Laura Lake Campground
4.5653 reviews4978 Highway 8 West
Laura Lake Campground
$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$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Facility rates remain constant at $15.00 per night for both 'Standard Nonelectric' and 'Tent Only Nonelectric' sites throughout all seasons.
About this campground
Nestled between two pristine wilderness lakes, Laura Lake Campground invites you to disconnect from the modern world and immerse yourself in nature's tranquility. Here, 110-acre Laura Lake and its companion, 50-acre Gordon Lake, create a water wonderland where electric motors whisper across undeveloped shorelines and the loudest sounds come from loons calling at sunset. Well-maintained paved roads lead you to spacious campsites equipped with vault toilets and fresh drinking water, while the inviting swim beach and scenic picnic areas promise endless summer memories. Whether you're casting a line for the day's catch, gliding across mirror-smooth waters in your kayak, or exploring forest trails that wind through towering trees, this hidden gem offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and essential amenities.
Laura Lake Campground offers a range of primitive camping options, including spaces for tents and RVs up to 30 feet. The absence of electric, water, and sewer hookups emphasizes a back-to-nature experience. Tent-only sites and reservable campsites are available alongside first-come, first-served options.
Weather and SeasonsFrom the vibrant awakening of late spring through the golden days of early fall, Laura Lake Campground basks in ideal camping weather with comfortable temperatures and low humidity that make every outdoor adventure a pleasure. Summer days invite swimming and sunbathing, while crisp autumn mornings shroud the lakes in mystical fog before revealing spectacular fall colors. As winter arrives, the landscape transforms into a snow-covered wonderland, with frozen lakes and temperatures that remind visitors this is a true four-season destination best enjoyed during the warmer months.
Natural Features and SceneryPerched on the southwestern shore of Laura Lake, the campground serves as your gateway to an untouched aquatic paradise. The crystal-clear waters of both Laura and Gordon lakes reflect the surrounding mature deciduous forest, creating a photographer's dream at every turn. Ancient hardwoods provide a living canopy overhead, their leaves rustling with stories of seasons past. The undeveloped shorelines remain as nature intended, offering glimpses of wildlife coming to drink and endless coves to explore. Two well-designed boat launches provide easy access to these peaceful waters, where the restriction to electric motors ensures the serenity remains unbroken.
Geological RegionDeep within the legendary Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, Laura Lake Campground exemplifies the region's remarkable glacial heritage. These twin lakes, carved by ancient ice and cradled by rolling hills, showcase the area's distinctive landscape of mature deciduous forests and pristine waters. The surrounding wilderness spans millions of acres, making this campground a perfect basecamp for exploring one of Wisconsin's most treasured natural areas. The motor restrictions on both Gordon and Laura lakes preserve the peaceful ambiance that defines this special corner of the northwoods, where the forest meets the water in perfect harmony.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility information is not explicitly mentioned in the provided data.
Sites SizeThe campsites can accommodate a range of setups, including large RVs up to 30 feet long and tent spaces.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by location within the campground. Reviews indicate that the first loop offers more mature old-growth forest and closer proximity to the lake, while other reviewers noted that some sites are "spacious," and others are "right next to each other."
Total Campsites41 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring bug spray and water for long hikes. Sites in the first loop are best for lake views and privacy. Families may prefer Gordon Lake for its child-friendly swim beach.
Best CampsitesCampsites in the first loop (1-15) are preferred for their proximity to the lake and mature old-growth forest. Lakeside campsites are highly recommended.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Most sites can accommodate campers as long as 30 feet and longer, with ample space for multiple guests per site.
Groups
No group-specific camping areas are explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into two loops, with the first loop being more popular and closer to the lake. The second loop is quieter and less crowded, particularly during weekdays.
Open and Closed SeasonReservations are available during May 22 to September 01 (Peak Season), with first-come-first-served availability extending until October 14.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov, the contact center, or in person at the campground.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available on a first-come-first-served basis during the season from September 02 to October 14. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early, especially on summer holidays, to secure a site.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled before the scheduled check-in date with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations will incur an additional penalty, forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Laura Lake Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and hiking. The scenic 2.25-mile hiking trail around Laura Lake and a 6.5-mile bike trail for biking enthusiasts are notable highlights. Activities such as beach enjoyment, wildlife viewing, and bass fishing are commonly appreciated by campers.
