Emily Lake Campground

For those looking to truly embrace the serene beauty and abundant outdoor opportunities of Wisconsin's Northwoods, Emily Lake Campground in Lac Du Flambeau, WI, offers an authentic and highly cherished camping experience. This hidden gem provides a tranquil escape, distinct from busier, more commercialized options, allowing campers to connect deeply with nature. Known for its quiet atmosphere and excellent access to a beautiful small lake, Emily Lake Campground has been a beloved destination for generations of campers, with some having returned since the 1970s.

Emily Lake Campground provides a rustic yet comfortable setting, ideal for those who prioritize natural beauty and outdoor pursuits over extensive amenities. It's a place where the sounds of wildlife replace the hum of traffic, and the stars shine brightly above towering trees. Whether you're an avid angler, a canoeing enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat to observe local wildlife, this campground serves as a perfect base. Its charm lies in its simplicity, affordability, and direct access to the very best of what the Lac Du Flambeau area and the vast Northwoods have to offer.

Emily Lake Campground is ideally situated at Emily Lake Rd, Lac Du Flambeau, WI 54558, USA, deep within the enchanting Northwoods region of Wisconsin. This location places it in Vilas County, an area synonymous with pristine lakes, dense forests, and unparalleled outdoor recreation. The campground's address indicates its direct proximity to Emily Lake, ensuring immediate water access for campers.

Accessibility to Emily Lake Campground is generally straightforward, largely via paved roads almost the entire way, as noted by a reviewer. While it offers a secluded feel, it's not overly remote, allowing for an easy drive-in experience for most vehicles and trailers. Lac Du Flambeau, the nearby town, provides access to essential services and local charm, meaning campers can enjoy the wilderness without being entirely cut off from conveniences. The campground's location also serves as an excellent "jumpoff" point for exploring numerous other nearby lakes and rivers, making it a strategic base for extended paddling or fishing adventures in the wider Northwoods area.

• Spacious Campsites: Emily Lake Campground offers good, spacious sites, providing ample room for tents, vehicles, and outdoor gear, allowing for a comfortable and uncrowded camping experience.

• Lake Access Sites: The campground features excellent lake access sites, allowing campers direct or very close proximity to the beautiful Emily Lake.

• Paved Access: The drive into the campground is easy and mostly paved, ensuring smooth access for vehicles and trailers.

• Water Pump: A water pump is available on-site, providing access to fresh water for campers.

• Pit Toilets: Pit toilets are provided as the restroom facility, offering a rustic yet essential amenity for campers.

• Boat Launch: A dedicated boat launch provides easy access to Emily Lake, perfect for those bringing canoes, kayaks, or small fishing boats.

• Affordable Pricing: Campers consistently highlight that the price for camping here is very reasonable, especially "compared to local private places," making it a budget-friendly option.

• Fire Rings: While not explicitly stated in the provided reviews, standard campsites in such facilities typically include fire rings for campfires and cooking.

• Picnic Tables: Also typically included at campsites, providing a surface for meals and activities.

• Excellent Lake & River Access for Canoeing/Fishing: Emily Lake is a beautiful small lake with a convenient boat launch. It serves as a fantastic base for "canoe fishing," particularly in this area. Reviewers emphasize its strategic location for accessing nearby lakes and rivers, including the "fun" Tucker Portage and the Flambeau River.

• Deceptive Lakes with Large Fish: The lakes in this area are described as "deceptive and produce some large fish," hinting at excellent angling opportunities for those who know the waters or are willing to explore.

• Abundant Wildlife: A significant highlight is the "lots of wildlife" reported by campers. This provides fantastic opportunities for nature observation, birdwatching, and enjoying the natural ecosystem.

• Affordable Northwoods Experience: A key feature is the campground's affordability. It offers a genuine Northwoods camping experience without the higher price tag often associated with private campgrounds in the region, making it accessible to more locals.

• Quiet and Rustic Atmosphere: Emily Lake Campground provides a peaceful and less commercialized setting compared to larger, more amenity-heavy campgrounds. It caters to those who appreciate a more traditional, quiet camping experience.

• Proximity to "Fun Towns Nearby": While offering a wilderness feel, the campground is close enough to "fun towns nearby," suggesting opportunities for local dining, shopping, or exploring regional attractions when desired.

• Good Grouse Hunting: For hunters, the area is noted for "excellent grouse," though it requires "you have to work for it," indicating a rewarding challenge for those pursuing this game.

• Ideal for Autumn Visits: One reviewer specifically recommends spending "a couple weeks in this area in early autumn," highlighting the beauty and enjoyable conditions during this season.

• Historically Loved: The fact that campers have been returning "since the 70s" speaks volumes about the enduring appeal and quality of the camping experience offered.

Emily Lake Campground is managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), typically as part of a state forest or county forest system, ensuring its upkeep and natural preservation. For general inquiries, current conditions, or specific questions about the campground, you can reach out using the contact information below:

Address: Emily Lake Rd, Lac Du Flambeau, WI 54558, USA

For direct communication regarding the campground, it is best to contact the managing DNR office for the region. The provided phone number is likely for a regional DNR service center or the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest office, under whose purview Emily Lake Campground might fall:

Phone: (715) 362-1300

Mobile Phone: +1 715-362-1300

While specific online reservation systems for smaller, more rustic campgrounds like Emily Lake can vary, it is always recommended to check the official Wisconsin DNR website. Search for "Emily Lake Campground" to find the most up-to-date information on reservations (if applicable), seasonal operating dates, fees, and any specific rules or advisories. Information on obtaining necessary state park stickers or other permits may also be available through the DNR website.

For Wisconsin locals, Emily Lake Campground in Lac Du Flambeau is more than just a place to set up camp; it's a cherished gateway to the authentic Northwoods experience, offering a blend of affordability, tranquility, and unparalleled access to the state's natural treasures. Its suitability for residents stems from several key attributes that resonate deeply with the local appreciation for outdoor living.

Firstly, the campground's enduring appeal, with campers returning "since the 70s," speaks volumes about its quality and the deep connection locals have to this spot. This long-standing loyalty highlights its consistent ability to deliver a genuine, unspoiled camping experience. For many Wisconsin families, traditions are built around trips to the Northwoods, and Emily Lake provides that classic, no-frills setting perfect for creating new memories or reliving old ones.

Secondly, its location is a dream for anyone passionate about fishing and paddling. Being an excellent "jumpoff for nearby lakes and rivers," including the Flambeau River and Tucker Portage, means endless opportunities for canoe fishing, kayaking, and exploring the vast network of waterways that define the region. Locals know that Wisconsin's lakes can be "deceptive and produce some large fish," adding an exciting challenge for anglers. This immediate access to prime fishing and paddling grounds makes it an ideal spot for those who want to spend their days on the water.

Furthermore, the affordability of Emily Lake Campground is a significant draw, especially when compared to more expensive private options in the area. This makes a Northwoods getaway accessible to a broader range of Wisconsin residents, ensuring that the beauty and recreational opportunities of their state are available to everyone. The "good spacious sites" also provide comfort and privacy, allowing campers to fully relax and enjoy their surroundings.

Finally, the abundance of "lots of wildlife" and the recommendation for "a couple weeks in this area in early autumn" for grouse hunting speak to the rich biodiversity and seasonal opportunities the area offers. While the "swampy between ridges" aspect might require some preparedness (hello, bug spray!), it's a minor consideration for the immense rewards of being truly immersed in nature. Emily Lake Campground offers a quintessential Wisconsin experience – rugged enough to feel adventurous, yet comfortable enough to be truly relaxing, making it a perfect fit for locals seeking an authentic Northwoods retreat.