Willow Reservoir Campsite 27

Wisconsin's Northwoods are synonymous with breathtaking natural beauty, pristine waters, and the ultimate escape from the everyday. For those Wisconsinites who truly cherish a secluded, immersive outdoor experience, away from the crowds and the hum of modern life, the Willow Flowage Scenic Waters Area offers an unparalleled opportunity. Within this vast and wild landscape lies Willow Reservoir Campsite 27, a gem that promises a more rustic, intimate connection with nature. It's a spot where the sounds of the wilderness prevail, and the mornings are painted with stunning sunrises over a misty lake, making it a truly special find for locals seeking tranquility.

Willow Reservoir Campsite 27 is not your typical drive-in campground with rows of RVs. Instead, it's a semi-primitive site that caters to those who appreciate a bit of adventure and self-sufficiency. It offers a taste of the raw, undeveloped beauty that defines much of the Willow Flowage. Whether you arrive by vehicle and enjoy a short hike to your site, or paddle in for an authentic wilderness experience, this campsite provides a unique vantage point to explore one of Wisconsin's largest undeveloped lakes and its surrounding pristine forests. For locals, it's an accessible slice of true Northwoods wilderness.

Willow Reservoir Campsite 27 is located in Hazelhurst, WI 54531, USA, specifically within the sprawling Willow Flowage Scenic Waters Area. This region, nestled in Oneida County, is renowned for its vast undeveloped shoreline, numerous islands, and exceptional fishing and paddling opportunities. For Wisconsin residents, Hazelhurst is a familiar Northwoods destination, easily reachable via well-maintained state highways.

Regarding accessibility for Campsite 27 itself, public information from the Wisconsin DNR indicates that while many Willow Flowage campsites are primarily watercraft-accessible, some are also accessible by motor vehicle. Campsites 26 and 28, which are close to Campsite 27, are specifically mentioned as being accessible by motor vehicle from Iron Gate Road, with a short walk to the sites. All-wheel-drive or 4x4 vehicles with higher ground clearance are recommended for this access. This suggests that Campsite 27 likely shares similar mixed accessibility, offering the option of driving to a nearby parking area and then walking a short distance up a hill to the site, or arriving directly by watercraft. This dual accessibility allows for flexibility depending on a camper's preferred mode of transportation and desire for remoteness, making it a compelling option for locals looking for varying levels of wilderness immersion.

As a remote, semi-primitive campsite within the Willow Flowage Scenic Waters Area, Campsite 27, like others in the area, offers basic amenities designed to preserve the natural character of the environment. The focus here is on self-sufficiency and enjoying the raw beauty of the Northwoods.

• Rustic Campsite: This site provides a designated area for camping, suitable for tents.
• Fire Ring: Each campsite typically includes a metal fire ring for campfires, cooking, and warmth.
• Picnic Table: A picnic table is generally provided at each site for convenience.
• No Modern Hookups: There are no electric, water, or sewer hookups at this semi-primitive site. Campers must be prepared to be self-sufficient.
• No Garbage Facilities: Following "carry-in, carry-out" guidelines is essential, meaning all refuse generated must be packed out by campers.
• Drinking Water (Seasonal at Sandy Landing): Potable water is available seasonally at Sandy Landing, or campers can filter/boil flowage water, or purchase water locally.
• Vault Toilets (Likely Shared within Flowage Area): While not directly at every remote site, basic restroom facilities (vault toilets) are usually located within sections of the flowage or at designated boat landings.

• Secluded and Private: Campsite 27 is described as offering a good degree of privacy, making it ideal for those seeking a quiet escape away from crowded campgrounds.
• Shady Site: Reviews indicate the site is nicely shaded, offering respite from the sun, which is a valuable feature during warmer Wisconsin summers.
• Abundant Wood for Firewood: Campers noted "lots of wood around," implying a good supply of dead and down wood (legal to gather from upland areas) for campfires, enhancing the rustic experience.
• Beautiful Lake Views: While up a hill, the site offers picturesque views, particularly noted for "beautiful sunrise" and "foggy morning" vistas over the Willow Reservoir.
• Nice Beach Access: Despite being up a hill from the water, there is a "nice beach" nearby, providing a pleasant spot for swimming or relaxing by the shore.
• Water Access (potentially private/semi-private): The proximity to the water and a "nice beach" implies convenient access for swimming and enjoying the lake.
• Authentic Northwoods Experience: Being part of the Willow Flowage Scenic Waters Area, the campsite offers a truly wild flavor, with limited development and abundant natural beauty, including 73 miles of undeveloped shoreline and 106 islands.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The undeveloped nature of the flowage means excellent chances to observe native Wisconsin wildlife, including eagles and loons.
• Paddling Paradise: The Willow Flowage is ideal for canoeing and kayaking, offering seemingly endless backwaters and islands to explore, making Campsite 27 a perfect base for paddlers.

Address: Hazelhurst, WI 54531, USA

As Willow Reservoir Campsite 27 is part of the Wisconsin DNR's Willow Flowage Scenic Waters Area, direct phone numbers for individual campsites are not typically provided. For inquiries, regulations, and general information about camping in the Willow Flowage, including specifics on accessibility and amenities for remote sites, the best contact method is the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Visitors can find information and potentially reach the managing office through the Wisconsin DNR's official website for the Willow Flowage Scenic Waters Area. While a general phone number for the DNR is 1-888-936-7463, it's always best to navigate their website for specific property information or look for contact details for the local DNR office responsible for the Willow Flowage. For reservations, beginning in 2026, some campsites in the Willow Flowage will require reservations and a camping fee, bookable through the DNR's online reservation system starting June 1, 2025. It is crucial for prospective campers to check the latest information on the Wisconsin DNR website before planning their trip, as rules and reservation requirements are subject to change.

For Wisconsin residents, Willow Reservoir Campsite 27 offers a unique and highly desirable camping experience that perfectly aligns with the state's love for its natural wild places. Its location in Hazelhurst, within the stunning Willow Flowage Scenic Waters Area, means that locals have relatively convenient access to a truly remote and undeveloped Northwoods gem. This allows for an authentic escape without the lengthy travel often associated with wilderness adventures, maximizing precious time spent outdoors.

The semi-primitive nature of Campsite 27, while lacking modern hookups, is precisely its appeal for many Wisconsinites. It caters to those who seek to disconnect, embrace self-sufficiency, and immerse themselves fully in nature. The promise of a shady site, ample wood for campfires, and particularly the breathtaking lake views and "beautiful sunrise" noted by past campers, create an idyllic setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. For those who enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or fishing, the Willow Flowage itself is a massive playground, offering endless opportunities for water-based recreation right from your campsite.

Furthermore, the dual accessibility by vehicle (with a short walk) or by watercraft means that campers can choose their level of adventure, whether they prefer a slightly easier entry or a full paddle-in experience. This flexibility makes it suitable for a broader range of local outdoor enthusiasts. For Wisconsinites who truly appreciate untouched natural beauty, value privacy, and are prepared for a rustic but rewarding camping experience, Willow Reservoir Campsite 27 stands out as an unparalleled local treasure, providing the perfect backdrop for creating cherished memories in the heart of their home state's iconic Northwoods.

Willow Reservoir Campsite 27

Hazelhurst, WI 54531, USA