19mi from Governor Thompson Campground · 1 site · Lodging · Townsend, WIA hidden gem nestled between the comforts of lake living and a backdoor to the expansive Nicolet National Forest. Recreational opportunities are year-round, including recreational vehicle and fishing opportunities on and around the 417 acre lake flowage. The private +2 acre property has panoramic views of the secluded headwaters opening into the main flowage. Set back off the main lake, wildlife viewing, especially birding, is the best I have experienced. Neotropical migratory bird species are abundant in the Spring as well as a resident breeding pair of Trumpeter Swans, many ducks(!), Bald Eagles, Loons, Sand-Hill cranes; many woodpecker spp. including Pileated; Screech, Barred and Great horned owls. Some of the more entertaining wildlife include deer, otter, beaver, muskrats, red squirrels and the occasional wandering black bear (no problem bears). In the Spring, the esker's neighboring wetlands come alive with many frog and turtle species. For me, the allure of the wild still dominates here. The esker provides an amazing vantage point with nearly 270 degree panoramic views of the flowage. From the Gazebo, take one of two paths to the overlook before descending down to the lakefront. In 2021, I plan on adding a short pier but the natural rocky peninsula already provides excellent access into the deeper thalweg, an excellent fishing/ swimming hole! All pontoon and fishing boats can be accommodated here. Learn more about this land:The property is located towards the end of a Forest Service road (Meadowlark Lane) with one year-round resident at the end. There's a large turn-around for trailers and larger vehicles. Neighbors are well separated, located over the ridgeline and out of earshot. The property has a relatively wide, flat 100 foot driveway to the cabin from the road. Easy access to the cabin from the driveway. The cabin is surrounded by mature maple/birch/balsam/hemlock forest and several wetland/tamarack bogs (very diverse terrain bordering the lake). At the base of the cabin there's a small pier for direct kayak and canoe access. Larger boats can easily dock on the lake-end of the property, a short walk from the cabin. From the natural driveway a concrete paver staircase leads up to the main campsite (see pics). The campsite includes a 3 season 14 foot enclosed gazebo with electricity. Essentially, the land is a 2 acre esker (kettle moraine feature) that serpentines through the woods to Reservoir "Pond" lake system. Excellent views of the lake! The Flowage has headwaters from McCauslin brook and connects 3 lakes totaling 417 acres. Maximum depth 27 feet. Fishing and Pontoon boat docking on shoreline. The closest boat launch is on Horn Lake which is passed on the way to the cabin and approximately a half mile away as the crow flies. Plenty of areas for tenting/ wall tents, 2 picnic tables (one near the cabin and the other by the gazebo), and a separate outhouse with toiletries at the top of the hill. Attractions in the Area: Sleepy Hollow Minature Golf on Nicolet Rd (just East of Horn Lake) Sunset Resort of Townsend located on the SE end of the flowage. Accessible by boat or short drive from camp on Burnt Dam Road. Hill Crest Lodge Supper Club on Nicolet Rd (you'll pass on the way in) 4 Stars. Birch Hills Resort and Bar (over the bridge from Hill Crest) 5 Stars. Mike's Supermarket/ Pintsch's TrueValue (just thought I'd mention where to get provisions) (also on Nicolet Rd), TownsendPotawatomi Casino, CarterOld Town Hall cafe and bloody bar- Traditional American food, Townsend (Excellent Breakfast!)Sweet Memories Candy Store, Lakewood (If you have a sweet tooth, this place is over the top Willy Wonka style, many candy filled rooms that seem to never end!)Lakewood Ski and Sport- Outdoor Gear, Lakewood. Talk to Dave- great guy. Ski/ SUP and Bike rentals.Northern D'lites- Lakewood ice cream/ burgersLakewood Super Valu Grocery Store (has more to offer over Mike's grocery in Townsend)*Maiden Lake Supper Club- Excellent! Best Supper Club UpNort hands-down. Excellent sunset views over Maiden lake from the patio bar. Go Early!Cathedral of the Pines- Old Growth White and Red pine. I can't believe the whole state looked like this at one point. One tree is has enough wood to build a house!Maiden Lake, 3rd clearest lake in WI. Great snorkeling over the fish cribsBoot Lake -State Campground and Beach- Best swimming beach in the area.Jones Creek trails- year round hiking, Mt biking and Cross country skiingMcCauslin Brook Golf and Ctry Club, LakewoodWaubee Lake Lodge- worth the drive. Huge modern wood lodge live-edge bar and 40+ foot cathedral ceilings. Great buffet. Woodland Trail Winery, Lakewood (winery Northern woods style with craft beer selection)
