Day Lake
4.5838 reviewsPO Box 896, Hayward, WI, USA
Day Lake
$18.00 - $36.00 / 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$36.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates are $18.00 for standard non-electric sites and $36.00 for group standard non-electric sites. Rates do not include taxes, discounts, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Nestled in the pristine wilderness of northwestern Wisconsin, Day Lake Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to discover a tranquil retreat where forest meets water. This family-friendly haven welcomes both tent campers and RV travelers with generously spaced sites that offer privacy and comfort. Wake up to the gentle lapping of lake waters, spend your days exploring miles of scenic ATV and hiking trails, or simply relax on the sandy swimming beaches. With a convenient boat launch providing access to Day Lake's crystal-clear waters, anglers and paddlers will find their perfect basecamp for aquatic adventures.
Day Lake Campground provides options for tent and RV camping. It features single-family campsites as well as group sites.
Historical SignificanceDay Lake Campground sits at the heart of Wisconsin's legendary elk country, where majestic herds roam freely through ancient forests—a sight that connects visitors to the region's wild heritage. Just a scenic drive away, the renowned Fishing Hall of Fame Museum in Hayward celebrates the area's deep-rooted angling traditions with fascinating exhibits and record-breaking catches. Each Fourth of July, the nearby community of Clam Lake lights up the night sky with a spectacular fireworks display that has become a beloved tradition for campers and locals alike, creating memories that span generations.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Day Lake into an outdoor paradise, with comfortable temperatures typically ranging from a cool 11°C (52°F) in the morning to a pleasant 24°C (75°F) during afternoon peaks. Gentle breezes sweep across the lake, keeping conditions refreshingly dry and ideal for all your favorite camping activities. While the forest's natural ecosystem means sharing the space with native mosquitoes during peak season, the moderate winds often provide natural relief. These favorable conditions create the perfect backdrop for everything from early morning fishing expeditions to evening campfire gatherings under star-filled skies.
ElevationThe campground's gentle terrain makes it accessible and comfortable for campers of all ages and abilities, with level sites perfect for easy setup and relaxation.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Northwoods, where towering white pines and fragrant spruce create a cathedral-like canopy overhead. The diverse forest tapestry includes vibrant maples that burst into fiery colors each fall, quaking aspens that whisper in the breeze, and aromatic balsam firs that perfume the air. Carefully managed jack pine plantations provide crucial habitat for wildlife, creating perfect conditions for unforgettable encounters. Keep your camera ready—magnificent elk may emerge from the forest shadows at dawn, bald eagles soar overhead scanning the lake for fish, and the haunting call of loons echoes across the water as darkness falls.
Geological RegionDay Lake Campground lies within the vast expanse of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, a million-acre wonderland sculpted by ancient glaciers and nurtured by centuries of natural succession. This remarkable landscape showcases nature's resilience, where dense stands of pine, spruce, maple, aspen, and balsam create a living mosaic that changes with each season. The extensive jack pine plantations tell a story of thoughtful forest management, providing critical habitat for rare species while maintaining the area's wild character. This geological treasure offers visitors a chance to experience the authentic North Woods ecosystem that has captivated generations of nature lovers.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets and paved roads are available in the Paper Birch loop. The campground is generally designed to support accessibility.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, accommodating tents, small RVs, and large trailers. Users describe them as spacious, level, and well-maintained.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is a strong feature of this campground. Reviews highlight the wooded surroundings that screen campsites from each other, providing seclusion.
Total Campsites36 campsites
Recommended CampsitesPaper Birch loop sites are preferred for paved access, while Red Pine loop sites offer privacy and spaciousness. Bug tents and mosquito repellent are recommended during summer.
Best CampsitesSites such as 036 (Red Pine Loop) are highlighted for their privacy, size, and maintenance. Campsites in the Paper Birch loop are noted for their easy access and paved roads.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Check-out time is not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay per visit is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Number of guests permitted per site is not clearly specified.
