Wabasso Lake Recreation Area

4.00

9 reviews

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

1,585 ft

Price

$5/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

5 campsites

Season

January 1 - December...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens USDA Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,585 ft

Price

$5/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

5 campsites

Season

January 1 - December...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens USDA Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Wabasso Lake Recreation Area

$5.00 - $5.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The campground charges $5 per vehicle for individual campsites. A $5 day-use pass is also available. Alternatively, an annual pass for the...

Standard Site Fee$5.00

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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USFS

Provider

715-748-4875sm.fs.cnnfadmin@usda.gov

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What Campers Say

4.00

Satisfactory

Based on 9 reviews

6 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsquietlakefriendly

Some mention

mosquitoes

"User reviews highlight the campground's affordability, seclusion, and suitability for primitive camping. However, mosquito infestations and limited facilities are common complaints."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Wabasso Lake Recreation Area

45.9727, -90.0003

Driving directionsFrom State Highway 70, turn north on Forest Road 509 (Chippewa Trail Road) and then turn right on Forest Road and left into Wabasso Lake Recreation Area.

Road access is via paved roads. Upon arrival, the parking area and roads are dirt/gravel. The campground is noted to be slightly off the beaten path.

Nearby places

Lac du Flambeau is approximately 1 mile west.

Nearby supplies

Groceries and most essentials can be found in the market in Lac du Flambeau. For further supplies, Woodruff, along I-47, offers additional options.

Best Time to Camp at Wabasso Lake Recreation Area

Experience the dramatic seasonal transformation of Wisconsin's northwoods throughout the year. Winter brings a crystalline wonderland with temperatures dipping to a brisk 14°F, perfect for those seeking solitude amid snow-dusted pines. Summer awakens the forest with temperatures climbing to a pleasant 77°F, though visitors should come prepared for nature's smaller residents – mosquitoes thrive during the warm months of July and August, making insect protection essential for comfort.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

2.0 / 5

Peak mosquito activity in July–August; lake recreation available but insects are major downside.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Early September noted as mosquito-free by a reviewer; northwoods fall scenery likely strong.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Seasonal transitions noted but limited detail; spring conditions likely variable and buggy early season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round and described as a 'crystalline wonderland'; no winter services detailed.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak mosquito activity noted in the summer months, particularly July and August.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: January 1 - December 31

About Wabasso Lake Recreation Area

Escape to the serene shores of Wabasso Lake Recreation Area, where rustic charm meets untouched wilderness. This intimate primitive campground invites adventurers to disconnect from the modern world and immerse themselves in nature's tranquility. Accessible only by foot or paddle, each secluded campsite offers an authentic back-to-basics experience alongside the pristine 49-acre lake, where morning mist dances across calm waters and the only sounds are lapping waves and calling loons.

The Wabasso Lake Recreation Area is a primitive campground tailored for those seeking a rustic and secluded outdoor experience.

Historical SignificanceJust one mile west of the Lac du Flambeau Indian Reservation, Wabasso Lake Recreation Area rests on lands steeped in Ojibwe heritage. This proximity to the reservation adds layers of cultural richness to your camping experience, where centuries of indigenous history have shaped the landscape and continue to influence the region's character today.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformation of Wisconsin's northwoods throughout the year. Winter brings a crystalline wonderland with temperatures dipping to a brisk 14°F, perfect for those seeking solitude amid snow-dusted pines. Summer awakens the forest with temperatures climbing to a pleasant 77°F, though visitors should come prepared for nature's smaller residents – mosquitoes thrive during the warm months of July and August, making insect protection essential for comfort.

Natural Features and SceneryPerched on the edge of sparkling Wabasso Lake, the campground offers front-row seats to nature's daily performances. Dense forests of towering pines and hardwoods embrace the 49-acre lake, creating a natural amphitheater where wildlife thrives. The lake itself serves as both playground and pantry, teeming with panfish that dance beneath the surface. Perfect for silent paddling adventures, these peaceful waters reflect the surrounding forest canopy, creating a mirror world that doubles the beauty.

