Starrett Lake Campground

For those living in Wisconsin seeking an authentic escape into nature, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, look no further than Starrett Lake Campground. Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Northwoods, this hidden gem offers a truly serene and rejuvenating camping experience. It’s a place where the calls of loons replace city sirens, and the gentle lapping of water against the shore lulls you into a peaceful slumber. If you’re a local resident looking to reconnect with the great outdoors, Starrett Lake Campground provides the ideal setting for a memorable and tranquil adventure.

Starrett Lake Campground is renowned for its commitment to quiet and peace, making it a perfect destination for those who cherish the natural sounds of the wilderness. This isn't a place for loud parties or buzzing generators; instead, it's an opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the natural beauty that Wisconsin's state forests offer. Whether you're an avid angler, a paddle sports enthusiast, or simply someone looking to relax by a campfire under a canopy of stars, Starrett Lake Campground promises an unforgettable rustic experience that feels a world away, yet is easily accessible for Wisconsin residents.

Starrett Lake Campground is situated in Sayner, Wisconsin, with the specific address being Sayner, WI 54560, USA. It is located within the vast and beautiful Northern Highland American Legion State Forest, a prime example of Wisconsin’s commitment to preserving its natural landscapes. This strategic location places it squarely in the renowned Northwoods region, known for its extensive forests, sparkling lakes, and abundant wildlife. For residents across Wisconsin, reaching Starrett Lake Campground is a straightforward drive, offering a genuine sense of getting away from it all without an overly arduous journey. The campground roads themselves are paved, making for easy access for various vehicle types, including travel trailers.

The campground’s position within the Northern Highland American Legion State Forest also means it's part of a larger network of recreational opportunities. Nearby communities like Minocqua, Woodruff, Boulder Junction, St. Germain, and Eagle River are only minutes away by car, providing convenient access to groceries, sporting goods, local shops, restaurants, and pubs for any supplies or dining needs that may arise during your stay. This blend of remote tranquility and nearby amenities makes Starrett Lake Campground an ideal spot for a truly enriching outdoor experience.

• Non-Electric Campsites: All 42 campsites at Starrett Lake Campground are non-electric, promoting a truly rustic and quiet camping experience.
• Drinking Water: Potable water is available through old-fashioned hand pumps, offering a charming and functional way to get fresh, cool water.
• Vault Toilets: The campground features clean and well-maintained vault toilets, providing essential facilities without the need for running water.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase on-site, ensuring campers can enjoy cozy campfires.
• On-site Campground Manager: A friendly and helpful camp host, like Barbara mentioned by visitors, is typically available from mid-May through mid-October to assist campers and ensure a pleasant stay.
• Trash and Recycling Stations: Designated areas are available for trash and recycling, encouraging responsible waste disposal.

• Quiet Campground Designation: Starrett Lake is explicitly designated as a "quiet campground," meaning generators and loud electronic devices are not permitted. This creates an exceptionally peaceful environment, perfect for unwinding and listening to nature.
• Lakefront Access: Many campsites offer direct access to Starrett Lake, with some sites being right on the lake, providing stunning views and easy water entry.
• Sandy Beach Areas: The lake features sandy beach areas, ideal for swimming and enjoying the water.
• Excellent for Paddle Sports: With an electric-motor and no-wake restriction on the 67-acre Starrett Lake, it's perfect for peaceful paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing. Several walk-in sites even have dedicated canoe landings.
• Good Fishing Opportunities: Starrett Lake offers fair fishing opportunities for various species including Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye, Largemouth Bass, and Panfish.
• Spacious Campsites: Reviewers consistently praise the spacious nature of the campsites, offering a sense of privacy and seclusion amidst the tall pines, birch, and hardwoods.
• Beautiful Northwoods Scenery: The campground is enveloped by gorgeous Northwoods scenery, with moderate to fully shaded campsites providing a true forest immersion.
• Loons Calling: Visitors frequently mention the delightful experience of hearing loons calling in the mornings and evenings, adding to the serene ambiance.
• Developed Boat Landing: A developed boat landing with a ramp, launch pier, and paved turnaround is available in the middle of the campground for easy lake access.
• Proximity to State Forest Trails: The campground serves as an excellent base camp for exploring the abundant recreation opportunities within the Northern Highland American Legion State Forest, including hiking, nature, paddle, and mountain bike trails, as well as over 52 miles of paved bicycle paths.

As a state forest campground, Starrett Lake Campground generally operates under the standard pricing and reservation policies set by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. While specific promotional offers directly from the campground are not common, visitors should be aware of the daily and annual Wisconsin State Park & Forest Vehicle Admission Sticker requirements. Residents can purchase an annual sticker at a reduced rate ($28), and resident seniors (65+) receive an even further discount ($13 annual), which can represent a significant saving for frequent visitors to Wisconsin's state parks and forests. Non-resident annual stickers are $38. Campsite fees are typically set at a reasonable rate ($16/night for residents, $21/night for non-residents), making it an affordable option for an extended outdoor getaway. Reservations are required and can be made up to 11 months in advance online or by phone, allowing you to plan your tranquil escape well in advance, especially for peak seasons.

Starrett Lake Campground is managed as part of the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest. While there isn't a direct phone number solely for the campground, you can contact the managing agency for inquiries:

• Address: Sayner, WI 54560, USA (within the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest)
• General Information Phone: 715-542-3923 (Crystal Lake Visitor Station, which oversees the NH-AL State Forest campgrounds).
• Reservations: To make campsite reservations, please visit the Wisconsin DNR's online reservation system or call 1-888-947-2757.

For Wisconsin locals, Starrett Lake Campground truly stands out as an ideal destination for a genuine and restorative outdoor experience. Its prime location in the Northern Highland American Legion State Forest means it's a relatively easy drive from many parts of the state, offering a convenient escape without requiring extensive travel plans. This accessibility, combined with the campground's unique features, makes it perfectly suited for Wisconsin residents seeking a quick weekend retreat or a longer, more immersive nature vacation.

What truly sets Starrett Lake Campground apart for locals is its unwavering commitment to peace and quiet. In a world increasingly filled with noise and distraction, finding a place where generators and loud devices are prohibited is a rare treat. This ensures that the natural symphony of the Northwoods – the rustling leaves, the gentle lapping of the lake, and the haunting calls of the loons – takes center stage. For those who grew up enjoying Wisconsin's pristine wilderness, or for new residents looking to discover it, this truly authentic, rustic camping experience offers a chance to reconnect with the state's natural heritage in its purest form.

Furthermore, the availability of sandy beaches, excellent fishing, and perfect conditions for paddle sports like kayaking and paddleboarding on a peaceful, no-wake lake cater to a wide range of outdoor interests. Whether you’re looking to cast a line, explore the tranquil waters, or simply unwind by a crackling campfire, Starrett Lake provides the perfect backdrop. The welcoming presence of a camp host, as highlighted by satisfied visitors, adds a personal touch, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable stay. For any Wisconsinite yearning for an escape to the tranquil beauty of the Northwoods, Starrett Lake Campground offers not just a place to stay, but an experience that embodies the serene spirit of our beloved state.