Birch Grove Recreation Area
4.3719 reviews113 East Bayfield St. Washburn, WI 54891
Quick Facts
Price
$7.5 - $15/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
22 campsites
Season
Open from May 2 to O...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$7.5 - $15/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
22 campsites
Season
Open from May 2 to O...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsBirch Grove Recreation Area
$7.50 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Individual campsite fee is $15, or $7.50 with the use of an Interagency pass (access or senior). The interagency pass applies only to the fee for the...
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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
Total Campsite Fees$15.00
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USFS
Provider715-373-2667sm.fs.cnnfadmin@usda.gov
What Campers Say
4.37
Recommended
Based on 19 reviews
41 Google reviews
Most mentioned
quietcleanhikinglake
"Users generally praise the peaceful and scenic environment of Birch Grove Recreation Area. Comments highlight its suitability for kayaking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. However, some reviewers note challenges such as rough access roads and reduced privacy due to storm damage."
Fees & Passes at Birch Grove Recreation Area
$7.5 - $15/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum of 8 people and 4 vehicles per site.
Cancellation: Not explicitly provided.
Prices verified August 10, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Washburn Ranger District website.
Best Time to Camp at Birch Grove Recreation Area
From the crisp, snow-blanketed tranquility of winter to the warm, sun-drenched days of summer, Birch Grove showcases nature's seasonal transformations. The sweet spot for camping stretches from late spring's wildflower bloom through early autumn's spectacular color show, when comfortable temperatures and long daylight hours create ideal conditions for outdoor adventures.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: Not explicitly provided.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open from May 2 to October 31.
About Birch Grove Recreation Area
Tucked between the sparkling waters of East and West Twin Lakes, Birch Grove Recreation Area has become a cherished getaway for families seeking adventure on Wisconsin's stunning Bayfield Peninsula. This scenic campground serves as your perfect basecamp for days filled with paddling across mirror-like waters, discovering hidden patches of wild berries, and cooling off with refreshing swims in crystal-clear lakes.
Birch Grove Recreation Area caters to primitive, tent, and RV camping, with no modern conveniences such as electricity or sewer hookups. Sites are designed for rustic camping among natural surroundings.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this specific recreation area remains unwritten, the surrounding Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest holds centuries of stories within its ancient trees and pristine waters, waiting to be discovered by curious visitors.
Weather and SeasonsFrom the crisp, snow-blanketed tranquility of winter to the warm, sun-drenched days of summer, Birch Grove showcases nature's seasonal transformations. The sweet spot for camping stretches from late spring's wildflower bloom through early autumn's spectacular color show, when comfortable temperatures and long daylight hours create ideal conditions for outdoor adventures.
ElevationThe gentle, lake-level terrain creates an accessible outdoor experience for adventurers of all ages and abilities, though specific elevation details await your personal discovery.
Natural Features and SceneryNature's resilience shines at Birch Grove, where the forest tells a compelling story of renewal. Storm-touched woodlands are experiencing a remarkable rebirth, creating a unique landscape where new growth mingles with mature trees. This rustic, ever-changing scenery frames the twin lakes perfectly, offering photographers and nature lovers an authentic wilderness experience that's both raw and beautiful.
Geological RegionPositioned in the heart of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, Birch Grove Recreation Area claims an enviable spot between East and West Twin Lakes on the magnificent Bayfield Peninsula. The diverse landscape encompasses everything from sun-dappled berry meadows to recovering woodlands, where nature's regenerative power transforms storm-affected areas into thriving ecosystems. This dynamic terrain offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility information for campers with disabilities is not detailed in the provided materials.
Sites SizeSites are described as large, with gravel pads suitable for RVs up to 35 feet. Specific site dimensions are not detailed.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels at campsites have decreased due to storm damage that felled many trees, leaving some sites more open. However, some users still describe the sites as secluded and quiet.
Total Campsites22 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites near East or West Twin Lake for better views and privacy.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum of 8 people and 4 vehicles per site.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 people allowed per campsite.
Groups
No group camping facilities are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutDefined parking spurs, fire rings, picnic tables, tent pads available at some sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 2 to October 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through the website or contacting Washburn Ranger District.