Hiking
The campground features a 2.25-mile scenic hiking trail around Laura Lake and access to a 6.5-mile bike trail along an old railroad grade. User reviews frequently highlight the beauty of the trail, with one stating, "There’s an awesome hiking trail that goes all the way around the lake." However, some mentioned that the biking trail is challenging due to soft terrain, making it less ideal for families.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at both Laura and Gordon Lakes. Reviews mention bass as the primary catch, with one user noting, "Fishing was OK, lots of small bass." Another stated, "Both lakes are extremely beautiful and provide fun for swimming as well as fishing."Swimming
The swimming area, located at Gordon Lake, features a sandy beach that is buoyed off and shallow, making it suitable for children. Reviews describe the beach as "great," and one camper remarked, "The beach is buoyed off and not very deep, so it’s good for kids."Biking
The 6.5-mile bike trail is described as a grass-and-leaf-covered logging road. Some reviews indicate that the trail is more suitable for hiking or equestrian use due to its soft terrain. "Not recommended for bikers looking for a single-track experience," noted one user.Boating
Boating is supported with back-in boat landings at both Laura and Gordon Lakes. Electric motors are permitted, and facilities are described as "beautiful" by users. A pet-friendly boat launch is also available.Wildlife viewing
The campground offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. One user noted, "Saw lots of wildlife," while another highlighted the serene natural setting, saying, "The loons call night and day."Beach activities
Beach activities are focused on the sandy swimming area at Gordon Lake. The beach is described as "beautiful" and features shallow, buoyed water suitable for children.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are popular. The lakes are restricted to electric motors only, preserving the quiet atmosphere.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, but wood must be harvested within 10 miles of the campground.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include the rough terrain of the final 5-mile road leading to the campground, mosquito prevalence, and generator noise reported by users.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.9 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
Armstrong Creek offers basic emergency services, including fuel and groceries. For hospitals or advanced emergency care, Iron Mountain, MI, is the nearest town (~40 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22 to September 01
Trash and recyclingDetails on trash and recycling facilities are not provided in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Laura Lake and Gordon Lake, both offering swimming, fishing, and kayaking opportunities. A wooden bridge connects visitors to Bog Lake.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include the disruptive noise of generators running during early mornings and evenings, as well as the poor condition of campfire rings and certain roads within the campground.
HostUser reviews highlight Carl and Sharon as excellent hosts who maintain clean toilets and help manage reservations. However, occasional concerns about host availability and the cleanliness of facilities have been noted.
Campground Map
4978 Highway 8 West
Driving directionsFrom Armstrong Creek, drive west 1.9 miles on Highway 8 to FR 2163. Turn right (north) on FR2163 and drive 4 miles to the campground. From Laona, drive north 14 miles on Highway 8 to FR 2163. Turn left (north) on 2163 and drive 4 miles to the campground.
All roads leading to Laura Lake Campground are paved with blacktop; however, user reviews mention that the last 5 miles of road leading to the campground have substantial potholes and are rough. This could pose a challenge for some campers.Nearby places
Armstrong Creek (approx. 5 miles, 10-minute drive)
Iron Mountain, MI (approx. 40 miles, 40-minute drive)
Laona (approx. 14 miles, 20-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Armstrong Creek, which offers fuel, food, incidentals, and convenience store items. Iron Mountain, MI, offers broader shopping options (~40 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.6
53 reviews
Laura Lake Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Laura Lake Campground is highly rated for its natural beauty, cleanliness, and tranquility. Many reviewers praise the clear lakes, wooded campsites, and spacious layouts. Several mentioned the lack of amenities like showers or dump stations as a trade-off for the serene environment.
Review Summaries
Based on 53 reviews
What Campers Love
Frequent mentions of clean vault toilets, private and spacious campsites, and a well-maintained environment. The beach and hiking trails are also highly praised.
Based on 53 reviewsCommon Concerns
Issues with generator noise were highlighted in several reviews. Some mentioned the poor condition of the road leading to the campground and the need for more modern amenities.
Based on 53 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray, flashlights, and supplies, as the nearest town is several miles away. Portable showers and additional batteries are recommended due to the lack of electrical hookups.
Based on 53 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during summer holidays, with quieter experiences in the off-season. Users consistently enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility throughout the year.
Based on 53 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The night sky is beyond beautiful and you must sleep there to actually experience this place." "Fishing was OK, lots of small bass." "The vault toilets are clean, and the beach is great for kids."...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 39 received mixed reviews, with one user complaining about generator noise, while another praised the site's tranquility. Site 24 was noted for its privacy but was affected by the poor condition...
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Accessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features were found.
Based on 53 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are welcome but restricted from the swimming area. A pet-friendly boat launch is available, and several users noted enjoying the trip with their pets.
Based on 53 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025