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- Campgrounds & RV Parks in National Forest Road 2140
- Luna Lake - North Shore campsites
Luna Lake - North Shore campsites Introduce
For those of us in Wisconsin who live for the minimalist outdoor adventure, the kind that truly strips away the distractions and reconnects you with nature, the Luna Lake - North Shore campsites offer an unparalleled experience. This isn't your typical drive-up campground; it's a "great spot" that provides an authentic rustic escape for an incredibly affordable price. If you’re willing to "only bring items you can hike in with" and embrace the raw beauty of a non-motorized lake, you'll discover a slice of paradise where the only sounds are the whispers of the forest and the gentle lapping of water.
These North Shore campsites on Luna Lake are a testament to the fact that some of the best experiences are the simplest. Visitors rave about the value, noting it "only costs $5 a night," making it an incredibly accessible option for budget-conscious adventurers. The emphasis here is on self-sufficiency and immersion. Each site comes with essential amenities like a "fireplace and picnic bench" and access to "pit toilets," providing just enough comfort to enjoy the rugged surroundings. It’s perfect for kayakers, canoers, and backpackers who appreciate the quietude of a lake where "no motors" are allowed, ensuring an undisturbed and truly peaceful experience. Just remember to "watch out for the mosquitoes though, they are relentless" – a small price to pay for such serenity!
The Luna Lake - North Shore campsites are located within the vast Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, with the approximate address of National Forest Rd 2140, Long Lake, WI 54542, USA. It's important to note that these specific campsites on the North Shore of Luna Lake are distinct from the main Luna - White Deer Lake Campground. While they share the beautiful Luna Lake, access to these North Shore sites is predominantly by trail, contributing to their rustic and secluded nature.
Accessing these particular campsites requires a bit more intentionality, aligning with their remote and primitive character. As noted by reviewers, access is typically "by taking trail around Luna Lake." Campers are advised to "Park for the trail at the White Deer Beach," which is part of the larger Luna - White Deer Lake Recreation Area. From there, you'll embark on a scenic hike, carrying in all your gear. This hike-in approach ensures a truly secluded experience, away from vehicle noise and crowds. While the experience is rustic, the location within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest means you're surrounded by stunning natural beauty and have access to extensive trail systems and other recreational opportunities. The nearest established towns, such as Eagle River, are a drive away from the White Deer Beach parking area, providing options for stocking up on supplies before embarking on your hike to the North Shore sites. This combination of a relatively accessible starting point and a rewarding hike-in destination makes it a unique and appealing option for adventurous Wisconsin campers.
Rustic Campsites: These are primitive, hike-in campsites, meaning there are no modern amenities like electrical hookups, potable water at the site, or paved pads.
Basic Site Amenities: Each site is equipped with essential outdoor amenities, including a "fireplace" (fire ring) for campfires and cooking, and a "picnic bench" for dining.
Pit Toilets: For restroom facilities, "pit toilets" are available, maintaining the rustic nature of the campsite.
No Motor Restriction on Luna Lake: Luna Lake is a non-motorized lake, which means no gas motors are allowed. This ensures a quiet and serene environment, perfect for silent sports.
Boat Accessible (Non-Motorized): The lake is "boat accessible (no motors)," allowing campers to bring and launch kayaks, canoes, and other light, non-motorized boats.
Incredibly Affordable: Campers consistently highlight the low cost, often just "$5 a night," making it one of the most budget-friendly camping options in the region.
Hike-In Access Only: Campers must "only bring items you can hike in with," as vehicle access directly to the campsites is not provided. Access is via trails around Luna Lake, typically starting from the White Deer Beach parking area.
First-Come, First-Served: These types of rustic, low-cost sites in National Forests are usually available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are accepted. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.
Incredibly Affordable Camping: At "only $5 a night," these campsites offer an exceptionally budget-friendly way to experience the beauty of Wisconsin's Northwoods, making a wilderness getaway accessible to more people.
