Wanoka Lake Recreation Area
4.5322 reviewsWanoka Lake Recreation Area, Washburn Ranger District, Wisconsin
Wanoka Lake Recreation Area
$6.00 - $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
Individual campsite fee is $15 per night, payable at the fee envelope tube at the site. Nightly fees are half-priced ($6 per night) when services are reduced. Interagency Senior or Access Pass holders receive discounts on campsite fees.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Chequamegon National Forest, Wanoka Lake Recreation Area beckons adventurers to its tranquil 15-acre lake where time seems to slow down. This hidden gem operates on a refreshingly simple first-come, first-served basis, inviting spontaneous explorers to claim their slice of wilderness. Whether you're revving up for thrilling ATV adventures along forest trails, casting a line into the mirror-like waters, gliding across the lake in your kayak, or setting out on foot to discover hidden forest paths, Wanoka Lake serves as your rustic basecamp for authentic outdoor experiences. Here, the symphony of nature replaces city sounds, and the starlit sky becomes your evening entertainment.
Wanoka Lake Recreation Area offers traditional camping options including sites suitable for tents and RVs. All sites are first-come, first-served.
Historical SignificanceLong before modern campers pitched their tents here, young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps called this land home. From 1933 to 1942, CCC Camp Twin Lakes Company V-1676 bustled with activity as these Depression-era workers shaped the landscape, building the foundation for today's recreation areas. Their legacy lives on in the trails they carved and the conservation ethic they embodied, reminding visitors that this peaceful retreat was born from determination and hard work during America's most challenging times.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Wanoka Lake with its own dramatic brushstrokes. Summer arrives with gentle warmth and refreshing lake breezes, though afternoon thunderstorms occasionally roll through to water the forest floor. Autumn transforms the surrounding hardwoods into a blazing tapestry of golds, crimsons, and burnt oranges—a photographer's paradise. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, creating a serene wonderland for those brave enough to embrace the cold. Spring emerges slowly but surely, with wildflowers dotting the forest floor as the lake shakes off its icy winter coat.
ElevationPerched at 1,160 feet above sea level, Wanoka Lake occupies a sweet spot in Wisconsin's northwoods where the air runs crisp and clean. This gentle elevation gifts campers with naturally cooler temperatures—a welcome relief during sticky summer days. But mountain-minded visitors should pack extra layers for shoulder seasons, as frost can paint the morning grass silver well into late spring and return with autumn's first whispers.
Natural Features and SceneryA living mosaic of towering pines and stately hardwoods cradles the campground, their canopy filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The centerpiece—a pristine small lake—mirrors the sky and surrounding trees, creating postcard-perfect reflections at dawn and dusk. Rolling hills undulate through the landscape like frozen green waves, offering varied terrain for exploration. Keep your eyes peeled for white-tailed deer browsing at forest edges, beavers engineering their aquatic neighborhoods, and the flash of wings as songbirds flit between branches in this thriving wildlife sanctuary.
Geological RegionWanoka Lake rests within the vast embrace of Chequamegon National Forest, where ancient geological forces sculpted a landscape of gentle hills and hidden lakes. This remarkable ecosystem weaves together northern hardwood forests dominated by maple, oak, and birch with stands of whispering pines that have weathered countless seasons. The region's signature rolling topography creates intimate valleys and scenic vistas, while numerous small lakes sparkle like jewels scattered across the forest floor—each one a reminder of the glaciers that once carved this land into its current magnificent form.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features for campers with disabilities are not explicitly detailed.
Sites SizeSites are described as 'large' or 'medium' by user reviews, with most being suitable for RVs up to 35 feet.
Sites PrivacyCampers have reported mixed privacy levels, with some sites offering 'great privacy' while others are 'very open to the campground road.'
Total Campsites19 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites 1, 2, or 3 for lake views. Site 12 is near dumpsters, so it may attract wildlife.
Best CampsitesSites 1, 2, and 3 have proximity to the lake and partial lake views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Self-registration available upon arrival.
Check-out
Self-registration available upon arrival.
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 nights per stay.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 people per site.
