Recreation
Unplug and reconnect to the large expanse of National Forest lands in northern Wisconsin. Explore the more than 1.5 million acres of water and woodlands offering year-round motorized trail riding, water- and land-based sports, and the solitude of quiet campgrounds.
2025 Fee Free Days
Days where Day Use Fees* are waived on National Forest Service System lands:
- January 20, 2025: Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- June 14, 2025: National Get Outdoors Day
- June 19, 2025: Juneteenth National Independence Day
- September 27, 2025: National Public Lands Day
- November 11, 2025: Veterans Day
*Does not apply to camping, OHV, or concession sites.
Before You Go...
Maps and Guides
Passes and Permits
With many campgrounds, lakes, rivers, and hiking trails, the Eagle River - Florence Ranger District has what you need.
The Great Divide Ranger District offers and maintains many different campgrounds, lakes, rivers, and hiking trails for your enjoyment.
Come visit the Lakewood - Laona District and enjoy our many campgrounds, trails, lake and rivers!
The Medford - Park Falls Ranger District offers a variety of different activities to those seeking recreational opportunities.
Great Horseback riding trails, OHV trails and Fishing can be found on the district.
Ada Lake Recreation Area
Site Open
Ada Lake Recreation Area is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of some of the more popular recreation sites on the Lakewood-Laona District. It has many amenities of the other recreation areas,…
Anvil Lake Recreation Area
Site Open
If you are looking for a base camp to explore area trails or a destination rustic campground with a family atmosphere, try the Anvil Lake Recreation Area off Highway 70 east of Eagle River.The Anvil…
Bagley Rapids Recreation Area
Site Open
If you enjoy listening to the soothing sound of flowing water, you will appreciate this campground. About one-third of the 36 campsites are located adjacent to the Oconto River. Trout fishing, berry…
Bear Lake Recreation Area
Site Open
The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest has an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities at the Bear Lake Recreation Area including camping, fishing, swimming, kayaking and canoeing. Only…
Beaver Lake Recreation Area
Site Open
If you are looking for a campground to explore the North Country National Scenic Trail or a rustic fishing-getaway with a family atmosphere, try the Beaver Lake Recreation Area 15 miles west of…
Birch Grove Recreation Area
Site Open
Birch Grove Recreation Area is a family favorite if you are looking for a base camp to explore the Bayfield Peninsula. It is nestled between 22-acre East and 16-acre West Twin Lakes and is close to…
Black Lake Recreation Area
Site Open
Black Lake Recreation Area is a family-favorite on the Great Divide Ranger District. It is spread along the eastern shores of its namesake, Black Lake. The calm waters beckon to adventurers, offering…
Blackjack Springs Wilderness
Site Open
Officially designated as a Wilderness in 1978, this 5,800 acre area is located 7 miles northeast of Eagle River, Wis. in Vilas County. At Blackjack Springs, a series of four large, crystal clear…
Bladder Lake Day Use Area
Site Open
Bladder Lake Day Use Area is located on Bladder Lake and features picnic tables, toilet building, pedestal grills and a fire ring. The lake is sandy and shallow making it a great place for swimming…
Boot Lake Recreation Area
Site Open
This campground overlooks a scenic 263-acre lake. Bask in the sun on the beautiful beach and then take a relaxing dip in the lake, or enjoy the fishing. Boot Lake contains walleye, northern pike,…