Upper Gresham Lake State Forest Campground

Upper Gresham Lake State Forest Campground offers a quintessential rustic camping experience within the expansive and picturesque Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest in northern Wisconsin. As a significant entry in the Campgrounds & RV Parks category, this campground caters specifically to those seeking a tranquil and immersive natural environment, prioritizing the raw beauty of the Northwoods over extensive commercial amenities. It presents an ideal escape for local users and visitors alike who desire to connect with nature, enjoy peaceful lakeside activities, and experience genuine outdoor living.

The environment of Upper Gresham Lake State Forest Campground is its most defining characteristic. Situated on the northeast corner of Upper Gresham Lake, a 362-acre body of water, the campground is spread out over gently rolling terrain. Each of its 25 spacious campsites is well-shaded beneath a mature canopy of pines and hardwoods, providing a true forest ambiance and a sense of privacy. The lake itself is surrounded by undeveloped forest, particularly on its entire east bay, which contributes to a pristine and wild aesthetic. The water is often clear, inviting for swimming and various non-motorized water activities. The air is fresh and clean, carrying the invigorating scents of pine and the subtle aroma of the wilderness. The campground’s setting within a vast state forest means that wildlife sightings are common, with opportunities to observe deer, various bird species, and local waterfowl, including loons, which are known to nest on Upper Gresham Lake. The overall atmosphere is one of profound peace and quiet, a stark contrast to more developed campgrounds, making it perfect for relaxation, nature observation, and photography. Its location also offers a sense of seclusion while remaining within a reasonable driving distance of charming Northwoods towns like Boulder Junction, Manitowish Waters, and Sayner, allowing for convenient access to supplies and local attractions if desired.

As a state forest campground within the Campgrounds & RV Parks category, Upper Gresham Lake provides essential services tailored to a rustic camping experience. The campground features 25 non-electric campsites, suitable for both tent camping and RVs/trailers (back-in only, with varying length allowances). Notably, three of these are walk-in, tent-only sites, offering an even more secluded and immersive experience for backpackers or those preferring to set up a tent a short distance from their vehicle. One pair of sites can be combined to accommodate a small group of up to 12 people. Each campsite is equipped with a parking spur, a designated tent area, a fire ring for campfires, and a picnic table. In terms of communal facilities, the campground offers accessible vault toilets, which are regularly maintained for cleanliness. Potable drinking water is available via hand pumps, requiring campers to fill their own containers. A firewood bin is typically available for guests to purchase firewood on-site (for a fee), which is crucial for campfires and helps prevent the spread of invasive species often associated with bringing outside firewood. Trash and recycling dumpsters are also provided, encouraging responsible waste disposal and helping to keep the natural environment pristine. While there are no full hook-ups or extensive bathhouses with showers, the services provided are fundamental and well-maintained, upholding the standard for state forest rustic camping.

The features of Upper Gresham Lake State Forest Campground are designed to maximize enjoyment of the natural surroundings and facilitate various outdoor activities. The lake itself is a central feature, known more for its excellent fishing and boating than for swimming, although there is a designated swimming beach within the campground with inviting, sandy-bottomed shallows, making it excellent for families with children. An ADA-accessible fishing pier is conveniently located near the campground entrance, providing easy access for anglers of all abilities. A public boat landing with a ramp, launch pier, turnaround, and trailer parking area is also available near the campground entrance, accommodating various watercraft. Upper Gresham Lake is a popular fishing destination, known for common species like largemouth bass, walleye, and northern pike, and is also home to panfish. Beyond water activities, the campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest. The North Creek Road segment of the Heart of Vilas Bicycle Path passes directly by the campground entrance. This smoothly paved trail offers comfortable riding for cyclists and connects to nearby towns like Boulder Junction (only 6 miles away by bike), providing extensive opportunities for scenic cycling. The state forest also boasts abundant recreation opportunities for "silent sports" enthusiasts, including numerous hiking trails, nature trails, paddle trails, and mountain bike trail systems. The overall quiet and peaceful nature of the campground is a highly valued feature, allowing visitors to truly relax and soak in the sounds of nature. The presence of a resident campground manager (site #1504) further ensures a well-managed and safe environment for guests.

In terms of promotional information, Upper Gresham Lake State Forest Campground emphasizes its appeal as a serene, rustic, and accessible outdoor destination. A key aspect of its operation is its "first-come, first-served" policy for all sites during the off-season, meaning campers cannot make advance reservations and must secure a site upon arrival. However, during the main season (typically from late April/early May to Columbus Day weekend), all sites become reservable, a significant change from prior policies, allowing visitors to plan their trips with greater certainty. Reservation information and availability can be checked through the Wisconsin DNR's online reservation system. Promotional materials highlight the simple beauty and quiet atmosphere, making it ideal for those who prefer a less crowded camping experience. The campground's affordability, characteristic of state forest camping, is an inherent promotional point. Information regarding its operating season (typically opening the Thursday before fishing opener and closing the Tuesday after Columbus Day weekend) is clearly communicated. Rules regarding generator use (allowed from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. when campers are present) and pet policies (pets generally allowed but subject to specific state forest rules regarding leashing and waste disposal) are also part of the disseminated information, ensuring compliance and a harmonious environment for all. Visitors are consistently encouraged to check the official Wisconsin DNR website for the most current information on fees, availability, rules, and any fire restrictions. The campground's proximity to various local businesses in Boulder Junction and surrounding towns – including grocery stores, sporting goods shops, restaurants, and gas stations – is often subtly promoted, offering a convenient balance of wilderness retreat and access to necessities. The strong reputation of the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest for outdoor recreation also serves as a broad promotional draw for Upper Gresham Lake, inviting visitors to experience the renowned natural beauty of the area.