About Spectacle Lake Campground (Wisconsin)
Overview With a 500-foot swim beach and the crystal clear lake, Spectacle Lake Campground is a family favorite. Come fish for a variety of gamefish species or hike the trail to Kentuck Lake Campground. This 2.5-mile trail utilizes part of the old Thunder Lake Railroad bed and is a pleasant hike.Recreation The lake provides visitors with ample opportunities for boating, fishing and swimming. Anglers can expect a catch of walleye, largemouth and smallmouth bass, panfish and trout. The lake is open to all types of boating, motorized and non-motorized. The Spectacle-Kentuck Trail extends from the campground along the old Thunder Lake Railroad bed all the way to Kentuck Lake Campground, approximately 2.5 miles away. A variety of wildlife make its home in the area and visitors are encouraged to keep watch.Facilities The campground offers 34 single family campsites, available for tent or RV camping. The campground offers both first-come, first-served campsites as well as sites which can be reserved in advance. Sites are equipped with tables and fire rings with grills. Vault toilets and drinking water are available throughout the campground.For more information about Spectator Lake Campground, print an information sheet(PDF) which includes a map of the campground. Natural Features This campground is located on the east shore of Spectacle Lake in a mixed species forest at an elevation of 1,770 feet. The 166-acre lake boasts an enormous 500-foot-long sandy beach. Nearby Attractions The City of Eagle River is located about 16 miles southwest of the campground. A variety of services and activities are offered in Eagle River throughout the year.
How to Get There
From Eagle River, travel 7.6 miles to FR2178 (Military Road). Turn left (north) and continue 2.9 miles to Kentuck Lake Road (FR2465). Turn right (northeast) on FR2465 and continue 1.7 miles to FR2196. Turn left (north) and continue 2.2 miles to Spectacle Lake Road (FR2572). Turn right (east) and travel 1.2 miles to the campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 6)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun 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 Spectacle Lake Campground (Wisconsin)
Heading to Spectacle Lake Campground (Wisconsin)? 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 Spectacle Lake Campground (Wisconsin)?
No central reservation system listed for Spectacle Lake Campground (Wisconsin). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/255120) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Spectacle Lake Campground (Wisconsin)?
From Eagle River, travel 7.6 miles to FR2178 (Military Road). Turn left (north) and continue 2.9 miles to Kentuck Lake Road (FR2465). Turn right (northeast) on FR2465 and continue 1.7 miles to FR2196. Turn left (north) and continue 2.2 miles to Spectacle Lake Road (FR2572). Turn right (east) and travel 1.2 miles to the campground.
How do I contact Spectacle Lake Campground (Wisconsin)?
You can reach the park at phone: (715) 479-2827 or email: evan.miller@usda.gov.
References & Official Resources