Franklin Lake Campground stands as the primary camping destination within Three Lakes, Wisconsin, with sites directly on the water. The campground operates seasonally from April 30 to October 14 and features a mix of primitive and electric sites. The surrounding Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest creates a dense woodland setting at approximately 1,600 feet elevation with typical summer temperatures ranging from 55-80°F and frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Swimming and beach activities: Franklin Lake offers a sandy beach area with crystal-clear water. "The beach is great, but if you have a site on the lake you can walk in and swim right there! The water is crystal clear," notes camper Selah S. Many campers appreciate the sandbar swimming area across from the main beach.
Paddling opportunities: Laurel Lake Campground provides excellent canoe access with sites near the water. "The site would be a perfect canoe landing, the water is within a few yards," writes camper Nancy May. The calm waters make it ideal for beginners and families.
Fishing: Multiple lakes in the area offer fishing opportunities. "We have had an excellent camp-out this year here. Maybe because our site is only a yard away from the water," shares Nancy May about Franklin Lake. Local lakes contain walleye, bass, northern pike and panfish, with many campers reporting success from shore.
What campers like
Natural surroundings: Land O' Lakes Nature RV Resort creates an "Adult Playground in Nature" according to reviewer Jake C., offering a unique adults-only environment without the typical 55+ age restriction. The resort features 25 sites with natural landscaping.
Privacy and quiet: Many campsites provide good separation between neighbors. "Private sites, great beach, beautiful buildings built by the CCC. There is even a small nature center," reports Kay K. about Franklin Lake Campground. The northern location means minimal light pollution for stargazing.
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Three Lakes support abundant wildlife. "Loons are always on the lake... Among other wildlife bear are in the area, which is a testament to how off the beaten path this campground is," notes Selah S. Deer sightings at campsites are common, with Nancy May reporting, "We have deer walk through the back of our campsite at night."
What you should know
Limited services: Cell service varies significantly throughout the area. "Cell service is awful, you can get service sort of by the lake depending on your provider, but don't count on it," warns Hannah I. about Franklin Lake. Many campers recommend downloading maps and information before arrival.
Weather considerations: The Northwoods region experiences significant temperature swings. Borderline RV Park typically operates "May 1 - Oct 31" because of the short season, with reviewer Susan T. noting, "I've been here April through October," indicating the edges of camping viability.
Insects: Bug protection is essential in this wooded, lake-rich environment. "Hoped to stay a few nights, chased out by mosquitoes after first one," cautions Sue B. about her Franklin Lake experience. Early morning and evening hours typically see increased insect activity.
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Holly Wood Hill Campground offers family-friendly features. "Very nice campsites... they have a pile of different games for everybody to use or play they have a big camp fire there every night," mentions John V.
Nature exploration: The forests offer many opportunities for children to connect with nature. "My family loves the nature trail that takes us through bogs and past maiden hair ferns," shares Kay K. about Franklin Lake's interpretive trails.
Site selection: When camping with children, location matters. "You can get campsites on the lake, or you could get more secluded sites further back into the woods," explains Hannah I., noting that lakeside sites offer immediate water access but less privacy.
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Arbor Vitae Campground provides full-service sites but may have maintenance issues. "Electricity has no breakers to shut the juice off before hook up which is very dangerous. Water is good pressure," cautions Wayne O.
Site levelness: RV sites throughout the area vary in quality. "Most sites are fairly level or it doesn't take much to make your camper level," notes Linda C. about campgrounds in the region, adding "Clean bathrooms and shower areas. Easy hook up for water, electric and sewer."
Seasonal stays: For extended visits, Borderline RV Park offers seasonal options. "Great community in the park for summer/early fall living. Numerous lakes nearby for fishing; a boat ramp into the Wisconsin River for canoes/kayaks is just across 45," shares Susan T. Many seasonal campers use the RV parks Three Lakes, Wisconsin area as fishing basecamps.
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