Geological RegionNestled within 49 acres of pristine lake habitat, the campground sits embraced by Wisconsin's characteristic dense woodlands. This water-carved landscape showcases the region's glacial heritage, where ancient ice sheets sculpted the perfect basin for today's tranquil lake, now cradled by protective forests that have stood sentinel for generations.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

24 hours

Check-out

24 hours

Stay Limit

Maximum of 14 days

Guests Allowed Per Site

Each site allows a maximum of eight people.

Groups

There are no designated group camping sites.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground features five sites. Site #1 is closest to the parking area; sites #2-5 are sequentially located along a trail. Site #5 requires a longer walk and offers the most privacy.

Reservation PlatformsNone. First-come, first-served.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. Walk-up availability is generally good due to the primitive nature of the campground.

AccessibilityThis campground requires visitors to walk or canoe into their campsites, which may limit accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges.

Site SizeThe campsites vary in size but generally offer ample space for tents.

PrivacyUser reviews indicate that privacy varies by site. Site 1 is noted for its spacious and private location, while Site 5 is described as extremely private but farther from the main area.

Total Campsites5 campsites

Recommended SitesSite #1 is recommended for families or those seeking easy access. Site #5 is better suited for individuals seeking extreme privacy. A 'thermacell' bug repellent is highly recommended.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The Wabasso Lake Recreation Area provides opportunities for non-motorized boating, fishing, and wildlife observation. Reviewers also mention hiking and swimming as possible activities, though details are sparse.

HikingHiking opportunities are mentioned, but no specific trails or difficulty levels are provided. One user review notes a challenging walk around the lake due to beaver activity and uneven terrain.

FishingFishing in the 49-acre Wabasso Lake is popular, with bluegill and largemouth bass being the most common species. Gasoline-powered motors are prohibited, and some areas may have special fishing regulations.

SwimmingSwimming is possible but not well-supported. A user review notes, 'Most of Wabasso lake’s shoreline doesn’t look swimmable, though there may be spots away from the boat landing with less vegetation in the water.'

BoatingThe lake is ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Gasoline-powered motors are prohibited, but electric motors are allowed.

Wildlife viewingFrequent wildlife sightings include beavers and fishers. One review mentions, 'Lots of beaver activity on the far side. Lots of wildlife.' Another user noted seeing a wolf pack in the area.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsHigh mosquito activity in summer. Wild animals, including a local wolf pack, have been sighted in the area.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted, but firewood must be sourced within 25 miles due to invasive species regulations.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM

Emergency ServicesMedford Office Address: 850 North 8th, State Highway 13 Medford, WI 54451 Phone: 715-748-4875 Hours: Tuesday and Thursday – 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Trash & RecyclingNo garbage services are provided. Campers must pack out all trash and recycling.

Water FeaturesProximity to the 49-acre Wabasso Lake, which is ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing for species like bluegill and largemouth bass.

Weather at Wabasso Lake Recreation Area

Reviews

4.0

9 reviews

Satisfactory

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

User reviews highlight the campground's affordability, seclusion, and suitability for primitive camping. However, mosquito infestations and limited facilities are common complaints.

Review Summaries

Based on 9 reviews

What Campers Love

Affordability ($5 per night), scenic views of Wabasso Lake, quiet and private campsites, pet-friendly policies, and opportunities for canoeing and fishing.

Based on 9 reviews

Common Concerns

Mosquito infestations ('The mosquitoes are OUT OF CONTROL'), lack of swimming-friendly shoreline, and limited facilities (no garbage services, no flush toilets, no electricity).

Based on 9 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Consider purchasing a butane bug repellent ('Buy a "thermacell" butane bug repellant. They are the only thing that helps.'). Site 1 is recommended for its prime location. Firewood should be purchased...

Based on 9 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Mosquito issues are most severe in the summer months, with one reviewer noting no mosquito problems in early September.

Based on 9 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The lake is fantastic, don’t get me wrong. But the "campground" leaves a lot to be desired.' 2. 'Overall, the location makes for a peaceful and scenic place to camp, if you can handle seasonal...

Based on 9 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 1 is praised for its drive-up access and spaciousness. Site 5 is noted for its extreme privacy but high mosquito density. Sites 2-4 vary in accessibility and privacy levels.

Based on 9 reviews