How much does camping cost at Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area?

Camping fees at Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area range from $7.5-$15/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Is Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area first-come first-served or reservation?

Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area operates on a first-come, first-served basis. All six sites are first-come, first-served. No reservations accepted.

Can I see photos of campsites at Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area before I book?

Yes! Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area has 9 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 Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area?

Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area is open Open from April 25 to November 30.. 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 Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area?

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

How many campsites does Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area have?

Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area has 6 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area?

Yes, pets are allowed at Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area?

Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area?

Popular activities at Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area

Q: Can I have a campfire at Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area?

Fire policies at Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area: Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings. Firewood must originate within 25 miles or be certified.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.30

30 reviews

1247 E. Wall St. Eagle River, WI 54521

Top 11% in WISpring

Peace & Quiet

Featured in:Hidden Gem Campgrounds Wisconsin Primitive Camping Wisconsin Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Wisconsin

Quick Facts

1,460 ft

Price

$7.5 - $15/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Open from April 25 t...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,460 ft

Price

$7.5 - $15/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Open from April 25 t...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area

$7.50 - $15.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Individual campsite fee is $15 per night, or $7.50 with the use of an Interagency pass (access or senior). The pass applies only to the fee for the...

Standard Site Fee$15.00

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USFS

Provider

715-479-2827sm.fs.cnnfadmin@usda.gov

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area

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Campground Map

1247 E. Wall St. Eagle River, WI 54521

Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area

1247 E. Wall St. Eagle River, WI 54521

Nearby places

Florence (20 miles, approximately 25 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Closest supplies are available in Florence, approximately 20 miles away, including groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.

Weather at Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area

Best Time to Camp at Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area

Fall brings the best conditions. Late September to early October delivers peak color in the aspen, birch, and hardwoods, with daytime highs in the mid-40s to mid-60s°F. Mornings are chilly, humidity drops, and mosquitoes mostly disappear. Fishing and wildlife viewing pick up as animals prepare for winter. With only six sites, fall crowds thin compared to summer. Spring offers comfortable temperatures and dry conditions. Winter transforms the area for cold-weather enthusiasts. Summer days warm up for river activities, but expect mosquitoes near stagnant water.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Fall called 'best' with peak aspen/birch color and ideal conditions for visits.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Open from April 25 to November 30.

About Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area

Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area sits along the Pine River in Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest with just six campsites. An artesian well provides fresh drinking water straight from the ground. Sites cost $7.50 to $15 per night and include fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets. The campground attracts anglers, paddlers, and hikers looking for river access and quiet.

Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area supports primitive tent camping and RV camping, with six campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Historical Significance

The Pine River carries a Wild River designation from the state, recognizing its undeveloped character. The adjacent Lauterman Lake Semi-Primitive Non-Motorized area preserves roadless wilderness.

Weather and SeasonsFall brings the best conditions. Late September to early October delivers peak color in the aspen, birch, and hardwoods, with daytime highs in the mid-40s to mid-60s°F. Mornings are chilly, humidity drops, and mosquitoes mostly disappear. Fishing and wildlife viewing pick up as animals prepare for winter. With only six sites, fall crowds thin compared to summer. Spring offers comfortable temperatures and dry conditions. Winter transforms the area for cold-weather enthusiasts. Summer days warm up for river activities, but expect mosquitoes near stagnant water.

ElevationThe gentle terrain of Chipmunk Rapids provides comfortable camping conditions, with the campground nestled at river level where the soothing sounds of flowing water create a natural soundtrack for your stay.

Natural Features and SceneryThe Pine River alternates between calm pools and lively rapids as it flows through mixed forest. Northern hardwoods blend with spruce-fir stands and aspen-birch ridges at 1,460 feet elevation. The river's clear water reflects the canopy overhead. Trails wind through the forest to the water's edge. The campground sits just south of the Lauterman Lake Semi-Primitive Non-Motorized area, a roadless zone that extends the wilderness feel.

Geological RegionChipmunk Rapids Recreation Area occupies a unique position along the Pine River, Michigan's celebrated Wild River that flows south of the pristine Lauterman Lake Semi-Primitive Non-Motorized area. This remarkable landscape showcases nature's diversity, where northern hardwood forests blend seamlessly with spruce-fir stands and sun-dappled aspen-birch ridges. The Pine River itself creates a dynamic ecosystem, alternating between tranquil pools perfect for quiet reflection and lively rapids that add energy to the wilderness soundscape.

Scenic ViewsScenic views of Pine River and access to nearby quiet water areas. Trails reveal picturesque landscapes and diverse ecosystems.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodging accommodations available at the Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area.

Programs & ActivitiesThe Assessor’s Interpretive Trail offers interpretive signage that explains the natural and cultural history of the area.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive days.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 8 people and 4 vehicles per site.

