Starrett Lake Campground

For those in Wisconsin seeking a true escape into nature, away from the constant hum of modern life, Starrett Lake Campground offers an idyllic and remarkably peaceful retreat. Nestled within the expansive Northern Highland American Legion State Forest in Sayner, this campground is a haven for individuals and families who prioritize serenity, natural beauty, and a genuine connection with the outdoors. Unlike many bustling campsites, Starrett Lake Campground is intentionally designed for tranquility, making it a unique gem in Wisconsin's rich landscape of outdoor destinations.

Imagine waking to the calls of loons echoing across a pristine lake, with no generators or loud devices to disturb the quiet calm. This is the everyday reality at Starrett Lake Campground, a designated "quiet campground" that upholds a peaceful atmosphere. It's a place where the gentle lapping of water against the shore and the rustle of leaves in the pine trees become the soundtrack to your getaway. Whether you're an avid angler, a paddle sports enthusiast, or simply someone looking to unwind amidst breathtaking scenery, Starrett Lake promises an experience that rejuvenates the spirit and provides a welcome contrast to the demands of daily life in Wisconsin's cities and towns.

The beauty of this campground lies not just in its serene environment but also in its commitment to a more rustic, yet comfortable, camping style. While it embraces the simplicity of nature, it does so with well-maintained facilities and a welcoming atmosphere, often highlighted by its friendly campground managers. It’s a perfect destination for Wisconsin residents from all corners of the state – whether you're driving up from Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, or a closer community, the journey leads you to a place where the stresses of urban living melt away, replaced by the calming rhythms of the Northwoods. Starrett Lake Campground isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's an invitation to experience the authentic, unspoiled wilderness that defines much of Northern Wisconsin, offering an unforgettable escape for those who cherish peace and natural splendor.

Starrett Lake Campground is perfectly situated in Sayner, WI 54560, USA, deep within the Northern Highland American Legion State Forest. This prime location places it in the heart of Wisconsin's renowned Northwoods, an area celebrated for its vast forests, clear lakes, and abundant wildlife. The journey to Starrett Lake itself becomes part of the adventure, as you traverse scenic routes that gradually transition from more developed areas to the tranquil wilderness.

Accessibility to the campground is straightforward, with paved roads leading into the area before transitioning to well-maintained dirt roads for the last couple of miles within the forest. While the campground offers a feeling of seclusion, it's not entirely isolated. Sayner, a charming small town, is approximately 5 miles away, providing access to restaurants, grocery stores, and essential supplies. Nearby towns like Boulder Junction (7 miles), St. Germain (12 miles), and Minocqua-Woodruff (14 miles) offer additional services, laundromats, and a wider range of amenities, ensuring that campers can easily restock or explore local culture if desired.

Starrett Lake itself is a 67-acre lake with a maximum depth of 19 feet, offering visitors access from a public boat landing within the campground. The lake has an electric-motor and no-wake restriction, making it particularly ideal for quiet water activities like canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. This restriction significantly contributes to the serene atmosphere that campers cherish. The campground is spread out over hilly terrain, beneath a canopy of tall pines, birch, and hardwoods, ensuring that most campsites offer pleasant levels of seclusion from neighboring campers. This natural spacing and the calm lake environment are key to the tranquility that defines Starrett Lake Campground, making it easily accessible for a peaceful getaway from anywhere in Wisconsin.

Starrett Lake Campground provides a range of essential services designed to offer a comfortable, albeit rustic, camping experience. These services emphasize self-sufficiency and a close connection with nature, aligning with the campground's quiet and serene ethos.

• Campsites: The campground features 42 non-electric campsites, including 36 sites suitable for tent and RV/trailer camping (back-in only, with varying lengths) and 6 walk-in tent-only sites. Each site is equipped with a parking spur, a tent area, a fire ring, and a picnic table. All sites are reservable, with reservations available up to 11 months in advance or on the day of arrival.
• Drinking Water: Potable water is available via old-fashioned hand pumps located throughout the campground. This rustic approach adds to the charm of the experience.
• Restroom Facilities: There are four vault toilet buildings, which are consistently praised by visitors for their cleanliness, making the lack of running water and flush toilets a non-issue for many campers.
• Boat Landing: A developed boat landing with a ramp, launch pier, and paved turnaround provides convenient access to Starrett Lake for electric motors and non-motorized boats.
• Firewood: Firewood is available for sale at the campground, ensuring campers have access to fires for cooking and warmth. Campers are also allowed to gather dead and downed wood from the forest for their campfires.
• Trash and Recycling: Designated trash and recycling dumpsters are provided to help campers properly dispose of waste and maintain the cleanliness of the campground.
• On-site Campground Manager: An on-site campground manager, often praised for being friendly and helpful, is available (typically mid-May through mid-October) to assist campers and ensure a pleasant stay.
• State Park & Forest Admission Sticker: A Wisconsin State Park & Forest Vehicle Admission Sticker is required for all vehicles, which can be purchased daily or annually.

