Black Lake
4.4628 reviewsPO Box 896, Hayward, WI, USA
Black Lake
$15.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$15.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees for camping range from $15 to $30 depending on the site type and season. Discounts are not reflected in the listed rates.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine eastern shores of Black Lake in northwestern Wisconsin, this beloved family campground offers an authentic escape into nature's embrace. The crystal-clear waters beckon boaters, anglers, and swimmers alike, while the surrounding wilderness provides a peaceful sanctuary where memories are made beneath towering pines and starlit skies.
Black Lake Campground offers opportunities for various camping styles, including tent and RV camping. Sites cater to individual and group campers, with waterfront locations being particularly popular.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time along the Black Lake interpretive trail, where weathered stumps and historic markers tell the compelling story of Wisconsin's logging era. This self-guided journey through history reveals how massive white pines once dominated these lands, supporting a thriving timber industry that shaped the region's character and communities for generations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of Wisconsin's changing seasons at Black Lake. Summer arrives with warm, sun-drenched days perfect for outdoor adventures, while gentle breezes off the lake keep evenings comfortable. As autumn approaches, the forest transforms into a painter's palette of golds and crimsons. Winter brings a hushed serenity to the landscape, though most visitors prefer the accessibility and clear skies of the summer months when all trails and activities are at their finest.
ElevationSet within the rolling landscape of northern Wisconsin's majestic forests, Black Lake Campground offers the perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness immersion. The gently undulating terrain creates intimate camping spots while providing easy access to the lake's edge, where morning mists rise to greet the dawn.
Natural Features and SceneryA living tapestry of white birch, towering pine, and fragrant spruce creates an enchanting backdrop for your Black Lake adventure. This thriving ecosystem serves as home to magnificent elk grazing in meadow clearings, white-tailed deer stepping delicately through the underbrush, and the haunting calls of loons echoing across the water. Lucky visitors might glimpse a red fox darting through the shadows or hear the distant howl of wolves under the moon, reminding all who visit that this is truly wild Wisconsin.
Geological RegionDiscover the natural splendor of the Chequamegon National Forest, where Black Lake's 129 acres of pristine water reflect the surrounding cathedral of birch, pine, and spruce. This remarkable ecosystem represents millions of years of geological history, from ancient glacial formations to the rich, fertile soils that now support one of Wisconsin's most diverse and spectacular forest communities.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are wheelchair accessible, but no additional features for campers with disabilities are explicitly mentioned.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with reviews noting spacious sites such as site 019, which was described as "large and the view is beautiful." Other campers noted smaller and uneven sites.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy at campsites varies significantly. Some campers noted a lack of separation between neighboring sites, such as site 015, which was described as having "nothing separating our site from the neighbors." Others praised the secluded feel of sites like site 019.
Total Campsites38 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose waterfront sites for better views and proximity to the lake. Site 19 is ideal for boaters.
Best CampsitesSites 19 and 015 are highly praised for their spaciousness and views. Site 19 is near the boat landing and offers privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Standard check-in times are not specified.
Check-out
Standard check-out times are not specified.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is laid out with loops and waterfront sites. Vault toilets and potable water are centrally located.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 23 (opening date) through September 1 (reservable season with peak rates) and October 13 (non-reservable first-come-first-served season).
Reservation PlatformsAvailable for booking through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-served sites are available after September 2 with $15 rates for all site types.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies along with forfeiture of first-night camping fees for late cancellations.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Black Lake Campground offers a variety of recreational activities ranging from fishing to hiking, kayaking, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The peaceful lake and surrounding forest create opportunities for relaxation and exploration. Activities cater to families and nature enthusiasts.
