How much does camping cost at Laura Lake Campground?

Camping fees at Laura Lake Campground range from $15/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Laura Lake Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Laura Lake Campground 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 Laura Lake Campground before I book?

Yes! Laura Lake Campground has 3 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 Laura Lake Campground?

Laura Lake Campground is open April 30 to October 13. 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 Laura Lake Campground?

Laura Lake Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Laura Lake Campground?

Fire policies at Laura Lake Campground: All firewood brought into the campground must be harvested within 10 miles of the campground.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Laura Lake Campground have?

Laura Lake Campground has 41 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Laura Lake Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Laura Lake Campground. 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 Laura Lake Campground?

Laura Lake Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Laura Lake Campground

4.45

103 reviews

4978 Highway 8 West

Top 20% in WISummer

Romantic GetawayPeace & QuietStargazingSummer Destination

Featured in:Primitive Camping Wisconsin#3 Primitive Camping Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Wisconsin +13 more

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,545 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

41 campsites

Season

Reservations are ava...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on U.S.D.A Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,545 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

41 campsites

Season

Reservations are ava...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on U.S.D.A Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Laura Lake Campground

$15.00 - $15.00 / night

Campsite Fees

STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $15.00; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $15.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(715) 674-4481evan.miller@usda.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

4978 Highway 8 West

Laura Lake Campground

4978 Highway 8 West

Nearby places

Armstrong Creek (approx. 5 miles, 10-minute drive)

Iron Mountain, MI (approx. 40 miles, 40-minute drive)

Laona (approx. 14 miles, 20-minute drive).

Weather at Laura Lake Campground

Current alerts(5)

Laura Lake is restricted to electric boat motors use only.
Privately owned ATV's, UTV's, and Golf Carts are not allowed to be operated within the campground.
Some of the sites are first-come, first-served.
There are no electric site hook-ups at this facility.

Best Time to Camp at Laura Lake Campground

Best season: summer. Summer offers the warmest, most reliable weather for swimming, paddling, and lakefront relaxation — daytime highs typically range from the mid-70s to low-80s°F (24–28°C) with cool nights in the 50s–60s°F (10–18°C). Lake conditions are at their peak for boating (electric-motor and paddlecraft), fishing for panfish and walleye, and long days on the trails; loons, songbirds, and abundant wildlife are most active. Expect moderate crowds in July–early August and reserve campsites in advance for best- Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 20% in WI

Peak season: warm days, water good for swimming; busiest time but best conditions for activities.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 30 to October 13. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Reservations are available during May 22 to September 01 (Peak Season), with first-come-first-served availability extending until October 14.

About Laura Lake Campground

Laura Lake Campground sits in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest near Laona, Wisconsin, offering lakefront tent, RV, and primitive camping managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The mid-sized campground provides access to a swim beach, electric-motor boating, and fishing for panfish and walleye, with spacious, wooded sites that feel private despite the seasonal popularity. Reviewers consistently praise clean vault toilets and well-maintained trails, though generator noise during quiet hours remains a common complaint.

Laura Lake Campground offers a range of primitive camping options, including spaces for tents and RVs up to 30 feet. The absence of electric, water, and sewer hookups emphasizes a back-to-nature experience. Tent-only sites and reservable campsites are available alongside first-come, first-served options.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the warmest, most reliable weather for swimming, paddling, and lakefront relaxation — daytime highs typically range from the mid-70s to low-80s°F (24–28°C) with cool nights in the 50s–60s°F (10–18°C). Lake conditions are at their peak for boating (electric-motor and paddlecraft), fishing for panfish and walleye, and long days on the trails; loons, songbirds, and abundant wildlife are most active. Expect moderate crowds in July–early August and reserve campsites in advance for best- Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation1545 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies the southwest shore of Laura Lake at 1,545 feet elevation, surrounded by mature deciduous forest. Both lakes have undeveloped shorelines and clear water. The first loop features older-growth trees that provide better shade and a thicker canopy. Two boat launches provide lake access. Reviews consistently mention loons, active wildlife around the shorelines, and the reflective quality of the water in early morning. The forest here is classic northwoods hardwood, not the pine you'd find farther north.

