Boulder Lake

4.37

231 reviews

15085 STATE HWY 32

Family FriendlySummer Destination

Featured in:Best Campgrounds Wisconsin

Quick Facts

1,191 ft

Price

$18 - $75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

90 campsites

Season

Peak season runs fro...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens U.S. Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

1,191 ft

Price

$18 - $75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

90 campsites

Season

Peak season runs fro...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens U.S. Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Boulder Lake

$18.00 - $75.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Standard electric sites cost $28 per night; non-electric sites are $18 per night. Group sites range between $60 and $75 per night.

Standard Site Fee$18.00

Hookup Site Fee$28.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$75.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider

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What Campers Say

4.37

Recommended

Based on 231 reviews

99 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanshowersspacioushiking

Some mention

noise

"Overall, Boulder Lake Campground receives positive reviews for its spacious sites, cleanliness, and range of activities. While most visitors have praised the facilities and natural beauty, issues like noise from neighboring campers and occasional maintenance concerns are noted."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

15085 STATE HWY 32

Boulder Lake

15085 STATE HWY 32

Driving directionsFrom Townsend, travel Highway T for about 17 miles to the intersection with Highway W. Turn onto Highway W and continue just over a mile to Forest Road 2116. Turn right and continue to the campground.

The campground is accessed via paved roads. Seasonal conditions may affect travel, and some parts might be unpaved turning into Forest Road 2116. No significant navigation challenges are noted in the authoritative source.

Nearby places

Langlade (25 miles west)

Nearby supplies

Langlade offers groceries, camping supplies, and fuel, which is located 25 miles west. Additionally, local facilities like Wolf River Cafe and Sammiches in White Lake provide food options.

Best Time to Camp at Boulder Lake

Each season paints Boulder Lake with its own distinctive palette and personality. Summer arrives with sun-drenched days perfect for swimming and paddling, though afternoon thundershowers occasionally sweep through to refresh the forest and fill the air with the earthy scent of rain-soaked pine. As autumn approaches, crisp mornings give way to comfortable afternoons ideal for hiking, while spring emerges slowly with cool, misty dawns that gradually warm into wildflower-filled days. Late fall and early spring adventurers should pack layers and rain gear, as these transitional seasons bring their own moody beauty along with cooler temperatures and frequent drizzle that transforms the forest into a mystical wonderland.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season for swimming, boating and activities; busy with occasional crowding and storms.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Quieter post‑peak season with striking hardwood fall foliage and good lakeside access.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Shoulder season offers quieter visits and reemerging greenery; some access may be limited early spring.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.5 / 5

Ice fishing and winter activities possible, but peak services and season are summer/fall.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 22, 2025 - September 1, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Peak season runs from May 22 to September 1. First-come, first-served season extends to October 14.
Current Alerts: No urgent alerts or warnings are present in the authoritative content.

About Boulder Lake

Discover the crown jewel of Wisconsin's Northwoods at Boulder Lake Campground, where pristine wilderness meets modern comfort in the heart of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. As the forest's largest public campground, this beloved destination welcomes adventurers with an impressive array of camping options—from secluded individual sites nestled among towering hardwoods to coveted waterfront spots where you can fall asleep to gentle waves lapping the shore. Whether you're planning a family reunion at one of the spacious group sites or seeking a solo retreat in nature, Boulder Lake's thoughtfully maintained facilities and endless recreational opportunities create the perfect basecamp for your northern Wisconsin adventure.

Boulder Lake Campground accommodates a variety of camping preferences, including tent camping, RV camping, and group sites.

Historical SignificanceWhile Boulder Lake Campground may not boast ancient ruins or historic landmarks, its story is woven into the larger tapestry of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest—a testament to America's conservation legacy. This protected landscape has long served as a sanctuary for both wildlife and weary souls seeking respite from modern life, continuing a tradition of forest stewardship that spans generations.

Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Boulder Lake with its own distinctive palette and personality. Summer arrives with sun-drenched days perfect for swimming and paddling, though afternoon thundershowers occasionally sweep through to refresh the forest and fill the air with the earthy scent of rain-soaked pine. As autumn approaches, crisp mornings give way to comfortable afternoons ideal for hiking, while spring emerges slowly with cool, misty dawns that gradually warm into wildflower-filled days. Late fall and early spring adventurers should pack layers and rain gear, as these transitional seasons bring their own moody beauty along with cooler temperatures and frequent drizzle that transforms the forest into a mystical wonderland.

ElevationNestled in the gently rolling terrain of northern Wisconsin's lake country, Boulder Lake Campground rests in a peaceful low-lying pocket of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. This modest elevation creates an intimate forest setting where morning mist often clings to the water's surface and the canopy forms a natural cathedral overhead.

Natural Features and SceneryEmbracing the southern shores of the spectacular 362-acre Boulder Lake, the campground unfolds through a vibrant forest of young hardwoods that burst with emerald energy in summer and transform into a kaleidoscope of gold and crimson each fall. Waterfront sites offer front-row seats to nature's daily performances—from sunrise painting the lake in shades of rose and amber to the evening chorus of loons echoing across the water. Away from the shoreline, forested sites provide peaceful sanctuaries where dappled sunlight filters through the leafy canopy and woodland creatures go about their daily routines. Throughout the campground, patches of ferns and wildflowers thrive in naturally damp areas, adding splashes of color and supporting the rich ecosystem that makes this corner of Wisconsin so special.

