Willow Reservoir Campsite 27

Wisconsin's Northwoods are a true gem, drawing outdoor enthusiasts from across the state and beyond with their pristine lakes, dense forests, and boundless opportunities for adventure. For those seeking a genuine wilderness camping experience, far from the bustling crowds of developed campgrounds, Willow Reservoir Campsite 27 offers an unparalleled escape. Nestled in the heart of the Willow Flowage Scenic Waters Area near Hazelhurst, this site embodies the wild beauty and tranquility that defines Northern Wisconsin. It’s a perfect spot for those who appreciate natural settings, accessible primarily by water, and who are looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in the serene environment. This article will provide a detailed look at Campsite 27, highlighting its unique accessibility, features, and why it's a quintessential Wisconsin outdoor destination for locals seeking a true Northwoods adventure.

The Willow Flowage Scenic Waters Area is renowned for its vast undeveloped shorelines, numerous islands, and a complex network of bays and channels, all contributing to its wild and untamed character. Campsite 27, located within this breathtaking expanse, offers a secluded and intimate camping experience. Unlike many conventional campgrounds, this site is designed for those who embrace a more rugged approach to camping. Its designation as a "water-accessible" site is a significant aspect of its identity, meaning that for most visitors, reaching the campsite involves navigating the beautiful waters of Willow Reservoir. While some flowage campsites might have limited vehicle access, often requiring all-wheel-drive or 4x4 vehicles for a short walk to the site, the primary mode of transportation to Campsite 27 is by watercraft. This unique accessibility not only adds to the adventure but also helps preserve the secluded nature of the site, ensuring a quieter and more private experience for campers. For Wisconsin residents who own kayaks, canoes, or small boats, this offers an exciting way to explore the vast Willow Flowage before settling into their rustic retreat.

Situated in Hazelhurst, Wisconsin, Campsite 27 benefits from its location in a region celebrated for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation. Hazelhurst is a small community that serves as a gateway to the vast wild lands of Northern Wisconsin, including the Willow Flowage. While specific driving directions to Campsite 27 itself are not applicable due to its water-access nature, the general area is accessible via well-maintained state and county roads. Visitors typically launch their watercraft from designated public boat landings around the Willow Flowage. The remoteness of the site contributes to its charm, offering a true escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. For those coming from larger Wisconsin cities like Milwaukee, Madison, or Green Bay, the drive to the Willow Flowage area itself is part of the journey, winding through picturesque forests and small towns, setting the tone for a wilderness adventure. It’s important for campers to be self-sufficient and prepared for a more primitive experience, as resources and amenities found in more developed campgrounds are not readily available directly at the site. The beauty of this location lies in its isolation and the immersive natural experience it provides.

The services offered at Willow Reservoir Campsite 27 are aligned with its primitive, wilderness camping ethos. Campers should be prepared for a self-sufficient experience, as this is not a full-service campground with modern hookups.

• Campsite Designation: Campsite 27 is a designated camping spot, indicated by signage along the water's edge, ensuring that campers are using an authorized location.

• Fire Ring: Each site typically includes a metal fire ring, essential for campfires (where allowed) and cooking. Campers are permitted to gather dead and downed wood from upland areas for fires, but bringing firewood from more than 10 miles away is prohibited to prevent the spread of forest pests.

• Picnic Table: A picnic table is usually provided at each campsite, offering a convenient surface for meal preparation and dining.

• No Potable Water On-Site: Campers must bring their own potable water, or be prepared to filter or boil water from the flowage, as there is no direct potable water source at the campsite itself. Potable water is generally available seasonally at Sandy Landing within the Willow Flowage area.

• No Garbage Facilities: This is a "carry-in, carry-out" site. Campers are responsible for packing out all trash, leaving no trace behind to preserve the pristine environment.

• Vault Toilets (Generally Nearby): While not directly at every primitive site, vault toilets are typically located at various points within the Willow Flowage Scenic Waters Area, usually a short paddle or walk away from clustered campsites.

