Flambeau River State Forest wilderness guide
State Forest · WI

Flambeau River State Forest

Flambeau River State Forest offers a serene environment with opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy hiking, fishing, and exploring the Wisconsin wilderness.

State Forest90,1474+ Trails

Designation

State Forest

Total Wilderness Area

90,147

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Flambeau River State Forest

Flambeau River State Forest offers a serene environment with opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy hiking, fishing, and exploring the Wisconsin wilderness.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Flambeau River State Forest, located in northern Wisconsin, spans over 90,000 acres and is home to the beautiful North and South Forks of the Flambeau River. The forest's geography features rolling hills, dense woodlands, and picturesque waterways, making it a haven for outdoor activities. Established in 1930, the state forest has a rich history tied to conservation efforts and sustainable forestry practices. Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, canoeing, and wildlife viewing, with plenty of chances to see eagles, black bears, and deer. The forest also has numerous campsites offering a rustic experience. Popular activities often revolve around the river, including fishing and kayaking, where anglers can catch musky, walleye, and smallmouth bass. Its lush ecosystem supports various flora and fauna, attracting nature lovers year-round.

Field Guide · State Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Flambeau River State Forest

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Big Falls - a scenic area along the river known for its rapids and natural beauty.✦ Rare sighting of bald eagles, which are often seen fishing along the river.✦ Historic logging campsites that tell the story of Wisconsin's logging history.✦ Remote paddling routes that offer solitude and immersive nature experiences.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Flambeau River State Forest

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Flambeau River State Forest
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Flambeau River State Forest
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Flambeau River State Forest
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Flambeau River State Forest
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Flambeau River State Forest
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Flambeau River State Forest
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Flambeau 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 Flambeau River State Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee required, but camping requires permits.

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 Flambeau River State Forest

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

Lake of the Pines Campground

Nestled near Lake of the Pines providing visitors with water access and nature immersion.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Flambeau River State Forest

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

Winter, Wisconsin
⌖ 4.39 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Winter, Wisconsin

Winter, Wisconsin is a quiet northern town perfect for outdoor lovers seeking forest trails, paddling lakes, and snowy adventures. Experience peaceful hiking, fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing year-round.

Winter and Summer
Explore Town
Brunet, Wisconsin
⌖ 7.21 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Brunet, Wisconsin

Brunet, Wisconsin offers tranquil outdoor adventures with scenic paddling, forest hiking, fishing, and winter snowmobiling. Its state park and river access make it a great quiet getaway for nature lovers.

Late Spring through Early Fall for most activities, Winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Radisson, Wisconsin
⌖ 13.95 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Radisson, Wisconsin

Radisson is a peaceful Wisconsin town surrounded by forests and waterways, perfect for hiking, paddling, fishing, and winter sports. It’s a great base for exploring the Chippewa Flowage and Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest.

Late Spring to Early Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Tony, Wisconsin
⌖ 21.33 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Tony, Wisconsin

Tony, Wisconsin is a peaceful gateway to northern forests, rivers, and trails. Ideal for paddling, fishing, hiking, and snowmobiling, it offers outdoors lovers a quiet setting to enjoy nature’s calm and variety year-round.

Late Spring to Early Fall for warm weather activities; Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Ladysmith, Wisconsin
⌖ 23.72 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ladysmith, Wisconsin

Ladysmith, Wisconsin is a peaceful outdoor destination known for river paddling, hiking, and snowmobiling. Its natural waterways and trails offer year-round adventure in a relaxed small-town setting.

Late Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Park Falls, Wisconsin
⌖ 25.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Park Falls, Wisconsin

Park Falls, WI is a serene escape offering outdoor adventures in forests and rivers. Enjoy hiking, canoeing, and winter sports in this peaceful northern haven.

Summer and Winter
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Flambeau River State Forest

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

Long-Run Laziness: A Godfrey 24-Foot Pontoon Day from Hayward
ADVEXPEDITION
Hayward, Wisconsin
Boat TourADV Bookable

Long-Run Laziness: A Godfrey 24-Foot Pontoon Day from Hayward

A concise guide to renting the Godfrey 24-foot pontoon (90 HP Yamaha) from Round Lake Marina in Hayward — what to expect, who can drive it, and how to plan a safe, roomy day on the water.

Boat TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Long Lake by Pontoon: The 22ft 2000 TMC with a 75hp Honda
ADVEXPEDITION
Sarona, Wisconsin
Boat RentalADV Bookable

Long Lake by Pontoon: The 22ft 2000 TMC with a 75hp Honda

A straightforward guide to renting BeesNTrees Marine’s 22ft, 10-passenger 2000 TMC pontoon for swimming, fishing, sightseeing, or a relaxed day or week on Long Lake.

Boat RentalPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip