Up in Vilas County almost to the Michigan border is an area absolutely chock full of lakes large and small. But tucked in it's own State Natural Area, Nell Lake is an especially stunning, blue lake that just makes you want to relax, daydream and enjoy.
This 26 acre lake is only 18 feet deep, which helps account for the stunning blue of its waters.
In a state as beautiful as Wisconsin, we have no shortage of incredible natural wonders (or manmade "wonders," for that matter). From the dazzling Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and amazing Horicon National Wildlife Refuge to Devil's Lake State Park and everything that is Door County, you could spend a lifetime exploring the Badger State's wonders. Well, I'm here to add one more to your bucket list: Crex Meadows Wildlife Area. It's a a hidden gem natural wonder in Wisconsin, near the Minnesota border, and if you're a lover of wildlife, it should be on your must-visit list.
You'll find Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area in northwestern Wisconsin's Burnett County, just north of the charming community of Grantsburg. The area is a 30,000-acre expanse of wetlands and forests, as well as pine and oak barrens, that is further surrounded by additional protected natural areas, including the Governor Knowles State Forest, Reed Lake Meadow State Natural Area, and Norway Point Bottomlands State Natural Area.
Crex Meadows's unique combination of location and topography makes it haven for wildlife - both migratory and year-round residents. It's perhaps best known for its large flocks of sandhill cranes, which use Crex Meadows as a staging area during their spring and fall migrations, although Crex Meadows is also a key refuge for several important native habitats, such as sedge meadows and pine/oak barrens, relied on by wildlife for food and cover.
In additions to birds and plants, you'll find many species of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and insects that make their homes at Crex Meadows.
Observing wildlife at Crex Meadows doesn't have to be a stationary endeavor. There are several miles in the area's trail system, including two miles at Hay Creek (map available on AllTrails Plus), more than three miles at Upper Phantom, and many additional miles of hunting and official trails in the refuge. In winter, the trails are perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. There's also a road system at Crex that allows for getting out and looking for wildlife when the weather's less than pleasant.
You can get a little more information about the history and geography of the area or plan your visit ahead of time at the Crex Meadows page on the Wisconsin DNR website. There's also a year-round visitor center at the wildlife area, where you'll find exhibits, a library, and an auditorium. If you're a wildlife lover, I think you'll really enjoy a visit to Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area. Do you know of any other hidden gem natural wonders in Wisconsin? Be sure to tell us about them.
The Amazing Campground In Wisconsin We Want To Visit All-Year Round
Brule River State Forest is a stunning outdoor oasis in Wisconsin, offering year-round camping surrounded by lush forests and the picturesque Brule River. Whether you’re seeking summer adventures or winter tranquility, this beautiful spot is perfect for every season!
Camping in Wisconsin is like diving into a postcard. Not a modern postcard, full of jokes and clever innuendos about the city you're visiting, but more like a picturesque postcard from the '50s: rolling hills, dense forests, and bright, bluebird skies that stretch forever.
Whether you’re an all-in nature enthusiast or just a weekend adventurer who likes to toast marshmallows, there’s something about camping in Wisconsin that recharges your soul. Picture yourself setting up camp in the great Northwoods, surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. And tucked away in Wisconsin’s wilderness is a spot that offers all this beauty year-round: Brule River State Forest.
At Brule River State Forest, the campsites cater to all sorts of campers. Whether you prefer to rough it with a tent and sleeping bag or roll up in an RV, Brule River has you covered. The more primitive sites let you feel like you’re truly “off the grid,” but if going without electricity sounds like a nightmare, there are also sites with electrical hookups for your home-on-wheels. And no matter which site you choose, you’ll be surrounded by some of the most stunning scenery the state has to offer: lush forestland, peaceful rivers, and the kind of quiet that only nature can provide.
Brule River State Forest is a nature lover’s dream. The forest is home to a rich variety of wildlife, from deer that roam near the campsites to birds that fill the air with song each morning. You might even spot a black bear if you’re lucky (or unlucky, depending on how close you are!).
The forest’s hiking trails offer endless opportunities for exploration, with towering pines and winding rivers guiding your way. And don’t forget your fishing pole -- the Brule River is famous for its trout fishing, making it the perfect spot to cast a line and relax by the water. We won't tell that you're really napping if you don't.
If you need to get back to civilization a bit, there are some nearby attractions worth exploring.
Brule River State Forest is just a short drive from Lake Superior, where you can take in the stunning shoreline or try some lake fishing. If you're into history, you're in luck! Not too far away, you'll find some small towns with museums and historical sites that give us a glimpse into Wisconsin’s past. And if you’re craving a bit of the buzz of city life, Duluth, Minnesota (considered one of the best coastal towns in the USA), is less than an hour away, giving you a chance to grab any supplies you may have forgotten or just take a quick break from nature... to recharge your phone!
One of the things that makes Brule River State Forest special is its year-round accessibility. Yes, you can camp year-round -- even in the bitter cold of the winter! In spring, you're greeted with fresh blooms, summer welcomes warm days by the river, fall transforms the forest into a canvas of vibrant colors, and winter turns it into a magical, snowy wonderland... the thing postcards are made of.
You can pitch a tent or park your RV in any season; just be sure to pack accordingly. Bring snowshoes and extra layers for winter camping, bug spray for summer, and a camera to capture the brilliant fall foliage.
So, the next time you find yourself ready for a Wisconsin camping adventure that’s as stunning as it is versatile, look no further than Brule River State Forest. You'll be glad you did! Especially once you experience its breathtaking views and outdoor adventure. It truly is the perfect year-round escape from the hustle and bustle of the real world. No matter what sort of camper you are, Brule River will steal your heart and remind you why Wisconsin is the ultimate camping destination.