The true highlights of Willow Reservoir Campsite 27 are less about man-made amenities and more about the immersive natural experience it offers, complemented by the broader features of the Willow Flowage Scenic Waters Area.

• Waterfront Access (Proximity Varies): While Campsite 27 is described as "a ways up a hill from the water" in a user review, other sites on the flowage are often directly on the water. The access to the water, regardless of the site's immediate elevation, is a primary draw for paddlers and boaters. A beautiful beach area is also mentioned in connection with this site.

• Seclusion and Privacy: Being a water-accessible site and part of a less-developed area, Campsite 27 offers a high degree of privacy, allowing campers to truly disconnect and enjoy the solitude of nature.

• Abundant Firewood: User reviews mention "lots of wood around," indicating a good supply of dead and downed branches for campfires, a valuable feature for a primitive camping experience.

• Stunning Scenery: The Willow Flowage is known for its incredible natural beauty, including misty mornings, vibrant sunrises and sunsets over the water, and lush forested surroundings. These picturesque views are a significant draw for photographers and nature lovers.

• Exceptional Fishing: The Willow Flowage is a renowned fishing destination, offering opportunities to catch musky, walleye, bass, and panfish. Campers at Site 27 have direct access to these excellent fishing waters.

• Paddling Paradise: The intricate network of the flowage makes it ideal for canoeing and kayaking, allowing campers to explore countless bays, islands, and channels directly from their campsite.

• Wildlife Viewing: The undeveloped nature of the area provides prime habitat for various wildlife, including eagles, loons, deer, and potentially even bears (campers are advised to store food properly). Birdwatching opportunities are abundant.

• Rustic Charm: For those who truly enjoy roughing it and escaping modern conveniences, the primitive nature of Campsite 27 is a feature in itself, promoting a deeper connection with the wilderness.

To learn more or plan your visit to Willow Reservoir Campsite 27, contact information for the managing authority, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for the Willow Flowage Scenic Waters Area, is key.

Address: Hazelhurst, WI 54531, USA (This is the general area for the Willow Flowage, not a specific office.)

For reservations and general inquiries regarding camping in the Willow Flowage Scenic Waters Area, including Campsite 27, it is best to use the statewide reservation system or contact the local DNR office.

Reservations can typically be made online through the Wisconsin DNR website or by calling 1-888-947-2757. Specific park or property offices within the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest system (which is nearby and often manages related properties) might also provide information. While no direct phone number for 'Campsite 27' exists, calling the main DNR reservation line or consulting the official Wisconsin DNR website for the Willow Flowage Scenic Waters Area will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding access, regulations, and availability.

Willow Reservoir Campsite 27 is an outstanding choice for Wisconsin locals looking for an authentic and serene wilderness camping experience. Its primary water access, while requiring a bit more planning and equipment, is precisely what preserves its unique charm and keeps it less crowded than traditional drive-up campgrounds. For those with a love for paddling, fishing, and truly immersing themselves in nature, this campsite offers the perfect backdrop. Wisconsin residents can appreciate the relatively short travel distance to such a pristine natural environment, making it feasible for weekend adventures or longer, restorative stays. The emphasis on self-sufficiency and the "leave no trace" ethic aligns perfectly with the values of many outdoor-loving Wisconsinites who cherish and wish to protect their state's natural resources.

Whether you’re seeking a quiet fishing trip, a secluded paddling excursion, or simply a peaceful retreat away from the demands of modern life, Campsite 27 on the Willow Reservoir delivers. The opportunity to witness stunning sunrises, enjoy ample firewood, and experience the quiet solitude of the Northwoods makes this site a hidden gem. It’s a place where memories are forged around a crackling campfire, where the sounds of loons echo across the water, and where the true beauty of Wisconsin's wilderness can be fully appreciated. For Wisconsin locals, it's not just a campsite; it's an invitation to explore the wild heart of their state and rediscover the profound peace that only nature can provide.