Franklin Lake

Star4.56
193 reviews
U S D A FOREST SERVICE, 1247 E. WALL ST., EAGLE RIVER, WI, 54521, USA
SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

1,700 ft

Price

$15 - $25/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

77 campsites

Season

Open May 22 - Octobe...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectric

Opens USDA Forest Service site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Franklin Lake
$15.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $15 to $25 depending on site type and season. Additional fees may apply for reservations ($8-$9 online or through the contact center,...
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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

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Provider
715-479-2827
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What Campers Say

4.56

Top-Rated

Based on 193 reviews

63 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspaciouswaterlake

Some mention

noisemosquitoes

"Overall, Franklin Lake Campground receives highly positive reviews for its natural beauty, clean facilities, and recreational opportunities. Users appreciate the clear water of Franklin Lake and the variety of trails. Some issues include noisy generators, mosquito presence, and limited amenities like showers."

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Campground Map

U S D A FOREST SERVICE, 1247 E. WALL ST., EAGLE RIVER, WI, 54521, USA

Franklin Lake

U S D A FOREST SERVICE, 1247 E. WALL ST., EAGLE RIVER, WI, 54521, USA

Driving directionsDrive approximately 8 miles east from Eagle River on Highway 70. Turn south onto Military Road/Forest Road 2178 and continue about 2 miles, to Butternut Lake Road/Forest Road 2181, and continue approximately 4 miles to the campground.
Roads leading to the campground are accessible via paved highways and forest roads. Seasonal closures or terrain challenges are not mentioned.
Nearby places
Eagle River (15 miles, approximately 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Essential supplies, including groceries, camping gear, and fuel, can be found in Eagle River, WI, 15 miles west of the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Franklin Lake

Summer arrives at Franklin Lake with warm, pleasant days perfect for swimming and hiking, though Mother Nature occasionally turns up the heat for a true summer sizzle. Pack your bug spray for those balmy evenings when mosquitoes join the twilight chorus. As autumn paints the forest in brilliant golds and crimsons, crisp air signals the approach of winter's dramatic transformation. When snow blankets the landscape in thick, pristine layers, the campground becomes a winter wonderland—harsh yet hauntingly beautiful, reminding visitors why proper cold-weather gear is essential for those brave enough to experience the forest's quieter season.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer ideal for swimming and hiking; warm days noted but expect mosquitoes at times.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5

Fall offers fewer bugs and quieter camping; likely excellent for foliage and solitude.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Opens late May; trails and lake available but early-season bugs/cool weather possible.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed Oct 14–May 22; winter use not supported.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 22 - September 1. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open May 22 - October 14, with reservable start dates June 25 - September 1.

About Franklin Lake

Nestled deep within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, Franklin Lake Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of history and natural beauty. Here, beneath towering pines, you'll discover meticulously preserved stone and log structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, serving as both functional facilities and windows into America's past. Whether you're seeking solitude on forest trails, adventure on the water, or simply a peaceful night under the stars, this beloved destination offers an authentic North Woods experience that draws families back generation after generation.
Franklin Lake Campground offers a range of camping options, including tent sites, RV sites, and group camping. It caters to both primitive and more developed camping experiences, though electricity is being added to some sites.
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Reserving a campsite

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Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Amenities available

Potable water
Electricity hookups
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Franklin Lake Campground provides ample recreational opportunities, including hiking, swimming, fishing, wildlife viewing, and boating. The trails connected to the campground offer options for both short and long hikes. The lake is popular for kayaking and paddleboarding, and the sandy beach is ideal for swimming. Several reviews praise the lake's clear water and suitability for various activities.
HikingNumerous trails start within the campground. The 1-mile Franklin Lake interpretive trail is partly accessible and connects to the 13-mile Hidden Lakes Trail. Visitors can hike to nearby Anvil Lake, which is 6 miles away. "Unlimited hiking," one user remarked. Trails are described as offering scenic vistas and access to old hemlock forests.
FishingFishing is permitted, with species such as walleye, northern pike, and bass present. However, reviews vary on the quality of fishing. One stated, 'Fishing was pretty much a waste of time,' while another noted, 'Great for fishing.'
SwimmingSwimming is available at the designated sandy beach area. Several reviewers highlighted the clean and warm water. One user cautioned about swimmers' itch during hot weather and advised toweling off or showering after swimming.
BikingThe campground's paved roads are suitable for biking, as noted by reviewers. "The road around the campground is paved and clean for biking," said one user.
BoatingBoating is supported with both motorized and non-motorized options. The boat ramp is functional, though no dock is present according to reviews. Paddleboarding is popular, and one user described finding a sandbar in the middle of the lake.
Wildlife viewingThe area is rich in wildlife, and reviewers mention spotting loons, deer, and other animals. "Listening to the loons sing" was a highlight for several visitors.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquitoes and other insects are prevalent in summer. Swimmer's itch has been reported. User reviews also mention generator noise and inconsiderate campers.

Weather at Franklin Lake

Reviews

4.6
193 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Franklin Lake is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Franklin Lake Campground receives highly positive reviews for its natural beauty, clean facilities, and recreational opportunities. Users appreciate the clear water of Franklin Lake and the variety of trails. Some issues include noisy generators, mosquito presence, and limited amenities like showers.
Review Summaries
Based on 193 reviews

What Campers Love

Users consistently praise the campground's scenic beauty, spacious campsites, and clean facilities. The lake's sandy beach and clear water are highlighted as major attractions. 'The campground is...
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Based on 193 reviews

Common Concerns

Common issues include mosquitoes, generator noise, and lack of showers. Some users also complained about noisy neighbors and limited staff presence to enforce rules.
Based on 193 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors suggest arriving early to secure lakefront sites, wearing insect repellent, and bringing water filters for better-tasting drinking water. Toweling off immediately after swimming was...
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Based on 193 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews indicate that summers are ideal for swimming and hiking but may come with mosquitoes. Fall offers fewer bugs and quiet camping experiences. Winter activities are not mentioned.
Based on 193 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Beautiful clear lake, great for swimming and fishing!' - Kathy D. 2. 'The sites are large enough and spaced far enough apart that a generator can be run without disturbing your neighbors.' -...
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Based on 193 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 024 receives consistent praise for its proximity to the beach and lake. Site 040 is noted for its location near potable water and toilet facilities. Lakefront sites are highly recommended for...
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Based on 193 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features such as flush toilets and partly accessible trails are appreciated by reviewers. 'Accessible flush toilets and trails make it manageable,' remarked one user.
Based on 193 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome, and many reviews mention enjoying walks with dogs. 'We enjoy the time spent here with our two dogs,' said one reviewer.
Based on 193 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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