Day Lake Campground

For Wisconsinites seeking an authentic and immersive Northwoods camping experience, Day Lake Campground in Clam Lake, Wisconsin, stands out as a true gem. Nestled within the expansive Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, this campground offers a unique blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and ample space that truly sets it apart. Visitors consistently praise its "beautiful place" and the generous size of its campsites, which are "spread apart feeling private," creating a sense of seclusion rarely found in other campgrounds. Beyond the immediate comfort of your site, Day Lake provides direct access to a pristine lake, teeming with opportunities for swimming, fishing, and observing Wisconsin's incredible wildlife, from the iconic elk and loons to graceful swans and majestic eagles. While it embraces a rustic charm, it doesn't compromise on cleanliness, boasting "super clean bathrooms" that enhance the overall experience. This article will provide a detailed overview of Day Lake Campground, highlighting its key features, services, and why it's a perfectly suited destination for locals looking to reconnect with the wild heart of Wisconsin.

Day Lake Campground is ideally situated at 24472 Camp Access Rd, Clam Lake, WI 54517, USA. This address places it just "one mile north of Clam Lake on County Highway GG," deep within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest in northern Wisconsin. This strategic location offers exceptional accessibility while maintaining a secluded feel. Clam Lake itself is a small, charming community often referred to as the "Elk Capital of Wisconsin," renowned for its thriving elk herd and a hub for outdoor recreation. The campground's position within a National Forest means it is surrounded by thousands of acres of public land, providing endless opportunities for exploration. The drive to Day Lake is scenic and straightforward, guiding you through towering pines and past picturesque landscapes that define Wisconsin's Northwoods. Furthermore, a boat launch and picnic area are conveniently located two miles south of the campground on County Highway M. For Wisconsinites, Day Lake Campground is an easily reachable escape, offering a seamless transition from daily life to a serene wilderness retreat, making it an excellent base for exploring the rich natural heritage of our state.

Day Lake Campground, a U.S. Forest Service facility, offers a comprehensive set of services designed to provide a comfortable yet authentic camping experience within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest:

• Campsites: The campground features 52 shaded campsites, nestled under towering pines. Each site comes with a parking spur, fire ring, picnic table, and tent pad. Three walk-in campsites are also available for a more secluded tent camping experience. Some campsites can accommodate RVs up to 45 feet.
• Spacious and Private Sites: A standout feature, as noted by reviews, is the extremely generous size of the campsites, which are "spread apart feeling private," allowing for a sense of seclusion and ample room for campers.
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides well-maintained vault toilets (also known as pit toilets). Reviews specifically praise them as "super clean bathrooms," indicating a high standard of upkeep. Note that there is no shower building.
• Potable Water: Drinking water is readily available at the campground via hand pumps, ensuring campers have access to fresh water.
• Swimming Beach: A small, inviting swimming beach is located within the campground, offering easy access to the lake for a refreshing dip, particularly family-friendly with shallow entry.
• Boat Launch: A boat launch with a picnic area is located two miles south of the campground on County Highway M, providing convenient access for motorized and non-motorized boats (a $5 recreation use fee applies to non-campers).
• Accessible Facilities: Six paved barrier-free campsites are available, with paved trails connecting these sites to the fishing pier, ensuring accessibility for all visitors.
• Play Area: A designated play area is available, making the campground family-friendly.
• Firewood: While not explicitly stated, certified firewood is typically available for purchase at National Forest Campgrounds, and gathering dead and downed wood is often permitted for campfires (always check local fire restrictions).
• Camp Host: Forest Service Volunteer Campground Hosts help manage the area and can provide visitor information, ensuring a welcoming and well-managed environment.