Starrett Lake Campground offers a unique set of features and highlights that set it apart as a premier rustic camping destination in Wisconsin. These attributes contribute significantly to its allure for those seeking a tranquil and immersive outdoor experience.

• Designated Quiet Campground: This is perhaps the most significant highlight. Starrett Lake is a designated quiet campground, meaning no generators or other loud noise-producing devices are allowed (with medical exceptions for generators). This commitment to quiet ensures a truly peaceful and serene atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and enjoying the sounds of nature, as frequently praised by visitors who cherish the absence of disturbing noises.
• Pristine Starrett Lake: The campground is situated directly on the southern shore of beautiful Starrett Lake, a 67-acre lake known for its clear water. The lake's electric-motor and no-wake restrictions make it ideal for non-motorized water activities such as paddleboarding, canoeing, and kayaking. Many sites, including #1331, are right on the lake, offering stunning views and direct access.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Starrett Lake offers good fishing for a variety of species, including Panfish, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, and Walleye. Anglers frequently report good catches, adding to the recreational appeal.
• Spotless Vault Toilets: Despite the lack of flush toilets, visitors consistently commend the restrooms for being "spotless" and well-maintained, enhancing the comfort of this rustic camping experience.
• Friendly Campground Manager: The presence of a delightful and friendly camp host or manager (like Barbara or Barb, as mentioned in reviews) significantly contributes to a welcoming and positive atmosphere, offering assistance and local insights.
• Loon Calls: The presence of loons and their distinctive calls in the mornings and evenings is a highlight for many campers, adding to the quintessential Northwoods ambiance and a truly immersive nature experience.
• Secluded and Shaded Sites: The campsites are spacious and spread out over hilly terrain, beneath a canopy of tall pines, birch, and hardwoods, offering excellent shade and a good level of seclusion from neighboring campers. Certain sites like #1309 and #1311 are noted for being particularly scenic and secluded with fire rings close to the lake.
• Sandy Beach Access: The campground features a sandy beach, perfect for swimming and launching paddleboards or kayaks, providing direct water access for enjoyment.

For inquiries, reservations, or more information about Starrett Lake Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: Sayner, WI 54560, USA

For reservations, please visit: wisconsin.goingtocamp.com or call 1-888-947-2757.

For additional information about the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest, you may contact:

Crystal Lake Visitor Station Phone: 715-542-3923

Clear Lake Visitor Station Phone: 715-356-3668

Starrett Lake Campground stands out as an exceptional choice for Wisconsin locals, perfectly aligning with the desire for authentic, peaceful, and immersive outdoor experiences that define the state's camping culture. For residents across Wisconsin, from the southern farmlands to the northern forests, this campground offers an accessible escape that feels worlds away from daily routines.

Firstly, its designated status as a "quiet campground" is a major draw for Wisconsinites seeking true tranquility. In a world increasingly filled with noise and distractions, Starrett Lake provides a sanctuary where the natural sounds of the Northwoods—the rustle of leaves, the calls of loons, and the gentle lapping of the lake—are the dominant auditory experiences. This is a significant advantage for those looking to genuinely disconnect and recharge, a core appeal for many local campers who value peace and quiet above all else.

The rustic nature of the campground, featuring hand pumps for water and spotless vault toilets, resonates deeply with the spirit of traditional Wisconsin camping. It offers a back-to-basics experience without sacrificing cleanliness or essential comforts. This blend of simplicity and well-maintained facilities caters to those who appreciate the raw beauty of the outdoors but still value a comfortable stay. For locals, this type of camping fosters a nostalgic connection to Wisconsin’s rich outdoor heritage, reminiscent of simpler times yet equipped for modern appreciation.

The features of Starrett Lake itself are also perfectly suited for local preferences. The electric-motor and no-wake restrictions on the 67-acre lake make it an ideal playground for paddle sports—kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding—which are incredibly popular activities across Wisconsin. The sandy beach and excellent fishing opportunities for species like musky, bass, and panfish further enhance its appeal, providing diverse recreational options for families and individuals. These activities are deeply embedded in Wisconsin’s outdoor lifestyle, making Starrett Lake a natural fit for residents.

Furthermore, the spacious and secluded campsites, nestled under a canopy of mature trees, offer a sense of privacy often sought after by campers. Whether you have a travel trailer or prefer tent camping, the layout ensures a personal connection with nature. The presence of a friendly and helpful camp host, as highlighted in numerous reviews, adds a personal touch that enhances the overall experience, providing a welcoming and supportive environment that makes repeat visits highly likely.

In conclusion, Starrett Lake Campground is more than just a place to stay; it's an embodiment of the quintessential Wisconsin outdoor experience. Its commitment to tranquility, its rustic yet well-maintained amenities, and its prime location within the beloved Northwoods make it an ideal and highly suitable destination for any Wisconsin local seeking a genuine, peaceful, and memorable escape into the heart of the state's natural beauty. It's a place to create cherished memories, year after year.

Starrett Lake Campground

Sayner, WI 54560, USA