Groups

There are no designated group camping sites at this location.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutSix back-in sites with varying RV limits: sites 2, 3, 4, and 6 take 25-footers, site 1 takes 35 feet, site 5 takes 40 feet. Sites are well-spaced but open to the road, which limits privacy compared to other national forest campgrounds in the area.

Reservation PlatformsFirst-come, first-served basis. No online or advanced reservations available.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll six sites are first-come, first-served. No reservations accepted.

Cancellation PolicyNo reservations required as all sites are first-come, first-served.

Site SizeThe campground accommodates RVs with varying size restrictions: 25 feet (sites 2, 3, 4, 6), 35 feet (site 1), and 40 feet (site 5).

PrivacyThe campsites are reportedly well-spaced, though some reviews indicated they were open to the campground road and did not feel as private as others in the national forest.

Total Campsites6 campsites

Recommended SitesReviewers recommend bringing bottles to fill at the artesian well and choosing riverside sites for the best views and access.

Best CampsitesSite 5 handles RVs up to 40 feet, the largest in the campground. Sites are flat and clean according to reviews, though some visitors note they're open to the campground road. Reviewers mention bringing a hammock because the dirt at some sites is compacted.

Amenities available

The Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area provides essential amenities for a small, rustic campground. The campground offers an artesian well for potable water, fire rings, vault toilets, and picnic tables at each of its six campsites. Cell phone reception is reportedly poor, with one user specifically noting, 'nice quiet campground with zero Verizon coverage.' Reviewers frequently praised the artesian well's water quality, with one stating, 'the artesian aquifer makes this place stand out,' and another reviewing that it consistently pumps 16 gallons of clean, pure water per minute.

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Activities at Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area include hiking, fishing, paddling, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, and interpretive trails. The campground is located on the Pine River, a state-designated Wild River, which is popular for canoeing and trout fishing.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquitoes are common, especially near stagnant water. Wildlife includes bald eagles and loons. Stagnant water may attract insects.

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

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at this site.

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 PolicyCampfires are permitted within designated fire rings. Firewood must originate within 25 miles or be certified.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are managed by the Eagle River-Florence Ranger District. Closest services available in Florence.

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

Water FeaturesChipmunk Rapids Recreation Area is located directly on Pine River and near quiet water zones. Fishing and canoeing are popular activities.

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

30 reviews

Satisfactory

Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

The Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area is highly regarded for its artesian well, peaceful environment, and proximity to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and canoeing. Several users appreciated the flat and clean campsites, but noted limited privacy and mosquito concerns.

Review Summaries

Based on 30 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praised the artesian well for its clean water, the 'easy registration process,' and the availability of activities like hiking and canoeing. Many highlighted the quiet and serene environment,...

Based on 30 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users reported issues with site privacy, describing campsites as open to the campground road. Mosquitoes were noted as a concern due to stagnant water near campsites.

Based on 30 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 5 is noted for accommodating RVs up to 40 feet. Campsites are generally well-spaced but lack privacy due to being open to the campground road.

Based on 30 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring bottles to fill with artesian well water. Reviewers recommend this campground for its peace and solitude, but suggest bringing a hammock due to compacted dirt at some campsites.

Based on 30 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews highlight the variety of outdoor activities and the artesian well as a major attraction. Fall reviews focus on the peace and quiet, while winter reviews emphasize the cross-country...

Based on 30 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Nice quiet campground with zero Verizon coverage 😁 Artesian well! Nice river path.' - Esther Moore. 2. 'Don't bring any water! The Artesian well here continuously pumps 16 gallons of clean, pure...

Based on 30 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and one user mentioned enjoying the river with their dogs.

Based on 30 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Paddlers and trout anglers who want direct Pine River access without a reservation system to fight. Fall weekend campers get peak color, no mosquitoes, and a real shot at a site. Site 5 fits rigs up to 40 feet if you're bringing a trailer.

Skip if

No cell signal at all, Verizon especially. Sites sit open to the campground road, so if privacy matters, other Nicolet campgrounds will serve you better. Supplies are 20 miles out in Florence, so arrive stocked.

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4.4

(83)

Lost Lake Campground (Wi)

U S D A FOREST SERVICE, 1247 E. WALL ST., Eagle River, WI, 54521, USA

Lost Lake Campground sits in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest near Eagle River, Wisconsin, operated by the U.S. Forest Service. The small campground offers tent, RV, and primitive sites with vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings. Visitors fish, boat, and bike around the lake, and wildlife viewing is common in the surrounding forest.

Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Plan a trip to Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area

Campground Map

Weather at Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area

Best Time to Camp at Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area

Planning Tips

About Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

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

Plan a trip to Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area

Best Time to Camp at Chipmunk Rapids Recreation Area

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews