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Area Status: Closed
Richardson 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 the amenities of the other recreation areas, just not all the crowds. There are plenty of sites to see on the district and Richardson Lake Recreation area can serve as a home base.
The campground has 26 wooded sites located on the south shore of Richardson Lake, a 47-acre lake with plenty of bass, northern pike and panfish. Take your boat or canoe on the water in search of wildlife along the shoreline. Then relax on the sandy beach or take in the view of the lake from the picnic area that is located on a hill above the swim area.
The Richardson Lake Recreation Area is near popular local site-seeing spots Quartz Hill, Ed’s Lake National Recreation Trail, Halley Creek Bird Trail and Knowles Creek Interpretive Trail.
Did you forget something? Don't sweat it! The small town of Wabeno can meet your camping supply needs ranging from groceries to firewood, as well as a souvenir or two.
So, if you like to swim, boat, fish, hike, picnic or enjoy being close to town, then the Richardson Lake recreation area is the place for you, conveniently located just 5 minutes west of Wabeno. Don’t forget your canine friends. Richardson Lake is one of our dog friendly Recreation Areas. Dogs must be well behaved and leashed at all times.
Read the site's Recreational Opportunity Guide here:
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: |
Area Status: Campground openings have been delayed, check back for updated opening and closing dates. |
| Reservations: |
The reservation system provides visitors the opportunity to reserve their favorite spot during specific times, ensuring a place to stay, which will be beneficial to local users as well as users traveling from afar.
Sites can be reserved at www.recreation.gov or by calling Reserve America at 1-877-444-6777 or TDD 1-877-833-6777.
The campground will still have first come first served sites available for those who prefer a more spontaneous adventure. |
| Fees |
Individual campsite fee is $15/night, payable at the fee envelope tube at the site.
Nightly fees are half of price shown with use of Interagency Senior or Access Pass. Interagency Pass discounts apply only to the fee for the campsite physically occupied by the pass holder. |
| Usage: |
Medium |
| Busiest Season: |
Summer holidays |
| 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.
Operation of all ATVs & UTVs are prohibited in campground. |
| Closest Towns: |
Wabeno |
| Water: |
Drinking Water |
| Restroom: |
Vault toilets |
| Passes: |
The USDA Forest Service honors all four Interagency Recreation Passes that may be applied at National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation and U.S. Fish and Wildlife sites charging recreation use fees. Visit http://www.fs.fed.us/passespermits/rec-fee.shtml to decide which pass is right for you. |
| Operated By: |
Forest Service Volunteer Campground Hosts help manage the area and can provide visitor information. |
| Information Center: |
Campground hosts greet visitors as they arrive, inform them of the campground regulations and assist them with their campsite. Lakewood-Laona District |
General Information
Directions: From Wabeno, drive north 0.8 mile on Highway 32 to Highway 52. Turn left (west) on Highway 52 and drive 2.4 miles to Richardson Lake Road (FR 2880): Turn right (north) on Richardson Lake Road and continue 0.4 mile to the campground.
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Activities
Bicycling SHOW
Mountain Biking
Ed’s Lake National Recreation Trail – Located on County Highway W midway between Crandon and Wabeno, the popular trail is a favorite for mountain bikers and cross-country skiers. It features three loops that total six miles varying from easy to difficult. It also provides excellent opportunities for hikers and mountain bike enthusiasts. The trail follows several early 1900s railroad grades through a variety of forest types. An Adirondack-style shelter overlooking Ed’s Lake is located along the Birch loop. A map and brochure are available at the trailhead. Click here for more information.
Lakewood Cross Country Ski Trail – The Lakewood Ski Trail winds through beautiful, wooded settings with rolling hills. The 25 kilometer main trail, known as the blue trail is continuous between McCaslin Brook Country Club and County F. Several secondary loops connect to the blue trail. In the summer season, mountain bikes are welcome, but are not allowed on the golf course part of the trail. Click here for more information.
Camping & Cabins HIDE
RV Camping
A majority of campsites can accommodate campers as long as 30 feet and longer. Sites can be reserved online through the national reservations service.
| Pavement Type of Parking | Asphalt
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| Fire Information | There are accessible fire rings at each campsite.
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| No. of Sites | 26
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| Size Restrictions | (Back-in sites unless indicated below):
- Back in 25 feet: 2, 14, 21, 25
- Back in 30 feet: 4, 7, 10, 12, 15
- Back in 35 feet: 5, 13, 16, 17
- Back in 40 feet: 1, 3, 6, 22, 23
- Back in 45+ feet: 8, 9, 11, 18, 19, 20, 24, 26
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| Reservation Info | Campsites may be reserved through the campground reservation system at www.recreation.gov.
Reservable sites: 1, 6, 9, 10, 13-17, 20
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Campground Camping
Richardson Lake Campground has 26 sites. A majority of sites can accommodate campers as long as 30 feet and longer. A camp host, drinking water, vault toilets, swim beach, picnic area and a boat landing are also provided at this location.
Fishing SHOW
Lake and Pond Fishing
Fishing is good for bass, northern pike and panfish in 47-acre Richardson Lake. A boat launch is available.
| Fish Species | bass, northern pike, and panfish |
Hiking SHOW
Day Hiking
Ed’s Lake National Recreation Trail – Located on County Highway W midway between Crandon and Wabeno, the popular trail is a favorite for cross-country skiers. It features three loops that total six miles varying from easy to difficult. It also provides excellent opportunities for hikers and mountain bike enthusiasts. The trail follows several early 1900s railroad grades through a variety of forest types. Tracked and groomed for traditional skiing, the three loops provide excellent skiing for beginner and intermediate skiers. An Adirondack-style shelter overlooking Ed’s Lake is located along the Birch loop. A map and brochure are available at the trailhead. Be prepared for ticks in spring and early summer. Click here for more information.
Quartz Hill Hiking Trail – This trail has two sections, one located on the east and one on the west side of State Highway 32. The east section leads across a boardwalk to the top of McCaslin Mountain. It has moderately steep sections, but the view from the top of this quartz rock outcrop is worth the climb. Along the trail to the top, you will pass a quartz crystal deposit with an informational sign which describes how early Indians came here to quarry quartz to create their tools. The west portion of this trail leads to the site of the Carter Fire Lookout Tower. Once used to spot forest fires, all that now remains are the tower footings and roadway. Most fire towers on the Nicolet were erected in the 1930's and have since been discontinued as aerial surveillance took over. From Carter, take State Highway 32 south 1 mile. The parking area is on the west side of the highway. A sign with trail map is at the trailhead. To get to the east portion of the trail from the parking lot you must cross over State Highway 32. Be cautious for high speed traffic. Trail Length: The trail section to the east to McCaslin Mountain is 6/10 mile. The section to the west to Carter Tower site is 3/4 mile. Click here for more information.
Nature Viewing SHOW
Viewing Scenery
Whether you are interested in plants, scenery, touring the trail with binoculars or camera can allow you to take advantage of fantastic viewing and photographic opportunities.
Quartz Hill Hiking Trail – This trail has two sections, one located on the east and one on the west side of State Highway 32. The east section leads across a boardwalk to the top of McCaslin Mountain. It has moderately steep sections, but the view from the top of this quartz rock outcrop is worth the climb. Along the trail to the top, you will pass a quartz crystal deposit with an informational sign which describes how early Indians came here to quarry quartz to create their tools. The west portion of this trail leads to the site of the Carter Fire Lookout Tower. Once used to spot forest fires, all that now remains are the tower footings and roadway. Most fire towers on the Nicolet were erected in the 1930's and have since been discontinued as aerial surveillance took over. From Carter, take State Highway 32 south 1 mile. The parking area is on the west side of the highway. A sign with trail map is at the trailhead. To get to the east portion of the trail from the parking lot you must cross over State Highway 32. Be cautious for high speed traffic. Trail Length: The trail section to the east to McCaslin Mountain is 6/10 mile. The section to the west to Carter Tower site is 3/4 mile. Click here for more information.
Viewing Wildlife
Halley Creek Bird Trail – This one-mile trail was created in 1989 by the Nicolet National Forest in cooperation with the Northeastern Wisconsin Audubon Society. The Halley Creek Bird Trail provides four distinct types of habitats, each with its associated bird species characteristic of this region. Spring and early summer are the best times to view bird variety. A brochure with a map is available at the trailhead. The flat terrain is easy walking, with some exposed roots and rocks. Be prepared for ticks in spring and early summer. Click here for more information.
Knowles Creek Interpretive Trail – The 170-acre Knowles Creek wetland impoundment is a popular stop for wildlife watchers. A 2/3-mile trail has a viewing platform and is wheelchair accessible. Habitats include open water, marsh, a grassy opening and upland forest. A wide variety of species can be observed, from hawks and bald eagles, to waterfowl and wetland birds. Interpretive signs and resting benches are located along the trail. The best time to visit is spring and early summer. Be prepared for ticks in spring and early summer. Click here for more information.
OHV Riding & Camping SHOW
OHV Road Riding
There are numerous trails and town roads open to ATV/UTV travel in the Lakewood area. Many local chambers of commerce and businesses have trail maps provided by the local ATV clubs. Click here for more information.
