About Lac Vieux Desert Campground
Overview Lac Vieux Desert Campground is located on the western shore of Lac Vieux Desert, the headwaters of the Wisconsin River. Located in the northwest corner of the Nicolet National Forest, just miles from the Michigan Border, Lac Vieux Desert is one of the premier fisheries in the State of Wisconsin. Recreation With walleye, northern pike, musky, large and smallmouth bass, as well as a variety of panfish, Lac Vieux Desert is an angler's paradise. The campgrounds boat landing provides direct access to the lake for the early morning or late evening bite. Facilities With 31 campsites accommodating trailers from 35 to 40 feet in length, drinking water, accessible vault toilets, and garbage dumpsters provided, Lac Vieux Desert Campground may become your new fishing headquarters.Natural Features Sitting on the western shore of 4,017-acre Lac Vieux Desert, the campground and its sites are nestled amongst tall pines and maples, creating the perfect setting for a weekend getaway. Nearby Attractions The town of Phelps and the Phelps to Conover bicycle trail lie a few miles southeast of the campground. Other lakes in close proximity to the campground are North Twin, Long, Big Sand, and Smokey Lake, all of which are known to have excellent fisheries. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (715) 479-2827.
How to Get There
From Conover drive north 5.9 miles on Highway 45/32 to County Road E. Turn right (east) on E and drive 2.8 miles to FR2205 (West Shore Road). Turn left (north) and drive 1.3 miles to the campground entrance on the right.From Land O'Lakes drive south 2 miles on Highway 45/32 to County Road E. Turn right (east) on E and drive 2.8 miles to FR2205 (West Shore Road). Turn left (north) and drive 1.3 miles to the campground entrance on the right.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Lac Vieux Desert Campground
Heading to Lac Vieux Desert Campground? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Lac Vieux Desert Campground?
No central reservation system listed for Lac Vieux Desert Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10238116) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Lac Vieux Desert Campground?
From Conover drive north 5.9 miles on Highway 45/32 to County Road E. Turn right (east) on E and drive 2.8 miles to FR2205 (West Shore Road). Turn left (north) and drive 1.3 miles to the campground entrance on the right.From Land O'Lakes drive south 2 miles on Highway 45/32 to County Road E. Turn right (east) on E and drive 2.8 miles to FR2205 (West Shore Road). Turn left (north) and drive 1.3 mil…
How do I contact Lac Vieux Desert Campground?
You can reach the park at email: evan.miller@usda.gov.
References & Official Resources