Groups
Group sites are available and can accommodate larger parties. Exact limits on group size are 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 multiple loops (e.g., Paper Birch, Red Pine, Jack Pine, Musky Bay) with private and spacious sites screened by trees.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens May 23, 2025, and closes September 1, 2025, for reservable sites. First-come, first-served sites are available from September 2, 2025, to October 13, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFrom September 2, 2025, walk-up first-come, first-served sites are available. Fill patterns are not explicitly stated.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed before the scheduled check-in date with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations incur the first night's fee as well as the cancellation fee. No-show reservations are assessed a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's use fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Day Lake Campground offers diverse recreational opportunities such as swimming, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and boating. The area is also known for its abundant wildlife, including elk, eagles, and loons.
Hiking
Hiking trails include the Dead Horse Run Off-road Vehicle Trail and a half-mile interpretive trail accessible from the campground. Trails vary in difficulty levels.Fishing
The 640-acre Day Lake supports fishing for musky, bass, and panfish. Users have positively mentioned catching muskies during their stay.Swimming
Swimming is available at designated beaches, with some reviews praising the quiet lake environment.Biking
Mountain biking is supported on nearby trails. The Paper Birch loop's paved roads are also suitable for casual biking.Boating
Boating options include a boat ramp located two miles south of the campground on County Highway M. Day Lake is ideal for kayaking and canoeing.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant, with elk, eagles, and loons commonly spotted. One reviewer mentioned hearing elk bugles near their site.Beach activities
Beach access is available for activities like sunbathing and swimming. A picnic area is located two miles south of the campground.Winter Activities
The campground does not highlight specific winter activities, though the region's trails could support snow-based recreation.Water Sports
The lake supports water sports like kayaking and canoeing.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, and each site includes a fire ring with a grill. Dry trees in the area are noted by users for potential controlled burning.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are a common issue, and insect repellent is highly recommended. The campground does not provide a dump station, which some visitors noted as inconvenient.
Active alertsNo current warnings or advisories are reported.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
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 not explicitly detailed, null.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 1, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection and recycling bins are available at the campground.
Proximity to water featuresDay Lake is a 640-acre lake with fishing opportunities for musky, bass, and panfish. Kayaking, canoeing, and swimming are popular activities.
Common complaintsMosquitoes are abundant during summer, and some fire rings are rusted and difficult to adjust. Occasional noise from partiers is reported.
HostThe camp host is noted as helpful and friendly. Dog George is also frequently mentioned in reviews as part of the hosting experience.
Campground Map
PO Box 896, Hayward, WI, USA
Driving directionsFrom Clam Lake, Wisconsin, travel a mile north on Highway GG.
The campground is accessible via paved and gravel roads. Only the Paper Birch loop has a paved road, while the remaining roads are gravel.Nearby places
Clam Lake (1 mile, approximately 3 minutes)
Hayward (distance not explicitly stated, approximate driving time null).
Nearby supplies
A general store, bait shop, firewood vendor, fuel, and restaurants are available in Clam Lake, approximately 1 mile from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.6
38 reviews
Day Lake is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews frequently praise the campground's privacy, cleanliness, and natural beauty. Some concerns include mosquitoes and occasional noise from other campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 38 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include large, private campsites surrounded by woods, clean vault toilets, and friendly campground hosts. The peaceful environment and access to recreational activities are also praised.
Based on 38 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include mosquito prevalence, outdated fire rings, and occasional campsite mix-ups. One user expressed disappointment when their reserved site was occupied, forcing them to leave.
Based on 38 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing mosquito repellent and a bug tent. They highlight the convenience of a nearby store in Clam Lake for essentials. Some suggest exploring local hiking trails and fishing...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews indicate summer as the most popular season, with campers enjoying the lake and trails. Mosquitoes are more prevalent during this time, while winter reviews are sparse.
Based on 38 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Bathrooms were some of the cleanest vault/outhouses I have ever been in!" - Amanda H. "Campground host was superb. Sites are all dirt, close to the lake." - Michelle Q. "Love the large private...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite 049 in the MUSK loop was noted for its proximity to the lake and peacefulness. Campsite 036 in the REDP loop was highlighted for its spaciousness and privacy. Campsite 025 in the PAPE loop...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Reviewers appreciated the clean vault toilets and accessible paved roads in the Paper Birch loop. Specific accessibility features for disabled visitors were not widely discussed.
Based on 38 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and several reviewers enjoyed bringing their dogs. A camper mentioned that the campground was 'perfect' for their dog.
Based on 38 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025