
Anvil Lake Campground
19
Total Campsites
Campground
11
Reservable Sites
Mixed (reservable + first-come)
16
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About Anvil Lake Campground
Overview If you are looking for a campground with a family atmosphere or a base camp to explore area trails, try Anvil Lake Campground off State Highway 70, just minutes east of Eagle River, within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. The campground is in a beautiful setting, among tall maples, pines and hemlocks, perched above Anvil Lake. In addition to its scenic landscape, the campground offers access to a variety of hiking and biking trails. Recreation The lake provides visitors with ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. Anglers can expect a catch of walleye, northern pike, bass, and pan fish. The lake is open to all types of boating, motorized and non-motorized. Numerous trails exist in the area, with Anvil National Recreation Trail leaving from the campground itself. From the Anvil National Recreation Trail, visitors are able to connect to the Nicolet North Trail, Hidden Lakes Trail, Franklin Lake Interpretive Trail, and the Luna White Deer Trail system. In total, this campground is connected to approximately 40 miles of hiking trail, most of which is open to mountain biking. Although the campground is not open during the winter months, the Anvil National Recreation Trail is groomed as both a classic and skate cross country ski trail. It is well known among the ski community as it was once the site of USA Olympic training. A variety of wildlife make its home in the area and visitors are encouraged to keep watch. So, if you like to swim, boat, fish, hike, picnic or enjoy being close to town, then the Anvil Lake Recreation Area is the place for you, conveniently located just 10 minutes east of Eagle River. Facilities The lake provides visitors with ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. Anglers can expect a catch of walleye, northern pike, bass, and pan fish. The lake is open to all types of boating, motorized and non-motorized. Numerous trails exist in the area, with Anvil National Recreation Trail leaving from the campground itself. From the Anvil National Recreation Trail, visitors are able to connect to the Nicolet North Trail, Hidden Lakes Trail, Franklin Lake Interpretive Trail, and the Luna White Deer Trail system. In total, this campground is connected to approximately 40 miles of hiking trail, most of which is open to mountain biking. Although the campground is not open during the winter months, the Anvil National Recreation Trail is groomed as both a classic and skate cross country ski trail. It is well known among the ski community as it was once the site of USA Olympic training. A variety of wildlife make its home in the area and visitors are encouraged to keep watch. So, if you like to swim, boat, fish, hike, picnic or enjoy being close to town, then the Anvil Lake Recreation Area is the place for you, conveniently located just 10 minutes east of Eagle River. Natural Features The campground is situated in a stand of large sugar maple, hemlock and white pine trees, at an elevation of 1,740 feet. A historic stone and log picnic shelter, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, is located at the picnic area. The adjacent 377-acre Anvil Lake is crystal clear and is a popular swimming site as the campground boasts a large sandy beach area. Nearby Attractions The City of Eagle River is located about 9 miles west of the campground. A varitey of services are offered there.
- 19 total campsites listed.
- 11 reservable sites plus first-come options.
- 16 accessible campsites listed.
- Most common site type: standard nonelectric (14).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.


Our Take
What makes Anvil Lake Campground special
Anvil Lake Campground sits deep in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest near Eagle River, surrounded by a cathedral of tall maples, pines, and hemlocks that create a canopy so thick it feels like stepping into another world. The 19 well-spaced sites foster a welcoming family atmosphere where kids ride bikes on quiet loops and neighbors share fishing stories around evening campfires. The surrounding trail network is excellent for both hiking and mountain biking, winding through old-growth forest and past hidden lakes. Summer is the sweet spot, though fall brings a spectacular display of color as those towering maples turn brilliant shades of orange and gold. The campground fills on holiday weekends, so midweek visits reward you with extra solitude. Bring bug spray — this is the Northwoods, after all. Anvil Lake is a perfect fit for families with young children, nature photographers chasing autumn color, and anyone who wants a genuine Wisconsin wilderness experience without roughing it too hard.
Campsite Inventory
19 sites to choose from
STANDARD NONELECTRIC
8
Reservable
14
Accessible
TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC
2
Reservable
0
Accessible
MANAGEMENT
1
Reservable
2
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
CAMPFIRE RINGS
Campfire Rings
Campfire Allowed
Yes
Site capacity
Single
Check-in time
02:00 PM
Check-out time
12:00 PM
Condition Rating
Standard
Driveway entry
Back-in, Parallel, Pull-through
Driveway Grade
Moderate, Slight
Driveway length (ft)
25, 30, 35, 40
Driveway surface
Gravel, Paved
Location Rating
Good
Max guests
8
Max vehicle length (ft)
25, 30, 35, 40
Minimum guests
Yes
Pets allowed
Yes
Picnic Table
Picnic Table
Quiet Area
Quiet Area
Shade
Yes
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
715.479.2827
evan.miller@usda.gov
Getting There
Drive approximately 9 miles east from Eagle River on State Highway 70 to the campground entrance on the left.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to Anvil Lake Campground.
How do reservations work for Anvil Lake Campground?
Reservation availability for Anvil Lake Campground can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at Anvil Lake Campground?
Anvil Lake Campground currently lists STANDARD NONELECTRIC (14), TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC (3), MANAGEMENT (2).
Where is Anvil Lake Campground located?
See this page for location details and directions.
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