Price County Forestry Department

The Price County Forestry Department serves as the managing body for an expansive network of county forest lands and several inviting campgrounds within Price County, Wisconsin. Unlike a single, standalone campground, the "Price County Forestry Department" itself is the resource for unlocking a diverse array of camping experiences, from well-appointed county parks to vast stretches of forest land ideal for dispersed, primitive camping. This department is dedicated to managing, conserving, and protecting Price County's natural resources on a sustainable basis, ensuring that current and future generations of Wisconsinites can enjoy the beauty of the Northwoods. Whether you're seeking a quiet lakeside retreat with some amenities or a rugged backcountry adventure, the Price County Forestry Department provides the framework and oversight for numerous opportunities. Their focus on maintaining these natural spaces ensures that campers have access to clean, beautiful, and often very tranquil environments, offering a true escape into Wisconsin's wild heart. Visitors consistently praise the helpfulness of the department and the quality of the parks, such as Solberg Lake.

The main office for the Price County Forestry Department is located at 104 S Eyder Ave # 217, Phillips, WI 54555, USA. Phillips is a charming city situated in the heart of Price County, a region in northern Wisconsin renowned for its dense forests, numerous lakes, and extensive trail systems. This centralized location makes the Forestry Department office a convenient point of contact for information regarding all county-managed campgrounds and dispersed camping areas throughout Price County. Price County itself is highly accessible via well-maintained state highways, making the journey relatively straightforward for Wisconsinites traveling from Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, or other parts of the state. While the office is in Phillips, the actual campgrounds and dispersed camping areas are spread across the county, often situated on beautiful lakes or along rivers. Each specific campground, like Solberg Lake or Big Falls, will have its own individual access points, typically well-marked and reachable by vehicle. The expansive nature of the county forest also provides opportunities for remote access for those seeking true wilderness experiences, often by hiking or ATV/UTV trails.

The Price County Forestry Department oversees a variety of camping services and facilities across its managed lands. While specific amenities vary by individual campground, the department's umbrella of services includes:

• Developed County Campgrounds: The department manages several developed campgrounds, such as Solberg Lake County Park and Campground, Smith Lake County Park and Campground, and Big Falls County Park and Campground. These sites typically offer a range of amenities.
• Campsites with Electric Hookups: Many developed county campgrounds, like Solberg Lake, offer sites with electrical hookups (30 and/or 50 amp), catering to RVs and trailers.
• Rustic and Primitive Sites: For those seeking a more traditional or rugged experience, several campgrounds (e.g., Big Falls, Sailor Lake) provide rustic sites without electricity or water hookups.
• Online Reservations: For popular campgrounds like Solberg Lake and Smith Lake, online reservation systems are available, allowing campers to book their sites in advance.
• First-Come, First-Served Sites: Many sites across the county campgrounds are also available on a first-come, first-served basis, offering flexibility for spontaneous trips.
• Dump Stations: Sanitary dump stations are typically available at the more developed campgrounds, such as Solberg Lake, for convenient waste disposal.
• Shower/Flush Toilet Buildings: Modern shower and flush toilet facilities are often present at developed campgrounds (e.g., Solberg Lake), usually operating seasonally and sometimes requiring a small fee (e.g., quarters for showers).
• Vault Toilets: More rustic campgrounds and dispersed camping areas provide vault toilets for basic sanitation.
• Drinking Water: Potable water sources, often via hand pumps at rustic sites or pressure water at developed ones, are available seasonally.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Standard at almost all sites across county campgrounds and designated dispersed camping spots, facilitating outdoor cooking and campfires.
• Dispersed Camping Permits: The department issues free dispersed camping permits for camping on the Price County Forest, allowing for primitive camping outside of developed campgrounds for up to 14 days.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is often available at or near campgrounds, or permits can be obtained to gather dead and downed wood.