Groups
Group camping is not explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutTwo overlapping loops at the southern edge of Wanoka Lake.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from April 26 to November 29, with reduced services after October 15.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations needed; self-registration station on-site.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served, even during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations are allowed; all sites are first-come, first-served.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Wanoka Lake Recreation Area offers a variety of outdoor activities, including non-motorized boating, fishing, and hiking. The 15-acre Wanoka Lake is popular for kayaking and trout fishing. There is mention of nearby trails like the North Country Trail and Valhalla Recreation Area trails for hiking and mountain biking. Hunting and wildlife viewing are also possible in the area.
Hiking
Day hikes and backpacking are available on trails such as the North Country Trail and Valhalla Recreation Area. The North Country Trail features flat to gently rolling terrain and scenic views of lakes.Fishing
Fishing is popular year-round on Wanoka Lake, which is stocked with panfish and trout. There is carry-in boat access for anglers.Biking
Road and mountain biking are popular activities in the nearby Valhalla Recreation Area and on paved forest roads within the Moquah Barrens.Boating
Non-motorized boating such as kayaking and canoeing is allowed. The lake has a carry-in boat access point.Wildlife viewing
Moquah Pine Barrens nearby is home to diverse wildlife including black bears and gray wolves. Early mornings are recommended for wildlife enthusiasts to increase sightings.Cultural and Educational Programs
The Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center offers year-round interpretive and educational programs, including wildlife observation and historic exhibits.Winter Activities
Winter activities include cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on groomed trails in the Valhalla Recreation Area.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are possible on the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Accessible fire rings provided at all campsites. Firewood must comply with transport restrictions.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bear activity has been reported in some areas (e.g., site 12). Campers are advised to store food securely and remain vigilant.
Active alertsNo active alerts mentioned.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 38%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.3 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
Iron River has nearby emergency services, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 26 to October 15.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information on trash and recycling facilities is available.
Proximity to water featuresWanoka Lake (15 acres) provides opportunities for fishing and kayaking. Carry-in boat access is available.
Common complaintsComplaints include noise from ATVs, unleashed dogs, and generator usage. Several users mentioned insufficient signage and noise from nearby highways.
HostNo campground host is available.
Campground Map
Wanoka Lake Recreation Area, Washburn Ranger District, Wisconsin
Driving directionsIn Iron River, WI, at the intersection of County H and US Rt. 2, take Rt. 2 east 7.3 miles to Nat'l Forest campground sign. Turn right at the sign onto Forest Rt. 234 and go 0.9 mile to campground on the right.
Road access is primarily via paved highways and Forest Road 234. Campground road consists of grass and gravel parking aprons.Nearby places
Iron River (7 miles, approximately 15 minutes by car)
Nearby supplies
Iron River offers groceries, camping supplies, firewood, and licenses for fishing and ATV/UTV use. Gas stations in Iron River sell out-of-state fishing and ATV permits.
Camper Reviews
4.5
22 reviews
Wanoka Lake Recreation Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Wanoka Lake Recreation Area are mixed. Positive aspects include its quiet and secluded atmosphere, spacious campsites, and proximity to outdoor activities. Negative points often highlight the lack of campground hosts, unleashed pets, generator noise, and water quality issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 22 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the spacious and private sites, suitability for RVs up to 35 feet, and the availability of fire rings and picnic tables. The area is praised for being shaded and quiet, especially...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include generator noise, unleashed pets, and disturbances from ATV groups. Several users mentioned issues with water quality, describing it as rusty and metallic. One reviewer...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing your own water, as the on-site water has mixed reviews. Bring tiki torches for better lighting at night. Campers also advise being prepared for wildlife encounters, with...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during the summer months, with quieter and more peaceful experiences reported in the fall. 'Early season, late season or midweek you'll likely have your pickings among...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'If you're not picky about which site you get, you'll have no issue finding a spot here.' - Greg Krueger. 'My husband and I got bluff charged by a black bear shortly after arriving and setting up our...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #12 is noted for being near dumpsters and having a bear sighting. Sites 1, 2, and 3 offer partial lake views.
Based on 22 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressed accessibility for campers with disabilities.
Based on 22 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Reviews mention unleashed pets as an issue, with one reviewer calling for pet owners to be more considerate.
Based on 22 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025