Recreation area

Rainbow Lake Wilderness

Chequamegon-Nicolet NF · Wisconsin — managed by USDA Forest Service

Open recreation area — no reservation needed

About this campground

Rainbow Lake was one of the first eastern wildernesses designated in 1975. The total area encompasses 6,583 acres, located 4 miles north of Drummond, Wis., in Bayfield County. Among the unique features of this wilderness are the numerous narrow gauge railroad grades that were used for log hauling in the early 1900s. The North Country National Scenic Trail, which runs the length of the wilderness (north to south), and the Anderson Grade Trail (east to west) follow parts of these old grades.  These trails provide access to a variety of lakes that are great for fishing.  Interspersed thoughout the wilderness are several scenic lakes and bogs, many of which can be accessed from old grades and the North Country National Scenic Trail. The terrain in the area is mostly flat to gentle rolling, with some steep hills. Wildlife is abundant, so bring your binoculars and cameras!

Activities

  • HIKING
  • FISHING
  • WILDLIFE VIEWING

Nearby federal campgrounds

Explore more Wisconsin camping

Rainbow Lake Wilderness doesn't take campsite reservations — but plenty of nearby Wisconsin campgrounds do, and we'll alert you the moment a sold-out site opens up.

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Details from Recreation.gov's official RIDB catalog. Conditions change — confirm with the managing office before you go. Not affiliated with Recreation.gov or any federal agency.