Brule River State Forest wilderness guide
State Forest · WI

Brule River State Forest

Brule River State Forest is a picturesque expanse in northern Wisconsin known for its variety of recreational opportunities and natural beauty, highlighted by the scenic Bois Brule River and diverse wildlife.

State Forest45,0003+ Trails

Designation

State Forest

Total Wilderness Area

45,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Brule River State Forest

Brule River State Forest is a picturesque expanse in northern Wisconsin known for its variety of recreational opportunities and natural beauty, highlighted by the scenic Bois Brule River and diverse wildlife.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Brule River State Forest, stretching over 40,000 acres in Wisconsin's Douglas County, offers a magnificent outdoor escape. The forest is centered around the Bois Brule River, one of the most iconic rivers in the Midwest, renowned for its world-class trout fishing. Its diverse landscape is characterized by rolling hills, dense forests of pine and hardwoods, and serene lakes. History buffs will appreciate that the river was once a significant waterway for Native American tribes and fur traders. Today, the forest provides a haven for various outdoor activities, including hiking, canoeing, and camping, with a network of trails and campgrounds catering to different skill levels and interests. Bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts will find plenty to admire, from bald eagles soaring overhead to the occasional moose or black bear sighting. The Brule River's rapids and slower stretches offer perfect conditions for both adrenaline-pumping adventures and peaceful paddles. All this makes Brule River State Forest a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Field Guide · State Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Brule River State Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Bois Brule River✦ Wildlife Viewing Opportunities✦ Brule-St. Croix Portage Trail✦ Big Lake Campground
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Brule River State Forest

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Brule River State Forest
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Brule River State Forest
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Brule River State Forest
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Brule River State Forest
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Brule River State Forest
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Brule River State Forest
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Brule River State Forest
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Brule River State Forest
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Brule River State Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entry fee, but a vehicle sticker is required for state parks.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Brule River State Forest

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Brule River State Forest

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Brule, Wisconsin
⌖ 1.17 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Brule, Wisconsin

Brule, Wisconsin, offers peaceful access to the St. Croix River and surrounding state forest, perfect for paddling, hiking, fishing, and winter skiing in a quiet northern wilderness setting.

Late spring through early fall, and winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Maple, Wisconsin
⌖ 7.12 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Maple, Wisconsin

Maple, Wisconsin, is a hidden gem for outdoor lovers seeking adventures in lush forests and along scenic rivers. Experience exhilarating hikes, cross-country skiing, and tranquil fishing opportunities.

Iron River, Wisconsin
⌖ 8.47 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Iron River, Wisconsin

Iron River offers quiet access to northern Wisconsin’s lakes, rivers, and forests with great hiking, biking, paddling, and winter sports. It’s an ideal small-town basecamp for enjoying nature away from crowds.

Late Spring through Fall for paddling and hiking, Winter for snowmobiling and skiing
Explore Town
Port Wing, Wisconsin
⌖ 19.04 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Port Wing, Wisconsin

Port Wing, Wisconsin is a quiet lakeside town on Lake Superior's North Shore, perfect for paddling, hiking, fishing, and snowmobiling. Enjoy peaceful trails, rugged shoreline, and abundant wildlife away from crowds.

Late Spring to Early Fall for water and hiking activities; Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Drummond, Wisconsin
⌖ 21.12 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Drummond, Wisconsin

Drummond is a quiet northern Wisconsin town ideal for paddlers, anglers, hikers, and snow enthusiasts seeking serene outdoor adventure amid vast forest and lakes.

Late Spring to Early Fall; Winter
Explore Town
Superior, Wisconsin
⌖ 27.21 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Superior, Wisconsin

Superior, WI, a vibrant town on the shores of Lake Superior, offers thrilling outdoor activities from hiking and biking to paddling and fishing, making it a year-round adventure haven.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Brule River State Forest

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Three Days on the Brule: Stones to Hwy #13 by Canoe
ADVEXPEDITION
Brule, Wisconsin
CanoeADV Bookable

Three Days on the Brule: Stones to Hwy #13 by Canoe

A three-day canoe route on the Brule River operated by Brule River Canoe Rental — this guide orients paddlers to the A6: Stones – Hwy #13 run and the practical facts you need to plan it.

CanoePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Meadows and Trestles: A Slow Canoe Float from Highway 2 to Pine Tree
ADVEXPEDITION
Brule, Wisconsin
CanoeADV Bookable

Meadows and Trestles: A Slow Canoe Float from Highway 2 to Pine Tree

A 3‑hour (described variously as a 3–5 hour) canoe trip down the Brule’s middle section — the Meadows — drifting under three bridges, past a historic wrought‑iron train trestle, and finishing through small rapids at Pine Tree landing.

CanoePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip