If you are looking for a base camp that is popular for Horse Riding and Camping or a destination campground with a rustic atmosphere, try the Smith Rapids Recreation Area off State Highway 70 east of Fifield.
The Smith Rapids Recreation Area on the Park Falls District consists of a campground with 10 sites and is located on the South Fork of the Flambeau River. It provides an ideal focal point for hiking, river fishing, and horseback riding (campsites are equipped with tie stalls and trailer parking designed for horse camping) and canoeing. Seven campsites are designed to accommodate horse trailers with extra-long parking spurs (campsites: 5-11), hitching rails, picnic tables, and fire grills. All campsites may be reserved through recreation.gov.
Day use facilities include a carry-in boat access, vault toilets, drinking water and day use picnic area are also provided. There is also an additional parking lot across the road from the picnic area for equestrian use. A special feature near this campground is the Smith Rapids Covered Bridge.
If you like horse riding, stream fishing, hiking, picnicking or enjoy the convenience of being close to town, then the Smith Rapids Recreation Area is the place for you, conveniently located 15 minutes east of Fifield. Smith Rapids Recreation Area is pet friendly; see restrictions below for more information.
At a Glance
Current Conditions:
This campground opens May 5, 2022
Reservations:
Closed for 2021.
Area Amenities:
Toilets,Drinking water,Parking
Fees
$15 per night
Open Season:
May 27 - October 16
Busiest Season:
Memorial Day - Labor Day
Restrictions:
Campsite Capacity
Maximum of 8 people and 4 vehicles at each camp site.
Vehicle capacity limit includes vehicles, wheeled camping units and trailers.
Pets and Animals
Pets must always be restrained or on a leash while in developed recreation areas.
Pets (except guide dogs) are not allowed in swimming areas.
Saddle or pack animals are allowed in recreation sites only where authorized by posted instructions.
Firewood Closure Order
Our firewood closure order prohibits the possession, storage, or transport of any firewood that originates from more than 25 miles from your campsite. Firewood certified by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Transportation and Consumer Protection can originate from more than 25 miles from National Forest destination.
Both certified firewood and Kiln-dried, untreated/unpainted/unstained/construction/dimensional lumber that is free of any metal or foreign substance is approved. Pallet boards are not approved.
ATVs & UTVs over 65” in width are prohibited on Flambeau ATV Trail, and operation of all ATVs & UTVs are prohibited in campground. Trail open to ATV/UTVs 65" or less annually from May 1 to March 14 (closed during spring break up)
The South Fork of the Flambeau River is available for fishing. Species include northern, muskie, panfish, sturgeon, smallmouth bass and suckers.
Horse Riding & Camping
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Horse Camping
The Smith Rapids Campground consist of 9 sites and is located on the South fork of the Flambeau River. It provides an ideal focal point for hiking, river fishing, and horseback riding Campsites are equipped with tie stalls and trailer parking designed for horse camping and canoeing. Six campsites are designed to accommodate horse trailers with extra-long parking spurs, hitching rails, picnic tables, and fire grills. A carry-in boat access, vault toilets, drinking water and day use picnic area are also provided. There is also an additional parking lot across the road from the picnic area for equestrian use. A special feature near this recreation area is the Smith Rapids Covered Bridge.
Horse Riding
The old trail system is no-longer available. A new trail is being developed that will go north from the campground that will provide year-round opportunities.
Nature Viewing
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Viewing Scenery
The Smith Rapids Covered Bridge is a unique scenic feature on the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest.
OHV Riding & Camping
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OHV Trail Riding
The Flambeau Motorized Trail System is adjacent to the campground. Access to the trail system is available from Forest Road 148. Off-road highway vehicle use is not allowed in the recreation area. Click here for more information.
Picnicking
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Picnicking
The Smith Rapids Recreation area has plenty of places to enjoy a picnic by the water. There is a designated picnic area, along with a shelter that provides shade.
Water Activities
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Boating - Non-Motorized
Smith Rapids is on moving water. Canoeing, kayaking and paddling are popular activities on South Fork of the Flambeau River.
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