Smith Rapids Recreation Area

Nestled within the stunning Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, the Smith Rapids Recreation Area offers a serene and inviting escape for those seeking to connect with Wisconsin's natural beauty. More than just a place to pitch a tent, this recreation area provides a rustic yet rewarding outdoor experience, boasting a unique blend of natural features and thoughtful amenities. For Wisconsin residents looking for a tranquil retreat without venturing too far from home, Smith Rapids Recreation Area presents an ideal destination, whether for a weekend getaway or a longer wilderness adventure.

Smith Rapids Recreation Area is a true gem, especially for those who appreciate a quieter, more intimate camping experience. Unlike some larger, bustling campgrounds, Smith Rapids maintains a peaceful ambiance, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the sounds and sights of the Northwoods. Its character is further enhanced by the presence of a distinctive covered bridge, spanning a fork of the scenic Flambeau River – a picturesque landmark that adds to the area's charm and offers fantastic photo opportunities. After a period of closure for improvements, this beloved spot has reopened, ready to welcome campers and outdoor enthusiasts once again. There are plans by the forest service to further enhance the property, including a redesign to better cater to campers with horses, indicating a commitment to improving the visitor experience. While some trails will be improved, the total number of campsites will be slightly reduced, emphasizing quality over quantity.

Smith Rapids Recreation Area is conveniently situated at Forest Rd 148, Park Falls, WI 54552, USA. This accessible location places it within easy reach for many Wisconsin residents, making it an excellent choice for a spontaneous trip or a planned outdoor adventure. From Fifield, you can travel east on State Highway 70 for approximately 12 miles, then turn left (north) onto Forest Service Road 148 and continue for about 2 miles to reach the campground entrance. While providing a sense of seclusion and wilderness, the campground remains relatively accessible, allowing for a smooth journey to your outdoor haven. Its position within the vast Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest also means that visitors are surrounded by thousands of acres of pristine natural landscape, offering endless opportunities for exploration right outside their campsite.

• Campsites: The campground offers 10 sites, suitable for both tent and RV camping. Seven of these sites are specifically designed to accommodate horse trailers, featuring extra-long parking spurs, hitching rails, picnic tables, and fire grills. Most sites are openly spacious with some shade, and some are over 45 feet long. Sites 1-3 can accommodate a tent or truck camper but not a pull-behind camper.

• First-Come, First-Served Sites: All campsites at Smith Rapids are currently available on a first-come, first-served basis, providing flexibility for spontaneous trips. Even on the busiest weekends, finding an open site here is generally not an issue, which is a great advantage for campers.

• Drinking Water: Potable water is readily available via a hand pump located in the picnic area just outside the campground entrance. Visitors consistently report that the water is clear and tastes fine.

• Vault Toilets: For convenience, vault toilets are provided within the recreation area.

• Picnic Area: A designated day-use picnic area with a shelter is located at the entrance to the campground, offering a pleasant spot for day visitors or campers to enjoy a meal outdoors.

• Carry-in Boat Access: For those looking to explore the Flambeau River by water, a carry-in boat access point is available in the picnic area.

• Garbage and Recycling: Dumpsters for garbage and recycling are available within the campground for campers' use.

• Pet-Friendly: Smith Rapids Recreation Area is pet-friendly, with restrictions. Pets must be crated, caged, or on a leash less than 6 feet in length while in developed recreation areas.

• Smith Rapids Covered Bridge: A truly unique feature, this covered bridge spans a fork of the Flambeau River, providing a picturesque backdrop and a historical touch to the area. It's the only glue-laminated town lattice covered bridge in Wisconsin and is a popular spot for photos.

• Equestrian-Friendly Design: With several campsites designed specifically for horse campers, complete with tie stalls and trailer parking, Smith Rapids is an ideal destination for those who enjoy horseback riding and wish to bring their equine companions.

• Proximity to Trails: The recreation area offers direct access to the 18.5-mile Smith River Saddle Equestrian Trail, a peaceful trail that meanders through various forest types. Additionally, the campground is in close proximity to the 70-mile Flambeau Trail System, which is open to off-road vehicles, hiking, and mountain biking.

• Flambeau River Access: The South Fork of the Flambeau River runs alongside the campground, providing opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and river fishing. While the river can be shallow at certain times of the year, it's popular for day float trips and features small rapids for the adventurous.

• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Many visitors highlight the quiet and peaceful nature of the campground, making it perfect for solo campers or those seeking a tranquil retreat away from the noise of everyday life.

• Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by the beauty of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, the area offers ample opportunities for nature viewing and appreciating the diverse Wisconsin landscape.

Address: Forest Rd 148, Park Falls, WI 54552, USA

For general inquiries about the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest or the Medford-Park Falls Ranger District, you may be able to find additional contact information through the USDA Forest Service website or by searching for the Medford-Park Falls Ranger District office.

For Wisconsin residents, Smith Rapids Recreation Area is more than just a campground; it’s an accessible and authentic gateway to the state’s magnificent Northwoods. Its location in Park Falls, within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, means that a truly wild and rejuvenating experience is never too far from home. Whether you're an avid equestrian looking for dedicated facilities, a fishing enthusiast eager to cast a line in the Flambeau River, or simply someone yearning for a quiet retreat under the stars, Smith Rapids delivers. The first-come, first-served campsite availability often alleviates the stress of advance booking, offering spontaneity for weekend adventures. The presence of the iconic Smith Rapids Covered Bridge adds a touch of local lore and beauty, making it a distinctive destination. With its peaceful atmosphere, ample opportunities for hiking, ATV riding, canoeing, and its commitment to catering to horse campers, Smith Rapids Recreation Area stands out as an exceptional local resource for outdoor recreation, offering a refreshing escape and a chance to reconnect with the pristine natural environment that defines Wisconsin. It’s a place where peaceful stays and easy access combine to create lasting memories for locals and visitors alike.

Smith Rapids Recreation Area

Forest Rd 148, Park Falls, WI 54552, USA