Lodging & AccommodationsOnly primitive camping accommodations are available; no hotel-style lodges are on-site.

Programs & ActivitiesInformation about cultural or educational programs is not provided.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Most sites can accommodate campers as long as 30 feet and longer, with ample space for multiple guests per site.

Groups

No group-specific camping areas are explicitly mentioned.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov, the contact center, or in person at the campground.

AccessibilityAccessibility information is not explicitly mentioned in the provided data.

Site SizeThe campsites can accommodate a range of setups, including large RVs up to 30 feet long and tent spaces.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by location within the campground. Reviews indicate that the first loop offers more mature old-growth forest and closer proximity to the lake, while other reviewers noted that some sites are "spacious," and others are "right next to each other.

Total Campsites41 campsites

Recommended SitesBring bug spray and water for long hikes. Sites in the first loop are best for lake views and privacy. Families may prefer Gordon Lake for its child-friendly swim beach.

Best CampsitesSites 1-15 in the first loop get the most requests. They're closer to the lake and shaded by older trees. Lakeside sites offer the best water access. The second loop stays quieter, especially midweek, though some sites there sit close together with less privacy.

Need help booking Laura Lake Campground?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

There are no electric site hook-ups at this facility.

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Laura Lake Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and hiking. The scenic 2.25-mile hiking trail around Laura Lake and a 6.5-mile bike trail for biking enthusiasts are notable highlights. Activities such as beach enjoyment, wildlife viewing, and bass fishing are commonly appreciated by campers.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at this campground. Clean vault toilets are provided instead, which are frequently praised for their tidiness in user reviews.

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.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Trip Planning Tools

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Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.5

103 reviews

Recommended

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

Laura Lake Campground is highly rated for its natural beauty, cleanliness, and tranquility. Many reviewers praise the clear lakes, wooded campsites, and spacious layouts. Several mentioned the lack of amenities like showers or dump stations as a trade-off for the serene environment.

Review Summaries

Based on 103 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 103 reviews.

Site 39Mentioned
Site 39 received mixed reviews, with one user complaining about generator noise, while another praised the site's tranquility.
Site 24Mentioned
Site 24 was noted for its privacy but was affected by the poor condition of the road.

What Campers Love

Frequent mentions of clean vault toilets, private and spacious campsites, and a well-maintained environment. The beach and hiking trails are also highly praised.

Based on 103 reviews

Common Concerns

Issues with generator noise were highlighted in several reviews. Some mentioned the poor condition of the road leading to the campground and the need for more modern amenities.

Based on 103 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring bug spray, flashlights, and supplies, as the nearest town is several miles away. Portable showers and additional batteries are recommended due to the lack of electrical hookups.

Based on 103 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is busiest during summer holidays, with quieter experiences in the off-season. Users consistently enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility throughout the year.

Based on 103 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The night sky is beyond beautiful and you must sleep there to actually experience this place." "Fishing was OK, lots of small bass." "The vault toilets are clean, and the beach is great for kids."...

Based on 103 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs are welcome but restricted from the swimming area. A pet-friendly boat launch is available, and several users noted enjoying the trip with their pets.

Based on 103 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want a clean, wooded lakefront campground with swimming, fishing, and trails at a reasonable rate.

Skip if

You need a quiet campground with strict generator rules or full hookups for extended RV stays.

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Campgrounds

Chequamegon-Nicolet NF

Laura Lake Campground

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Laura Lake Campground sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

