Namekagon Lake Recreation Area
4.4316 reviewsNamekagon Lake Recreation Area, Chequamegon-Nicolet Forest, Wisconsin, USA
Namekagon Lake Recreation Area
$9.00 - $18.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$18.00
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
Individual campsite fees are $18 per night and $9 with an Interagency Senior or Access Pass. Boat landing and picnic area use has a $5 day pass or $30 annual pass.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of 3,227-acre Namekagon Lake, this beloved family campground offers an authentic northwoods escape where the legendary Namekagon River begins its journey. Towering hardwoods and ancient hemlocks create a natural cathedral around well-appointed campsites, each featuring sturdy picnic tables, fire rings for evening gatherings, and convenient vault toilets. Beyond the camping area, discover a vibrant day-use zone complete with a inviting sandy beach perfect for afternoon swims, a covered picnic shelter for family reunions, a peaceful fishing pier extending into crystal-clear waters, a smooth boat launch for aquatic adventures, and even a basketball court for friendly competition under the forest canopy.
The campground provides options for RV and tent camping, with some sites tailored for group use.
Historical SignificanceWhile specific historical records await discovery, this pristine landscape has long served as a gathering place for those seeking connection with Wisconsin's untamed beauty and the headwaters of the storied Namekagon River system.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformation of Wisconsin's northwoods throughout the year. Winter blankets the forest in pristine snow, creating a hushed wonderland best admired during day visits. As spring awakens the forest in May, camping season begins in earnest, with wildflowers dotting the forest floor and migrating birds filling the air with song. Summer brings those perfect camping days – warm sunshine filtering through the canopy, cool lake breezes, and star-filled nights around the campfire. Early fall paints the hardwoods in brilliant golds and crimsons, offering spectacular hiking and photography opportunities before the first frost signals winter's return.
ElevationPerched at 1,300 feet above sea level, the campground enjoys the refreshing climate of Wisconsin's northern highlands. This elevation brings cooler summer nights perfect for sleeping, crisp morning air that invigorates early risers, and occasionally dramatic weather changes that remind visitors of nature's dynamic presence in this elevated forest ecosystem.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living postcard where majestic hardwoods mingle with evergreen hemlocks, creating a diverse forest tapestry that changes with every season. The expansive Namekagon Lake dominates the landscape, its 3,227 acres of pristine water reflecting clouds by day and stars by night. Wildlife enthusiasts treasure morning encounters with majestic elk grazing in nearby meadows, while patient observers might spot bald eagles soaring overhead or hear the haunting call of loons echoing across the water at dusk. This remarkable ecosystem showcases the raw beauty of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest at its finest.
Geological RegionSet within the vast Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, the campground occupies a special place where ancient geological forces carved out the basin that now cradles Namekagon Lake. This unique location marks the birthplace of the Namekagon River, surrounded by a mature forest ecosystem dominated by stately hardwoods and shade-giving hemlocks that have stood sentinel over these waters for generations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-accessible vault toilets and generally level campsites are available. However, detailed descriptions of additional accessibility features are unspecified.
Sites SizeThe sites vary in size, accommodating RVs from 25 to 45+ feet.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by loop. "Campsites in the North Loop are closer together...privacy is fair to poor." The South Loop provides "slightly more rustic sites well suited for tent campers" (Authoritative content and user reviews).
Total Campsites33 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites in the south loop are reportedly more rustic and better suited for tent campers. Camper reviews suggest avoiding crowded areas for a quieter experience.
Best CampsitesNo specific site numbers are highlighted as best; however, waterfront sites are appreciated for their views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
24 hours operation, no defined check-in time.
Check-out
24 hours operation, no defined check-out time.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 people and 4 vehicles per campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features two loops, North and South, forming a figure-eight configuration. Campsites in the North Loop are closer together, while the South Loop offers more rustic, tent-friendly sites.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground opens the Thursday before the May fishing opener (first Saturday in May) and closes on September 4.
Reservation Platforms1-877-444-6777 for reservations.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is possible, but details on site numbers are unspecified. The campground tends to fill up during weekends.
