Murphy Flowage Campground

Tucked away in the serene expanse of Wisconsin's Northwoods, Murphy Flowage Campground in Birchwood, WI, stands as a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts across the Badger State. This well-regarded campground offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and essential amenities, making it an ideal choice for a wide array of campers – from those seeking a peaceful retreat by the water to avid hikers eager to explore one of Wisconsin's most iconic trails. Its unique position provides direct access to the renowned Ice Age Trail, as highlighted by a satisfied visitor, solidifying its reputation as a gateway to adventure and natural exploration.

Murphy Flowage Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it’s a vibrant hub for recreation and relaxation, nestled beside the beautiful Murphy Flowage. This 172-acre flowage, created by damming the Hemlock Creek, offers fantastic opportunities for fishing, boating, and enjoying the tranquil waters. The surrounding Rusk County Forest further enhances the experience, providing a lush, forested backdrop that invites exploration and wildlife observation. Whether you're planning a family getaway, a solo hiking expedition, or a peaceful fishing trip, Murphy Flowage Campground provides the perfect setting to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Northern Wisconsin. Its commitment to offering a quality outdoor experience, combined with its accessibility to key recreational features, makes it a favored spot among locals who appreciate the best of what Wisconsin's outdoors has to offer.

Murphy Flowage Campground is conveniently located at N 7930 County Rd F, Birchwood, WI 54817, USA. While the address places it technically in Birchwood, it's situated within Rusk County, emphasizing its prime location within the expansive and naturally rich Rusk County Forest. This puts it squarely in the heart of Wisconsin's picturesque Northwoods, a region celebrated for its sprawling forests, numerous lakes, and diverse outdoor recreational opportunities.

Accessibility to Murphy Flowage Campground is excellent for Wisconsin residents. County Road F provides straightforward access, making the drive from various parts of the state manageable and scenic. For those traveling from larger urban centers like Eau Claire or Minneapolis/St. Paul, the journey is a pleasant venture into the quiet beauty of northern Wisconsin. The location is particularly advantageous for its immediate proximity to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, allowing hikers to step directly from their campsite onto miles of breathtaking natural pathways. This easy access to both land and water-based activities makes it a highly desirable spot for locals seeking to maximize their time enjoying the outdoors rather than navigating complicated routes. The well-maintained roads leading to the campground ensure a smooth arrival, setting the stage for a relaxing and adventurous stay in the heart of Wisconsin's serene wilderness.

Murphy Flowage Campground offers a well-rounded selection of services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for its visitors. Recognizing the diverse needs of campers, from those in RVs to traditional tent-pitchers, the campground provides key facilities to enhance your stay in the Wisconsin Northwoods:

• Variety of Campsites: The campground features nine campsites in total. This includes four RV sites, four tent sites, and one walk-in site, catering to different camping preferences.

• Electric Hookups: Eight of the nine campsites are equipped with electric hookups (20 AMP and 30 AMP), providing essential power for RVs and other needs. It's noted that one electric pedestal serves two campsites, so an extension cord might be useful.

• Water Hookups: Sites 3-6 also offer water hookups, adding a layer of convenience for campers.

• Restroom Facilities: Clean restroom facilities are provided, enhancing comfort for all campers, though they are described as "non-modern" or "pit toilets" on some older listings, implying a more rustic experience.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor cooking and enjoying traditional campfires under the Wisconsin sky.

• Boat Launch with Dock: Direct access to Murphy Flowage via a boat launch and dock, making it easy for campers to get out on the water for fishing or boating.

• Picnic Area and Log Shelter: A dedicated picnic area across the road from the campground features a beautiful log shelter, complete with picnic tables and barbeque grills, available for park users and reservations.

• Pet-Friendly Policy: The campground is pet-friendly, allowing visitors to bring their furry companions along for the adventure, typically with responsible pet ownership guidelines.

• Reservation System: Campsite reservations can be made seven or more days in advance, with any unreserved sites becoming first-come, first-served.

Murphy Flowage Campground distinguishes itself with several unique features and highlights that make it a premier choice for outdoor enthusiasts in Wisconsin:

• Ice Age National Scenic Trail Access: A major highlight is its direct proximity and access to the Ice Age Trail. As one reviewer noted, it's a "great place to start enjoying the Ice Age Trail," which runs for 27 miles through the Rusk County Forest, offering unparalleled hiking opportunities and scenic views of northern Wisconsin's unique geological features.

• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: The 172-acre Murphy Flowage is a fantastic fishing destination, home to abundant panfish, northern pike, and bass. Nearby trout streams also offer additional angling experiences, making it a dream spot for avid fishermen.

• Tranquil Flowage Setting: The campground's location right on the Murphy Flowage provides a serene and picturesque backdrop, ideal for quiet contemplation, photography, and water-based recreation like canoeing and kayaking.

• Rusk County ATV Trailhead Nearby: For motorized recreation enthusiasts, the Rusk County ATV Trailhead is located nearby, offering miles of trails to explore the county forest.

• Peaceful Wisconsin Experience: Described as a "peaceful Wisconsin experience" by Rusk County Parks, the campground delivers on its promise of a quiet and relaxing getaway, away from the noise and distractions of urban life.

• Publicly Owned and Managed: Being a Rusk County campground, it benefits from public oversight, ensuring well-maintained facilities and a focus on providing quality recreational opportunities for the community.

For inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about Murphy Flowage Campground, please use the following contact details. It is highly recommended to contact the Rusk County Parks and Recreation Department, as they manage this publicly owned campground.

Address: N 7930 County Rd F, Birchwood, WI 54817, USA

Phone: (715) 532-2113 (This is the Rusk County Forestry and Parks Department's main number, which manages the campground.)

Email: parks@ruskcountywi.us (This email is associated with the Rusk County Parks department and is likely the best way for general inquiries.)

Website for Reservations: For direct campsite reservations and to check availability, visit the Rusk County Parks Reservations website: parks.ruskcounty.org/parks/camping/murphy_campground/

It is always advisable to check the Rusk County Parks website or call directly for the most up-to-date information regarding reservation policies, fees ($30.00 per night for campsites as of recent data), check-in/check-out times (2:00 PM check-in, 11:00 AM check-out), and any specific guidelines for your visit. Remember that all reservations must be made seven or more days in advance.

Murphy Flowage Campground stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for locals across Wisconsin, embodying the best of the state's natural beauty and recreational offerings. Its prime location in the Rusk County Forest, directly accessible from County Road F, makes it an easy and convenient escape into the serene Northwoods, minimizing travel time and maximizing outdoor enjoyment for residents.

For active Wisconsinites, the campground's direct access to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a significant draw, offering unparalleled hiking experiences right from their campsite. This allows local hikers to explore a unique geological and natural landmark that is a source of state pride. Furthermore, the excellent fishing opportunities on Murphy Flowage, teeming with bass, northern pike, and panfish, appeal directly to the state's strong angling culture. The presence of a boat launch simplifies water access, ensuring a hassle-free experience for local boaters and paddlers.

The blend of essential amenities like electric and water hookups with the rustic charm of a public campground managed by Rusk County ensures comfort without sacrificing the authentic outdoor experience. It's a family-friendly environment that encourages disconnection from daily routines and fosters a deeper connection with nature. Whether it's a quiet weekend by the campfire, an adventurous hike, or a productive day of fishing, Murphy Flowage Campground provides a well-rounded and accessible option for locals seeking to embrace the beauty and recreational wealth of their own state. Choosing Murphy Flowage Campground means supporting local public lands and investing in a treasured resource that continues to offer memorable outdoor adventures for generations of Wisconsin families.