Mineral Lake
01 review32109 County Highway GG, Glidden, WI, 54527
Mineral Lake
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
No recreation use fee currently listed because the campground is closed. Recreational activities like boating, swimming, and fishing may be accessible without camping fees.
About this campground
Nestled within the expansive Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, Mineral Lake Campground offers a rustic escape into Wisconsin's northwoods. Though currently closed for traditional camping, this serene 256-acre lake destination beckons adventurers seeking dispersed camping opportunities. The crystalline waters invite swimmers and anglers alike, while boaters can explore hidden coves and peaceful shorelines. Miles of forest trails wind through the surrounding wilderness, perfect for those who prefer their adventures on foot. While existing infrastructure like restrooms remains standing, visitors should note these facilities may be removed in the future as the area transitions to a more primitive camping experience.
Mineral Lake provides a mix of camping accommodations, including dispersed camping options at its 10 campsites. "The sites are still available for dispersed camping," noted one user.
Historical SignificanceMineral Lake Campground stands as a gateway to the magnificent Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest's rich tapestry of natural wonders. Visitors can venture to nearby Morgan Falls, where cascading waters have carved ancient stories into stone, or challenge themselves with a pilgrimage to St. Peter's Dome, the forest's crowning glory and highest peak. These sacred spaces have drawn explorers, naturalists, and outdoor enthusiasts for generations, each leaving with their own tales of discovery amidst the towering pines and pristine waters that define this corner of Wisconsin's wilderness heritage.
Weather and SeasonsEarly spring at Mineral Lake reveals nature's raw beauty alongside challenging conditions. April temperatures hover between a crisp 9°F at night and a brisk 22°F during the day, painting frost patterns on tent walls and creating a winter wonderland atmosphere well into spring. Crystal-clear skies dominate the forecast, offering spectacular stargazing opportunities for hardy souls willing to brave the cold. Moderate winds whisper through bare branches while occasional light snow dustings transform the landscape into a pristine wilderness tableau. This shoulder season rewards the prepared camper with solitude and stark natural beauty.
ElevationInformation not currently available
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of mixed hardwoods creates a living canopy above Mineral Lake Campground, where maple, oak, and birch trees paint seasonal masterpieces across 256 acres of pristine water. Eagles soar overhead, their piercing calls echoing across the glassy surface as they survey their domain from ancient perches. The forest floor teems with life as deer paths crisscross through ferns and wildflowers, while the lake itself mirrors the ever-changing sky in its depths. Dawn mist rises from the water like nature's own veil, revealing a landscape where every sunrise brings new discoveries and wildlife encounters that remind visitors why this hidden gem remains a treasured escape.
Geological RegionSet within the ancient geological tapestry of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, Mineral Lake occupies a depression carved by glacial forces millennia ago. The surrounding mixed hardwood ecosystem thrives on rich soils deposited by retreating ice sheets, creating the perfect conditions for the diverse forest that embraces the 256-acre lake today. This natural amphitheater showcases the region's geological heritage, where bedrock foundations support towering trees and the lake's mineral-rich waters reflect the area's complex natural history, giving the campground its distinctive name and character.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo accessibility features are mentioned.
Sites SizeNo exact measurements of site sizes are given.
Sites PrivacyNo specific details about site privacy are mentioned.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the lake are recommended for their access to swimming and scenic value. Dispersed camping requires carrying water and equipment over long distances.
Best CampsitesUser reviews mention that campsites with lake access provide excellent swimming opportunities and unique scenic perspectives of the lake.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay limited to 14 nights per season.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
No details on group camping sites are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 10 campsites dispersed in a hardwood forest near the lake. Infrastructure is noted as still standing but deteriorating.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season not applicable as campground is closed.
Reservation PlatformsReservations use Recreation.gov platform. Changes incur a $10 fee; cancellations are subject to refund policies detailed by Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites may be accessible for dispersed camping on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee along with penalties for late cancellations. Late cancellations subtract the first night's recreation use fee from refunds and may involve additional penalties.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Mineral Lake campground offers a wide range of recreational activities such as wildlife viewing, hiking, fishing, camping, boating, and biking. "Take a swim in Mineral Lake that is accessible from several campsites and enjoy the crisp, clear water," as highlighted in user reviews.
Hiking
The forest surrounding Mineral Lake provides access to hundreds of miles of hiking trails, including the North Country National Scenic Trail. Several trails offer varying difficulty levels and scenic views.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity. Anglers can expect to catch musky, bass, walleye, and pan fish. "Anglers can expect a catch of a variety of freshwater lake and river species," as stated in the official source.Swimming
Swimming is available in the crisp, clear waters of Mineral Lake, accessible from several campsites.Biking
Mountain biking trails are available in the surrounding forest, providing diverse terrains for enthusiasts.Boating
A boat ramp is located about a mile from the campground off Forest Service Road 187, allowing easy access to boating activities.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to a variety of birds, including eagles, and plentiful wildlife. "Eagle watching is also a popular pastime," as mentioned in the authoritative source.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing may be possible but are not explicitly confirmed.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires permitted but visitors must use locally-sourced firewood to prevent invasive species.
- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include exposure to wildlife and cold temperatures during winter seasons.
Active alertsActive alert: "We apologize, this campground is currently closed."
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.5 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
Null
Good to know
Peak season datesNull
Trash and recyclingNo information about trash and recycling facilities is provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly adjacent to Mineral Lake with a boat ramp available off Forest Service Road 187.
Common complaintsUser review suggests that the campground closure is due to lack of funding. Infrastructure, such as bathrooms, may soon be dismantled unless reopened.
HostNull
Campground Map
32109 County Highway GG, Glidden, WI, 54527
Driving directionsFrom Mellen, Wisconsin, take County Highway GG west for about 9 miles to the campground sign. Turn right and drive less than a mile to the campground. From Clam Lake, Wisconsin, take County Highway GG north for about 9 miles to the campground sign and turn left.
Access involves traveling on paved County Highway GG. No seasonal closures or challenging terrain reported.Nearby places
Mellen, WI (9 miles), Clam Lake, WI (9 miles)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Mineral Lake has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the beauty and tranquility of Mineral Lake, but lament its closure since 2015 due to lack of funding.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the picturesque lake, fishing opportunities, and the chance for dispersed camping. "Take a swim in Mineral Lake that is accessible from several campsites," noted one reviewer.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints center around the campground's closure and lack of maintenance. Infrastructure such as bathrooms may be torn down if current plans are carried out.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing your own drinking water and toilet paper. Advocating for the campground's reopening is also encouraged.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews do not specify trends based on seasons.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
"A beautiful campground with 10 campsites, unfortunately closed since 2015 due to lack of funding." "Enjoy this place when you can and advocate for reopening it for generations of locals and visitors...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No site-specific reviews or rankings are provided.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically addressing pet policies or experiences.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025