Perch Lake Campground 0
Perch Lake Campground 1
Perch Lake Campground 2
Perch Lake Campground 3
Perch Lake Campground 4
Perch Lake Campground 5
Perch Lake Campground 6
Perch Lake Campground 7
Perch Lake Campground 8
Perch Lake Campground 9

Perch Lake Campground Introduce

For those of us in Wisconsin who truly appreciate the untamed beauty of our state's Northwoods, finding a campground that offers both tranquility and a genuine connection to nature is paramount. While many popular spots can become crowded, there are still hidden gems that provide an authentic, rustic camping experience. Perch Lake Campground, nestled near Drummond, is one such place. It’s a destination that calls to anglers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a private, affordable escape into the heart of Wisconsin's stunning forests. This article will guide our fellow Wisconsinites through what makes Perch Lake Campground a highly suitable choice for your next outdoor adventure.

Perch Lake Campground offers a quintessential rustic camping experience, perfect for those who seek simplicity and immersion in nature. Often described as "very private" and "affordable," it stands out from more developed campgrounds by providing a back-to-basics approach to outdoor living. The campground’s primary draw is its stunning proximity to Perch Lake, with many sites offering "great views" directly onto the water. This provides a serene backdrop for your stay and immediate access to the lake's offerings. It’s a place where the sounds of the forest and the lapping of water replace urban noise, inviting relaxation and rejuvenation. The emphasis here is on embracing the natural environment, making it an ideal choice for campers who prefer tents or self-contained RVs, as it does not offer modern hookups. This commitment to a more primitive style of camping ensures a tranquil atmosphere that is increasingly sought after in today's busy world.

Perch Lake Campground is conveniently situated in Drummond, WI 54832, USA. This location places it firmly within the expansive and beautiful Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, offering easy access to countless opportunities for outdoor recreation. While it provides a sense of seclusion and wilderness, it remains accessible for Wisconsin residents looking for a genuine escape. The drive to the campground typically involves scenic routes through the forest, immediately setting the tone for your outdoor adventure. Its placement allows for exploration of the wider national forest, known for its hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing opportunities. This balance of being "away from it all" yet reachable makes Perch Lake Campground a practical choice for locals seeking a true Northwoods experience without an overly arduous journey.

While Perch Lake Campground embraces a rustic approach, it provides essential services and facilities that ensure a comfortable and functional camping experience. The focus is on fundamental amenities that support a natural outdoor stay.

  • Vault Toilets: The campground features "vault toilets" that are noted for being "clean," providing convenient and accessible restroom facilities for all campers. The cleanliness is a significant positive point for visitors.

  • Pump Water: Drinking water is available via a "pump water" system. It's important for campers to be aware of the water quality, as some past visitors have noted issues with brown water from one of the pumps. Bringing a filter or being prepared to boil water is a good practice.

  • No Hookups: It's crucial for campers to understand that Perch Lake Campground "does not have hook ups" for electricity, water, or sewer. This means campers should be prepared for a primitive camping experience, bringing their own power and water solutions as needed.

  • First-Come, First-Serve Sites: Many sites, particularly those highly coveted "near the lake," are available on a "first come first serve" basis. This requires early arrival during peak seasons to secure desired spots.

  • Camp Sites: The campground offers individual campsites designed to accommodate tents and smaller RVs, each providing a designated space for setting up camp.

Perch Lake Campground boasts several features and highlights that make it a truly appealing destination, especially for those who appreciate a more traditional and natural camping setting. These attributes contribute significantly to its charm and popularity among local outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Proximity to Water: A major highlight is that sites are "very close to the water," offering immediate access to Perch Lake and providing "great views" right from your campsite. This is ideal for those who enjoy being directly by the lake.

  • Excellent Fishing: Perch Lake is specifically noted for being "stocked with brook trout," making it an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts. The promise of "good fishing" is a strong draw for anglers.

  • Private Campsites: The campground offers "very private" campsites, which is a significant advantage for those seeking solitude and a peaceful environment away from crowded areas. This privacy enhances the sense of being truly immersed in nature.

