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Access Site WI

Spectacle Lake

Spectacle Lake

Source: wisconsin_department_of_natural_resources Updated 1 year ago

City: Phelps, WI
County: Vilas County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 46.01087176, -89.01221587
Air Temp: --
Location
Nearby Gauge Conditions
About This Access Site
**Location & Access:** Spectacle Lake is a 166-acre lake in Vilas County near Phelps, WI, accessible via a public boat landing with dedicated parking. The site is located within Spectacle Lake Campground, which offers reservable campsites and is reached by traveling north from Eagle River on FR2178 (Military Road) and FR2465. Parking is available at the boat ramp parking lot.

**Lake Conditions & Recreation:** The lake has a maximum depth of 35 feet and moderately clear water, making it suitable for all types of boating—both motorized and non-motorized watercraft are permitted. Kayakers and canoeists will find a 500-foot swim beach and good fishing opportunities for panfish, largemouth and smallmouth bass, trout, and walleye. The site is well-suited for day paddlers or those staying at the nearby campground.

**Nearby Paddling Options:** From Spectacle Lake, paddlers can access the scenic Spectacle-Kentuck Trail, a 2.5-mile hiking trail that connects to Kentuck Lake Campground along the historic Thunder Lake Railroad bed. Additional campgrounds and water access points are located within 10 miles, including Kentuck Lake and Anvil Lake, providing opportunities for multi-lake paddling explorations in the area.
Federal Facility Information
(715) 479-2827 Free Access Reservations Available

Overview
With a 500-foot swim beach and the crystal clear lake, Spectacle Lake Campground is a family favorite. Come fish for a variety of gamefish species or hike the trail to Kentuck Lake Campground. This 2.5-mile trail utilizes part of the old Thunder Lake Railroad bed and is a pleasant hike.Recreation
The lake provides visitors with ample opportunities for boating, fishing and swimming....

Overview
With a 500-foot swim beach and the crystal clear lake, Spectacle Lake Campground is a family favorite. Come fish for a variety of gamefish species or hike the trail to Kentuck Lake Campground. This 2.5-mile trail utilizes part of the old Thunder Lake Railroad bed and is a pleasant hike.Recreation
The lake provides visitors with ample opportunities for boating, fishing and swimming. Anglers can expect a catch of walleye, largemouth and smallmouth bass, panfish and trout. The lake is open to all types of boating, motorized and non-motorized. The Spectacle-Kentuck Trail extends from the campground along the old Thunder Lake Railroad bed all the way to Kentuck Lake Campground, approximately 2.5 miles away. A variety of wildlife make its home in the area and visitors are encouraged to keep watch.Facilities
The campground offers 34 single family campsites, available for tent or RV camping. The campground offers both first-come, first-served campsites as well as sites which can be reserved in advance. Sites are equipped with tables and fire rings with grills. Vault toilets and drinking water are available throughout the campground.For more information about Spectator Lake Campground, print an information sheet(PDF) which includes a map of the campground.
Natural Features
This campground is located on the east shore of Spectacle Lake in a mixed species forest at an elevation of 1,770 feet. The 166-acre lake boasts an enormous 500-foot-long sandy beach.
Nearby Attractions
The City of Eagle River is located about 16 miles southwest of the campground. A variety of services and activities are offered in Eagle River throughout the year.

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Nearby Campgrounds (4 within 10 miles)
Kentuck Lake Campground
On-site Reservable
Anvil Lake Campground
On-site Reservable
Spectacle Lake Campground (Wisconsin)
On-site Reservable
LUNA WHITE DEER CAMPGROUND
On-site Reservable