Open
— The campground operates seasonally from May 2 through October 31. Sites are first-come, first-served with no advance reservations.
About
Wanoka Lake Campground is located approximately 7 miles east of Iron River in the Washburn District of Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. The campground features 20 first-come, first-served campsites situated on a 15-acre lake known for panfish and trout fishing. Each site includes a defined parking spur, fire ring, picnic table, and tent pad, with most sites accommodating RVs up to 35 feet. Two pull-through sites are available for easier access.
The campground provides vault toilets and potable drinking water. Wanoka Lake is non-motorized only with carry-in boat access, making it ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. The recreation area is located off an ATV route that connects to local trails, though ATVs must remain on parking spurs and cannot be driven around the campground. The small town of Iron River is nearby for supplies, groceries, and firewood. Popular activities include fishing year-round, hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing in the surrounding forest.
The campground operates under standard National Forest regulations with a maximum of 8 people and 3 vehicles per site. Firewood must originate within 25 miles or be USDA-certified. The scenic area features hardwood and pine forests with opportunities to explore the nearby Rainbow Lake Wilderness and the North Country National Scenic Trail.
Directions
From Iron River, follow US Highway 2 East for about 7 miles and turn right (south) on Forest Road 234.
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