Birch Grove Campground

Are you a Wisconsin local yearning for a true escape into the Northwoods, where the sounds of nature replace the hum of city life? Birch Grove Campground in Washburn, Wisconsin, offers just that – a tranquil and rustic camping experience nestled between the picturesque East and West Twin Lakes. This campground is an ideal destination for those who appreciate simplicity, natural beauty, and the quiet allure of a traditional camping adventure.

Wisconsin is renowned for its stunning forests, countless lakes, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors. Birch Grove Campground embodies this spirit, providing a serene basecamp for exploring the vast Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and the beautiful Bayfield Peninsula. While some areas are still recovering from past storm damage, the natural charm and the promise of regrowth add to its authentic, untamed appeal. It's a place where you can truly disconnect, cast a line into the clear waters, or paddle peacefully across the lake.

For Wisconsinites, finding a peaceful, uncrowded spot to enjoy the state's natural treasures is highly valued. Birch Grove Campground offers a retreat from the everyday, making it perfect for a weekend fishing trip, a quiet family getaway, or an extended stay where you can truly immerse yourself in the natural rhythms of northern Wisconsin. It’s a return to the basics of camping, allowing you to focus on the beauty of your surroundings.

Birch Grove Campground is conveniently located at Twin Lakes Landing, Washburn, WI 54891, USA. This puts it squarely within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, a vast expanse of natural beauty in northern Wisconsin. The campground is notably nestled between two charming bodies of water, East Twin Lake (22 acres) and West Twin Lake (16 acres), offering immediate access to lakeside recreation.

The location is approximately 8 miles west of the community of Washburn, a charming town that provides essential services such as restaurants, grocery stores, supplies, and gas. This proximity allows campers to enjoy the secluded feeling of the forest while still having easy access to necessities when needed. Furthermore, Ashland is about 15 miles away, and Bayfield, known as the gateway to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, is approximately 24 miles distant, providing additional opportunities for exploration and resupply.

Access to the campground involves traveling on gravel and sand roads. While these roads lead to a beautiful natural setting, it's worth noting that some sections may contain larger, sharper stones, as mentioned in a customer review. This suggests that vehicles with robust tires, such as those on a mountain or cross bike, would be more suitable for exploring the immediate vicinity and reaching paved roads. Despite the rustic access, the journey leads to a truly scenic and tranquil destination, making it a worthwhile venture for those prepared for a genuine forest experience.

Birch Grove Campground, managed by the U.S. Forest Service (Washburn Ranger District), provides fundamental services geared towards a rustic and self-sufficient camping experience. It’s designed for campers who prioritize natural immersion over extensive modern amenities. Here's what you can expect:

• Non-Electric Campsites: The campground offers 16 individual non-electric campsites. Each site is equipped with a parking spur (accommodating RVs up to 35 feet, with both back-in and some pull-through options), a tent area, a picnic table, and a fire ring. Generators are permitted from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, provided their noise does not disturb other campers.
• Drinking Water (Hand Pump): Potable drinking water is available via a hand pump. While convenient, some users note the pump can be hard to use, so bringing extra water is always a good idea.
• Accessible Vault Toilets: The campground provides clean and accessible vault toilets (pit toilets) for guest use. Reviews highlight their cleanliness, which is a significant plus for rustic campgrounds.
• Boat Landings: Basic boat landings with gravel ramps and turnarounds are available on both East and West Twin Lakes, primarily for use by campers. This is ideal for non-motorized boats like kayaks and canoes, as no motors are allowed on these lakes.
• Garbage & Recycling: Facilities for garbage and recycling are available, promoting responsible waste disposal.
• First-Come, First-Served Registration: All campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are accepted. A self-registration kiosk is located near the campground entrance, where campers must pay fees (currently $15 per night, or $7.50 with an Interagency pass) before occupying a site.
• Picnic Area: A small picnic area is located next to East Twin Lake, offering a pleasant spot for day use.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed but must be restrained or leashed within developed recreation areas, and all waste must be properly picked up and disposed of.

