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Chequamegon-Nicolet/Ada Lake
Overview
Ada Lake Campground offers a tranquil escape deep within the vast Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. Located near the historic town of Wabeno, WI, this forest service campground provides a serene Northwoods experience far removed from the hustle of modern life. The park centers around the crystal-clear waters of Ada Lake, offering visitors a chance to reconnect with nature in its most authentic form through a classic, rustic camping environment.
Location & Surroundings
The setting is defined by towering pines and the 75-acre non-motorized lake, which ensures a quiet atmosphere throughout the day and night. Situated in Forest County, the surroundings are characterized by dense hardwood forests and glacial landscapes. Because gasoline motors are prohibited on the lake, the only sounds you are likely to hear are the calls of loons and the gentle lapping of water against the shoreline, creating a peaceful natural soundscape.
Amenities & Park Features
This is a primitive site, meaning amenities are focused on the essentials for a true outdoor experience. Visitors will find vault toilets and hand-pumped drinking water rather than modern hookups or paved pads. Each individual site is equipped with a sturdy picnic table and a fire ring for evening campfires. The park features a sandy swimming beach and a boat launch designed specifically for canoes, kayaks, and small boats using electric motors.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Beyond the lake, campers can explore the Nicolet State Trail, a multi-use path perfect for hiking and mountain biking through the forest. Just a short drive away is the Cathedral Pines State Natural Area, home to some of Wisconsin’s oldest standing timber. In Wabeno, travelers can visit the local logging museum to learn about the region’s industrial heritage or view the famous Phoenix Steam Hauler, a rare piece of early 20th-century machinery.
Who This Park Is Best For
Ada Lake is best suited for travelers who prefer rustic, off-grid camping over resort-style amenities and crowded RV parks. It is a haven for kayakers, birdwatchers, and those seeking a quiet retreat from technology. While smaller RVs and camper vans are welcome, the lack of electricity and dump stations makes it ideal for self-contained units or traditional tent campers who value privacy and natural beauty above all else.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Chelsea Lipp
very quiet area. there is one area with a vaulted toilet. the beach area is nice, and my son loved fishing in that spot.
Cevin Barto
Amazingly magical campground! Try to snag yourself a lake front spot if possible. The beach is well taken care of and great for kids and adults. The campground host was super friendly and helpful. He kept the bathrooms tidy and frequently picked up any garbage he found (most campers are respectful and cleanup after themselves) There is a water fountain and tap for filling up large water containers. Recycling and trash bins. Super clean pit toilets.
Jack K
On my way from Toronto to Minneapolis, after passing the town of Laona, I arrived at Ada Lake Campground in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. I spoke to the campground host, a very nice gentleman, then drove around and picked campsite #10 [N45° 22.136' W88° 43.888'], very close to the lake. I quickly set up the tent, went for a short hike at the campground and around the lake and then admired the sunset. Very nice campground!
Greg Krueger
Beautiful area, great beach. Bright lights on the front of vault toilet buildings shine outward in all directions and completely ruin the dark of night for tent campers in many of the nicest sites here. The lighting is completely out of character for a rustic national forest campground. Fortunately I’ve not seen these sorts of lights installed at other campgrounds on the Chequamegon Nicolet. Otherwise a very nice campground worth a visit. The water pump by the lakeside campsites furthest into the loop was not working when we visited. Just one water spout was working at the campground entrance kiosk. All sites here are first-come, first-served as of 2022, but at least some sites are slated to become reservable on the federal recreation website starting in 2023.
Terry Seymour
Camp host very nice. Bathrooms very clean. Nice lakr to fish