Plum Lake Campground

For Wisconsin residents seeking a truly tranquil escape into the heart of the Northwoods, Plum Lake Campground in Sayner, WI, offers a unique and distinct camping experience. Nestled within the vast Northern Highland American Legion State Forest, this campground is specifically designed for those who cherish peace, quiet, and a deep connection with nature. If your idea of a perfect getaway involves the gentle sounds of the forest, the ripple of a pristine lake, and an atmosphere conducive to quiet reflection rather than lively gatherings, Plum Lake Campground could be your ideal Wisconsin retreat.

Plum Lake Campground is not your typical bustling family campground. It caters to a specific kind of camper – those who prioritize silence and solitude. While some may find its strict quiet policy unexpected, it's precisely what draws others seeking respite from noise and distractions. It’s a place where the emphasis is on enjoying the natural environment in its purest form, whether you're paddling on the calm waters of Plum Lake, exploring nearby bike trails, or simply relaxing by your campsite. For locals throughout Wisconsin looking to unplug and truly unwind, this campground provides an opportunity to do just that, offering a serene backdrop for personal rejuvenation and an authentic Northwoods experience.

Plum Lake Campground is conveniently located at 9100 Plum Lake Campsite Rd, Sayner, WI 54560, USA. This address places it firmly within the renowned Northern Highland American Legion State Forest, a jewel of Wisconsin's natural landscape. The campground sits directly on the shores of Plum Lake, a picturesque body of water that contributes significantly to the tranquil ambiance of the area. For Wisconsin residents, reaching Sayner and, subsequently, Plum Lake Campground, involves a scenic drive into the heart of Vilas County. The roads leading to and within the campground are generally well-maintained, allowing for easy access for various vehicle types, including those towing pop-ups or smaller travel trailers, though the focus here is truly on rustic tent and quiet camping.

The campground's location offers a sense of being deeply immersed in nature, yet it remains accessible enough for locals across the state. While it provides a secluded feel, the charming Northwoods towns of Sayner, St. Germain, and Minocqua are within a reasonable driving distance. These nearby communities offer essential services such as groceries, gas, and local dining options, ensuring that campers can resupply or enjoy a meal out if desired. This balance of remote tranquility and practical accessibility makes Plum Lake Campground a viable and appealing destination for a serene Wisconsin getaway, allowing residents to easily tap into the state's incredible natural resources.

• Non-Electric Campsites: All campsites at Plum Lake Campground are non-electric, reinforcing the rustic and quiet atmosphere.
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides well-maintained and clean vault toilets for essential restroom facilities, as noted by visitors.
• Drinking Water: Potable water is available via hand pumps throughout the campground, offering a traditional camping experience.
• Campsite Management: The campground typically has a camp host on-site, though recent reviews suggest varying levels of experience.
• Trash and Recycling: Designated areas are available for waste disposal, encouraging campers to keep the natural environment clean.
• Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring for campfires, perfect for cooking or enjoying the ambiance (firewood typically available for purchase nearby).
• Picnic Tables: Every site includes a picnic table for outdoor dining and convenience.

• Strict Quiet Policy: Plum Lake Campground is notable for its stringent quiet policy. It is geared towards "silent folks," meaning no loud music, generators, or excessive noise, creating an exceptionally peaceful environment ideal for reading, relaxing, and listening to nature. This makes it unsuitable for "family reunion" or anything that "makes noise."
• Non-Motorized Lake: Plum Lake itself is a quiet, non-motorized lake, making it perfect for silent water activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding without the disturbance of motorboats.
• Direct Access to Bike Trails: The campground offers direct access to the extensive and popular Heart of Vilas County Paved Bike Trail system, providing miles of scenic routes for cyclists of all levels. Reviewers mention being "close to the bike trail."
• Rustic and Natural Setting: Campsites are generally nestled within a natural, wooded environment, offering a true immersion in the Northwoods.
• Clean Facilities: Despite being a rustic campground, customer reviews highlight that the camp hosts generally keep the vault toilets "very clean."
• Shared Beach Area: There is a shared beach area on Plum Lake, offering a spot for campers to access the water, though some sites may be very close to it, impacting privacy for those specific sites (e.g., site 1208).
• Abundant Nature: The overall atmosphere emphasizes "lots of nature and relaxing," providing ample opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife observation, and enjoying the tranquility of the forest.
• Tent Camping Focus: While some smaller trailers may fit, the overall ambiance and limited services suggest it is particularly well-suited for tent campers seeking a more traditional and quiet experience.
• Beautiful Fall Foliage: Like much of the Northwoods, the area around Plum Lake Campground is exceptionally beautiful during the autumn months, offering stunning fall colors.

As a Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) campground located within a state forest, Plum Lake Campground operates under standard state-set pricing and policies rather than offering individual promotional deals like private businesses. However, Wisconsin residents can benefit significantly from the Wisconsin State Park and Forest Vehicle Admission Sticker. An annual resident sticker costs $28, and a senior resident (65+) annual sticker is available for a reduced price of $13. These stickers provide unlimited admission to all Wisconsin State Parks and Forests for the calendar year, representing excellent value for frequent visitors to the state's outdoor recreational areas. Daily passes are also available for $13 for residents. Campsite fees at Plum Lake Campground are set at a reasonable $16 per night for residents ($21 for non-residents), reflecting its rustic nature and lack of electric hookups. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons and holidays, and can be made up to 11 months in advance through the Wisconsin DNR's online reservation system or by phone. Planning ahead ensures you secure your spot at this sought-after quiet retreat.

Plum Lake Campground is managed as part of the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest. For reservations and general inquiries related to state forest campgrounds, you can use the following contact information:

• Address: 9100 Plum Lake Campsite Rd, Sayner, WI 54560, USA
• Phone for Reservations: (888) 936-7463
• General Information Phone (Crystal Lake Visitor Station, which oversees NH-AL State Forest campgrounds): 715-542-3923

For Wisconsin locals, Plum Lake Campground offers a unique and highly appealing option for those who truly value peace and quiet in their outdoor experiences. While some past reviews mention challenges with campsite placement and host communication, the core appeal of Plum Lake lies in its unwavering commitment to providing a silent, natural retreat, a quality that many Wisconsin residents actively seek. Its location in Sayner, within the magnificent Northern Highland American Legion State Forest, makes it an accessible yet deeply immersive wilderness destination.

The explicit "silent campground" policy means that campers can truly unwind, free from the distractions of generators, loud music, or boisterous gatherings. This makes it an ideal spot for individuals or couples seeking solitude, meditation, reading, or simply listening to the gentle sounds of nature. The non-motorized Plum Lake is perfect for serene activities like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, allowing for undisturbed exploration of its calm waters. Furthermore, the direct access to the Heart of Vilas County Paved Bike Trail is a significant draw for cyclists, offering a fantastic way to explore the beautiful Northwoods landscape.

Plum Lake Campground is a reminder of Wisconsin's commitment to preserving areas of pure tranquility. For locals yearning to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with themselves and the natural environment, this campground provides the perfect setting. It's a place where the beauty of autumn foliage is experienced in silent awe, and the starry nights are uninterrupted by artificial light or noise. If your vision of a perfect Wisconsin camping trip involves quiet reflection, peaceful outdoor activities, and an authentic immersion in nature's calm, Plum Lake Campground is a destination uniquely suited to your desires.