When most people think about the northwoods of Wisconsin, the very popular vacation destination cities of Eagle River, Minoqua and Boulder Junction come to mind. They are vibrant exciting vacation spots and boast many full service RV parks and wonderful campgrounds with every amenity you could imagine; places such as the Hi-Pines Campground and Resort in Eagle River and the Patricia Lake RV Resort in Minoqua. These parks offer every accommodation one could hope for in an RV park including full hookups, cable wifi, supply stores, clubhouses and innumerable recreational activities.
However, sometimes when we want to visit the northwoods, we are seeking a quiet escape to simply enjoy being out in nature. We also enjoy the challenge of dry camping for periods of time; kind of a test for us as to how minimalist we can be in terms of power, propane and water consumption. At those times, it is the simple Forest Serviced campgrounds in the located in the Nicolet National Forest to which we retire.
One favorite that we have visited multiple times is the Anvil Lake Campground, situated on the shores of beautiful Anvil Lake. While one attraction of the northwoods is the chain lakes, which allow boaters to access many bodies of water while “putting in” only once, the beauty of Anvil is that it is not on a chain. Therefore, while it gets its share of motorboat and jetski traffic, it is by no means the busy freeway of transportation that the nearby Eagle River chain is, again allowing for a bit more peace and quiet and the occasional paddle or two.
Lakeside site
Anvil Lake Campground boasts 18 large, private, wooded sites, a number of which connect directly to the lake or beach by means of a short private path. While no reservations are accepted and campers must claim a site upon arrival via a self-registration system, it is the lake sites that are first spoken for. While no hookups or showers are available, the campground does contain newly constructed pit toilets and water is provided for your reasonable $12/night fee.
There is also a lovely log shelter located at the campground on the way to the beach that was built many years ago by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it contains an immense stone fireplace and is a terrific location for an impromptu picnic lunch, just one more way to make your summer get-a-way special. Most importantly, however, you will have ready access to the peace and serenity that many of us leave the city for.
For more information about where to camp in Wisconsin, browse Woodall’s listings of Wisconsin RV camping resorts.
