Carrol Lake Campground

Wisconsin's Northwoods beckon with their wild beauty, serene lakes, and the promise of a true escape into nature. For residents of the Badger State seeking an authentic camping experience, one that emphasizes natural immersion over modern amenities, Carrol Lake Campground in Woodruff presents an enticing option. Located within the vast Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest, this campground offers a more rustic approach to outdoor living, allowing campers to truly disconnect and appreciate the pristine environment of Vilas County.

Carrol Lake Campground isn't about glamping or full hookups; it's about the simple joys of camping: the crackle of a campfire, the scent of pine, and the tranquil sounds of the lake. While it may lack some of the conveniences of more developed campgrounds, it delivers on privacy, natural beauty, and direct access to Carrol Lake's recreational opportunities. For locals who value a genuine Northwoods adventure and are prepared for a traditional camping setup, Carrol Lake Campground provides an invaluable opportunity to reconnect with Wisconsin's wild heart.

Carrol Lake Campground is situated on Townline Rd, Woodruff, WI 54568, USA. This location places it firmly within the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest in Vilas County, a region celebrated as the heart of Wisconsin's Northwoods. For residents across Wisconsin, accessing the campground involves a scenic drive along well-maintained state and county roads. Woodruff is a well-known gateway to this northern paradise, offering essential services and supplies nearby.

The campground's position provides a balance of being deeply embedded in nature while still being relatively accessible. It's far enough from urban centers to ensure a genuine wilderness feel, yet close enough for a manageable drive from communities throughout Wisconsin. The surrounding area is rich with outdoor opportunities, making Carrol Lake Campground an excellent base for exploring the myriad lakes, forests, and trails that define this beloved part of the state. Its setting ensures that while highway noise can be present, the overall experience is one of immersion in the natural Northwoods environment, appealing directly to locals seeking an authentic outdoor retreat.

• Non-Electric Campsites: All 19 campsites at Carrol Lake Campground are non-electric, catering to campers who prefer a more traditional and rustic experience.
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides accessible vault toilet buildings, offering basic restroom facilities.
• Hand Pump for Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available via hand pumps located within the campground.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for convenient outdoor dining and gathering.
• Fire Rings: Every site includes a fire ring, perfect for campfires, cooking, and warmth.
• Swimming Beach: A small swimming beach is located within the campground for refreshing dips in Carrol Lake.
• Boat Landing: A boat landing with a paved ramp, launch pier, and trailer parking is available at the west end of the campground, providing easy access to Carrol Lake.
• Accessible Fishing Pier: An ADA-accessible fishing pier is present in the picnic area near the boat landing, allowing all visitors to enjoy fishing opportunities.
• Trash and Recycling Stations: Dumpsters are available for trash and recycling, promoting responsible waste disposal.
• On-site Campground Host: A campground manager/host is typically on-site from Memorial Day through Labor Day, offering assistance and ensuring a pleasant stay.
• Reservable Sites: All 19 campsites are reservable, allowing campers to plan their trip in advance through the Wisconsin DNR reservation system.

• Rustic Camping Experience: Carrol Lake Campground offers a truly rustic experience with no electric hookups, appealing to those who want to disconnect and embrace traditional camping.
• Direct Lake Access: Many sites, particularly the walk-in tent sites, offer direct and private access to Carrol Lake, allowing for easy swimming and enjoyment of the water.
• Gorgeous Lake Views: Specific walk-in sites provide stunning views of Carrol Lake, enhancing the natural beauty of the camping experience.
• Curious Fish: As noted by a visitor, small, curious fish swim close to shore, adding a unique and delightful interaction with nature, especially for those who enjoy swimming.
• Spacious Sites with Privacy: Even walk-in sites are described as very spacious, offering a good degree of privacy despite their short distance from parking.
• Located on Carrol Lake: The campground is situated on the 352-acre Carrol Lake, which is known for good fishing (panfish, largemouth bass, northern pike, walleye) and paddling opportunities, with a channel connecting to Madeline Lake.
• Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest Setting: Being part of this vast state forest provides access to extensive recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking on paved trails (like the Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail), and exploring a diverse natural environment.
• Proximity to Northwoods Communities: The campground is only minutes away by car from Minocqua, Woodruff, St. Germain, and Eagle River, offering convenient access to groceries, supplies, restaurants, and other amenities.

Address: Townline Rd, Woodruff, WI 54568, USA

Phone: (715) 356-3668

Mobile Phone: +1 715-356-3668

For reservations, as all sites are reservable, it is highly recommended to book through the official Wisconsin DNR website or their reservation system. This ensures a confirmed site and a smooth check-in process. For general inquiries or assistance during your stay, the provided phone numbers can be used to contact the Clear Lake Visitor Station, which often serves as a central point of contact for campgrounds within the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest. It is always wise to confirm details, especially regarding operational hours or specific site features, before your visit.

For Wisconsin residents, Carrol Lake Campground offers a compelling and authentic Northwoods camping experience that perfectly aligns with the state's outdoor heritage. Its location within the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest in Woodruff provides an accessible yet deeply immersive escape into nature. Locals can enjoy the convenience of a relatively short drive to a truly wild setting, maximizing their time spent unwinding and exploring.

The rustic nature of Carrol Lake Campground, with its non-electric sites, appeals directly to those who cherish a traditional camping adventure. It's a place where the focus shifts from modern distractions to the simple pleasures of a crackling fire, the sounds of the forest, and the beauty of Carrol Lake. The availability of private walk-in sites with direct lake access is a significant draw, offering unparalleled tranquility and opportunities for swimming, fishing, or simply enjoying the view. This kind of intimate connection with nature is exactly what many Wisconsinites seek in their outdoor pursuits.

While some might note the lack of showers or flush toilets as a drawback, for seasoned local campers, these are often minor considerations compared to the privacy, spaciousness, and direct access to pristine natural resources that Carrol Lake offers. Furthermore, the presence of a kind and helpful host, as noted by past visitors, ensures a supportive and pleasant environment. For those prepared to embrace a more fundamental camping style, Carrol Lake Campground provides an invaluable opportunity to create lasting memories, enjoy fantastic lake activities, and truly connect with the heart of Wisconsin's cherished Northwoods, all within a reasonable distance from home.

Carrol Lake Campground

Townline Rd, Woodruff, WI 54568, USA