Birch Grove Campground offers several unique features and highlights that define its character and appeal, particularly for those seeking a tranquil and nature-focused camping trip:

• Secluded Lakeside Setting: The campground is beautifully situated between East and West Twin Lakes, offering scenic views and direct access to water activities. This "beautiful campground next to two small lakes" is perfect for kayaking and provides a truly peaceful atmosphere.
• Rustic and Natural Ambiance: Despite past storm damage affecting some tree cover, the campground maintains a rustic feel. The "spacing is great" and trees are "just starting to grow back," offering a sense of renewal and raw natural beauty.
• Non-Motorized Lake Activities: The two bordering lakes are ideal for non-motorized boating activities like kayaking and canoeing, providing quiet paddling experiences. They also offer good fishing for bass, panfish, and northern pike.
• Designated Swimming Beach: While the lakes may not look ideal for swimming broadly, there is a "small beach right at the campground on the western lake," allowing for a designated swim area. Additionally, a "nicer swimming beach" is just a short drive or bike ride away at Long Lake Recreation Area.
• Access to Extensive Trail Networks: The campground serves as an excellent base for exploring hiking and biking trails. Reviewers suggest bringing a mountain or cross bike for the gravel and sand roads, and nearby Long Lake Recreation Area features a scenic hiking trail. The Valhalla Recreation Area is also nearby with over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails.
• First-Come, First-Served Policy: This feature allows for spontaneous trips without the need for advance reservations, which can be a major convenience for flexible travelers.
• Wildlife and Berry Picking: The area is conducive to wildlife viewing, and during late summer, berry picking in the nearby Moquah Barrens is a popular activity.
• Clean Facilities: Despite being rustic, the "pit toilets (very clean)" are a notable highlight, ensuring basic comfort.

For inquiries, maintenance needs, or more detailed information about Birch Grove Campground, you can typically reach the managing agency, the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest - Washburn Ranger District. Please note that direct phone numbers for individual campsites are not common for US Forest Service campgrounds.

Address: Twin Lakes Landing, Washburn, WI 54891, USA

Washburn Ranger District Phone: (715) 373-2667

For general information or administrative questions, this number can be helpful. Remember that the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so direct campsite reservations by phone are not available.

For residents of Wisconsin, Birch Grove Campground in Washburn offers a quintessential Northwoods experience that is particularly well-suited to the local appreciation for authentic, natural camping. Its rustic charm and unique features make it an excellent choice for a variety of local outdoor enthusiasts.

Firstly, the "first-come, first-served" policy is a significant advantage for Wisconsinites. It allows for spontaneous weekend adventures without the need for meticulous planning months in advance, catering to those last-minute urges to escape into nature. This flexibility means that a local can pack up their gear and head north when the weather is perfect or when they simply need a quick reset.

Secondly, the campground’s natural, non-electric setting appeals directly to those seeking a true disconnect. In a state known for its beautiful forests and a culture of outdoor recreation, Birch Grove offers a back-to-basics camping experience that many locals cherish. It’s an opportunity to truly unplug from daily distractions and immerse oneself in the peaceful sounds and sights of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. The presence of two small lakes perfect for non-motorized boating, coupled with good fishing, aligns perfectly with popular Wisconsin pastimes.

Moreover, while the campground itself is rustic, its proximity to the community of Washburn provides a convenient balance. Locals can enjoy the secluded natural environment by day and easily access town for supplies or a meal if desired. The nearby access to extensive hiking and biking trails, including the famous CAMBA system, makes it a prime base for active Wisconsinites looking to explore their own backyard. The presence of a designated swimming beach, even if small, adds to the family-friendly appeal for a quick dip on a warm day.

Finally, for those who understand and appreciate the resilience of nature, the campground's recovery from past storm damage highlights a natural cycle that many Wisconsinites can relate to. It’s a chance to witness nature’s regrowth firsthand and enjoy a serene environment that is continually evolving. Birch Grove Campground truly embodies the spirit of Wisconsin's Northwoods – rugged, beautiful, and always inviting for an authentic outdoor adventure.

Birch Grove Campground

Twin Lakes Landing, Washburn, WI 54891, USA