Walk-in AvailabilityUser reviews suggest that walk-up availability is possible when nearby campgrounds are full, but no exact numbers are mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyNot explicitly provided.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The area offers activities centered around its natural lakes and forested surroundings. Fishing, non-motorized boating, and berry picking are popular, along with hiking and biking in nearby recreation areas such as Valhalla (20+ miles of trails) and Long Lake Recreation Area. The lakes support bass, panfish, and northern pike, and are suitable for kayaking and canoeing. Swimming is possible at the lakes, though not all areas are ideal. Wildlife viewing includes sounds of loons and occasional coyote or wolf howls.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available nearby at Valhalla Recreation Area, with over 20 miles of trails, and at Long Lake Recreation Area.Fishing
Fishing is supported on East and West Twin Lakes, which are accessible via small boat launches. Species include bass, panfish, and northern pike.Swimming
Swimming is possible in the lakes, but not all areas are ideal. A better swimming beach is located at Long Lake Recreation Area.Biking
Biking is possible in the area, with gravel and sand roads leading to pavement after several miles. Valhalla Recreation Area provides over 20 miles of biking trails.Boating
Non-motorized boating, including canoeing and kayaking, is popular on East and West Twin Lakes. Each lake has small boat access.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include hearing loons, coyotes, and wolves. The area supports a variety of bird species and other forest wildlife.Beach activities
Beach activities are limited, but a small beach is available at the campground. Long Lake Recreation Area has a larger swimming beach.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are detailed as the campground is open only from May 2 to October 31.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and paddling are popular on the lakes.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Firewood must originate within 25 miles unless certified.
- Quiet hours are Generators can operate between 7 AM and 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsRoad conditions include gravel and sharp stones. Storm damage has left some areas with minimal vegetation.
Weather at Birch Grove Recreation Area
4
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 73%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Emergency services are located in Washburn, WI, approximately 8 miles away, including ranger services at the Washburn Ranger District office.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly provided.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the provided materials.
Proximity to water featuresLocated between East and West Twin Lakes, with swimming areas and non-motorized boating access.
Common complaintsMultiple reviews highlight challenges with road conditions and reduced privacy due to storm damage.
HostNo specific host information provided.
Campground Map
113 East Bayfield St. Washburn, WI 54891
Driving directionsFrom Washburn, follow Hwy. 13 south 1 mile, turn right (west) on the Wannebo Rd. for 8 miles. Turn right (north) on Forest Road 252 for 2 miles and right (east) on Forest Road 435 for 1 mile.
The road to the campground includes gravel, sand, and larger sharp stones, with multiple user reviews mentioning challenges such as punctures and uneven paths. Additionally, it involves a long 2.5-mile bumpy dirt road to reach the campground.Nearby places
Washburn (8 miles), Bayfield, Ashland
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be sourced from Washburn, approximately 8 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.4
19 reviews
Birch Grove Recreation Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users generally praise the peaceful and scenic environment of Birch Grove Recreation Area. Comments highlight its suitability for kayaking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. However, some reviewers note challenges such as rough access roads and reduced privacy due to storm damage.
Review Summaries
Based on 19 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include large and well-maintained campsites, clean vault toilets, proximity to hiking and biking trails, and scenic lakes. Many users appreciate the quiet and rustic atmosphere.
Based on 19 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints focus on the rough, stony access roads that may cause tire damage, the difficulty of using the water pump, and the lack of tree cover and privacy due to storm damage.
Based on 19 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing your own water due to difficulty with the pump, preparing for rustic conditions, and using a bicycle for easier access to nearby recreation areas.
Based on 19 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular time for camping, with activities like berry picking and swimming. Reviewers note challenges related to storm cleanup and open campsites during spring and fall.
Based on 19 reviewsCamper Quotes
"A nice place to spend a night while visiting the Bayfield peninsula." - Greg Krueger; "Perfect for kayaking around." - Erin Manley; "If you enjoy four-wheeling, this is a definite place to stay." -...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Some sites are described as more open and less private due to storm damage. Specific site numbers are not provided.
Based on 19 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility for disabled campers.
Based on 19 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies or experiences are not explicitly reviewed.
Based on 19 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated August 10, 2025
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