Boot Lake Campground
4.3845 reviews15085 State Highway 32, Lakewood, WI, 54138, USA
Boot Lake Campground
$18.00 - $18.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$18.00
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 nightly rate for standard non-electric campsites is $18. This fee remains consistent across both peak and non-peak seasons. Additional charges may include reservation fees ($8-$9 depending on reservation method) and cancellation/change fees ($10).
About this campground
Discover your perfect wilderness retreat at Boot Lake Campground, where 263 acres of pristine water mirror the towering pines and hardwoods of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. This hidden gem welcomes adventurers with 34 thoughtfully spaced campsites along smooth paved roads, including intimate tent-only spots and spacious sites for RVs up to 30 feet. Whether you're diving into the crystal-clear depths, casting a line at dawn, or simply floating beneath endless skies, Boot Lake offers that rare combination of accessibility and seclusion. With a sandy swim beach, convenient boat launch, and peaceful picnic areas, this is where families create memories and solo travelers find solitude—all just a paddle stroke away from your next adventure.
Boot Lake Campground offers a mix of tent and RV camping options, with some sites designated as first-come, first-served. Group camping is also available.
Historical SignificanceBoot Lake's story is one of resilience and renewal. This beloved camping destination has weathered both time and tempest, most notably surviving a powerful tornado in 2019 that swept through the forest, temporarily closing the grounds but ultimately inspiring a thoughtful restoration. Today's visitors discover a campground that honors its rustic heritage while embracing careful improvements. Long-time campers speak fondly of Boot Lake's authentic character—a place where generations have cast their first fishing lines, learned to paddle, and discovered the simple joy of campfire conversations under star-filled skies.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Boot Lake's distinct seasonal personalities throughout the year. Summer unfolds with crystal-clear skies and warm temperatures that beckon swimmers and paddlers to the water. As autumn arrives, the surrounding hardwoods burst into flame-colored canopies while crisp air signals prime camping conditions. Winter brings a hushed tranquility with occasional dustings of snow transforming the landscape into a serene wonderland. Spring emerges gradually, with moderate temperatures perfect for exploring awakening trails. Late fall adventurers should pack extra layers and rain gear as temperatures drop and precipitation increases, adding a refreshing wildness to the camping experience.
ElevationNestled within the gently rolling landscape of northern Wisconsin's lake country, Boot Lake Campground offers comfortable camping at forest elevations that provide natural cooling breezes and excellent drainage for a pleasant stay in any weather.
Natural Features and SceneryPerched on the northwest shore of Boot Lake, the campground immerses visitors in a stunning tapestry of towering pines and mature hardwoods that frame spectacular water views. The lake itself is a natural treasure—its remarkably clear waters reveal sandy bottoms that gradually slope to depths of 38 feet, creating ideal habitats for diverse fish species and perfect conditions for swimming and diving. Meandering streams feed into the lake, while forest trails wind through the surrounding wilderness, connecting campers to hidden coves and scenic overlooks. This pristine ecosystem showcases Wisconsin's northwoods at their finest, where morning mists rise from the water and evening light filters through the canopy in golden streams.
Geological RegionBoot Lake Campground rests within the magnificent Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, a landscape sculpted by ancient glaciers into today's paradise of lakes and rolling forests. The campground's position overlooking Boot Lake—a stunning 38-foot deep glacial gem—showcases the region's geological heritage. Here, massive ice sheets once carved the basins that now cradle crystal-clear waters, while depositing the rich soils that nourish the surrounding mixed forest of stately hardwoods and evergreen pines. This is classic Wisconsin northwoods terrain, where the bedrock foundation supports a thriving ecosystem that has captivated outdoor enthusiasts for generations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not explicitly mention accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeMany sites can accommodate campers up to 30 feet, but there are also tent-only sites. Several reviews note that some sites may be smaller than advertised or on steep inclines.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. Some reviewers mention secluded sites, while others highlight the lack of privacy, stating that sites are 'not super private.'
Total Campsites34 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites 8, 14, or 16 for larger spaces, proximity to the lake, and quieter experiences. Avoid sites with steep inclines or those that might require significant leveling.