Day Lake Campground is renowned for its exceptional features and highlights that promise an unforgettable outdoor adventure in Wisconsin:

• Incredible Wildlife Viewing: The campground is a prime spot for wildlife enthusiasts. Reviewers excitedly reported seeing "deer, grouse, swans, loons, and eagles," and even "elk near the campground." Day Lake is known for extraordinary wildlife opportunities, including bald eagles, waterfowl, and the iconic elk herd of the Clam Lake area.
• Large, Private Campsites: As highlighted by visitors, Day Lake offers "some of the biggest campsites I have ever seen," with most being "really private." This provides a rare sense of spaciousness and solitude for campers.
• Beautiful Lake Access: Most sites have "easy access to the lake, beach and boat landing." Day Lake itself is a 632-acre (or 640-acre flowage, per different sources) lake with moderately clear water, perfect for various water activities.
• Excellent Musky Fishing: Day Lake is particularly noted for "excellent musky fishing." While one review mentioned fishing wasn't "real good" during their stay, official sources emphasize its quality for musky, largemouth bass, and panfish. An accessible fishing pier further enhances angling opportunities.
• Direct ATV Trail Access: Day Lake is a "designated off-highway vehicle campground, allowing off-highway vehicle use to and from the nearby trails." The 63-mile Dead Horse Motorized Trail can be accessed directly from the recreation area, and several town roads open to ATV/UTVs provide links to nearby towns and other major trails like the Tuscobia State Trail.
• Quiet and Scenic Environment: Surrounded by towering pines, the campground offers a serene and picturesque setting, ideal for "true outdoor lovers" seeking a peaceful retreat.
• Proximity to Clam Lake Town: Being just "5 minutes north of Clam Lake" means convenient access to a gas station and convenience store for last-minute supplies, without sacrificing the wilderness feel.

As a campground within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, Day Lake Campground operates under the fee structure of the U.S. Forest Service. While it doesn't offer traditional "promotions" in the commercial sense, there are standard pricing and potential discounts available. The individual campsite fee is typically $18 per night. For holders of an Interagency Senior Pass or Interagency Access Pass (available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents aged 62+ or with permanent disabilities, respectively), the camping fee is reduced to $9 per night. These pass discounts apply only to the campsite physically occupied by the pass holder. Reservations for campsites at Day Lake can be made through the nationwide campground reservation system at www.recreation.gov, usually up to 6 months in advance, providing the convenience of planning your trip. For the most up-to-date information on fees, reservation policies, specific opening and closing dates (typically May to October), or any seasonal advisories, it is always best to consult the official Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest website or call the Great Divide Ranger District directly. This ensures you have the most current details for your visit.

For reservations, general inquiries, or to learn more about Day Lake Campground and the surrounding Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, please use the following contact information:

• Address: 24472 Camp Access Rd, Clam Lake, WI 54517, USA
• Phone (Information): (715) 634-4821
• Phone (Reservations, nationwide): (877) 444-6777 (via Recreation.gov)
• Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest Headquarters: 500 Hanson Lake Road, Rhinelander, WI 54501 / (715) 362-1300

It is highly recommended to check the Recreation.gov website for real-time availability and to make reservations, especially during peak season, as this is a popular campground. Calling the local Great Divide Ranger District office (via the 715-634-4821 number) can provide specific information on current conditions, fire restrictions, or any unexpected closures.

Day Lake Campground truly embodies the quintessential Wisconsin Northwoods experience, making it an excellent choice for locals seeking a memorable outdoor getaway. Its spacious and private campsites offer a rare sense of tranquility, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in nature without feeling crowded. The "super clean bathrooms" are a significant bonus, providing comfort in a rustic setting. For families, the small swimming beach and play area offer safe and enjoyable recreation. Anglers will appreciate the "excellent musky fishing" on Day Lake, complemented by an accessible fishing pier. The abundant wildlife, including the chance to spot elk, loons, and eagles, provides an extraordinary natural spectacle. Furthermore, its direct access to ATV trails makes it a perfect base for motorized adventurers, while still offering peaceful hiking and paddling opportunities. Day Lake Campground is more than just a place to set up camp; it's a gateway to diverse outdoor activities and a serene escape into the heart of Wisconsin's magnificent Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, offering a perfect blend of comfort and wilderness adventure for all types of campers.