Boot Lake Campground

4.36

112 reviews

15085 State Highway 32, Lakewood, WI, 54138, USA

Summer Destination

Featured in:Primitive Camping Wisconsin Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Wisconsin

Quick Facts

1,371 ft

Price

$18/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

34 campsites

Season

Peak season: May 22 ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens U.S.D.A Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

1,371 ft

Price

$18/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

34 campsites

Season

Peak season: May 22 ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens U.S.D.A Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Boot Lake Campground

$18.00 - $18.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The nightly rate for standard non-electric campsites is $18. This fee remains consistent across both peak and non-peak seasons. Additional charges...

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

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

715-276-6333bruether@fs.fed.us

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What Campers Say

4.36

Recommended

Based on 112 reviews

79 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanlakebeachwell-maintained

Some mention

noise

"User reviews are generally positive, highlighting the campground's cleanliness, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities. Some concerns are noted about noise from generators and construction."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

15085 State Highway 32, Lakewood, WI, 54138, USA

Boot Lake Campground

15085 State Highway 32, Lakewood, WI, 54138, USA

Driving directionsFrom the intersection of Highway 32 and County Road T in Townsend, drive south on T 5.6 miles to the campground.

All roads leading to Boot Lake Campground are paved, ensuring good accessibility for vehicles. Seasonal closures or challenging terrain are not indicated.

Nearby places

Townsend (5.6 miles, approximately 10 minutes drive).

Nearby supplies

The local community of Townsend, just north of the campground, provides access to groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.

Best Time to Camp at Boot Lake Campground

Experience Boot Lake's distinct seasonal personalities throughout the year. Summer unfolds with crystal-clear skies and warm temperatures that beckon swimmers and paddlers to the water. As autumn arrives, the surrounding hardwoods burst into flame-colored canopies while crisp air signals prime camping conditions. Winter brings a hushed tranquility with occasional dustings of snow transforming the landscape into a serene wonderland. Spring emerges gradually, with moderate temperatures perfect for exploring awakening trails. Late fall adventurers should pack extra layers and rain gear as temperatures drop and precipitation increases, adding a refreshing wildness to the camping experience.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 23% in WI

Peak season for swimming, paddling and scuba; crystal‑clear water and warm weather draw crowds.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Autumn offers foliage, hiking and fewer crowds; good scenic appeal noted for fall.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Should be good for quieter hiking and fishing in shoulder season; fewer reviews reference spring.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Cross‑country skiing possible but little review data on winter camping or services.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 22 to September 1.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Peak season: May 22 to September 1. First-come-first-served season: September 2 to November 30.
Current Alerts: No active alerts are currently listed.

About Boot Lake Campground

Discover your perfect wilderness retreat at Boot Lake Campground, where 263 acres of pristine water mirror the towering pines and hardwoods of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. This hidden gem welcomes adventurers with 34 thoughtfully spaced campsites along smooth paved roads, including intimate tent-only spots and spacious sites for RVs up to 30 feet. Whether you're diving into the crystal-clear depths, casting a line at dawn, or simply floating beneath endless skies, Boot Lake offers that rare combination of accessibility and seclusion. With a sandy swim beach, convenient boat launch, and peaceful picnic areas, this is where families create memories and solo travelers find solitude—all just a paddle stroke away from your next adventure.

Boot Lake Campground offers a mix of tent and RV camping options, with some sites designated as first-come, first-served. Group camping is also available.

Historical SignificanceBoot Lake's story is one of resilience and renewal. This beloved camping destination has weathered both time and tempest, most notably surviving a powerful tornado in 2019 that swept through the forest, temporarily closing the grounds but ultimately inspiring a thoughtful restoration. Today's visitors discover a campground that honors its rustic heritage while embracing careful improvements. Long-time campers speak fondly of Boot Lake's authentic character—a place where generations have cast their first fishing lines, learned to paddle, and discovered the simple joy of campfire conversations under star-filled skies.

Weather and SeasonsExperience Boot Lake's distinct seasonal personalities throughout the year. Summer unfolds with crystal-clear skies and warm temperatures that beckon swimmers and paddlers to the water. As autumn arrives, the surrounding hardwoods burst into flame-colored canopies while crisp air signals prime camping conditions. Winter brings a hushed tranquility with occasional dustings of snow transforming the landscape into a serene wonderland. Spring emerges gradually, with moderate temperatures perfect for exploring awakening trails. Late fall adventurers should pack extra layers and rain gear as temperatures drop and precipitation increases, adding a refreshing wildness to the camping experience.

ElevationNestled within the gently rolling landscape of northern Wisconsin's lake country, Boot Lake Campground offers comfortable camping at forest elevations that provide natural cooling breezes and excellent drainage for a pleasant stay in any weather.