Other Activities SHOW
Geocaching & Letterboxing
Geocaching has become a popular recreation activity and continues to rise in popularity. Here are guidelines when geocaching on the Chequamegon-Nicolet:
- A permit or any other type of authorization is NOT needed to hide a geocache on the Forest. It is considered a dispersed recreation activity similar to hunting, berry picking, or fishing where no Forest permit is required.
- Geocachers should not be digging holes for hiding their geocaches.
- We recommend all geocachers follow the guidelines set out by the "Wisconsin Geocaching Association". This information is located at their web site www.wi-geocaching.com See the "General Cache Hiding Rules and Tips" under the "Hiding a Cache" link.
Rocks & Minerals SHOW
Rockhounding
Quartz Hill Hiking Trail – This trail has two sections, one located on the east and one on the west side of State Highway 32. The east section leads across a boardwalk to the top of McCaslin Mountain. It has moderately steep sections, but the view from the top of this quartz rock outcrop is worth the climb. Along the trail to the top, you will pass a quartz crystal deposit with an informational sign which describes how early Indians came here to quarry quartz to create their tools. Click here for more information.
Scenic Driving SHOW
Scenic Driving
Lakewood Auto Tour – This 65-mile self-guided tour takes you in a loop around the Lakewood and Mountain areas. There are 17 stops which highlight wildlife, natural history and forest management and historic sites, including a stop at the Mountain Fire Lookout Tower. Plan on spending a day, because stops include places where you may want to hike or take photographs of beautiful scenery or historic spots. Numbered "Auto Tour" signs are posted along the route so it's easy to follow. Click here for more information.
Water Activities SHOW
Windsurfing
Canoeing, kayaking, paddling and windsurfing are some of the popular non-motorized water activities on Richardson Lake.
Waterskiing
Water skiing and tubing are popular summer activities on Richardson Lake. There are also other nearby lakes to enjoy the sport on. There’s a boat landing at Bass Lake Swim Beach and Picnic Area, as well as Wheeler Lake Picnic Area and Boot Lake Recreation Area.
Tubing
Water skiing and tubing are popular summer activities on Richardson Lake. There are also other nearby lakes to enjoy the sport on. There’s a boat landing at Bass Lake Swim Beach and Picnic Area, as well as Wheeler Lake Picnic Area and Boot Lake Recreation Area.
Swimming
Enjoy the beautiful sandy beach at Richardson Lake, which is great for swimming and snorkeling.
Bass Lake Swim and Picnic Area – Beautiful clear water awaits you at Bass Lake. This area offers a large sandy beach with a picnic area that has grills and picnic tables. A beautiful rest room facility is provided. Area is open from 6:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. Located on Bass Lake Road in Townsend.
Wheeler Lake – A beautiful hidden gem tucked away in the Forest on 281-acre Wheeler Lake includes a shaded picnic area and sandy beach. There is a paved boat ramp at the south end of the lake. Wheeler Lake is also popular with other water sports such as water skiing and tubing. Located three miles east of Lakewood off Wheeler Lake Road (FR 3850).
Boating - Non-Motorized
Canoeing, kayaking, paddling and windsurfing are some of the popular non-motorized water activities on Richardson Lake.
Boating - Motorized
A boat launch is available in 47-acre Richardson Lake.
Winter Sports SHOW
Snowmobiling
Once the snow flies there are numerous trails and town roads open to snowmobile travel in the Lakewood area. Many local chambers of commerce and businesses have trail maps provided by the local snowmobile clubs. Click here for more information.
XC Skiing/Snowshoeing
Ed’s Lake National Recreation Trail – Located on County Highway W midway between Crandon and Wabeno, the popular trail is a favorite for cross-country skiers. It features three loops that total six miles varying from easy to difficult. The trail follows several early 1900s railroad grades through a variety of forest types. Tracked and groomed for traditional skiing, the three loops provide excellent skiing for beginner and intermediate skiers. An Adirondack-style shelter overlooking Ed’s Lake is located along the Birch loop. A map and brochure are available at the trailhead. Click here for more information.
Jones Springs Area Trail – Jones Spring is a 2,000-acre area managed for non-motorized use and offers several loops of hiking and groomed cross-country ski trails (for traditional style skiing). The area features three lakes. On an overlook between Upper and Lower Jones Lakes, you'll find an Adirondack-style shelter for a quick rest while skiing or a place to picnic when hiking. The trail traverses a variety of landscapes and forest types which also means a variety of wildlife. Click here for more information.
Lakewood Cross Country Ski Trail – The Lakewood Ski Trail winds through beautiful, wooded settings with rolling hills. The 25 kilometer main trail, known as the blue trail is continuous between McCaslin Brook Country Club and County F. Several secondary loops connect to the blue trail. The blue trail is maintained for both traditional cross-country skiing and ski skating. Trails are groomed in accordance with snow conditions. Click here for more information.
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