Within Nicolet National Forest, Richardson Lake Campground operates as a US Forest Service facility that accommodates RVs up to 56 feet alongside tent camping. The campground sits above Richardson Lake, with lakefront sites positioned well above the water level. Access requires navigating rough roads that can challenge some vehicles.
Campers find spacious sites with basic amenities including drinking water, toilets, and a dump station, though the campground lacks showers. The elevated position means reaching the lake requires walking down stairs or steep trails, making kayak and canoe transport more demanding than at waterside campgrounds. Margaret D. notes that "sites were good sized but not very private," reflecting the open forest layout.
The campground operates on a reservation system from May through November, helpful for planning trips from distant locations. Cell service reaches the area, though the remote forest setting means limited connectivity. Mosquito populations can be intense during summer months, particularly in June. Nearby events like off-road races in Crandon can increase visitor numbers and noise levels during holiday weekends.
For additional camping options in the region, campers can explore places to camp around Wabeno or check out Ham Lake Campground four miles northeast. The $15 nightly fee covers basic amenities in this forested setting where campers come prepared for rustic conditions.
Description
Overview
Richardson Lake Campground sits on its namesake lake in beautiful Forest County Wisconsin. This campground's 26 sites are located on the south shore of Richardson Lake, well known to anglers for its bass, northern pike, and pan fish. Relax on the sandy swim beach or take in the views of the lake from the picnic area above the beach. Take your boat or canoe out on Richardson Lake in search of wildlife along the shoreline.
Recreation
The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest has an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities. Those most enjoyed at Richardson are fishing, swimming, and canoeing.
Facilities
Richardson Lake Campground offers 26 campsites of various sizes that can accommodate tents and RVs. Drinking water, vault toilets, swim beach, and boat landing are also provided at this location.
Natural Features
The campground lies in a lush maple dominated northern hardwood forest on the south shore of 47-acre Richardson Lake. Richardson Lake Campground is best known for its spectacular fall color.
Nearby Attractions
The communities of Wabeno to the east and Crandon to the north offer some services and community events throughout the year.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundRichardson Lake is located in Wisconsin
Directions
From Wabeno, drive north 0.8 miles on Highway 32 to Highway 52. Turn left (west) on Highway 52 and drive 2.4 miles to Richardson Lake Road (FR2880). Turn right (north) on Richardson Lake Road and continue 0.4 miles to the campground.
Coordinates
45.4415 N
88.7153 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 4/13/26- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 4/13/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 18 min from Wausau, WI
- 1 hr 29 min from Green Bay, WI
- 1 hr 42 min from Appleton, WI
- 2 hrs from Oshkosh, WI
