Ada Lake Recreation Area
4.5531 reviewsAda and Glade Lake Dr.
Ada Lake Recreation Area
$7.50 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The standard fee for individual campsites is $15 per night. Discounts are available with Interagency Senior or Access Passes, reducing the fee to $7.50 for eligible holders. A $5 recreation use fee applies for the beach, which does not apply to registered campers. An annual pass for the Forest is available for $30.
About this campground
Escape the crowds and discover your own slice of wilderness at Ada Lake Recreation Area, where 19 thoughtfully spaced campsites nestle beneath a canopy of towering trees. This hidden gem in the Lakewood-Laona District beckons with its sandy beach stretching along crystal-clear waters, perfect for lazy afternoons of swimming or casting a line for the evening's catch. Whether you're navigating these pristine waters by kayak or settling in for the night in your RV, you'll find the perfect balance of natural beauty and comfortable amenities, with select sites offering generous back-in lengths for larger rigs.
Ada Lake offers a mix of rustic camping options suitable for tent campers, RV users, and those seeking lakeside sites.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May's awakening wildflowers to mid-October's grand finale of autumn splendor, Ada Lake transforms with the seasons. Summer days invite you to dive into sun-warmed waters and bask on the sandy shore, while pleasantly cool evenings are made for campfire stories. As September arrives, the surrounding forest erupts in a breathtaking display of gold, crimson, and amber, creating a photographer's paradise and nature lover's dream.
ElevationPerched at 1,600 feet above sea level, Ada Lake offers a refreshing mountain climate that takes the edge off summer's heat. This gentle elevation gifts campers with crisp, star-filled nights perfect for sleeping and invigorating mornings that pair beautifully with campfire coffee.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a postcard-perfect northern wilderness where Ada Lake's 75 acres of pristine water mirror the sky, bordered by the intimate 26-acre Glade Lake nearby. Ancient pines stand sentinel alongside vibrant northern hardwoods, their branches creating a natural cathedral above your campsite. The exceptionally clear water reveals sandy bottoms and dancing sunlight, while the shoreline invites exploration and the promise of excellent fishing in these unspoiled waters.
Geological RegionDeep within the magnificent Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, Ada Lake represents the best of Wisconsin's Northwoods heritage. This pristine landscape showcases the region's signature tapestry of northern hardwood forests interwoven with sparkling lakes. The area's geological history has blessed it with clear, spring-fed waters and rolling terrain that creates stunning vistas, especially when autumn paints the forest in brilliant hues that reflect perfectly in Ada Lake's mirror-like surface.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly toilets are not available. Accessibility features are limited at this campground.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, accommodating RVs up to 45 feet for back-in parking. Sites are spacious and offer good spacing for privacy.
Sites PrivacySites are wooded and provide good spacing between each other. Some sites are directly on the lakeshore, offering privacy and scenic views.
Total Campsites19 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampers seeking privacy and lakefront access should choose one of the lake-adjacent sites. Site #10 is highlighted for its quality. Other sites, such as those with tree coverage, provide additional shade and seclusion.
Best CampsitesCampsites along the lake are highly recommended, particularly site #10, which offers proximity to the water.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
- 14 nights maximum stay limit
- enforced strictly.
Guests Allowed Per Site
8people maximum per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features a single loop layout with some sites overlooking Ada Lake. Sites are well-spaced to ensure privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 1 to October 15.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis and cannot be reserved in advance.
Cancellation PolicyCampsites are non-reservable and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Cancellations are not applicable.
Amenities available
Potable water
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Ada Lake Recreation Area offers a variety of activities for campers, including swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking. The lake's clear water and sandy beach make swimming particularly enjoyable. Fishing is available for northern pike, bass, rainbow trout, and panfish. Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are popular, supported by the boat ramp.
