Lake of the Pines State Campground

🌲 Welcome to Lake of the Pines State Campground: Your Authentic Northwoods Escape

For those of us in Wisconsin seeking a genuine escape into the tranquility of the Northwoods, Lake of the Pines State Campground offers a truly memorable rustic experience. Nestled deep within the vast and beautiful Flambeau River State Forest, this destination is a haven for campers, anglers, and nature enthusiasts who appreciate quietude and the simplicity of non-electric camping. Unlike some of the larger, more developed parks, Lake of the Pines provides a setting where you can truly disconnect from the hustle of daily life and reconnect with the natural world around you. If your ideal Wisconsin getaway involves tall pines, clean lake water, and the sounds of loons and owls, this state campground should be at the very top of your list.

This campground is celebrated by local users for its isolation and the high quality of the lake for fishing and paddling. Customers consistently praise the clean facilities and the friendly, community-focused atmosphere—even reporting the kindness of fellow campers sharing a warm bowl of chili! It’s an authentic slice of Wisconsin life, centered on outdoor adventure and shared moments by the campfire.

📍 Location and Accessibility

Lake of the Pines State Campground is located in a scenic wooded setting in the heart of Northern Wisconsin, a region famous for its dense forests and abundant water features. The campground sits adjacent to the beautiful 273-acre Lake of the Pines, offering a gorgeous backdrop of hilly terrain covered in pine and hardwood trees.

The precise address you'll want to navigate to is 4198n Lake of the Pines Rd, Loretta, WI 54896, USA. While the listed town is Loretta, the campground is managed as part of the Flambeau River State Forest and is often associated with the nearby town of Winter, WI. Access to the campground is primarily by drive-in, but with the lake immediately available, it is also notable for offering boat access for paddlers and those with small motorized boats.

A key point for visitors: this is a truly remote spot. While some guests have reported spotty cellular service allowing for occasional calls or messages, the area is generally known for its lack of reliable cell service. For many, this is a highlight—a guaranteed opportunity to switch off. For safety and planning, it’s best to complete any necessary digital communication before arriving and to bring physical maps or downloaded directions.

🛠️ Services Offered

As a rustic state campground, the facilities focus on providing the essential needs for a comfortable, traditional camping experience. The services available at Lake of the Pines State Campground include:

• Campsites: A total of 30 non-electric sites are available for tent and RV/trailer camping (back-in only). All sites are reservable up to 11 months in advance or on the day of arrival, and each includes a picnic table and metal fire ring.
• Water: Drinking water is available via hand pump on-site.
• Toilets: The campground provides two clean vault toilet buildings for convenience.
• Waste Disposal: A garbage and recycling station is available for registered campers.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed in the campground but must be kept on a leash no more than eight feet long. They are restricted from buildings and designated swimming areas.
• Firewood: Firewood is not sold at the campground, but campers can purchase wood from private vendors within the forest or gather dead and down wood from the property for free. It is critical to adhere to all DNR guidelines regarding firewood transport to prevent the spread of invasive species.
• Reservations: Campsites can be reserved online through the Wisconsin DNR system or by phone, which is highly recommended due to the popularity of the location.

🌟 Features / Highlights

The true attraction of Lake of the Pines lies in its immersive natural setting and the recreational opportunities it provides. It is designed to be a place of quiet, outdoor engagement.

• Pristine Lake Access: The 273-acre Lake of the Pines offers excellent opportunities for paddling, boating, and swimming. It features a designated swimming area accessible from the campground, a boat launch with a paved ramp and trailer parking, and a large, accessible fishing pier.
• Exceptional Fishing: The lake is known for healthy populations of Panfish (like the Bluegill and Crappie mentioned by visitors), Largemouth Bass, and Walleye, with Musky also present. The fishing dock is a great spot, especially for families with children.
• Lake of the Pines Nature Trail: A popular, easy 0.5-mile nature trail begins near the boat landing and winds through hardwoods and hemlocks, offering scenic views with short spurs leading to the shoreline. It’s perfect for an early morning hike or an after-dinner stroll.
• Isolation and Tranquility: With non-electric sites, a maximum depth of 39 feet in the lake, and a remote location, the campground provides an atmosphere of deep relaxation. Campers frequently note the peace and quiet, the chance to see local wildlife like porcupines, and the beautiful chorus of loons and owls.
• Proximity to Flambeau River: The campground is a short drive from the main Flambeau River, offering additional activities like river camping and exploring the milder sections of the river for an extended paddling adventure.

📞 Contact Information

For planning your trip, making reservations, or getting current conditions, here is the necessary contact information:

• Address: 4198n Lake of the Pines Rd, Loretta, WI 54896, USA
• Phone for Information/Forest Headquarters: (715) 332-5271
• Mobile Phone (Flambeau River State Forest Headquarters): +1 715-332-5271
• Reservations Toll-Free: 888-947-2757 (Recommended for booking sites)

✅ What is Worth Choosing Lake of the Pines?

Choosing Lake of the Pines State Campground is choosing an authentic, quintessential Northern Wisconsin outdoor experience. It stands out from the crowded, high-amenity campgrounds because it offers a genuine return to nature. It is worth choosing for several compelling reasons:

If you are a serious angler or a casual family looking to spend time by the water, the lake's excellent fishing and designated swimming area are huge draw cards. The quality of the lake is consistently noted in reviews, providing hours of low-key recreation. The rustic, non-electric setting ensures a quieter stay, free from the noise of generators and electrical hookups, which enhances the peaceful atmosphere for which the Flambeau River State Forest is known.

Furthermore, the campground is valued for its sense of community and the isolation it provides. For a complete digital detox in a clean, well-maintained state forest, Lake of the Pines provides the perfect setting to relax by a fire, hike a scenic trail, and enjoy a shared meal under the stars. It is an ideal spot for individuals, couples, and families who seek an unpretentious, nature-first camping adventure in one of Wisconsin's most beautiful natural areas.