True Rustic Experience: For those craving an authentic, primitive camping adventure, these hike-in sites provide a deep immersion in nature, far from the conveniences and crowds of more developed campgrounds.
Peaceful Non-Motorized Lake: Luna Lake's "no motor" restriction ensures an incredibly quiet and serene environment, perfect for enjoying the sounds of nature without the disturbance of boat engines. This makes it ideal for relaxation and wildlife observation.
Excellent for Paddling: With its non-motorized status, Luna Lake is "great for kayaks and light boats," offering pristine waters for canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.
Scenic Lake Views: The campsites are located on the North Shore of Luna Lake, providing beautiful views of the water and surrounding forest, creating a picturesque backdrop for your camping experience.
Hike-In Seclusion: Accessing the campsites by trail ensures a level of seclusion and privacy that is rare in many campgrounds. This allows campers to truly feel "a little slice of paradise" away from the hustle and bustle.
Basic Essential Amenities: Despite being rustic, each site provides a "fireplace and picnic bench," offering the fundamental necessities for comfortable outdoor living.
Access to Hiking Trails: The access "by taking trail around Luna Lake" implies connection to a wider network of trails within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, offering opportunities for further exploration and enjoyment of the natural surroundings.
Authentic Northwoods Atmosphere: This location delivers the classic Wisconsin Northwoods experience, complete with towering pines, abundant wildlife, and the chance to truly disconnect.
Address: National Forest Rd 2140, Long Lake, WI 54542, USA
Phone: Please note, direct phone information for these specific rustic North Shore campsites on Luna Lake is typically not available as they are managed as primitive sites within the broader National Forest system. For general inquiries about the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest or the Luna - White Deer Lake Recreation Area, you may try contacting the Eagle River Ranger District Office (Phone: (715) 479-2827), as this is the managing office for the region. However, specific campsite questions are often best answered by on-site information or by visiting the location directly.
For us Wisconsinites, the Luna Lake - North Shore campsites are a true call to the wild, offering precisely the kind of no-frills, deeply immersive outdoor experience many of us crave. This isn't about luxury; it's about authenticity, affordability, and the unparalleled peace of our Northwoods. When we hear about a "great spot, only $5 a night," our ears perk up because it speaks to the incredible value and accessibility of our state's natural treasures. It allows us to truly escape without breaking the bank.
The hike-in access is a significant draw for the adventurous local. It means that while these sites aren't for everyone, they promise a higher degree of seclusion and quietude. The review "Only bring items you can hike in with. Access is by taking trail around Luna Lake. Park for the trail at the White Deer Beach" clearly lays out the expectation – and for many of us, that's exactly the kind of challenge we embrace for a truly rewarding wilderness experience. The presence of a "fireplace and picnic bench" and "pit toilets" means the essential comforts are there, allowing us to focus on the environment rather than complex logistics.
Moreover, the "no motors" restriction on Luna Lake is a huge highlight. For paddlers and those seeking pure tranquility, this is invaluable. No roaring engines means the only sounds you'll hear are the dip of your paddle, the calls of local wildlife, and the soothing "waves lapping" against the shore. While the "mosquitoes though, they are relentless," as one local noted, that's a small, expected price for entering such a pristine environment. For Wisconsin locals who seek a minimalist, budget-friendly, and profoundly peaceful camping adventure, where the journey is part of the experience and nature is the main attraction, Luna Lake - North Shore campsites are an "Awesome facility" and a true gem.
Location
WisconsinForest CountyLong LakeNational Forest Road 2140
Customer Reviews
Great spot, only $5 a night, lake is boat accessible (no motors) and has a fireplace and picnic bench. Watch out for the mosquitoes though, they are relentless.
Only costs 5$! Only bring items you can hike in with. Access is by taking trail around Luna Lake. Park for the trail at the White Deer Beach. Has a fire ring, picnic table, and pit toilets. Awesome facility.
Beautiful area, well maintained, nice swimming area.
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