Fishing
Fishing is available on Ada Lake, which is known for its clear water. Fish species include northern pike, bass, rainbow trout, and panfish. Ice fishing is also popular during the winter months.Swimming
Swimming is available at the small, sandy beach area. The water is exceptionally clear, making it ideal for campers seeking a refreshing experience. The designated swimming area is shallow and safe for all ages.Boating
Boating is supported on Ada Lake, with a boat ramp available for both non-motorized and electric-powered boats. Popular water activities include canoeing, kayaking, and paddling.Wildlife viewing
The campground offers opportunities to observe local wildlife, including loons, owls, and red squirrels. Be prepared for mosquitos, especially after wet weather.Beach activities
Beach activities include swimming and sunbathing at the sandy beach area. The beach is small but well-maintained.Winter Activities
Ice fishing is popular in the winter months, with plowed boat landing and parking areas for convenience.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings. However, firewood must be sourced locally or certified disease-free. Pallets are prohibited.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes can be a nuisance, particularly after rainstorms. Campers are advised to bring insect repellent. Wildlife such as red squirrels and loons are commonly seen.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 41%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are in Wabeno and Laona, which include healthcare facilities and municipal services. For specific emergencies, campers may contact the Laona Office at 715-674-4481.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay through October.
Trash and recyclingRecycling and trash bins are available on-site. The campground host ensures they are well-maintained.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Ada Lake (75 acres) and near Glade Lake (26 acres), both of which are restricted to electric motors. The campground has a sandy beach and a boat launch.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include the lack of electric hookups, showers, and modern amenities. Some users mentioned mosquitoes being particularly prevalent after storms.
HostCamp hosts are present and are described as friendly and diligent in maintaining cleanliness, particularly in the bathrooms and other facilities.
Campground Map
Ada and Glade Lake Dr.
Driving directionsFrom Wabeno, drive north 0.8 mile on Highway 32 to Highway 52. Turn left (west) on Highway 52 and drive 7.0 miles to FR 2126. Continue straight on FR 2126 for 0.4 mile to FR 2620. Turn left on FR 2620 and drive 1.2 miles to the campground. From Laona, drive south 8.0 miles on Highway 32 to Highway 52. Turn right (west) on Highway 52 and drive 7.0 miles to FR 2126. Continue straight on FR 2126 for 0.4 mile to FR 2620. Turn left on FR 2620 and drive 1.2 miles to the campground.
The roads to the campground include a mix of paved highways and forest roads. The campground is accessible by vehicles, but RVs are limited based on site size. Some reviews suggest the drive is straightforward, but as the location is remote, navigation aids are recommended.Nearby places
Wabeno (5 minutes southwest), Laona (approximately 15 minutes southeast).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be obtained in Wabeno or Laona, both of which are within a 15-minute drive of the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.6
31 reviews
Ada Lake Recreation Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews consistently praise the campground's quiet, peaceful environment, clear lake water, and well-maintained facilities. Campers appreciate the camp host's efforts to keep the vault toilets clean and the campground free of trash.
Review Summaries
Based on 31 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews highlight the clear water of Ada Lake, the well-maintained beach area, and the spacious campsites. The presence of a friendly and proactive camp host is also frequently mentioned.
Based on 31 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of shower facilities and occasional issues with water spigots. Mosquitoes are a frequent annoyance, particularly after storms.
Based on 31 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend arriving early to secure lakeside campsites, bringing mosquito repellent, and utilizing kayaks or canoes for exploring the lake.
Based on 31 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are highly favored for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Winter brings opportunities for ice fishing, supported by plowed parking areas.
Based on 31 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Have been camping here since 1985. Love it! 19 camp sites, but since it's a national park, you cannot reserve in advance." "Beautiful, peaceful campground! It's a fairly small campground with an...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 10 is frequently praised as a great option, being close to the lake and offering scenic views.
Based on 31 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are limited, and no specific reviews address experiences of users with disabilities.
Based on 31 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is dog-friendly, and campers often mention bringing their pets along for enjoyable stays.
Based on 31 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025