How much does camping cost at Birch Grove Recreation Area?

Camping fees at Birch Grove Recreation Area range from $7.5-$15/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Birch Grove Recreation Area first-come first-served or reservation?

Birch Grove Recreation Area accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Birch Grove Recreation Area before I book?

Yes! Birch Grove Recreation Area has 2 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Birch Grove Recreation Area?

Birch Grove Recreation Area is open Not explicitly provided.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Birch Grove Recreation Area?

Birch Grove Recreation Area does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Birch Grove Recreation Area?

Fire policies at Birch Grove Recreation Area: Firewood must originate within 25 miles unless certified.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Is there cell service at Birch Grove Recreation Area?

Cell phone service at Birch Grove Recreation Area is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Birch Grove Recreation Area have?

Birch Grove Recreation Area has 22 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Birch Grove Recreation Area?

Pets are not allowed at Birch Grove Recreation Area. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Birch Grove Recreation Area?

Birch Grove Recreation Area offers: Restrooms, Potable Water. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Birch Grove Recreation Area

4.25

48 reviews

113 East Bayfield St. Washburn, WI 54891

Summer Destination

Featured in:Primitive Camping Wisconsin

Quick Facts

1,145 ft

Price

$7.5 - $15/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

22 campsites

Season

Open from May 2 to O...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,145 ft

Price

$7.5 - $15/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

22 campsites

Season

Open from May 2 to O...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Birch 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...

Standard Site Fee$15.00

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USFS

Provider

715-373-2667sm.fs.cnnfadmin@usda.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

113 East Bayfield St. Washburn, WI 54891

Birch Grove Recreation Area

113 East Bayfield St. Washburn, WI 54891

Nearby places

Washburn (8 miles), Bayfield, Ashland

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be sourced from Washburn, approximately 8 miles away.

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.

Weather at Birch Grove Recreation Area

Best Time to Camp at Birch Grove Recreation Area

Summer brings daytime highs of 65 to 80°F, with cooler lake breezes dropping nighttime temperatures into the 50s. July and August deliver the best conditions for swimming and paddling, along with calm waters for fishing and accessible trails. Afternoon thunderstorms appear occasionally. Winter transforms the area for snow sports, though summer remains the primary camping season. Late spring through early autumn provides comfortable temperatures and long daylight.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer (65–80°F) is best for swimming, paddling and calm lake conditions; most popular season.

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

Birch Grove Recreation Area sits between East and West Twin Lakes on the Bayfield Peninsula, offering 22 sites for tent and RV camping. Rates run $7.50 to $15 per night. The campground provides vault toilets, potable water, and direct access to two lakes popular for kayaking and fishing.

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.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings daytime highs of 65 to 80°F, with cooler lake breezes dropping nighttime temperatures into the 50s. July and August deliver the best conditions for swimming and paddling, along with calm waters for fishing and accessible trails. Afternoon thunderstorms appear occasionally. Winter transforms the area for snow sports, though summer remains the primary camping season. Late spring through early autumn provides comfortable temperatures and long daylight.

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 SceneryThe campground occupies a landscape shaped by recent storms. Woodlands recovering from wind damage create open areas mixed with surviving timber, and berry meadows thrive in the increased sunlight. East and West Twin Lakes frame the recreation area at 1,145 feet elevation. The storm-cleared terrain offers views that weren't possible before the blowdown, though some campers miss the denser forest cover that once provided more privacy between sites.

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.

Scenic ViewsSites have views of East and West Twin Lakes. Some sites offer direct lake access.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodgings or cabins available on-site; the campground focuses on primitive and rustic camping.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

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 camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutLarge gravel pads accommodate RVs up to 35 feet. Each site includes a defined parking spur, fire ring, picnic table, and in some cases a tent pad. Storm damage has opened up spacing between sites more than in previous years, reducing the secluded feel some campers remember.

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.

AccessibilityAccessibility information for campers with disabilities is not detailed in the provided materials.

Site SizeSites are described as large, with gravel pads suitable for RVs up to 35 feet. Specific site dimensions are not detailed.

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 SitesChoose sites near East or West Twin Lake for better views and privacy.

Best CampsitesSites with lake views or direct access to East and West Twin Lakes get the highest ratings from campers. Several reviewers mention specific sites near the water as worth requesting.

Need help booking Birch Grove Recreation Area?

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When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

The Birch Grove Recreation Area offers a rustic camping experience with a focus on natural surroundings and basic amenities. Each campsite includes a defined parking spur, fire ring, picnic table, and some also have tent pads. The campground provides potable water via a hand pump, but some user reviews caution that it is difficult to use and may have high manganese levels. There are four vault toilets available, described as clean and well-maintained. Showers are not available, and there are no electric, water, or sewer hookups. Campers can access the lakes for swimming and non-motorized boating. A small picnic area is located near East Twin Lake. Cell phone reception is reportedly better than in nearby towns, especially for AT&T users.

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

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

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRoad conditions include gravel and sharp stones. Storm damage has left some areas with minimal vegetation.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at Birch Grove. Vault toilets are provided and described as clean, well-maintained, and odor-free as long as lids remain closed.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyFirewood must originate within 25 miles unless certified.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Generators can operate between 7 AM and 10 PM.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are located in Washburn, WI, approximately 8 miles away, including ranger services at the Washburn Ranger District office.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the provided materials.

Water FeaturesLocated between East and West Twin Lakes, with swimming areas and non-motorized boating access.

Cell CoverageCell phone reception is noted as better than in nearby Washburn, Bayfield, and Ashland, particularly for AT&T users. However, coverage details for other providers are not provided.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.3

48 reviews

Satisfactory

Birch Grove Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% 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 48 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 48 reviews

Common 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 48 reviews

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 48 reviews

Pro 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 48 reviews

Seasonal 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 48 reviews

Camper 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 48 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically address accessibility for disabled campers.

Based on 48 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet policies or experiences are not explicitly reviewed.

Based on 48 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Kayakers and kayak-fishers targeting bass and pike on East and West Twin Lakes will get the most out of this place. At $8-$15 a night with large gravel pads that fit RVs to 35 feet, it punches well above its price for a national forest site.

Skip if

The rough, stone-strewn access road has damaged tires in reviewer reports, and storm blowdown has stripped out most of the tree cover between sites. Campers who want shade, privacy, or a real swimming beach should look at Long Lake Recreation Area instead.

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Wanoka Lake Recreation Area

Wanoka Lake Recreation Area, Washburn Ranger District, Wisconsin

Wanoka Lake Recreation Area sits in Chequamegon National Forest near Iron River, offering 19 first-come, first-served campsites around a 15-acre lake. Sites run $6-15 per night and accommodate RVs up to 35 feet. The campground has no host, so expect a quiet, self-managed experience with occasional ATV noise from nearby trails.

Birch Grove Recreation Area

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Plan a trip to Birch Grove Recreation Area

Campground Map

Weather at Birch Grove Recreation Area

Best Time to Camp at Birch Grove Recreation Area

Planning Tips

About Birch Grove Recreation Area

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Birch Grove Recreation Area?

Amenities available

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Go if

Skip if

Overview

About the campground

Seasons & access

Facilities

Water activities

RV information

Directions

Plan a trip to Birch Grove Recreation Area

Best Time to Camp at Birch Grove Recreation Area

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Birch Grove Recreation Area?

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews