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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Kentuck Lake Campground

Phelps, Michigan · Vilas County · Campground

Overview Early settlers from Kentucky gave the name to Kentuck Lake. Kentuck Lake Campground is located on the east lake shore of Kentuck Lake in a stand of maple. The 955-acre lake is popular with anglers and has abundant walleye, bass, crappies and panfish. Kentuck lake is connected to Spectacle Lake Campground by a …

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45.99121, -88.97609
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About Kentuck Lake Campground

Overview Early settlers from Kentucky gave the name to Kentuck Lake. Kentuck Lake Campground is located on the east lake shore of Kentuck Lake in a stand of maple. The 955-acre lake is popular with anglers and has abundant walleye, bass, crappies and panfish. Kentuck lake is connected to Spectacle Lake Campground by a scenic 2.5-mile-long hiking trail. Recreation The lake provides visitors with ample opportunities for boating and fishing. Anglers can expect a catch of musky, walleye, northern pike, large and smallmouth bass, crappie and perch. The lake is open to all types of boating, motorized and non-motorized. A trail linking the campground to the Spectacle Lake Campground begins near the boat landing and stretches 2.5 miles though mature upland hardwoods and lowland conifer areas. A variety of wildlife make its home in the area and visitors are encouraged to keep watch.Facilities The campground offers 31 single family campsites, available for tent or RV camping. The campground offers both first-come, first-served (13) campsites as well as sites which can be reserved in advance (18). Sites are equipped with tables and fire rings with grills. A pressurized water system is available for drinking water. Natural Features The campground is situated in a stand of maple, at an elevation of 1,730 feet. The adjacent Kentuck Lake is accessible by the boat landing which is located within the campground. Nearby Attractions The City of Eagle River is located about 17 miles west of the campground. A variety of services and activities are offered in Eagle River.

How to Get There

From Eagle River travel east 13.4 miles on STH 70 to FR2176 (Divide Road). Turn left (north) on FR2176 and continue 2.7 miles to the campground entrance on the left.

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 Kentuck Lake Campground

Heading to Kentuck Lake 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 Kentuck Lake Campground?

No central reservation system listed for Kentuck Lake Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/255124) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Kentuck Lake Campground?

From Eagle River travel east 13.4 miles on STH 70 to FR2176 (Divide Road). Turn left (north) on FR2176 and continue 2.7 miles to the campground entrance on the left.

How do I contact Kentuck Lake Campground?

You can reach the park at phone: (715) 479-2827 or email: evan.miller@usda.gov.