<p>With two beautiful clear water lakes, undeveloped shoreline, Laura Lake Campground provides an exceptional camping opportunity.</p><p>Campsites are located on the southwestern shore of 110-acre Laura Lake. The picnic and swim beach are located on the adjacent 50-acre Gordon Lake. Both lakes have developed back-in boat landings. Please note these lakes are restricted to electric motors only.</p><p>The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest has an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities. Those most enjoyed at Laura Lake are fishing, swimming, kayaking, canoeing and hiking the trail that goes around the lake.</p><p>The 2.25 mile hiking trail passes through a forest of northern hardwoods, hemlocks, and balsams. Bring your binoculars as there are frequent observations of loons and osprey on this quiet lake, which is restricted to electric motors only. A bench is located along the shoreline at the half-way point. A short walk to the north leads to a small bog lake that you may want to explore. Look for the blue reassurance markers that designate this trail.</p><p>The area also provides a 6.5 mile bike trail that runs along the old Lake 9 railroad grade.</p><p>Laura Lake Campground has 41 sites. A majority of sites can accommodate campers as long as 30 feet and longer. Drinking water, vault toilets, swim beach, picnic area and a boat landing are also provided at this location. All roads are paved with blacktop.</p><p>Both Laura and Gordon Lakes provide good fishing opportunities.</p>

About the campground

The elevation is 1,440 ft. The campground, between Gordon and Laura lakes, has its swimming beach on Gordon Lake, campsites along Laura Lake, and boat ramps on both. Some of the sites do overlook Laura Lake in a pleasant mixture of hardwoods. The Laura Lake Trail provides a scenic stroll around the lake.

Seasons & access

Open May 25 through September 3

Facilities

The water spigots are hand pumps.

Water activities

Laura Lake is 110 acres with sand and grass beach. Power boats are limited to electric motors.

RV information

The parking aprons are dirt and gravel.

Directions

From Armstrong Creek, WI, take US Rt. 8 west 1.9 miles to Forest Rt. 2163. Turn right onto Rt. 2163 and go 4 miles to campground.

National Forest: Nicolet National Forest
Ranger District: Laona
Elevation: 1440
Rate: $12 per day
Maximum Stay: 14
Open Season: May 2 – October 15

About Chequamegon-Nicolet NF

Context for the broader area surrounding Laura Lake Campground, sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/cnnf/?cid=STELPRD3791205"><img alt="Campsite photo with a camper and chairs set up." src="http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_MEDIA/fseprd628634.png" style="width: 518px; height: 291px;"/></a></p> <table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width:500px;"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/cnnf/recreation/camping-cabins"><img alt="Camping button with an illustration of a tent." src="http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_MEDIA/fseprd576367.png" style="width: 125px; height: 125px;"/></a></td> <td><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/cnnf/recreation/hiking"><img alt="Explore trails are found across the forest. Click to check conditions." src="http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_MEDIA/fseprd576370.png" style="width: 125px; height: 125px;"/></a></td> <td><a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/cnnf/?cid=STELPRDB5110152"><img alt="Button with an illustration of a map for maps and publications." src="http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_MEDIA/fseprd576371.png" style="width: 125px; height: 125px;"/></a></td> <td><a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/cnnf/?cid=STELPRDB5130790"><img alt="Button with an illustration of a pass for the passes and permits page." src="http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_MEDIA/fseprd576372.png" style="width: 125px; height: 125px;"/></a></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>Unplug and reconnect to the largest expanse of public lands under one ownership in northern Wisconsin. Explore the more than 1.5 million acres of water and woodlands year- round motorized trail riding, water and land-based sports and the solitude of quiet campgrounds. </p> <h3>Top Spring Recreation Areas</h3> <table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width:500px;"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/cnnf/recarea/?recid=27959">Ed's Lake Trail</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/cnnf/recarea/?recid=27853">Valhalla Recreation Area</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/cnnf/recarea/?recid=27827">Wintergreen Trail</a></li> </ul> </td> <td> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/cnnf/recarea/?recid=27759">Rock Lake Trail</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/cnnf/recarea/?recid=27751">Mukwonago Trail</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/cnnf/recarea/?recid=27859">Anvil Lake Recreation Area</a></li> </ul> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>To view recreation features on the map below ...</p> <p>Zoom in on the map to the area that you want to visit and then select the specific site you want to visit such as a campground, cross-country ski area, etc. Once selected, you can click on the individual sites recreation page to learn more about that area.</p> <p><a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/cnnf/?cid=FSEPRD640106">2019 Recreation Fee Proposal</a></p>