Perch Lake Recreation Area
4.076 reviewsQuick Facts
Price
$15/night
Booking
Walk-in Only
Sites
16 campsites
Season
The campground is op...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$15/night
Booking
Walk-in Only
Sites
16 campsites
Season
The campground is op...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsPerch Lake Recreation Area
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly fee for staying at Perch Lake Campground is $15. This fee does not include discounts, taxes, or additional charges and applies uniformly...
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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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ProviderWhat Campers Say
4.07
Satisfactory
Based on 6 reviews
20 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewsquietcleanwater
Some mention
cell service
"Campers generally praise Perch Lake Campground for its quiet, well-maintained environment and its rustic charm. It is described as an affordable and peaceful retreat with a family-friendly atmosphere. However, its limited facilities and lack of a proper swim area are noted as drawbacks."
Fees & Passes at Perch Lake Recreation Area
$15/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay limit is up to 14 nights per visit.
Cancellation: Reservations cannot be made, as the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Prices verified December 7, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official USDA Forest Service website.
Best Time to Camp at Perch Lake Recreation Area
From late May's awakening wildflowers through early October's spectacular fall foliage, Perch Lake Campground welcomes visitors to experience the rhythms of the northern forest. Summer days bring comfortable temperatures perfect for swimming and hiking, while cool evenings invite cozy gatherings around the campfire. The campground has earned a devoted following among those who cherish its profound quietude and unspoiled rustic character. Peak season visitors enjoy reliably pleasant weather with predominantly dry conditions, making it ideal for both tent camping enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat from modern life's constant connectivity.
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: May 23, 2025 - September 01, 2025. First-come, first-served season: September 02, 2025 - October 13, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: The campground is open seasonally between May 23, 2025, and October 13, 2025, although exact dates are subject to slight variance annually.
About Perch Lake Recreation Area
Tucked away in Wisconsin's northwoods, Perch Lake Campground beckons families and nature lovers to its intimate collection of 16 campsites thoughtfully arranged in two loops that embrace the serene waters of Perch Lake. This hidden gem offers an authentic back-to-nature experience where the pace slows down and the forest whispers replace the urban hum. Here, generations gather around crackling campfires, children discover the magic of catching their first fish, and the simple pleasure of a morning paddle across mirror-still water becomes the day's greatest adventure.
Perch Lake Campground accommodates a mix of tent and RV campers, though the facilities lean towards a more rustic camping experience. There are no group or luxury camping options available.
Weather and SeasonsFrom late May's awakening wildflowers through early October's spectacular fall foliage, Perch Lake Campground welcomes visitors to experience the rhythms of the northern forest. Summer days bring comfortable temperatures perfect for swimming and hiking, while cool evenings invite cozy gatherings around the campfire. The campground has earned a devoted following among those who cherish its profound quietude and unspoiled rustic character. Peak season visitors enjoy reliably pleasant weather with predominantly dry conditions, making it ideal for both tent camping enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat from modern life's constant connectivity.
ElevationPerched at the gentle elevations characteristic of Northern Wisconsin's rolling forest landscape, the campground offers the perfect balance of accessibility and wilderness immersion. The terrain provides just enough variation to create interesting vistas and diverse ecosystems while remaining comfortable for campers of all ages and abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living cathedral of towering hemlocks, sugar maples, and white pines that filter the sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The campground's crown jewel, Perch Lake, sparkles through the trees, its waters teeming with feisty trout, abundant panfish, and impressive largemouth bass that make every cast an adventure. Morning mists rise from the lake's surface while loons call across the water, and the surrounding forest comes alive with birdsong, creating an ever-changing natural symphony that defines the authentic northwoods experience.
Geological RegionPerch Lake Campground sits within the vast expanse of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, where ancient glaciers carved a landscape of pristine lakes and rolling hills now blanketed in magnificent northern hardwood forests. This ecological treasure trove showcases Wisconsin's wilderness at its finest, with dense stands of hemlock groves, towering pines, and diverse hardwoods creating a complex tapestry of habitats. The surrounding forest offers endless opportunities for exploration, from hidden waterfalls to wildlife-rich wetlands, all connected by a network of trails that reveal the subtle beauty of this remarkable northern ecosystem.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are noted, such as ADA-compliant sites or pathways.
Sites SizeSome campsites can accommodate RVs up to 35 feet, but many sites are more suited for smaller setups or tent camping.
Sites PrivacySites are described as private and wooded, with no open field sites. "A special quiet and beautiful well-kept campground," emphasizes a user.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSelect sites near the lake for proximity to fishing and boat launch access. Bring firewood harvested within 10 miles, drinking water (if preferred), and supplies.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- First-come, first-served
- no specific check-in hours noted.
