Perch Lake Campground

For Wisconsinites yearning for a pristine and peaceful escape into the heart of nature, Perch Lake Campground in Elcho presents a compelling new opportunity. Having just opened to the public in June 2023, this meticulously developed Langlade County park offers a fresh take on the traditional camping experience. It’s a place where the sounds of the city fade into the gentle lapping of lake waters and the whispers of towering pines. With two beautiful lakes entirely encompassed by the property, Perch Lake Campground is quickly becoming a beloved spot for those seeking to reconnect with the natural world through fishing, kayaking, hiking, or simply unwinding by a campfire. This significant investment by the county promises a growing array of features, making it a truly exciting addition to Wisconsin's esteemed collection of outdoor destinations.

Perch Lake Campground is located at N 10571, Clear Lake Rd, Elcho, WI 54462, USA. This address places it within the larger Charles De Langlade Recreation Area, a 600-acre county-owned land parcel near Post Lake, approximately 30 miles northeast of Antigo and 8 miles east of Elcho. Its location in Langlade County, often referred to as "The County of Trails," means it's nestled in a region celebrated for its natural beauty, including towering pines, large oaks, and diverse wildlife.

Accessibility to Perch Lake Campground is quite straightforward for locals throughout Wisconsin. From major population centers, well-maintained state and county roads lead directly to the Elcho area. Once you approach the address on Clear Lake Road, signage for the Charles De Langlade Recreation Area and Perch Lake Campground should guide you clearly to the entrance. The internal roads within the campground are noted by recent visitors as being "great" and "built to last," indicating easy navigation for both cars and RVs of various sizes. While the campground offers a feeling of seclusion, it's not so remote that accessing it becomes a challenge. For those planning a visit, checking the Langlade County Forestry & Recreation website is advisable for the most current information regarding park opening/closing dates (which are weather permitting), check-in/check-out times, and any specific advisories. The thoughtful design of the roads and grounds, even in its early stages of opening, demonstrates a commitment to making this natural haven accessible to all Wisconsin residents eager for an outdoor adventure.

Perch Lake Campground has recently undergone significant development, and as such, it offers a blend of rustic charm and surprisingly modern conveniences, catering to a variety of camping preferences.

• Electrified Campsites: A significant highlight is that all 57 campsites are electrified, providing 20/30/50 AMP services. This makes it highly accommodating for RVs, trailers, and even tent campers who appreciate power access.
• Vault Toilets: Well-built, easily accessible pit (vault) toilets are available throughout the campground, offering a traditional camping restroom option.
• Flush Toilets and Individual Shower Stalls: A short walk to the front of the campground provides access to five modern flush toilets and individual shower stalls, a highly appreciated amenity for comfort and hygiene.
• New Fire Pits and Picnic Tables: Each site is equipped with brand new, sturdy fire pits (often with grates) and picnic tables, enhancing the camping experience.
• Freshwater Fill Station: A designated freshwater fill station is available for paid campers, ensuring access to potable water for RVs and drinking.
• RV Dump Station: An RV dump station is on-site for the convenience of campers, with a fee for non-campers.
• Solid Waste and Recycling Station: Dedicated stations for solid waste and recycling are provided, encouraging environmentally responsible practices.
• Boat Landings: Two boat landings within the property provide convenient access to Perch Lake and Lake Aninnan for water activities.
• Firewood for Purchase: Firewood can be purchased from the camp host at site #2, or campers can gather brush from the forest floor, adhering to local regulations.

Perch Lake Campground boasts several unique features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for outdoor enthusiasts across Wisconsin.

• Two Pristine Lakes On-site: The property fully encompasses two beautiful, undeveloped lakes, Perch Lake and Lake Aninnan. These offer excellent opportunities for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and swimming, all within easy reach of your campsite.
• New and Well-Maintained Facilities: Having recently opened, the campground features brand new infrastructure, including roads, fire pits, picnic tables, and restroom facilities, ensuring a high-quality experience.
• Stunning Natural Scenery: Visitors can expect to be surrounded by towering pines, large oaks, natural shorelines, and low bog areas. The abundance of wildlife, including Trumpeter Swans, adds to the immersive nature experience.
• Lakeside and Secluded Sites: While some sites offer an open view to neighbors, many provide ample surrounding vegetation for privacy, including beautiful lakeside options (e.g., sites 24-29) and secluded spots (e.g., site 36).
• Extensive Hiking Paths: Numerous hiking paths and "hikable logging roads" traverse the property, offering ample opportunities for exploration, though formal mapping and signage are still developing.
• ATV/UTV Access: The campground permits ATV/UTV access directly from trails/routes to campsites, catering to motorized recreation enthusiasts.
• New Sandy Beach: A new sandy beach within the campground provides a designated area for swimming (at your own risk).
• Investment and Future Growth: The county has made a significant investment in this location, with visible opportunities for future growth, including potential enhancements to the waterfront, picnic sites, and former scout buildings, promising an evolving and improving experience.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: Especially in its early stages of operation, the campground offers a notably peaceful and tranquil environment, ideal for those seeking solitude and quiet reflection in nature.

For reservations, inquiries, or more information about Perch Lake Campground, you can use the following contact details:

Address: N 10571, Clear Lake Rd, Elcho, WI 54462, USA

Phone: (715) 627-6300 (Langlade County Forestry & Recreation Department)

It is highly recommended to contact the Langlade County Forestry & Recreation Department directly for the most current information regarding campsite availability, reservation procedures (reservations typically open early January for the upcoming year and can be made up to the day of arrival), camping rates (e.g., $40/night for electrified drive-through/back-in sites, $35/night for tent sites), and any specific park rules or alerts. Their website is also a valuable resource for up-to-date information.

For Wisconsin locals, Perch Lake Campground is an absolute must-visit, offering a truly refreshing and accessible outdoor experience. Its recent opening means visitors can enjoy brand-new facilities and the feeling of discovering a hidden gem before it becomes widely known. The significant investment by Langlade County ensures a high-quality camping environment, blending the rustic charm of the Northwoods with modern conveniences like electrified sites, clean flush toilets, and individual showers. The presence of two beautiful lakes on the property provides endless opportunities for popular Wisconsin pastimes like fishing, kayaking, and swimming, all within steps of your campsite. Whether you're a family seeking a serene setting for a weekend getaway, an avid angler looking for a new fishing spot, or someone simply desiring to unplug and reconnect with nature on extensive hiking trails, Perch Lake Campground delivers. Its tranquil atmosphere, coupled with the beauty of Langlade County's landscape and the promise of future enhancements, makes it an ideal and inviting destination for any Wisconsin resident looking for an authentic and comfortable outdoor adventure close to home.