  • Affordable Camping: Being an "affordable campsite" makes Perch Lake Campground an accessible option for a wide range of campers, allowing more individuals and families to enjoy Wisconsin's natural beauty without breaking the bank.

  • Rustic Charm: The lack of modern hookups and the reliance on vault toilets and pump water contribute to a genuinely rustic camping experience, appealing to those who prefer to "rough it" slightly more and disconnect from everyday conveniences.

  • Beautiful Natural Setting: Surrounded by the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, the campground offers a beautiful natural setting with opportunities for wildlife viewing, hiking, and simply enjoying the serene forest environment.

For information regarding Perch Lake Campground, including current conditions, availability, or any alerts, it's best to contact the U.S. Forest Service, as the campground is part of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. While booking specific sites might be first-come, first-serve, general inquiries can be directed to them.

Address: Drummond, WI 54832, USA

Phone: (800) 832-1355

Mobile Phone: +1 800-832-1355

For us Wisconsinites, Perch Lake Campground offers an incredibly appealing option for escaping into the state's magnificent Northwoods. Its location within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest immediately signals a true wilderness experience, yet it remains accessible from various parts of the state. This balance is crucial for locals seeking a genuine outdoor adventure without an excessively long journey.

The "very private" and "affordable" nature of the campsites is a significant draw, especially for those who cherish solitude and a budget-friendly getaway. In a world where many campgrounds are becoming increasingly developed and expensive, Perch Lake provides a refreshing alternative that embraces simplicity. The promise of "good fishing," particularly for "brook trout," directly from a campsite that’s "very close to the water," is an undeniable lure for our local anglers. This direct access to a stocked lake offers immediate recreational opportunities right at your doorstep.

While the rustic amenities, such as vault toilets and pump water (with the understanding that some water might need boiling or filtering), cater to a more traditional camping style, they also contribute to the authentic, unplugged experience many of us seek. The "clean" toilets are a welcome detail that enhances comfort without compromising the rustic feel. For those who appreciate waking up to "great views" of a serene lake and the quiet sounds of the forest, Perch Lake Campground provides an idyllic setting. It's a place where locals can truly disconnect from the everyday, immerse themselves in nature, and create lasting memories in the heart of Wisconsin's beloved wilderness.

Location

WisconsinBayfield CountyDrummond

Customer Reviews

4.0
24 reviews
N
Nick Weindorf
May 29, 2025

Toilets were clean and sites are very close to the water which makes for a great view! Only problem we had was the well water pump on the north loop stopped working and when it was working the water was brown. Ended up just boiling the lake water which was cleaner. Lake is stocked with brook trout so it makes for good fishing

T
T&B
Aug 26, 2023

Very private, affordable campsite. 👊 Does not have hook ups, there is a vault toilet and pump water. Some sites are near the lake, first come first serve.

G
Greg Krueger
Dec 17, 2021

A quality, low-cost and quiet rustic campground just a short drive from from Drummond, Lake Owen and Cable. Perch Lake Campground is split into two sections; each has a separate entrance from the highway. An iconic hand pump provides drinking water to each section. Water tastes fine and appears clear. Trails suitable for hiking can be found directly across the road from the campground. There’s a sort of wilderness area within the forest here. Perch Lake is a lower cost alternative to this region’s flagship Two Lakes Campground. You’ll save $8 per night staying here while still being close enough to enjoy Lake Owen by day. You won’t get nice swimming beaches right on-site, though. The shoreline at Perch Lake isn’t great for swimming due to some vegetation in the water, but is swimmable nonetheless. An exceptionally nice beach can be found at the Lake Owen Picnic Grounds just a few miles away, a site also managed by the national forest. Perhaps the nicest part about Perch Lake is that it’s not run by a private concessioner. USFS staff and volunteers maintain the property, and they do it well. Be sure to thank them when you visit.

J
Jeremy Carmon
Jan 25, 2017

Great place to camp, but I mostly use it as an ATV stop to refill my water bottles and take a break during rides.

c
cindy stewart
Jul 14, 2018

Beautiful views, quiet, and the water was amazing.