Franklin Lake Recreation Area
4.7128 reviews1247 E. Wall St. Eagle River, WI 54521
Franklin Lake Recreation Area
$15.00 - $18.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$18.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Lakeside Single Site: $18/night, Non-Lakeside Single Site: $15/night. Discounts apply for holders of Interagency Access or Senior Passes. Day Use Picnic Area: $5/day, $30 annual pass.
About this campground
Nestled between two peaceful camping loops, Franklin Lake Recreation Area invites you to choose from 77 thoughtfully designed campsites where tent campers and RV travelers alike find their perfect spot. Here, the whispers of history blend seamlessly with modern comfort as you settle in beside the shimmering waters of Franklin Lake. Each site comes equipped with its own picnic table and fire ring with grill, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. Fresh drinking water flows throughout the grounds, while both flush and vault toilet facilities ensure comfort for all visitors, including those with accessibility needs.
The Franklin Lake Recreation Area supports tent camping, RV camping, and lakeside sites with steps leading down to the water. Electric hookups are available for select sites.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the remarkable stone and log buildings that stand as monuments to American ingenuity. Crafted by the skilled hands of the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression, these architectural treasures have earned their place on the National Register of Historic Places. Each weathered stone and hand-hewn log tells a story of young men who transformed wilderness into sanctuary, leaving a legacy that continues to shelter and inspire visitors today.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives with golden sunshine filtering through the forest canopy, creating perfect conditions for swimming and hiking adventures. As autumn approaches, crisp air carries the scent of changing leaves, while evenings call for cozy campfires and warm blankets. When winter's snow blankets the landscape and temperatures dip below freezing, the recreation area transforms into a serene wonderland, though camping gives way to the quiet beauty of the off-season.
ElevationPerched at 1,460 feet above sea level, the campground offers a natural air conditioning system that brings refreshing coolness even on summer's warmest days. This gentle elevation creates the perfect climate for comfortable camping and invigorating hikes.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering pine and hemlock sentinels stand guard over your camping experience, their branches creating a living cathedral above Franklin Lake's crystal-clear waters. Morning mist rises from the lake's surface while ancient trees cast dancing shadows on forest trails. Venture deeper to discover a magical world where 400-year-old giants have witnessed centuries pass, and mysterious bog ecosystems harbor rare plants and wildlife in their spongy embrace.
Geological RegionDeep in the heart of Wisconsin's Northwoods, the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest cradles this camping paradise. Here, northern hardwoods mingle with stately pines and graceful hemlocks in a tapestry of green. Ancient trees, some more than four centuries old, stand as living monuments alongside delicate bog ecosystems that have evolved over millennia. This remarkable landscape tells the story of glaciers, forests, and time itself, offering campers a chance to connect with one of Wisconsin's most pristine natural treasures.
Campsite details
AccessibilityShort loop trails and vault toilets are wheelchair accessible. The Franklin Nature Trail includes accessible sections and boardwalks crossing bogs.
Sites SizeSites accommodate a mix of tents and RVs with lengths ranging from 25 feet to 40 feet for RVs. Pull-through tent camping is available at select sites.
Sites PrivacySites are generally divided by trees and greenery, offering privacy, particularly on lakeside sites.
Total Campsites77 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose lakeside sites for privacy, shade, and access to the water. Sites 60-71 include steps leading directly to the lake.
Best CampsitesLakeside campsites (60-71) are highly recommended for their direct water access and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time not specified.
Check-out
Check-out time not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 nights per reservation.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 people and 4 vehicles per campsite.
Groups
No specific group camping sites mentioned, but picnic pavilions accommodate larger groups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is composed of two loops and a long spur ending in a fifth loop, designed for privacy and scenic accessibility.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 2 through October 15.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at www.recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up (first-come, first-served) sites are available, including lakeside sites.
Cancellation PolicyReservations must be canceled through Recreation.gov. Specific penalties or deadlines were not provided.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Franklin Lake Recreation Area offers a wide range of activities, including fishing, boating (motorized and non-motorized), swimming, hiking, biking, and winter sports. The campground is connected to multiple trail systems and features a sandy beach for swimming.