Geological RegionBoulder Lake Campground showcases the distinctive beauty of Wisconsin's Northwoods, where glacial forces sculpted a landscape of pristine lakes and rolling forests thousands of years ago. The campground's setting within a thriving stand of young hardwoods tells the story of nature's resilience and renewal in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. This 362-acre glacial lake, cradled by verdant shores, creates a diverse ecosystem where upland forests transition to wetland edges. The naturally occurring damp areas throughout the campground support a rich tapestry of plant life, from delicate ferns to hardy wildflowers, while the surrounding forest floor reveals the region's geological past through scattered glacial erratics and the gentle undulations that characterize this ancient, water-carved terrain.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

No specific check-in time is provided.

Check-out

No specific check-out time is provided.

Stay Limit

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

Guests Allowed Per Site

Each single occupancy site allows up to 8 persons and one vehicle. Additional vehicles (up to three) are permitted if space allows.

Groups

The campground features 10 accessible group sites that accommodate 16 to 30 people. These sites are noted as spacious and close to restroom facilities.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground features loops, some near the lake and others further inland, offering a mix of waterfront and forested sites.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, online, through the app, or contact center.

Walk-in AvailabilitySome campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis during September 2 to October 14.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival for a refund minus a $10 cancellation fee, reservation fees, and late penalties. Late cancellations for individual campsites start from midnight 1 calendar day before check-in.

AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible parking, shower houses, walkways, and vault toilets. Group sites are also accessible.

Site SizeCampsites range from standard to group sizes accommodating 16 to 30 people. Some sites are spacious and can fit larger RVs, up to 42 feet in length.

PrivacySites offer varying levels of privacy. Many are described as spacious and well-spaced with forested surroundings, providing good privacy.

Total Campsites90 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose waterfront sites (e.g., Site 35) for lake access or shaded sites in the 70s loop for privacy and tranquility.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers a wide range of activities including swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, and winter sports such as ice fishing. Visitors can explore nearby trout streams, the Wolf River for rafting and canoeing, and on-site educational programs at the amphitheater.

HikingThe campground features a couple of hiking trails, including an interpretive trail at the Wolf River CCC camp. Some trails have fallen trees and could use better signage, as noted by reviewers.

FishingFishing is popular at Boulder Lake, with opportunities to catch walleye, northern pike, bass, and panfish. Nearby streams support trout fishing, and ice fishing is available during winter months.

SwimmingThe swimming beach is well-maintained but has been noted for swimmer's itch. The water is clear, and there is a sandbar 3-4 feet deep for playing.

BikingOpportunities for both road and mountain biking are available. Users recommend exploring nearby trails, such as the Nicolet Roche trail.

BoatingBoating is a popular activity, with access to powerboats, water skiing, and tubing. Early morning and evening hours are designated for no-wake zones.

Beach activitiesThe beach is sandy with shallow areas for playing and swimming. There is also a designated pet-friendly area between the beach and boat landing.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsStagnant water leads to high mosquito populations; tick repellents are also advised. Some sites may collect standing water during rainy conditions.

Active AlertsNo urgent alerts or warnings are present in the authoritative content.

Fire PolicyCampfires require locally sourced wood. Moving firewood from outside areas is prohibited due to invasive species.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Not explicitly stated, but reviews reference complaints about noise during night hours.

Emergency ServicesEmergency medical services are likely located in Langlade, 25 miles west of the campground.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are conveniently located, with some users appreciating their proximity to campsites.

Water FeaturesAdjacent to Boulder Lake, a 362-acre water body offering boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities.

Camp HostCampground hosts are described as friendly and helpful by some reviews, although there are a few complaints about specific hosts being rude or unhelpful.

Weather at Boulder Lake

Reviews

4.4

231 reviews

Recommended

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

Overall, Boulder Lake Campground receives positive reviews for its spacious sites, cleanliness, and range of activities. While most visitors have praised the facilities and natural beauty, issues like noise from neighboring campers and occasional maintenance concerns are noted.

Review Summaries

Based on 231 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean facilities, spacious and private campsites, free hot showers, sandy beach, and ample recreational opportunities such as hiking, swimming, and boating are frequently praised.

Based on 231 reviews

Common Concerns

Noise from other campers, occasional maintenance issues like unclean toilets, and enforcement of rules by camp hosts have been criticized.

Based on 231 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring bug spray due to mosquitoes. For the best experience, reserve waterfront or electric sites in advance. Early morning and evening are best for boating due to no-wake zones.

Based on 231 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season, with high activity levels and occasional crowding. Fall offers a quieter experience with colorful foliage.

Based on 231 reviews

Camper Quotes

"First of all, the campsite hosts are really awesome and super nice!" - KW. "Sites are spacious and well-maintained." - Kim Pocernich. "There’s a nice swimming beach here, though signs warn of...

Based on 231 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites 35 and 82 are highly praised for their views and privacy. Group sites are noted for being spacious and close to facilities. Site 50 is mentioned as private and level but with some maintenance...

Based on 231 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible facilities such as parking, walkways, and restroom amenities are appreciated by users. Group sites are also accessible.

Based on 231 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

A designated pet-friendly area near the boat landing allows pets to wade in the water. However, reviews are mixed regarding pet policies, with some users noting off-leash dogs as an issue.

Based on 231 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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