East Twin
4.4319 reviewsPO Box 896, Hayward, WI, USA
East Twin
$15.00 - $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$15.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The campground charges $15 per night for all site types, including standard non-electric and tent-only non-electric sites. Rates apply during both peak and shoulder seasons. Discounts, taxes, and incremental charges are not reflected in this base rate.
About this campground
Nestled on the shores of a pristine 110-acre lake in northwestern Wisconsin's Chequamegon National Forest, East Twin Campground offers an intimate escape into nature's embrace. This charming rustic retreat features thoughtfully spaced single-family campsites where the only sounds you'll hear are loons calling across the water and wind whispering through ancient trees. With accessible facilities and easy connections to winding forest trails, visitors can explore wildlife-rich habitats and discover a thriving Blue Heron rookery just moments from their tent or RV.
East Twin Campground offers sites for tent and RV camping, including two walk-in tent sites for a more secluded experience.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives at East Twin with sun-dappled days perfect for swimming in the crystal-clear lake, though late July brings the full symphony of Wisconsin's wilderness - including enthusiastic mosquitoes eager to join your evening campfire stories. Spring and fall reward visitors with crisp, dry weather ideal for hiking, while morning mists dance across the water and the forest transforms into a kaleidoscope of seasonal colors. The lake occasionally dons a green summer dress of algae blooms, a natural phenomenon that adds to its wild character.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details remain one of the forest's quiet mysteries, the gently rolling terrain creates perfect vantage points for sunset viewing and comfortable hiking experiences for adventurers of all skill levels.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of maple, birch, and hemlock trees creates a living canopy above the campground, their leaves rustling with stories of the forest. The sparkling lake serves as nature's mirror, reflecting clouds by day and stars by night. This vibrant ecosystem plays host to an impressive cast of wildlife - majestic elk move through morning shadows, eagles soar overhead on thermal currents, while the haunting calls of loons provide the soundtrack to your wilderness experience. The resident blue herons stand like patient sentinels along the shoreline, adding grace to an already stunning natural tableau.
Geological RegionSet within the vast Chequamegon National Forest of northwestern Wisconsin, East Twin occupies a special corner where northern hardwood forests meet pristine waters. This remarkable landscape showcases the region's signature maple, birch, and hemlock forests surrounding a jewel-like 110-acre lake - a testament to the ancient glacial forces that sculpted Wisconsin's breathtaking Northwoods.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets and walk-in sites are available. The terrain includes paved roads, making accessibility easier.
Sites SizeSites are spacious with ample spacing and vegetation between most sites. Example: Site 10 is described as 'spectacular: secluded, beautiful.'
Sites PrivacyThe campground generally offers privacy due to spacing and vegetation, although sites near the group areas may be less private. A review noted that 'you can see and hear other campers basically 24/7 near the group sites.'
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 10 is described as secluded and beautiful, while sites 7 through 9 are ideal for group gatherings if booked together. Tent walk-in sites are notably spacious and private.
Best CampsitesSite 5 offers close proximity to the lake—approximately 100 feet from the fire ring. Sites 7 through 10 are recommended for swimming access and lakefront views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Up to 14 consecutive nights permitted during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Varies by site type.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCompact layout with some sites close together, particularly near group sites. Walk-in sites offer privacy and seclusion.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23, 2025, to October 13, 2025. Sites are reservable through September 1, 2025, with first-come, first-served availability afterward.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or via related mobile apps.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability begins September 2, 2025, after the reservable season ends.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made anytime before the scheduled arrival, subject to a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (less than one day before check-in) will also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. On-site personnel may offer additional discretion for immediate cancellations.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational activities include fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. 'A great lake for summer water activities,' and 'bike camping is excellent.'
Hiking
Miles of hiking trails are nearby, including the Dead Horse Run trailhead located five miles south. A Blue Heron rookery is also down the road.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include largemouth bass, pan fish, and occasional muskies. However, a review mentioned: 'Not a great lake for fishing but it's a great place for relaxing.'Swimming
East Twin Lake is swimmable. Reviewers noted both positives and challenges: 'The waterfront seemed most suitable for swimming at sites 7 through 10' but also mentioned that 'the lake was pretty murky and weedy for swimming.'Biking
Biking is a popular activity, as noted by one reviewer: 'Excellent location for bike camping.'Boating
A boat ramp is located half a mile east of the campground. Portage access to West Twin Lake is also available. Types of boating were not specified.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife species include elk, eagles, loons, and blue herons. 'Watch for turtle nesting in mid-June,' suggested one reviewer.Winter Activities
Winter activities were not described.Water Sports
Water-based activities include fishing, swimming, and boating. Specific mentions of non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing were not provided.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted but must use locally sourced firewood to prevent invasive tree pests.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes and horseflies can be abundant, especially in humid conditions. Lake algae may occasionally stick to swimmers' skin.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6 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
Closest emergency services are likely accessible in Clam Lake, approximately 4 miles away. Specific hospital or ranger station details are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 1, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash collection and an aluminum can recycling bin are available. 'Drinking water available just on the other side of the tents. The bathroom just down around the corner.'
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located adjacent to East Twin Lake, with a boat ramp and walk-in portage access to West Twin Lake.
Common complaintsComplaints include bugs during late summer and proximity of campsites leading to lack of privacy. Some users also noted murky water in the lake for swimming.
HostUser reviews praise the onsite host for extensive knowledge about the area and strong advocacy for forest conservation. The host reportedly maintains the campground’s infrastructure meticulously.
Campground Map
PO Box 896, Hayward, WI, USA
Driving directionsDrive 4 miles north from Clam Lake on County Highway GG. Turn right (east) on Forest Road 190 and continue for about one mile to the campground.
All roads within and leading to the campground are paved, ensuring easy access for vehicles. Seasonal closures or limitations are not explicitly mentioned.Nearby places
Clam Lake (approximately 4 miles, 10-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Nearby restaurants and supplies are in Clam Lake, approximately 4 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
19 reviews
East Twin is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall sentiment reflects a well-maintained and simple campground with scenic lake views. User ratings average 4.26 specifically for camping experiences. Positive reviews highlight cleanliness, quietness, and activities such as swimming and biking.
Review Summaries
Based on 19 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, well-maintained vault toilets, scenic lake views, quiet atmosphere, and availability of spacious and private sites. Many reviewers appreciated the opportunities for relaxation and...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Mosquitoes and horseflies are frequently mentioned as nuisances. Some reviewers noted issues with privacy near group sites and murky lake water for swimming.
Based on 19 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Watch for turtle nesting in mid-June. Sites 7-10 are best for swimming access. Site 10 is highly recommended for privacy and lake frontage. Avoid late July due to bugs and humidity.
Based on 19 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews frequently mention bugs and humidity as challenges but highlight the suitability for swimming and family activities. Autumn is appreciated for its quieter and scenic atmosphere.
Based on 19 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'One of the nicest lakefront camping I have seen.' 2. 'Vault toilet buildings were clean through our entire stay.' 3. 'The host knows the area well and is full of great suggestions.' 4. 'Quiet...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 5: 'The lake was right there basically 100 feet from the fire ring.' Site 10: 'Secluded, beautiful.' Sites 7-9: Ideal for group gatherings. Site 005: 'Pier needs extensions but awesome Trumpeter...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews addressed accessibility features beyond general comments on paved roads and accessible vault toilets.
Based on 19 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews addressed pet policies or experiences.
Based on 19 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025