Natural Features and SceneryPerched on the northwest shore of Boot Lake, the campground immerses visitors in a stunning tapestry of towering pines and mature hardwoods that frame spectacular water views. The lake itself is a natural treasure—its remarkably clear waters reveal sandy bottoms that gradually slope to depths of 38 feet, creating ideal habitats for diverse fish species and perfect conditions for swimming and diving. Meandering streams feed into the lake, while forest trails wind through the surrounding wilderness, connecting campers to hidden coves and scenic overlooks. This pristine ecosystem showcases Wisconsin's northwoods at their finest, where morning mists rise from the water and evening light filters through the canopy in golden streams.

Geological RegionBoot Lake Campground rests within the magnificent Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, a landscape sculpted by ancient glaciers into today's paradise of lakes and rolling forests. The campground's position overlooking Boot Lake—a stunning 38-foot deep glacial gem—showcases the region's geological heritage. Here, massive ice sheets once carved the basins that now cradle crystal-clear waters, while depositing the rich soils that nourish the surrounding mixed forest of stately hardwoods and evergreen pines. This is classic Wisconsin northwoods terrain, where the bedrock foundation supports a thriving ecosystem that has captivated outdoor enthusiasts for generations.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in begins at 11:00 AM.

Check-out

Check-out is required by noon.

Stay Limit

Boot Lake Campground has a stay limit of up to 14 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum number of guests per individual site is not specified.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops and includes sites with varying levels of privacy and access to amenities.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov (online, mobile app, or contact center).

Walk-in AvailabilitySites available for walk-up/first-come-first-served include numbers 3,4,6,7,9,11,13,15,20,21,23,24, and 27. Generally, fill patterns are not described.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made anytime before arrival. Late cancellations (starting from midnight 1 calendar day before check-in) incur a $10 cancellation fee plus forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee. Modifications outside original reservation dates also require a $10 change fee.

AccessibilityThe campground does not explicitly mention accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.

Site SizeMany sites can accommodate campers up to 30 feet, but there are also tent-only sites. Several reviews note that some sites may be smaller than advertised or on steep inclines.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. Some reviewers mention secluded sites, while others highlight the lack of privacy, stating that sites are 'not super private.

Total Campsites34 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose campsites 8, 14, or 16 for larger spaces, proximity to the lake, and quieter experiences. Avoid sites with steep inclines or those that might require significant leveling.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Boot Lake Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities. Popular activities include swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, scuba diving, and hiking. The campground's proximity to the Jones Springs Non-Motorized Area and the Wolf River provides additional opportunities for hiking, hunting, rafting, and whitewater sports.

HikingHiking opportunities are abundant, with trails connecting the campground to the Jones Springs Non-Motorized Area. Additionally, the Cathedral Pines Trail is a nearby attraction.

FishingFishing is a highlight at Boot Lake, which contains walleye, northern pike, bass, musky, and panfish. Nearby streams also offer trout fishing.

SwimmingA sandy beach is available for swimming. The lake's clarity has made it a popular spot for scuba diving.

BoatingA boat landing is provided for campers, allowing for activities like kayaking and canoeing. User reviews appreciate the quietness of the lake during weekdays, making it ideal for water activities.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a noted activity, with one reviewer mentioning, 'Enjoyed the wildlife in the campsite area.'

Beach activitiesThe beach is described as clean and well-maintained, offering sunbathing and swimming opportunities.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsHazards include occasional loud generators and the presence of a tornado in 2019 that closed the campground temporarily.

Active AlertsNo active alerts are currently listed.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed in designated fire rings, which include grates for cooking.

Emergency ServicesClosest emergency services are located in Lakewood, WI, including hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations.

Trash & RecyclingNo specific information on trash and recycling facilities is provided. User reviews do not mention trash or recycling services either.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to Boot Lake and provides access to a swim beach and boat landing. Nearby streams, rivers, and additional lakes support a variety of water-based activities.

Camp HostSite hosts are described as friendly and helpful, although some reviews note hosts enforcing early quiet hours.

Weather at Boot Lake Campground

Reviews

4.4

112 reviews

Recommended

Boot Lake Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are generally positive, highlighting the campground's cleanliness, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities. Some concerns are noted about noise from generators and construction.

Review Summaries

Based on 112 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean bathrooms, well-maintained beach, scenic lake, and ample recreational opportunities are frequently mentioned.

Based on 112 reviews

Common Concerns

Noise from generators, construction disturbances, and limited water access are among the complaints.

Based on 112 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visit the campground beforehand to choose a suitable site, as some are smaller or uneven. Bring extra water, as the hand pump at the beach is the only source.

Based on 112 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season, with heavy usage noted. Winter offers cross-country skiing opportunities, but no reviews specifically address winter camping.

Based on 112 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Love this place! Very quiet and relaxing... the bathroom is very clean, and the beach is very clean.' 2. 'This is a great place to go camping. The beach and lake are nicely set up with a lot of...

Based on 112 reviews