Franklin Lake

Show on map 715-479-2827 evan.miller@usda.gov

U S D A FOREST SERVICE, 1247 E. WALL ST.
EAGLE RIVER, WI 54521

Overview

Franklin Lake Campground is one of the most popular camping spots within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest in Northern Wisconsin. Its unique structures built by the CCC land it on the National Register of Historic Places. The campground is in a beautiful setting, among tall pines and hemlocks, perched on the edge of the clear blue waters of Franklin Lake. In addition to its scenic landscape, the campground offers access to a variety of hiking trails.

Recreation

The lake provides visitors with ample opportunities for boating, fishing and swimming. Anglers can expect a catch of walleye, northern pike, large and smallmouth bass, rock bass, perch, and bluegill, among others. The lake is open to all types of boating, motorized and non-motorized. Numerous trails exist in the area, with some beginning within the campground, including a 6-mile hike to nearby Anvil Lake. The 1-mile Franklin Lake interpretive trail is partly accessible and tours the forest of trees, with some over 400 years old. It leads to the 13-mile Hidden Lakes Trail, which loops south, around Butternut Lake, passing several small lakes with scenic vistas and a remarkable stand of old hemlock trees, then back to the campground. A variety of wildlife make its home in the area and visitors are encouraged to keep watch.

Facilities

The campground offers 77 single family campsites, available for tent or RV camping. The campground offers both first-come, first-served campsites (34) as well as sites which can be reserved in advance (43). Sites are equipped with tables and fire rings with grills. Accessible flush and vault toilets as well as drinking water, are provided throughout the campground.

Natural Features

The campground is situated in a lush stand of mature pine and hemlock trees, at an elevation of 1,700 feet. Historic stone and log structures, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, are scattered throughout the campground. The adjacent Franklin Lake is 892 acres and boasts a beautiful sandy beach.

Nearby Attractions

The City of Eagle River is located about 15 miles west of the campground. A variety of services are offered there.

Camp site features

Across 76 camp sites:

Electric hookups: 23 of 76 sites
Picnic table: all 76 sites
Pets allowed: all 76 sites
Longest RV: 40 ft
Largest party: 8 people
Power up to 50 amps
Equipment: RV, Tent, Trailer

Directions

Drive approximately 8 miles east from Eagle River on Highway 70. Turn south onto Military Road/Forest Road 2178 and continue about 2 miles, to Butternut Lake Road/Forest Road 2181, and continue approximately 4 miles to the campground.

Stay Limit

Check in from 2 PM, check out by 12 PM.

Reviews

142 reviews

5 stars

107

4 stars

3 stars

2 stars

1 stars

Larry C

Loop:South

Site:

Reviewed 2 months ago

We had another great camping experience at Franklin Lake. As always the peace and quiet at the campground is wonderful. Liz, our camp host, did a fantastic job making us welcome and keeping the area in tiptop shape. We really love the hiking trails and appreciate the upkeep that goes into keeping them open.

Zebadiah B

Loop:North

Site:

Reviewed 2 months ago

Such a gorgeous spot with numerous nearby trails. Campsite comes with park bench and built in fire ring.

Jaime G

Loop:North

Site:

Reviewed 2 months ago

Such a gorgeous campground! I will be back next year!

Rosa G

Loop:North

Site:

Reviewed 2 months ago

Absolutely beautiful camp grounds. Very clean, even the vaulted toilets were very nicely kept. The starts were our favorite part. Only complaint- we went down to the lake at 9:30pm to see the starts with our kids and instead we got a full moon from two individuals. Skinny dipping at 9:30. Kinda gross. So I’d advise others to be cautious going down to the lake at night since some in those spaces don’t appreciate decency. Otherwise we loved it. We’ll be back!

Roger J

Loop:South

Site:

Reviewed 2 months ago

We enjoy our trips to Franklin. Beaches are great, nice and sandy and clean. We met Elizabeth, camp hostess, who is a sweetheart. Glad to be able to let our dog swim. Something that needs work is the road in, just need to fill in the repairs.

Debra H

Loop:South

Site:

Reviewed 2 months ago

Beautiful camp ground quiet love going there

Availability

See the Camp Sites section below to find detailed booking availability.

Reserve