Established in 1925 to protect the Wisconsin, Flambeau and Manitowish rivers, the Northern Highland American Legion (NHAL) State Forest occupies more than 232,000 acres in northern Wisconsin.

The state forest provides employment and economic support to rural and urban communities through the production of forest products, recreation and tourism.

Location

The Northern Highland American Legion State Forest is located in Vilas, Oneida and Iron counties, in heart of the Northwoods near the cities of Woodruff and Minocqua. It is approximately four hours northeast of Minneapolis and four hours north of Madison.

Directions

The forest is spread out across three counties. For directions to the individual campgrounds, please see camping.
NHAL ranger stations GPS coordinates are:

Clear Lake Ranger Station
45° 51.913’
89° 38.977’
Crystal Lake Ranger Station
46° 00.105’
89° 37.319’

Fees

A vehicle admission sticker is required for all family campgrounds and posted fee beach and picnic areas. A trail pass is required for all groomed cross-country ski trails and mountain bike trails. Hunting and fishing licenses apply. Camping fees [PDF] are updated annually.

Certain groups and individuals may be eligible for waivers on vehicle admission, trail pass or camping fees.