Franklin Lake (WI)

For Wisconsinites, the call of the Northwoods is an irresistible siren song, drawing them to a region of unparalleled natural beauty, serene lakes, and vast forests. Nestled deep within this cherished landscape, Franklin Lake Campground emerges as a top-tier destination for those seeking an authentic and rejuvenating outdoor experience. Located in Hiles, this campground is a testament to Wisconsin's commitment to preserving its wild spaces while offering comfortable amenities for visitors. For many across the Badger State, a trip "up north" is a cherished annual tradition, a chance to disconnect from urban demands, breathe in fresh pine-scented air, and reconnect with nature and loved ones. Franklin Lake Campground perfectly embodies this spirit, providing an idyllic setting for creating lasting memories.

What truly sets Franklin Lake Campground apart is its remarkable blend of natural splendor and thoughtful amenities. It’s a place where the rustic charm of the wilderness meets the convenience of well-maintained facilities. Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of loons on a crystal-clear lake, spending your days swimming from a sandy beach, casting a line for a prized walleye, or exploring miles of scenic hiking trails. Evenings bring the warmth of a campfire under a brilliant canopy of stars, far from city lights. This harmonious balance creates an environment that appeals to a wide spectrum of campers, from seasoned tent enthusiasts to those traveling in large RVs.

Franklin Lake Campground is not just a place to sleep under the stars; it's an immersive experience in the heart of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. Its reputation for spacious, private sites and exceptionally clean restrooms, including flush toilets, consistently garners high praise from visitors. This commitment to comfort within a natural setting ensures that your focus remains on enjoying the breathtaking surroundings and the camaraderie of your fellow campers. Whether you're planning a peaceful solo retreat, a romantic getaway, or a fun-filled family vacation, Franklin Lake Campground promises an unforgettable Wisconsin outdoor adventure that will have you planning your return before you even leave.

Franklin Lake Campground is situated in Hiles, WI 54562, USA. This address places it squarely within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, a vast and protected natural area in northeastern Wisconsin. Hiles, though a small community, serves as an access point to this incredible wilderness. For residents across Wisconsin, reaching Franklin Lake Campground typically involves scenic drives on well-maintained state highways that lead into the northern part of the state, eventually transitioning to forest roads. The journey itself is often part of the Northwoods experience, gradually immersing travelers in the serene environment.

Access to Franklin Lake Campground is generally considered good, even for larger RVs, though the final approach may involve narrower, unpaved forest roads. Visitors frequently comment on the "long drive into the campground" but emphasize that the beauty along the way makes it worthwhile. While the roads leading to the sites are navigable, some areas might be gravel, and backing into sites with larger rigs can present a minor challenge due to road width, as noted by some campers. However, this contributes to the private and spaced-out feel of the campsites. Given its national forest setting, cell service can be spotty or limited depending on your provider, so downloading maps and directions for offline use is highly recommended before your arrival. Despite its tranquil, somewhat remote feel, the campground is only about 15 miles east and slightly south of Eagle River, a larger town offering various services, including gas and convenience stores, providing a convenient balance between seclusion and accessibility for Wisconsin locals.

• Spacious & Private Campsites: The campground offers 77 single-family campsites, noted for being large, well-spaced, and providing a good degree of privacy. They can accommodate both tent and RV camping.
• Site Amenities: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill, perfect for cooking and enjoying campfires.
• Electrical Hookups: Some sites now offer electrical hookups (20, 30, and 50 amp service), which is a welcome addition for many campers.
• Clean Restrooms: Visitors consistently praise the cleanliness of the restrooms, which include both accessible flush toilets (in some loops) and vault toilets located throughout the campground.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available via pumps throughout the campground.
• Sandy Swimming Beach: Franklin Lake boasts a beautiful sandy beach, providing a fantastic area for swimming and water play, especially for young children due to its shallow and calm waters.
• Fishing Dock & Boat Launch: A fishing pier is available, and a paved boat launch provides easy access for motorized and non-motorized boats onto Franklin Lake, known for various fish species.
• Hiking Trails: Several well-maintained hiking trails start directly from or are easily accessible from the campground, including the 1-mile Franklin Lake Interpretive Trail (partially accessible) and connections to the 13-mile Hidden Lakes Trail and the Nicolet North Trail.
• Historic Structures: The campground features unique historic stone and log structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), adding a touch of history and character to the site.
• Friendly Camp Hosts: Volunteer camp hosts are often on-site, providing helpful information and ensuring a pleasant stay.

