Forests & Parks

Escape into the heart of Wisconsin’s North Woods in Taylor County’s Forests!  Over 60 percent of the county is wooded forest land, making it a destination for nature lovers. Outdoor enthusiasts and casual vacationers alike will find the recreation they’re looking for in the serene and diverse landscapes of the county’s two main public forest areas, Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and Taylor County Forest.

Acreage: 858,400
Camping: developed & primitive
Trails: non-motorized & motorized trail
Lakes: beaches & boat launches
Parking Access: yes
Website: fs.usda.gov

Picnic areas: yes
Hunting: yes
Fishing: yes

Acreage:17,688
Camping: developed & primitive
Trails: non-motorized & motorized trail
Lakes: beaches & boat launches
Parking Access: yes
Website: www.co.taylor.wi.us/departments/

Picnic areas: yes
Hunting: yes
Fishing: yes

Acreage: 2366 lake
Camping: developed
Trails: non-motorized trails & motorized trail
Lakes: beaches & boat launches
Parking Access: yes
Website: n/a

Picnic areas: yes
Hunting: yes
Fishing: yes

Acreage: 135
Camping: no
Trails: non-motorized trails
Lakes: no
Parking Access: yes
Website: www.taylor.uwex.edu

Picnic areas: no
Hunting: no
Fishing: no

Acreage: 20
Camping: no
Trails: non-motorized trails
Lakes: no
Parking Access: yes
Website: www.riblakewisconsin.com

Picnic areas: no
Hunting: no
Fishing: no

Acreage: 411 Lake
Camping: developed
Trails: non-motorized trails & motorized trail
Lakes: beaches & boat launches
Parking Access: yes
Website: http://www.fs.usda.gov/

Picnic areas: yes
Hunting: yes
Fishing: yes

Acreage: 7,400
Camping: no
Trails: non-motorized & motorized trail
Lakes: beaches & boat launches
Parking Access: yes
Website: www.dnr.wi.gov

Picnic areas: yes
Hunting: yes
Fishing: yes
Map: north area
Map: south area

Acreage: 220
Camping: no
Trails: non-motorized trail
Lakes: beaches & boat launches
Parking Access: yes
Website: www.co.price.wi.us/

Picnic areas: yes
Hunting: yes
Fishing: yes

Acreage: 62 lake
Camping: no
Trails: non-motorized trails
Lakes: no
Parking Access: yes
Website: www.taylor.uwex.edu

Picnic areas: no
Hunting: no
Fishing: no

Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest

The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest (pronounced “sha-WA-mi-gun”) spans one-third of Taylor County and spills into the surrounding counties, creating an uninterrupted playground for outdoor relaxation and recreation. This national forest area features thousands of acres to explore and opportunities to indulge the adventurer in all of us.

Outdoor sporting enthusiasts can jump right into the action with plentiful grounds for hunting big and small game, upland game birds, and waterfowl.  Pristine lakes and streams are a delight for anglers of trout, gamefish, and panfish. It’s easy to get around on hundreds of miles of managed trails for motorized use, which accommodate ATVers, snowmobilers and more.

For a more tranquil escape, seek out Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest’s quieter side. With many campgrounds from modern to primitive and miles of hiking trails, visitors are destined to find peace and relaxation. Chequamegon’s designated wilderness areas are places of quiet sanctuary where the natural landscape has as little man-made influence as possible, letting the vegetation and animal life thrive. Birdwatchers, canoers, kayakers, and hikers experience a variety of rare and fascinating plant and animal species nestled amid scenery that leaves an unforgettable impression.

Taylor County Forest

Taylor County Forest is located in the northeast corner of Taylor County and captures the true spirit of the North Woods with its varied and well-managed recreational opportunities. This natural area is rich with both scenery and wildlife and invites exploration for sporting, nature study, and quiet reflection.