Check-out
Sites must be vacated by noon on the day following an arrival date if unoccupied.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is up to 14 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each occupancy site allows up to 8 persons and one vehicle. Additional vehicles or towed units may be allowed up to three, space permitting.
Groups
Group camping is not available at this facility.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of two loops. The North Loop includes 10 sites and amenities such as a toilet building, water, and a boat launch. The South Loop has 6 sites and is quieter.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open seasonally between May 23, 2025, and October 13, 2025, although exact dates are subject to slight variance annually.
Reservation PlatformsNot reservable; first-come, first-served only.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites operate on a walk-up availability basis. There is no guarantee of site availability upon arrival.
Cancellation PolicyReservations cannot be made, as the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides access to a variety of outdoor activities aimed at nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Boating is supported by the presence of a boat ramp, and the lake is frequented by fishers due to its trout, panfish, and largemouth bass. While swimming is possible, the lake's shoreline has vegetation, making it less ideal. "The shoreline at Perch Lake isn’t great for swimming due to some vegetation...but is swimmable nonetheless," says a reviewer.
Hiking
Trails are located directly across the road from the campground, providing opportunities for hiking within the nearby wilderness. "Trails suitable for hiking can be found directly across the road," according to a review.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with trout, panfish, and largemouth bass available. "The lake is excellent for bluegill," says one review.Swimming
The lake is swimmable but not ideal due to shore vegetation. "The description mentions a swim area. There is no swim area," highlights one user.Boating
A developed boat ramp provides access to the 72-acre lake, making it suitable for non-motorized and small boating activities.Wildlife viewing
The area offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, as it is situated in a wooded and natural environment.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, but the campground is not open during the winter season.Water Sports
Water sports are limited to kayaking and paddle boating on the 72-acre lake. Fishing remains the primary water-based activity.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within fire rings provided at each site. Firewood should be sourced locally to prevent invasive species spread.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned, although reviewers describe the campground as quiet and peaceful.
Hazards
General hazardsLimited cell service was noted by reviewers. Water quality in the lake is swimmable but includes vegetation that may deter some swimmers.
Weather at Perch Lake Recreation Area
-8
°F
Dec 8
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 62%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Emergency services are likely located in Drummond (~5.5 miles away). Specific emergency services such as hospitals or ranger stations were not mentioned in the source materials.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 01, 2025. First-come, first-served season: September 02, 2025 - October 13, 2025.
Trash and recyclingNo specific mention of trash collection facilities is provided; campers are advised to bring enough supplies as stores are 7-8 miles away.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground surrounds Perch Lake, a 72-acre lake known for fishing and boating. Swimming opportunities exist but are not ideal due to vegetative growth.
Common complaintsThe lack of a designated swimming area despite being mentioned in descriptions. Limited cell service and rustic facilities were also noted.
HostUSFS staff and volunteers manage the campground. Reviewers praise the well-maintained facilities and emphasize thanking staff for their work.
Campground Map
Driving directionsLocated approximately 5.5 miles north of Drummond on Forest Road 223 (Delta Drummond Road). From Drummond, drive north 5.5 miles on FR223 to reach the campground entrances.
The campground is accessed via Delta Drummond Road, which is a forest road. Road conditions are not explicitly mentioned, although the area is described as less visited and thus likely to have low traffic.Nearby places
Drummond (5.5 miles, ~10 minutes)
Namekagon Lake (~11 miles, ~20 minutes).
Nearby supplies
The closest supplies, including groceries and firewood, are likely in Drummond (5.5 miles away). Reviewers indicated that stores are approximately 7-8 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.1
6 reviews
Perch Lake Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Campers generally praise Perch Lake Campground for its quiet, well-maintained environment and its rustic charm. It is described as an affordable and peaceful retreat with a family-friendly atmosphere. However, its limited facilities and lack of a proper swim area are noted as drawbacks.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews often mention the cleanliness and maintenance of the facilities, the quiet and private atmosphere, and the availability of potable water from hand pumps. "Perhaps the nicest part...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users express disappointment about the lack of a true swim area despite descriptions mentioning one. Limited access to supplies and the absence of advanced facilities like electrical hookups are...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing adequate supplies, as stores are 7-8 miles away. Visitors also suggest visiting the Lake Owen Picnic Grounds for a better beach experience.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Most reviews are from the summer season, when the campground is more accessible. The rustic charm and privacy are appreciated during peak camping months.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
"A special quiet and beautiful well-kept campground." - Rick Ziehme. "Perch Lake is a lower-cost alternative to this region’s flagship Two Lakes Campground." - Greg Krueger. "Nice quiet campgrounds....
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific details are minimal, but it is noted that some sites are close to the lake and offer better views, while others are more wooded and private.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific accessibility-focused reviews are available.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically discussing experiences with pets were found.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated December 7, 2025
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