• Crystal-Clear Franklin Lake: The centerpiece of the campground is the beautiful, clear blue waters of 892-acre Franklin Lake. Its calm and shallow nature near the shore makes it ideal for swimming, especially for families with young children, and offers excellent opportunities for various water activities.
• Historic CCC Structures: Franklin Lake Campground is listed on the National Register of Historic Places due to its unique stone and log structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. These historic elements add a fascinating layer of history and character to the camping experience.
• Spacious and Private Sites: Unlike some crowded campgrounds, Franklin Lake offers large, well-spaced campsites that provide a good sense of privacy. This allows campers to truly relax and enjoy their natural surroundings without feeling too close to their neighbors.
• Excellent Hiking Trail Network: The campground serves as a gateway to an impressive network of trails, including the interpretive Franklin Nature Trail (with trees over 400 years old) and connections to the 13-mile Hidden Lakes Trail. This offers ample opportunities for day hikes and longer backpacking adventures amidst old-growth forests.
• Flush Toilets and Potable Water: While retaining a natural feel, the availability of clean flush toilets (in some loops) and potable drinking water throughout the campground provides a significant level of comfort and convenience that is highly valued by campers.
• Diverse Fishing Opportunities: Franklin Lake is a productive fishing lake, with anglers able to catch walleye, northern pike, large and smallmouth bass, rock bass, perch, and bluegill, among others. The convenient boat launch and fishing pier make it easy to enjoy a day of angling.
• Stunning Fall Colors: Located in the Northwoods, the campground is praised for spectacular fall colors, making it an ideal destination for autumn camping and leaf-peeping, providing a vibrant and memorable experience.
• Friendly and Helpful Camp Hosts: Visitors consistently highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the camp host couple, who are available to assist and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Their presence adds a personal and welcoming touch to the campground.
• Wildlife Viewing: The lush forest and lake environment are home to a variety of wildlife, including ducks, trumpeter swans, and loons, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching and observing animals in their natural habitat.

Address: Hiles, WI 54562, USA

As a campground within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, Franklin Lake Campground does not typically have a direct, publicly listed phone number specifically for the campground itself. Instead, inquiries are generally directed to the managing U.S. Forest Service Ranger District. For information regarding reservations, conditions, or specific amenities, it is best to contact the Eagle River-Florence Ranger District Office of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. Their general contact number for recreation information is often the best point of contact for National Forest campgrounds in this area.

Franklin Lake Campground is an outstanding choice for Wisconsin residents, offering a quintessential Northwoods experience that resonates deeply with the state's outdoor heritage. For many Wisconsinites, the annual migration to "up north" is more than just a vacation; it's a return to a cherished landscape, a place of peace, adventure, and family bonding. This campground perfectly encapsulates that spirit, providing an accessible yet immersive wilderness retreat.

The combination of a beautiful, clear lake with a sandy beach and the provision of clean flush toilets and potable water is a significant draw for local families. It offers the joys of primitive camping—like spacious, private sites and crackling campfires—without sacrificing essential comforts. This balance is often key for families with children or those new to camping, making the outdoor experience more enjoyable and less daunting.

Furthermore, the extensive network of hiking trails, including the unique interpretive trail through old-growth hemlock, caters to Wisconsin's active population who value opportunities for exploration and connection with nature. The excellent fishing opportunities on Franklin Lake appeal to the state's passionate angling community, providing a chance to pursue walleye, bass, and other species in a serene setting. For those with boats, the convenient launch makes lake access effortless.

The sense of quiet and solitude, combined with the helpful presence of friendly camp hosts, creates a welcoming and stress-free environment. This allows Wisconsinites to truly disconnect from their busy lives and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of their home state. The historic elements from the CCC add a unique cultural layer, appealing to those who appreciate Wisconsin's rich history alongside its natural wonders.

In essence, Franklin Lake Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s an invitation to experience the very best of what Wisconsin’s Northwoods has to offer. It provides the perfect backdrop for creating cherished family memories, embarking on outdoor explorations, and simply unwinding in a truly beautiful and accommodating environment. For any Wisconsin local seeking a top-tier camping destination that combines natural splendor with thoughtful amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, Franklin Lake Campground is an absolute must-visit.

Franklin Lake (WI)

Hiles, WI 54562, USA