Hiking
The Franklin Nature Trail passes through northern hardwood and hemlock forests, some over 400 years old. It connects to multiple other trails, including the 13-mile Hidden Lake Trail and the Nicolet North Trail for skiing and biking.Fishing
Fishing is available year-round with opportunities to catch walleye, northern pike, bass, perch, bluegill, and trout. Some reviewers note low fish populations.Swimming
The campground includes a clear sandy beach and swim line. Some lakeside sites offer direct water access, allowing visitors to swim at their own risk.Biking
Several trails are suitable for mountain biking, including the Anvil Lake National Trail and Nicolet North Trail, which connect to nearby campgrounds and larger trail systems.Boating
Franklin Lake supports motorized and non-motorized boating, with a paved boat launch but no dock. Kayaking and paddling are popular activities.Wildlife viewing
The area features hemlock forests and bogs where visitors can observe various plant species and wildlife. Springtime offers ample opportunities to view blooming wildflowers.Beach activities
The sandy beach is suitable for swimming and sunbathing, with additional opportunities for beachcombing.Cultural and Educational Programs
Historic log structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps and educational interpretive trails provide cultural learning opportunities. Seasonal naturalist programs are held during the summer.Winter Activities
Winter options include snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on groomed trails.Water Sports
Includes kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, waterskiing, and motorized boating.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings. Firewood must comply with the Firewood Closure Order.
- Quiet hours not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters, water hazards at lake access sites, and seasonal mosquito infestations.
Active alertsNo current active alerts were noted.
Weather forecast
50
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 68%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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
Eagle River-Florence Ranger District Office (Address: 1247 E. Wall St., Eagle River, WI 54521, Phone: 715-479-2827) for ranger assistance.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak camping season aligns with summer months, though exact dates were not specified.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are present but no detailed information about recycling or pickup schedules was provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along Franklin Lake's western shore, the campground provides direct access to the 892-acre lake.
Common complaintsReviews mention mosquito infestations during summer and competition for lakeside campsites during peak season.
HostCampground hosts are described as friendly and helpful in user reviews.
Campground Map
1247 E. Wall St. Eagle River, WI 54521
Driving directionsFrom Eagle River, WI, take State Rt. 70 east 8 miles to Forest Rt. 2178. Turn right onto Rt. 2178 and go south 2 miles to Forest Rt. 2181 (Ninemile Rd). Turn left onto Rt. 2181 and go east to campground.
Road access is via paved highways and forest roads. Seasonal accessibility is noted, with potential challenges due to closures or limited access during off-peak times.Nearby places
Eagle River: 8 miles, approximately 15-minute drive.
Nearby supplies
Closest town for groceries and camping supplies is Eagle River, 8 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.7
28 reviews
Franklin Lake Recreation Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews praise the campground for its scenic beauty, well-maintained facilities, and peaceful atmosphere, with some concerns about mosquito prevalence and fish population.
Review Summaries
Based on 28 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include clean facilities, beautiful trails, historic structures, and clear lake views. Many visitors found the lakeside sites especially enjoyable for swimming and privacy.
Based on 28 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common issues include mosquitoes, low fish populations, and lack of soap or hand-drying facilities in bathrooms.
Based on 28 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Several users recommend reserving lakeside sites for their views and water access. One user noted the benefit of paddleboarding to explore the lake's sandbars.
Based on 28 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is popular but fills quickly, especially lakeside sites. Spring offers wildflower viewing and fewer bugs. Fall provides quieter camping experiences with low mosquito activity.
Based on 28 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Camped here for two nights. Our site had steps down to the lake. $18.00 per night. Very clean, quiet, and peaceful.' - Tina S.
2. 'The entire shoreline here is prime for swimming, and there’s...
Based on 28 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 1, 12-15 are first-come, first-serve with electric hookups. Lakeside sites 60-71 provide direct water access and scenic views.
Based on 28 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible toilets and the short loop of Franklin Nature Trail were praised for accommodating wheelchair users. Sites are generally well-spaced for navigation.
Based on 28 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, though no specific mentions of pet-friendly amenities were found.
Based on 28 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025