Laurel Lake Campground
4.1822 reviewsUSDA Forest Service, 1247 E. Wall St., Eagle River, WI, 54521, USA
Laurel 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 are $15 per night during both the peak season (May 22 - Sept 01) and first-come, first-served season (Sept 02 - Oct 14). Discounts, taxes, or incremental charges not included.
About this campground
Discover your perfect wilderness escape at Laurel Lake Campground, where rustic charm meets natural splendor in the heart of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. Here, beneath a canopy of towering pines and young oaks, you'll find peaceful campsites that serve as your gateway to the legendary Three Lakes and Eagle River Chain of Lakes—the world's largest inland freshwater chain. This hidden gem offers the ideal blend of tranquility and adventure, where the only sounds breaking the silence are the gentle lapping of water against the shore and the whisper of wind through ancient trees.
Laurel Lake Campground caters to tent and RV camping with a mix of reservable and first-come, first-served campsites. The campground offers rustic, non-electric sites divided into two areas, providing options for both solitude and group settings.
Historical SignificanceLaurel Lake Campground stands as a testament to community dedication and the enduring value of public lands. When budget constraints threatened to shutter this beloved retreat in 2015, the Town of Three Lakes rallied to preserve it, recognizing its vital role in both the local economy and the hearts of generations of campers. This grassroots effort ensured that future visitors could continue to create memories in this cherished corner of the Northwoods, maintaining a tradition of outdoor recreation that has defined the region for decades.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of Wisconsin's seasons at Laurel Lake, where moderate temperatures during prime camping months create perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. Summer brings warm days ideal for swimming and water sports, while autumn transforms the forest into a breathtaking tapestry of colors. As winter approaches, the landscape shifts to a crystalline wonderland, with freezing temperatures and light snowfall creating a serene, snow-dusted retreat for those seeking off-season solitude.
ElevationPerched at 1,630 feet above sea level, Laurel Lake Campground offers a natural respite from summer's heat. This elevated position gifts visitors with crisp, pine-scented air that invigorates the senses and provides the perfect climate for hiking, biking, and lakeside relaxation. The altitude creates ideal sleeping conditions, with cool nights that invite deep rest after days filled with outdoor adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where majestic pines stretch skyward, their branches creating a natural cathedral above your campsite. Young oaks add vibrant green accents to the forest tapestry, while Laurel Lake sparkles like a jewel at the forest's edge. As part of the remarkable 28-lake chain, the waters here connect you to a vast aquatic playground. Morning mists rise from the lake surface, deer venture to the water's edge at dusk, and the interplay of sunlight through the forest canopy creates an ever-changing display of natural beauty that captivates photographers and nature lovers alike.
Geological RegionLaurel Lake Campground occupies a unique position within the vast Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of remarkable beauty. At 1,630 feet elevation, the campground sits atop glacial deposits that created the interconnected basins now filled by the world's largest inland freshwater chain. This 28-lake system represents a geological marvel—a testament to the Ice Age's transformative power. The surrounding forest of towering pines and emerging hardwoods tells the ongoing story of ecological succession, where nature continuously shapes and reshapes this extraordinary landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific details are available regarding accessibility features at the campground.
Sites SizeThe campsites appear to be generously sized based on user reviews, describing them as 'big.'
Sites PrivacyThe sites are nestled among towering pines and oak trees, providing a natural setting, though specific details about privacy levels between sites are not provided.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsite 10 has a hazardous 'widow maker' tree that should be addressed. Campsite 11 has less shade due to fallen or cut-down trees.
Best CampsitesSpecific site recommendations include campsite 9 for its proximity to water amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Sites are designed for single-family use.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is split into two areas: Area 1 with eight sites and Area 2 with four sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 22 - Sept 01 (reservable dates) and Sept 02 - Oct 14 (first-come-first-served).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in Availability5 sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, while 7 sites can be reserved. The campground tends to fill during holiday weekends but often has availability during typical weekends.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiture of the first night's recreation fee for late cancellations (starting midnight 1 day before check-in).
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Laurel Lake Campground caters to outdoor enthusiasts with activities like fishing, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming from boats (no designated beach area). The nearby chain of lakes provides extensive opportunities for water-based recreation, including fishing for a variety of species. The area is known for its scenic beauty and quiet atmosphere, ideal for relaxation.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities abound in the chain of lakes accessible from the campground. Anglers can target species such as musky, walleye, northern pike, bass, perch, and crappie.Swimming
Swimming is permitted but must be done from boats, as there is no designated beach or swimming area.Boating
Boating is a major activity at Laurel Lake Campground, with a boat landing available on-site. Both motorized and non-motorized boats are permitted.Water Sports
The chain of lakes supports activities such as canoeing and kayaking, with ample scenic and recreational opportunities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings with grills.
- Quiet hours or noise guidelines are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include dirty toilets (as noted in some reviews), a 'widow maker' tree at campsite 10, and slipping risks on the muddy lakeshore.
Active alertsNo active alerts are mentioned in the authoritative sources.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 48%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.2 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 Three Lakes, which is 7 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22, 2025 - September 01, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available on-site, though no specific details about their location or schedule are provided.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to Laurel Lake and the chain of lakes via a boat landing at the campground. No swimmable beach is available.
Common complaintsComplaints from reviews include dirty pit toilets, loud neighbors, lack of electrical hookups, and muddy access points to the lake.
HostMixed reviews about the campground host—some found them helpful, while others felt they were overly strict.
Campground Map
USDA Forest Service, 1247 E. Wall St., Eagle River, WI, 54521, USA
Driving directionsFrom Three Lakes, travel 4 miles east on STH 32 to Chicken in the Woods Road. Turn left (north) and continue 1.2 miles turning left (north) on Fourmile Road. Travel 0.2 miles, turn left (west) on Leatzow Road and continue 1.2 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads that are suitable for all vehicles. No seasonal closures or major navigation challenges are mentioned.Nearby places
Three Lakes (7 miles), Eagle River (null miles, distance not explicitly stated).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials can be found in Three Lakes, located 7 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.2
22 reviews
Laurel Lake Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the campground's quiet, rustic charm and its scenic location under towering pines. Guests appreciate the clean and well-maintained campsites, though some note issues with maintenance of vault toilets and occasional disturbances from other campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 22 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests frequently mention the serene environment, spacious campsites, clean vault toilets, and good fishing and boating opportunities. The campground's affordability at $15 per night is also a...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include issues with poorly maintained vault toilets, lack of swimmable shoreline, and occasional noisy campers. Some users also expressed a desire for electric hookups and...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing bottled water due to the tannin-stained hand pump water. For swimming, nearby lakes with beaches such as Sevenmile and Franklin Lakes or the beach in the town of Three...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is quieter during weekdays and off-peak seasons, while weekends and holidays may see higher use. Summer months are preferred for water-based activities.
Based on 22 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Laurel Lake Campground provides picturesque campsites and a boat landing on a major chain of lakes, all beneath a stand of towering pines.' 2. 'Nice quiet campground on the Three Lakes chain....
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 9 was mentioned multiple times for its proximity to boat traffic noise and larger size; Site 11 has limited shade due to fallen trees, while Site 10 has a hazardous 'widow maker' tree.
Based on 22 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews are available.
Based on 22 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews addressing pet policies or experiences are available.
Based on 22 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025