Richardson Lake Campground
4.3730 reviews4978 Highway 8 West, Laona, WI, 54541, USA
Richardson 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$15.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard nonelectric sites, tent-only nonelectric sites, and walk-to sites are all charged at $15 per night during both peak season (May 22, 2025 - Sept. 1, 2025) and first-come-first-serve season (Sept. 2, 2025 - Nov. 30, 2025).
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine south shore of Richardson Lake, this 26-site campground offers an intimate escape into Wisconsin's natural beauty. Anglers flock here for the legendary bass, northern pike, and panfish that thrive in these 47 acres of crystal-clear water, while families treasure the peaceful atmosphere and endless outdoor adventures. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, paddling through morning mist, or simply relaxing on the sandy beach, Richardson Lake delivers the quintessential northwoods experience that keeps visitors returning year after year.
Richardson Lake Campground provides a range of camping options, including standard non-electric sites, tent-only sites, and walk-to campsites. The campground is particularly suited for primitive camping and boondocking experiences.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Richardson Lake into a sun-drenched paradise, with warm temperatures perfect for swimming and water sports. As autumn arrives, the surrounding maple forests explode into a breathtaking canvas of crimson, gold, and amber – creating some of Wisconsin's most spectacular fall foliage displays. While winter's freezing temperatures present challenges for camping, the moderate spring and summer seasons offer ideal conditions for outdoor enthusiasts seeking comfortable nights under starlit skies.
Natural Features and SceneryA magnificent northern hardwood forest creates a living cathedral around Richardson Lake, where towering maple trees form a verdant canopy overhead. The lake's sandy swim beach invites leisurely afternoons, while the glassy waters reflect the surrounding forest like a mirror. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in the haunting calls of loons echoing across the water at dusk and the graceful swans that glide along the shoreline. During autumn, this natural amphitheater transforms into one of the region's most stunning displays of fall color, drawing photographers and nature lovers from across the Midwest.
Geological RegionRichardson Lake sits like a sapphire jewel in the heart of Forest County's northern hardwood ecosystem, where ancient geological forces carved out this 47-acre sanctuary. The region's rich glacial history created the perfect conditions for the lush maple-dominated forests that characterize this corner of Wisconsin. Sandy shores speak to the area's geological past, while the lake's clear waters and thriving fish populations showcase the healthy ecosystem that has developed over millennia in this protected northern landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets are available.
Sites SizeThe sites vary in size, accommodating tents and RVs.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are well-spaced, providing privacy between sites. A reviewer noted, 'Campsites were spacious and had good distance from neighbors.'
Total Campsites26 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 24 is highly recommended for privacy, proximity to the beach, and lake views. Sites in the main loop such as site 9 provide convenient access to facilities.
Best CampsitesSites near the lake and beach rated highly, including Site 24. "This is our favorite spot. The campground is clean, well kept and quiet with the ability to enjoy the noise from loons, owls and frogs." - Review by Genevieve F.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2:00 PM local time.
Check-out
Check-out ends at 12:00 PM local time.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site allows up to 8 persons and one vehicle. Additional vehicles or towed units (up to three) are permitted if space allows.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are well spaced, with options for tent, RV, and walk-to sites. "Many first come first serve sites were available. Very hard to find a bad site here, we’ll spaced, nicely wooded and most very level for parking vans and trailers." - Guy Huffman.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 22, 2025, to Nov. 30, 2025. Peak season runs May 22 - Sept. 1; first-come-first-serve season starts Sept. 2.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov online system, mobile app, and contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability during the off-peak season from September 2, 2025, to November 30, 2025.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before check-in day with a $10 fee. Late cancellations subtract the first night's fee and incur additional penalties based on timing.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at Richardson Lake Campground can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Fishing, swimming, canoeing, and kayaking are particularly popular. Wildlife viewing is another highlight, with loons, frogs, and even swans often seen or heard around the lake. In the fall, the spectacular foliage adds a unique charm to the area.
Hiking
Walking trails around the lake provide opportunities for leisurely hikes while separating campsites from the water.Fishing
Fishing is a major draw at Richardson Lake, with bass, northern pike, and panfish available. One user noted, 'The lake is beautiful, perfect for kayaking or rowboats.'Swimming
The campground features a sandy swim beach, which is a favorite among visitors.Boating
The campground has a boat landing, and users frequently kayak or use rowboats to explore the lake.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant, and many visitors report seeing loons, frogs, and swans. A user shared, 'Loons can be heard all day.'Beach activities
Beach activities include swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing on the sandy shoreline.Water Sports
Canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular water activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed within designated fire rings at individual campsites.
- Quiet hours start at 10 PM as per reviews and regulations.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquito presence noted by user reviews; precautions like repellent recommended. Wildlife interaction such as loons and swans observed.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.4 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 likely in Wabeno or Crandon; detailed specific emergency service locations are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22, 2025 - September 01, 2025
Trash and recyclingNo specific details provided about trash and recycling facilities. Users are encouraged to leave no trace.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Richardson Lake, a 47-acre lake suitable for swimming, fishing, and kayaking.
Common complaintsNoise issues regarding generators and loud music reported by several users. "Won't fill in the mine field of potholes in the campground!!!!!" - Andy Suchocki.
HostCampground host noted for being friendly and helpful. "Host is so friendly and wonderful guy." - Dabs Guy.
Campground Map
4978 Highway 8 West, Laona, WI, 54541, USA
Driving directionsFrom Wabeno, drive north 0.8 miles on Highway 32 to Highway 52. Turn left (west) on Highway 52 and drive 2.4 miles to Richardson Lake Road (FR2880). Turn right (north) on Richardson Lake Road and continue 0.4 miles to the campground.
Easily accessible from nearby highways with no long or winding roads. "Found this campground to be easily accessed. No driving down long winding roads." - User review by Donna Suzawith.Nearby places
Wabeno (approximately 3.6 miles, 10 minutes)
Crandon (approximately 17.2 miles, 25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be found in nearby communities of Wabeno and Crandon, offering various services and community events throughout the year.
Camper Reviews
4.4
30 reviews
Richardson Lake Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Richardson Lake Campground as a peaceful and scenic destination with well-spaced campsites and excellent opportunities for fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. However, some users raised concerns about noise levels and road maintenance within the campground.
Review Summaries
Based on 30 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects mentioned include the scenic lake views, clean facilities, well-maintained campsites, and friendly campground hosts. Many users appreciated the privacy between campsites and the...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include road conditions ('Won't fill in the minefield of potholes'), noise from other campers ('Too many generators running past midnight'), and the lack of showers.
Based on 30 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing mosquito repellent, being prepared for hand-pump water access, and respecting wildlife and other campers.
Based on 30 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is particularly popular in the fall for its spectacular foliage. Summer sees more visitors engaging in water activities. Some users noted that the campground is quieter in late summer.
Based on 30 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'Very quiet and clean campground next to the lake. If you like primitive camping or boondocking in a camper, this is a fantastic campground.'
- 'The campsites are spacious, clean, and...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite 24 received high praise for its excellent privacy, proximity to the water, and quiet environment. Site 6 was noted for its convenience to water pumps. Campsite 21 received mixed reviews due...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025