Best CampsitesFavorites include campsite numbers 8, 14, and 16 based on user reviews, noting proximity to the lake and overall space.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out is required by noon.
Stay Limit
Boot Lake Campground has a stay limit of up to 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum number of guests per individual site is not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops and includes sites with varying levels of privacy and access to amenities.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season: May 22 to September 1. First-come-first-served season: September 2 to November 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov (online, mobile app, or contact center).
Walk-in AvailabilitySites available for walk-up/first-come-first-served include numbers 3,4,6,7,9,11,13,15,20,21,23,24, and 27. Generally, fill patterns are not described.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made anytime before arrival. Late cancellations (starting from midnight 1 calendar day before check-in) incur a $10 cancellation fee plus forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee. Modifications outside original reservation dates also require a $10 change fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Boot Lake Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities. Popular activities include swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, scuba diving, and hiking. The campground's proximity to the Jones Springs Non-Motorized Area and the Wolf River provides additional opportunities for hiking, hunting, rafting, and whitewater sports.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are abundant, with trails connecting the campground to the Jones Springs Non-Motorized Area. Additionally, the Cathedral Pines Trail is a nearby attraction.Fishing
Fishing is a highlight at Boot Lake, which contains walleye, northern pike, bass, musky, and panfish. Nearby streams also offer trout fishing.Swimming
A sandy beach is available for swimming. The lake's clarity has made it a popular spot for scuba diving.Boating
A boat landing is provided for campers, allowing for activities like kayaking and canoeing. User reviews appreciate the quietness of the lake during weekdays, making it ideal for water activities.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a noted activity, with one reviewer mentioning, 'Enjoyed the wildlife in the campsite area.'Beach activities
The beach is described as clean and well-maintained, offering sunbathing and swimming opportunities.Winter Activities
Cross-country skiing is available in the nearby Jones Springs Non-Motorized Area during the winter.Water Sports
Popular water sports include kayaking, canoeing, and scuba diving.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings, which include grates for cooking.
Hazards
General hazardsHazards include occasional loud generators and the presence of a tornado in 2019 that closed the campground temporarily.
Active alertsNo active alerts are currently listed.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 42%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.6 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
Closest emergency services are located in Lakewood, WI, including hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22 to September 1.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information on trash and recycling facilities is provided. User reviews do not mention trash or recycling services either.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Boot Lake and provides access to a swim beach and boat landing. Nearby streams, rivers, and additional lakes support a variety of water-based activities.
Common complaintsComplaints in user reviews include loud generators, construction noise, the inconvenience of water pumps, and inconsiderate local behavior.
HostSite hosts are described as friendly and helpful, although some reviews note hosts enforcing early quiet hours.
Campground Map
15085 State Highway 32, Lakewood, WI, 54138, USA
Driving directionsFrom the intersection of Highway 32 and County Road T in Townsend, drive south on T 5.6 miles to the campground.
All roads leading to Boot Lake Campground are paved, ensuring good accessibility for vehicles. Seasonal closures or challenging terrain are not indicated.Nearby places
Townsend (5.6 miles, approximately 10 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
The local community of Townsend, just north of the campground, provides access to groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.4
45 reviews
Boot Lake Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are generally positive, highlighting the campground's cleanliness, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities. Some concerns are noted about noise from generators and construction.
Review Summaries
Based on 45 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean bathrooms, well-maintained beach, scenic lake, and ample recreational opportunities are frequently mentioned.
Based on 45 reviewsCommon Concerns
Noise from generators, construction disturbances, and limited water access are among the complaints.
Based on 45 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visit the campground beforehand to choose a suitable site, as some are smaller or uneven. Bring extra water, as the hand pump at the beach is the only source.
Based on 45 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with heavy usage noted. Winter offers cross-country skiing opportunities, but no reviews specifically address winter camping.
Based on 45 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Love this place! Very quiet and relaxing... the bathroom is very clean, and the beach is very clean.' 2. 'This is a great place to go camping. The beach and lake are nicely set up with a lot of...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 16 is frequently praised for its quality, while sites like 8 and 11 have mixed reviews due to noise and construction.
Based on 45 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 45 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews focus on pet policies, although some mention dogs on the beach despite apparent restrictions.
Based on 45 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025