Lac Vieux Desert Recreation Area

Camp here and you'll be at the headwaters of the Wisconsin River! You'll also be on a lake that has been "home" to Chippewa (Ojibwa) American Indians for centuries. This 4,017-acre lake is one of the largest lakes on the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and is shared with the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

If you are planning to fish, please review the border lake fishing regulations. The lake is known for its musky, walleye, bass, and northern pike.

The campground is located on the west shore of the lake and features a boat landing and picnic shelter.

General Information

Campground Camping

Lac Vieux Desert has often been translated as Lake of the Desert. However, in Canadian-French it means an old clearing and refers to cultivation of land by native people on the islands of the lake. Lac Vieux Desert is the headwaters of the Wisconsin River. The campground has 31 campsites equipped with fire rings, drinking water and vault toilets. The campground, which is located on the west shore of the lake, is popular with anglers and recreationists alike.

RV Camping

No. of Sites: 31
Reservation Info: There are no reservable sites at the Lac Vieux Desert Campground. All sites are available on a first-come basis.
Size Restrictions
Maximum RV/Trailer Length of Campsites at Lac Vieux Desert Campground: (Back-in sites unless indicated below)
- 35 Foot: 15, 22, 24, 31
- 40 Foot: 1-14, 16-21, 23, 25-30
Pavement Type of Parking: Asphalt

May 2 - October 15

Individual campsite fee is $15, or $7.50 with the use of an Interagency pass (access or senior). The interagency pass applies only to the fee for the campsite physically occupied by the pass holder, not to any additional fees or campsite(s) occupied by members of the pass holder's party.

Address: 1247 E. Wall St. Eagle River, WI 54521
Phone: 715-479-2827
Hours: Monday - Friday – 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: sm.fs.cnnfadmin@usda.gov