Porcupine Lake Wilderness

Snow crunches underfoot as backpackers follow the North Country Trail to reach this dispersed camping area in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. Campers must hike in to access sites scattered around Porcupine Lake, with no vehicle access permitted. The trail system stays well-maintained even during winter months, though venturing off-trail requires navigating deeper snow accumulations.

Dead and downed wood provides ample fuel for campfires, which are permitted throughout the area. The adjacent lake offers fishing opportunities year-round, including ice fishing during winter months. Wildlife sightings include wild turkeys moving through the forest. Campers seeking a true backcountry experience will find Two Lakes Campground roughly two miles west for those preferring developed facilities, while this location suits backpackers comfortable with primitive conditions and self-sufficient camping.

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Location

Dispersed Camping

Porcupine Lake Wilderness is located in Wisconsin

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

46.29663668519448 N
91.1591235977349 W

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Access

  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


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1 Review

Reviewed Dec. 31, 2025

Lovely Winter Camping!

We backpacked to a random spot here on the North Country Trail during the holidays. There was about 10+ inches of snow off trail but the trails were well maintained. We ventured off trail quite a ways and had to dig some snow to set up our tent. Plenty of dead and downed wood to get a fire going! If you are looking to do some fun dispersed camping with a nearby fishing lake (or ice fishing perhaps), this is for you. Also, saw lots of wild Turkeys!

SiteOff-Trail
Month of VisitDecember
  • Review photo of Porcupine Lake Wilderness by Avery G., December 31, 2025
  • Review photo of Porcupine Lake Wilderness by Avery G., December 31, 2025
  • Review photo of Porcupine Lake Wilderness by Avery G., December 31, 2025
  • (6) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Are fires allowed at Porcupine Lake Wilderness?

Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Porcupine Lake Wilderness, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

Does Porcupine Lake Wilderness have wifi?

No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Porcupine Lake Wilderness does not have wifi.