Black Lake

🌲 Black Lake Campground: Your Peaceful, Pristine Northwoods Retreat

For Wisconsin residents who prioritize natural beauty and a truly rustic, unplugged experience, Black Lake Campground is one of the most spectacular destinations in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. This beloved family campground, nestled along the eastern shores of its namesake lake near Glidden, is renowned for its crystal-clear, spring-fed water and peaceful atmosphere. It is the perfect sanctuary for those looking to escape the electronic noise of daily life and immerse themselves in the deep woods of Northern Wisconsin.

Black Lake is specifically designed for the camper who appreciates the basics: tent camping under a canopy of birch, pine, and spruce trees, clean water from a hand pump, and the quiet comfort of a campfire. Customer reviews frequently highlight the lake itself, calling it "spectacular" and noting its refreshing coolness in the summer heat. The campground’s setting is inherently tranquil, providing an ideal environment to unwind and reconnect with nature. Here, the biggest decision of the day is whether to fish off the shoreline or hike the scenic trail that circles the entire lake.

Managed by the US Forest Service, Black Lake maintains a commitment to preserving the natural character of the area, making it a true escape for those seeking quiet lakeside solitude.

📍 Location and Accessibility

Black Lake Campground is remotely situated in the Great Divide Ranger District of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest in northwestern Wisconsin, roughly between the towns of Glidden and Hayward. Its setting offers deep wilderness immersion while remaining accessible via well-maintained forest roads.

The address for the campground is approximately 1666 Forest Rd 173, Glidden, WI 54527, USA. While Glidden is the nearest post office, the campground is often accessed by travelers coming from Hayward or Winter, WI. It is essential to use a reliable map or downloaded GPS directions, as cell service is generally nonexistent in this remote location. This lack of service is often considered a feature, not a bug, ensuring a genuine digital detox. The campground road is paved near the entrance, providing good access for vehicles and trailers.

The remote setting means campers must plan carefully: fuel, major groceries, and supplies are best secured in the nearby communities (such as Hayward, which is about 35 miles away, or Glidden/Park Falls, which are roughly 29 miles away) before heading in.

🛠️ Services Offered

As a rustic National Forest campground, Black Lake focuses on providing clean, essential facilities for traditional camping. All sites are non-electric, emphasizing a primitive experience.

• Campsites: The campground features 29 non-electric sites suitable for both tent and RV/trailer camping. Approximately half of the sites are lakefront or within 50 feet of the shoreline, offering carry-in access for kayaks and canoes. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a sturdy metal fire ring with a grill grate. There are also a few designated walk-in tent sites spread out near the lake.
• Water: Potable (drinking) water is available via several hand pump wells distributed throughout the campground and day-use area. Reviews indicate the spring-fed water is clear and good-tasting.
• Toilets: Accessible vault toilets are provided in several locations throughout the recreation area and campground, which are kept clean and well-maintained by the Forest Service.
• Registration: Sites are available on a mix of first-come, first-served and reservable basis. Reservations for approximately 17 sites can be made up to six months in advance via the National Reservation System, which is advisable for peak season travel.
• Waste Disposal: Recycling and trash dumpsters are available for proper waste disposal near the entrance.
• Generators: Generators are allowed but only during limited hours (typically 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM), maintaining the overall quiet atmosphere.
• Dump Station: There is no dump station on site, but one is typically available nearby at a location like Ojibwe Park (approx. 19 miles away).

🌟 Features / Highlights

Black Lake Campground is a destination defined by its stunning natural features and excellent opportunities for quiet water recreation and forest exploration.

• Spectacular Spring-Fed Lake: The 129-acre Black Lake is the heart of the recreation area. Its cold, clean, clear water is perfect for swimming and is one of the main draws, featuring a nice grassy area with a sandy-bottom beach area.
• The Black Lake Trail: A fantastic, approximately 4-mile interpretive hiking trail circles the entire lake, offering excellent scenic views and a leisurely, easy two-hour hike. The trail includes historical markers detailing the area’s logging past and Civilian Conservation Corps heritage.
• Prime Waterfront Camping: With over half of the 29 sites being lakefront, campers have a high chance of securing a site with immediate shoreline access, ideal for beaching a canoe, kayak, or small motorized boat.
• Diverse Fishing Opportunities: The lake is known for good fishing, primarily featuring Musky, Walleye, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, and Panfish. Two developed boat landings—one paved and one with additional parking—are available for easy launching.
• Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including white birch, fragrant spruce, loons, deer, and even the occasional elk, offering wonderful viewing opportunities.

📞 Contact Information

For information, reservations, or current conditions at Black Lake Campground and the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, please use the following contact details:

• Campground Address: 1666 Forest Rd 173, Glidden, WI 54527, USA
• Phone (Great Divide Ranger District): (715) 634-4821
• Mobile Phone (Great Divide Ranger District): +1 715-634-4821
• Online Reservations: Available through the official US government platform, Recreation.gov (search "Black Lake Recreation Area").

✅ What is Worth Choosing Black Lake?

Black Lake Campground is the premier choice for Wisconsin campers who seek a truly rustic, lakeside experience defined by natural beauty and quiet recreation. Unlike high-amenity parks, Black Lake offers a genuine escape, forcing you to relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of the Northwoods.

It is worth choosing for several compelling reasons: the spectacular clarity and coolness of the spring-fed lake make for unforgettable summer swimming and paddling. The ability to reserve a lakefront, non-electric campsite is highly valued by tent and smaller RV campers who want to be right on the water. Finally, the four-mile loop trail around the lake provides an exceptional opportunity for a long, scenic walk or jog, ensuring you get both relaxation and exercise during your stay.