is no more than 2/10 of a mile, most of them closer," explains Danielle A. about Razorback Lake.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Razorback Lake Campground accommodates various vehicle sizes. "We stayed here in late June 2020. Happy to find that the campground wasn't too crowded and we were able to snag the last lakefront site. The campsite itself was big but not huge. Enough for our camper, vehicle and the extras," explains Steve S.
Limited hookups: Most forest campgrounds lack full hookups. "This is a rustic campground. No electricity or running water. It does have a hand pump if you need water (it was really cool and easy to use). Vault toilets," notes Melinda K. about Plum Lake.
Generator restrictions: Rules vary by campground. "Very nice campground in state forest in northern Wisconsin. NO electricity. Generators allowed from 10 am to 5 pm," explains Mary about Firefly Lake, while other locations like Cunard Lake prohibit generators entirely.
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste disposal. "Dump and clean water available at next campground, Crystal Lake, which is a mile away," advises Mary about facilities near Firefly Lake.
Legend