Hiking
The Black Lake interpretive trail is a 4-mile loop that provides an in-depth look at the nature surrounding the wooded shoreline. Campers noted its educational features related to early logging days. Several reviews described the trail as "nice" and suitable for exploring the area.Fishing
Fishing is available at Black Lake, with musky, walleye, bass, and panfish in abundance. However, reviews provide mixed opinions on fishing quality, with one camper describing it as "great," while another noted, "Fishing just ok."Swimming
A grassy beach provides ample space for swimming. Reviews highlight its suitability for young kids, with one user describing it as "nice beach for young kids." Another family mentioned enjoying swimming during their stay.Biking
Hundreds of miles of mountain biking trails surround the lake, offering opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Specific details about trail difficulty or terrain are not included.Boating
Kayaking and canoeing are popular activities at Black Lake due to calm waters. Motorized boating is less common, with one review noting, "Black Lake is good for canoeing/kayaking, but a bit small for motorized boating."Wildlife viewing
The campground is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, loon, fox, wolves, and black bears. One camper noted seeing "a black bear mama and cub nearby." Another highlighted hearing wolves howling across the lake at night.Beach activities
The campground offers a grassy beach area suitable for sunbathing and kids' activities. Reviews describe it as "beautiful and clean," with ample space for relaxation.Winter Activities
No specific winter recreation activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are highly recommended due to the lake's calm waters.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted, but firewood must be sourced locally to prevent invasive pests.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsBiting insects like flies and mosquitoes can be prevalent. Wildlife hazards include wolves and bears.
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Emergency services are likely available in Hayward, including hospitals, police stations, and fire services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 01, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection and recycling bins are available on-site.
Proximity to water featuresBlack Lake is a 129-acre water body ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
Common complaintsSome visitors mention issues with grumpy neighbors who dislike noise and pets. Others note uneven ground and smaller campsites.
HostThe campground hosts, such as Travis and Stephanie (as noted in reviews), are described as knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful.
Campground Map
PO Box 896, Hayward, WI, USA
Driving directionsFrom Hayward, Wisconsin, take Highway B east for about 23 miles. Turn left on Barker Lake Road, which turns into Forest Service Road 172, and continue for a total of 8 miles. Turn left onto Forest Service Road 173 and drive less than a mile to the paved campground road.
The campground is accessible via long, dusty gravel roads, although the final campground road is paved.Nearby places
Hayward (23 miles, approximately 30 minutes)
Cable (approximately 25 miles, 35 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Hayward (23 miles) offers fuel, fishing supplies, firewood, and restaurants.
Camper Reviews
4.5
28 reviews
Black Lake is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Black Lake Campground's remote, peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty. Guests appreciate the clean facilities, family-friendly environment, and recreational opportunities. However, some users noted challenges with uneven ground, site privacy, and interactions with other campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 28 reviews
What Campers Love
- Remote and quiet location
- Clean and well-maintained facilities
- Beautiful views and stargazing opportunities
- Friendly and knowledgeable campground hosts
- Opportunities for kayaking, canoeing,...
Based on 28 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Lack of privacy at certain sites
- Uneven ground at some campsites
- Limited cell phone service
- Mosquitoes and flies
- Mixed experiences with fishing quality
- Long gravel road leading to the...
Based on 28 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring mosquito spray due to high insect activity.
- Stock up on firewood before arriving, especially if the host is unavailable.
- Choose waterfront sites for better views and activities.
- Site...
Based on 28 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with campers enjoying swimming, hiking, and fishing. Fall offers peaceful camping with fewer crowds, but water-based activities may be limited. Winter usability is...
Based on 28 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- "Black lake is beautiful! We love stargazing and our site was great for this."
- "Campground hosts were amazing!!"
- "Saw wolves and black bear mama and cub nearby."
- "Very quiet, probably the...
Based on 28 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Site 019: "Has a very private feeling and is near the boat landing. The site is large and the view is beautiful."
- Site 015: "Nothing separating our site from the neighbors."
- Site 018: "Very...
Based on 28 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility reviews specifically highlight the clean and accessible vault toilets but do not provide additional details.
Based on 28 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at Black Lake Campground. One user mentioned being deterred from walking their dogs around the lake due to hearing wolves howling at night.
Based on 28 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025