Campers visiting Tomahawk, Wisconsin can enjoy a unique blend of northern Wisconsin terrain where mixed hardwood forests meet pristine lakes across the Northern Highland region. The area sits at approximately 1,500 feet above sea level, creating a climate that shifts dramatically between seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-80°F during peak camping months. Winter camping options remain available at select locations with temperatures often dropping well below freezing.
What to do
Paddling on motor-restricted waters: Crystal Lake Campground offers excellent paddling opportunities with no motorized boats allowed. "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. Know the rules when you come onto the lake as motors are not allowed which is why I chose it as it made paddling much easier," notes a visitor.
Wildlife viewing at nearby trails: The Northern Highland State Forest area provides numerous opportunities to spot native wildlife. A Buffalo Lake camper mentions the 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." Another notes seeing "little to know bugs" during their stay.
Geocaching adventures: Cunard Lake in the Northern Highland Forest offers excellent geocaching opportunities. One camper shared, "We had the perfect set up.. right on the water and tucked into the woods. Our neighbors were to far to hear us and the bathrooms were near by! We had a beautiful sunset every night and even got to see a double rainbow. Geocaching is hot in this area too!"
What campers like
Secluded waterfront access: At Sara Park, campers appreciate the private water access. "It's a small campground just 10 sites along a road but the back of each site has a small clearing to the water, there is a boat launch down the road which we utilized. Overall very nice campground for a first trip," notes one visitor.
Quiet camping restrictions: Some Northern Highland campgrounds have specific noise regulations. A visitor to Cunard Lake explains, "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."
Year-round yurt camping options: Yurt camping near Tomahawk, Wisconsin provides comfortable accommodation during all seasons. West Bay Camping Resort offers alternative camping structures during the May to October season. A visitor noted, "Nice and quiet campground, little cool for weather while we were there but so peaceful. Linda was so nice in the office and really helpful, purchased firewood and so nice that they delivered."
What you should know
Reservation timing requirements: Popular sites at Crystal Lake Campground book quickly. One regular visitor advises, "I have been camping at Crystal Lake every year for 20+ years. It is by far our favorite in the area. The showers and toilets are clean. The pit toilets can get pretty ripe by the end of the season, but if people would learn to keep the lids closed, it wouldn't be so bad."
Cell service limitations: Despite visible cell towers, coverage can be spotty. A Crystal Lake camper reports, "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. Even when we had 3 bars, it wasn't much better than the 1 bar at our site."
Train noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience periodic train disturbances. A Sara Park visitor notes, "Trains do go by at different times of the day. Heard one at 2:30 this morning. We were the only ones here during the week."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access selection: Choose lakefront sites carefully as beach quality varies. At Council Grounds State Park, a family camper noted, "This was our first camping trip as a group with 12 people and 4 cars in July 2023. We enjoyed being able to rent kayaks and paddleboards and relax on the beach. We also liked the proximity to the pit/vault toilet and water pump."
Group site planning: Larger families should consider designated group areas. A Council Grounds visitor explained, "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. Non-flush toilets in between the two sites on opposite side of the campsites."
Yurt camping for multi-season family trips: Families interested in year-round options should consider yurt camping near Tomahawk, Wisconsin. Permanent canvas structures with amenities make shoulder season camping more comfortable for families with children. Several Northern Highland forest campgrounds offer these alternatives to traditional tent camping.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variability: Electrical service can be inconsistent at some campgrounds. At West Bay Camping Resort, an RVer cautions, "Located down a quiet paved road just 2 miles outside of town. You are close to the action but don't have to listen to it. Some sites are tight/close and others you could turn around in. Most are fairly level or it doesn't take much to make your camper level."
Dump station access: Plan waste management carefully. A Sara Park visitor mentioned, "There is a dump station nearby behind the city garage for $10. There are vault toilets with free showers. The sites have immediate access to the river for fishing."
Site selection for privacy: Despite proximity, some campgrounds offer more secluded options. A West Bay camper notes, "Very little grass at site but you get a picnic table and a fire pit. Wood must be bought at the store but pay attention to the hours as they close early. Plenty of mosquitoes but you are in the woods. Daytime they aren't too bad."