Taylor County Forest features two campgrounds where campers are immersed in the acres of forest, which is full of lakes and streams ideal for swimming, fishing and boating. Taylor County Forest is home to a multitude of trails for motorized and non-motorized use, so visitors find plenty of ways to explore and enjoy their time away.  Those on the hunt find excellent habitat for hunting, fishing, and trapping.

Taylor County places a high priority on preserving their forests and is devoted to maintaining the plant and animal life that make it their home. Some of these critters include black bear, whitetail deer, turkey, bald eagles, ruffed grouse, coyote, timber wolves, and many more. Come and see what you can see in this lush and adventurous corner of northern Wisconsin!

Chequamegon Waters/Miller Dam Flowage

Attention fishermen— Point your boat toward Chequamegon Waters to experience some great Taylor County fishing action! Chequamegon Waters (also known as Miller Dam Lake) branches off from the Yellow River into a 2714-acre flowage nestled in western Taylor County. Plentiful waters and rich fishing grounds have given the flowage a gleaming reputation for northern pike, panfish and especially spectacular bass fishing. Fishing is great both from the water and along the shoreline. Access the lake from 3 public boat launches for a great family fishing destination.  Miller Dam Lake sees year-round action with great ice fishing, too!

In case you catch your limit for the day, head to the trails for the best kind of sight-seeing. Whether on foot or on wheels, the managed trails at Chequamegon Waters have something for everyone, from hiking, horseback riding, ATVing and bicycling. Take winter by storm out on the snowshoeing and snowmobiling trails.  Hunters will not leave disappointed either– the Chequamegon forest area holds small game, fowl and white-tail deer.

You’ll want to stay a while, and with plenty of camping and lodging opportunities nearby, you will feel right at home in no time.  Various national forest and privately owned campgrounds have all the amenities you’ll need to make the most of this great escape.

Big Falls County Park

Let the wild river inspire you at Big Falls County Park! From the banks of the Jump River, this scenic county park and campground offers beautiful views of rushing water. The current swirls around granite boulders and cascades over rock ledges to create awe-inspiring rapids. Hike along the waterfront trails under white and red pines to take in the untamed river!

The rustic campground area has 6 first-come, first serve campsites for your next great escape. Additional amenities include vaulted toilets, water pump, kids playground, swimming beach, and picnic area with reservable open-air shelter. Bring your own volleyball or horseshoes to play on the provided courts.

This great escape is worth the short drive into neighboring Price County!

Gerstberger Pines County Park

Look back into the history of Wisconsin’s wild past at Gerstberger Pines County Park, the site of some of the state’s last remaining old growth forests. Learn, explore, and fall in love with the centuries-old timber: white pines, red oak, yellow birch and hemlock. With their massive trunks and amazing heights, this historical area will leave you inspired.

A ¾-mile wood chip trail leads you through this ancient forest with interpretive signage that passes on the great story of the trees, the landscape, and the history of this special area of Taylor County. You will learn of the natural processes that formed the features of the forest; the industrial forces that shaped it; and the caretakers who, then and now, work to preserve these stately, gentle giants.

True nature lovers will always remember their visit to this rich and unique spot!

Mondeaux Flowage Recreation Area

Pitch your tent or park your trailer in the Mondeaux Flowage Recreation Area to experience the fresh air of Chequamegon! Four national forest campgrounds are located in the Mondeaux Flowage so you can get immersed in the beauty of Taylor County. With a blend of reservable and first-come-first-serve sites and varying amenities, these peaceful campgrounds offer front row seats to enjoy what the Northwoods is all about. Play the day away with a swim, picnic or hike along the Mondeaux leg of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. The 411-acre lake is prime for boating and fishing with plenteous bass and panfish, as well as populations of sport fish like northern pike and musky. The flowage is equipped with public boat launches for easy access.

Work on the Mondeaux Dam, buildings and campgrounds began in 1937 by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and Works Progress Administration (WPA), and with their signature style allow visitors to feel and touch the historical significance of these programs.