The camping experiences managed by the Price County Forestry Department boast numerous highlights that draw campers from across Wisconsin:

• Diverse Camping Options: From family-friendly developed campgrounds with amenities to remote, primitive dispersed camping in the vast county forest, there's an option for every type of camper and skill level.
• Access to Beautiful Lakes and Rivers: Many campgrounds are situated on or near scenic lakes like Solberg Lake (known for fishing, water skiing, and swimming), Sailor Lake, Elk Lake, or along rivers like the South Fork of the Jump River, offering abundant water recreation.
• Extensive Trail Systems: Campers have direct access to a vast network of ATV/UTV trails (like the Flambeau Trail System and Solberg Trail), snowmobile trails, hiking trails, and in some areas, even horseback riding trails, making it ideal for motorized and non-motorized outdoor enthusiasts.
• Quiet and Scenic Environments: Reviewers often describe these locations as "nice county parks" and commend their quiet, beautiful settings, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature.
• Helpful and Knowledgeable Staff: The Price County Forestry Department staff are noted for being "very helpful," providing excellent support and information to visitors planning their outdoor adventures.
• Year-Round Opportunities: While many amenities are seasonal, some campgrounds (e.g., Solberg Lake, Big Falls) and dispersed camping areas remain open year-round, offering opportunities for winter camping and snowmobiling.
• Wildlife Viewing: The extensive forest lands provide excellent opportunities for wildlife observation, bird watching, and hunting (with proper permits).
• Affordable Camping: Many of the county-managed campgrounds offer competitive pricing, and dispersed camping is free with a permit, making outdoor recreation accessible for various budgets.

Address: 104 S Eyder Ave # 217, Phillips, WI 54555, USA

Phone: (715) 339-6371

Mobile Phone: +1 715-339-6371

Email: (General inquiries for Price County Forestry & Parks Administrator Joe Grapa can often be found on the official Price County website)

Office Hours: Monday - Thursday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

For specific campground reservations (where applicable), dispersed camping permits, detailed information on trail conditions, or any other inquiries related to Price County's forest lands and parks, it is highly recommended to contact the Price County Forestry Department directly during their office hours. Their official website (typically co.price.wi.us or pricecountywi.net) is also an excellent resource for maps, rules, and online booking portals for specific campgrounds.

For Wisconsinites, the camping opportunities managed by the Price County Forestry Department are exceptionally suitable and highly appealing for several key reasons, deeply resonating with the state's outdoor culture. Located in the heart of northern Wisconsin, Price County offers a true Northwoods experience that is accessible for residents from all corners of the state, providing a manageable drive to escape to nature without crossing state lines. This proximity makes it perfect for regular weekend getaways, extended family vacations, or even spontaneous trips to unplug and recharge.

The vast range of camping experiences, from developed county campgrounds with amenities like electric hookups and showers to free, primitive dispersed camping in the county forest, caters to every type of Wisconsin outdoor enthusiast. Whether you're a family with an RV seeking comfortable conveniences near a lake, or a seasoned adventurer looking for solitude with a tent and a backpack, Price County has a spot for you. This versatility ensures that locals can find an experience that perfectly matches their desired level of comfort and adventure, fostering a deeper connection with Wisconsin's diverse landscapes.

Furthermore, the emphasis on access to recreational activities is a major draw. With numerous lakes for fishing, swimming, and boating, along with extensive ATV/UTV, snowmobile, and hiking trails, Price County serves as a premier destination for active outdoor pursuits. The "helpful" and dedicated staff of the Forestry Department further enhances the experience, providing the resources and support needed to navigate and enjoy these public lands responsibly. For Wisconsinites who value affordability, natural beauty, and a wide array of outdoor adventures, the camping options managed by the Price County Forestry Department stand out as an ideal choice, offering quintessential Wisconsin experiences right in their own beautiful backyard.

Price County Forestry Department

104 S Eyder Ave # 217, Phillips, WI 54555, USA