Anvil Lake Campground

For those of us in Wisconsin who truly appreciate getting away from it all and immersing ourselves in the natural beauty of our state, Anvil Lake Campground near Eagle River is a destination that consistently comes up as a local favorite. Nestled within the expansive Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, this campground offers a genuinely rustic experience, perfect for those seeking to unplug and reconnect with the great outdoors. If you enjoy the sounds of nature, the crackle of a campfire, and the simple pleasure of a clear lake, Anvil Lake Campground is a gem you'll want to add to your Wisconsin camping itinerary.

This campground strikes a perfect balance for many Wisconsin outdoor enthusiasts. It's rustic enough to provide that true wilderness feel – no electric hookups or flush toilets here – yet it’s incredibly accessible, being mere minutes outside of the vibrant town of Eagle River. This combination allows for a peaceful retreat without feeling completely isolated from amenities or other attractions. Whether you're an avid hiker, a keen angler, a family looking for a memorable lakeside escape, or simply someone who enjoys "taking in the great outdoors," Anvil Lake offers a welcoming environment where you can create lasting memories amidst Wisconsin's stunning scenery. Many visitors describe it as a tranquil escape, a place where the "lake and swimming area are great" and there's "plenty to do whether hiking, fishing, boating or just taking in the great outdoors."

Anvil Lake Campground is conveniently located on WI-70, Long Lake, WI 54542, USA. Its prime position places it within the beautiful Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, a vast expanse of natural beauty that defines much of northern Wisconsin. The campground’s strategic location makes it incredibly accessible for locals looking for a quick escape or a longer vacation into the Northwoods.

One of its most significant advantages in terms of accessibility is its close proximity to Eagle River, Wisconsin. The campground is described as being "mere minutes outside of Eagle River," a well-known northern Wisconsin hub. This means campers can enjoy the secluded, rustic feel of the forest while still having easy access to the town's amenities, including grocery stores, bait shops, restaurants, and other services. The drive along WI-70 is scenic and straightforward, making the journey to Anvil Lake Campground part of the relaxing experience. Whether you're coming from Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, or anywhere else in Wisconsin, the well-maintained state highway system leads directly to this peaceful retreat. This blend of remote natural beauty and convenient access to a vibrant community makes Anvil Lake Campground an ideal choice for a wide range of Wisconsin campers.

• Rustic Campsites: Anvil Lake Campground offers primarily rustic campsites, meaning no electric hookups are available at the individual sites. This caters to campers who prefer a more traditional and natural experience.

• Vault Toilets: For restroom facilities, the campground provides vault toilets, aligning with its rustic nature.

• Potable Water: While not explicitly detailed in the provided reviews, National Forest campgrounds typically offer access to potable water pumps, usually hand-pump wells, for drinking and cooking needs.

• Generators Permitted (with limitations): Although rustic, campers "may hear the occasional generator," indicating that generator use is permitted, likely with specific quiet hours enforced to maintain the peaceful atmosphere.

• Dog-Friendly: The campground is explicitly "Dog friendly," welcoming your canine companions, with the exception of the beach area.

• Reservable and First-Come, First-Served Sites: Anvil Lake offers a flexible booking system with both "reservable and 1st come only sites," allowing for both planned trips and spontaneous getaways.

• Boat Launch: There is access to Anvil Lake for boating, suggesting a boat launch is available for canoes, kayaks, and small motorboats.

• Swimming Area: The "lake and swimming area are great," indicating a designated spot for campers to enjoy a refreshing dip in Anvil Lake.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Standard for National Forest campgrounds, each campsite is typically equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring for cooking and campfires.

• Rustic Charm: For those who prefer a less commercialized camping experience, Anvil Lake Campground offers true rustic charm with no electric hookups or flush toilets, allowing for a deeper connection with nature.

• Beautiful Lake and Swimming Area: A key highlight is the "great" lake and swimming area. Anvil Lake provides a refreshing escape, perfect for a dip on a warm Wisconsin day.

• Excellent for Water Activities: With direct lake access, it’s ideal for fishing, boating (kayaking, canoeing, small motorboats), and simply enjoying the tranquil waters of Anvil Lake.

• Abundant Recreational Opportunities: There's "plenty to do whether hiking, fishing, boating or just taking in the great outdoors," making it suitable for active campers and those who just want to relax.

• Dog-Friendly Environment: Pet owners will appreciate that the campground is "Dog friendly," allowing furry family members to join the adventure (with the standard restriction from the designated beach area).

• Proximity to Eagle River: Being "mere minutes outside of Eagle River" offers the best of both worlds: secluded natural beauty with easy access to town amenities, supplies, and other attractions.

• Flexible Site Availability: The mix of "reservable and 1st come only sites" provides flexibility for different planning preferences, making it easier to secure a spot for both planned vacations and spontaneous trips.

• Scenic Topography: The campground's varying topography, from sites "on top of the hill all the way down to the lake," offers diverse views and experiences, though campers should be mindful of how heavy rainfall might affect lower sites.

• National Forest Setting: Located within the vast Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, campers have access to extensive public lands for exploration, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the serene Wisconsin Northwoods.

• Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite allowing occasional generators, the overall vibe is that of a "small campground" and a "gem" for those who "enjoy a more rustic" and quiet setting.

Address: WI-70, Long Lake, WI 54542, USA

Phone: (715) 362-1300

Mobile Phone: +1 715-362-1300

For us Wisconsinites, Anvil Lake Campground embodies much of what we cherish about our state’s outdoor offerings. It’s not about flashy amenities or crowded attractions; it’s about genuine connection with nature, the tranquility of the Northwoods, and the simple pleasure of a lakeside campfire. This campground’s rustic nature, with no electric hookups and vault toilets, is precisely what many locals seek – a true escape that reminds us of the authentic camping experiences we grew up with, or aspire to have.

The fact that it’s "mere minutes outside of Eagle River" makes it incredibly practical for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. We can enjoy the serenity of a National Forest setting, yet still have quick access to a town for forgotten supplies, a meal out, or exploring local shops. This blend of seclusion and convenience is a sweet spot for many Wisconsin families and individuals. The "lake and swimming area are great," providing a perfect spot to cool off on a summer day, and the opportunities for "hiking, fishing, boating" mean there’s always something to do, catering to our love for outdoor activities.

Moreover, the dog-friendly policy is a huge plus for many of us who consider our canine companions part of the family, ensuring they don't miss out on the adventure. The option of both reservable and first-come, first-served sites also provides flexibility, whether you're a meticulous planner or someone who prefers spontaneous trips. While some sites might require "heavy-duty tent stakes to get through the rocky ground," this only adds to the adventurous spirit, a minor challenge for the reward of a truly beautiful location. Anvil Lake Campground is indeed "a gem" for those who "enjoy a more rustic, small campground," offering a genuine Wisconsin outdoor experience that feels both familiar and rejuvenating. It’s a place where locals can truly unwind, surrounded by the natural beauty we’re so proud to call our own.