Cancellation PolicyNo explicit cancellation policy mentioned.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
A broad range of recreational activities is available, including boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and biking. The proximity to the Namekagon Trail and other scenic trails makes it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The lake offers opportunities for wildlife viewing and water sports.
Hiking
The Namekagon Trail is a one-mile loop accessible from the campground, ideal for beginners. Nearby trails include the Rock Lake National Recreation Trail, CAMBA Mountain Bike Trails, and the North Country National Scenic Trail.Fishing
The 3,227-acre Namekagon Lake provides excellent fishing opportunities for musky, walleye, northern pike, bass, and panfish. A fishing pier is located near the day-use area.Swimming
A sandy swimming beach is available at the day-use area. Some user reviews mention the lake bottom can be mucky in spots.Biking
The campground is close to the CAMBA Mountain Bike Trails, which feature over 300 miles of marked and described trails. Road biking on forest backroads is also popular.Boating
Boating opportunities include motorized and non-motorized activities. A boat ramp is provided at the day-use area. Canoeing and kayaking on the Namekagon River are also available.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as elk, eagles, loons, and deer are often seen. The surrounding forest provides ample opportunity for nature observation.Beach activities
Beach activities include swimming and sunbathing on the sandy beach.Winter Activities
Winter activities include cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on the nearby Namekagon Trail, which features groomed loops when snow conditions permit.Water Sports
Water sports include kayaking, canoeing, jet skiing, and water skiing, among others.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed but must adhere to local fire regulations. Firewood must not be brought from outside a 25-mile radius unless certified.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsSeasonal bugs such as mosquitoes. Limited cell service with spotty Verizon coverage. Visitors are advised to plan for these conditions.
Active alertsNo current warnings or advisories mentioned.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 51%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.7 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
Hayward, 20 miles away, provides hospitals, police, and other emergency services.
Good to know
Peak season datesOpen season (May to September) constitutes the peak season.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling dumpsters are provided on-site.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Namekagon Lake with direct access to the water for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Common complaintsLimited privacy as campsites in the North Loop are closer together. Verizon cell service is limited.
HostNo information on campground hosts is provided.
Campground Map
Namekagon Lake Recreation Area, Chequamegon-Nicolet Forest, Wisconsin, USA
Driving directionsFrom Cable, WI, drive east on County Rt. M 10.9 miles to County Rt. D. Turn left onto Rt. D and go north 5.7 miles to campground sign (Forest Rt. 209). Turn left onto Rt. 209 and go 0.3 miles to campground.
Roads are paved with good access. Directions specify using County Rt. M and Rt. D, followed by a short drive on Forest Rt. 209. The area is reachable by most vehicles.Nearby places
Cable (13 miles/20 minutes), Hayward (20 miles/30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and ice are available in Cable, approximately 13 miles away. Firewood is available onsite.
Camper Reviews
4.4
16 reviews
Namekagon Lake Recreation Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground has a mix of positive and negative reviews. Many users appreciate the clean facilities, beautiful lake views, and opportunities for recreation. However, some express dissatisfaction with the lack of privacy and rustic experience.
Review Summaries
Based on 16 reviews
What Campers Love
"Vault toilets are immaculate," "Beautiful views from our site looking out on the lake," and "Very nice campground."
Based on 16 reviewsCommon Concerns
Privacy is limited in some areas, particularly the North Loop. Cell service is poor or non-existent. Some users mention high noise levels during busy weekends.
Based on 16 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray for mosquitoes. Book months in advance for holiday weekends. Ice is available at a nearby resort. Verizon users may find limited reception at the fishing dock.
Based on 16 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during weekends and holidays; weekdays are quieter. It is open from May 25 to September 4, with warmer temperatures and more recreational opportunities available during the...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"What a surprise to have electricity at all sites." (Carolyn LeCroy), "If you are looking for a more remote experience and real forest and quiet, this is not the place." (Jim Huwe), "Great if your...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
North Loop sites are closer together and less private. The South Loop is described as more rustic, suitable for tent campers.
Based on 16 reviewsAccessibility Features
Vault toilets are wheelchair accessible, and sites are generally flat. However, additional details on accessibility are lacking.
Based on 16 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are welcome at the campground, and many users appreciate the pet-friendly environment.
Based on 16 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025