Franklin Lake
Closed — Closed for the season. The campground operates May 2 through October 15. Reservations open up to 6 months in advance via Recreation.gov.
Special Weather Statement issued January 19 at 3:30AM CST by NWS Green Bay WI
Light snow along with northwest winds gusting over 30 mph is resulting in some blowing and drifting snow in open areas. Visibility may be less than one mile at times. The blowing and drifting snow may also make roads slippery for the morning commute. If traveling this morning, be prepared for reduced visibility and slick roads at times, especially in more open and less forested areas. The gusty winds will begin to diminish by mid morning.
Cold Weather Advisory issued January 19 at 2:01AM CST until January 20 at 10:00AM CST by NWS Green Bay WI
* WHAT...Very cold wind chills as low as 30 below expected. The lowest wind chills will occur this morning, then again Tonight into Tuesday morning. * WHERE...Marathon, Portage, Wood, Langlade, Lincoln, Oneida, Vilas, and Forest Counties. * WHEN...Until 10 AM CST Tuesday. * IMPACTS...The dangerously cold wind chills as low as 30 below zero could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes.
About
Franklin Lake Campground is one of the most popular camping destinations in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, earning its place on the National Register of Historic Places for its unique Civilian Conservation Corps-built stone and log structures. The campground offers 77 sites across two loops set among towering pines and hemlocks at 1,700 feet elevation on the edge of clear blue Franklin Lake. The 892-acre lake features a beautiful sandy beach and paved boat launch, supporting year-round fishing for walleye, northern pike, largemouth and smallmouth bass, rock bass, perch, bluegill, and trout. All types of motorized and non-motorized boats are permitted. The campground provides both flush and vault toilets, drinking water, and electric hookups at select reservable sites. Two historic log picnic pavilions accommodate larger groups. Hiking opportunities abound, including the 1-mile partially accessible Franklin Nature Trail winding through old-growth forest with trees over 400 years old. The trail connects to the 13-mile Hidden Lakes Trail system, which loops south around Butternut Lake through scenic vistas and stands of ancient hemlocks. A 6-mile trail links to nearby Anvil Lake, and the area connects to the Nicolet North Trail system for mountain biking and cross-country skiing. Located just 15 miles east of Eagle River, the campground balances accessibility with a remote Northwoods experience.
Directions
From Eagle River, travel east 7.6 miles on Highway 70 to Forest Road 2178 (Military Road). Turn right (south) on FR 2178 and continue 2.8 miles to FR 2181 (Butternut Lake Road). Turn left (east) and travel 4.6 miles to the campground.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | — |
| Electric Hookups | Yes |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | — |
| Price | $15 - $25 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 40ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 40ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | Yes |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| sm.fs.cnnfadmin@usda.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (715) 479-2827 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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