The Best Kept Summer Secret in Wisconsin Is This Peaceful Fishing Lake

Summer in Wisconsin is a beautiful time, with the forests in full bloom and the lakes full of fish. That brings a large number of tourists to popular spots in the state, like Wisconsin Dells, which means it's the perfect time to head north to some of the quietest spots in the Badger State and visit the best lake in Wisconsin for relaxing summer recreation. Welcome to Whispering Lake, located in the peaceful Blackjack Springs State Natural Area, just south of the border with Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

Whispering Lake is a natural lake in a sprawling area popular with hikers and anglers, but it's a secluded gem that rarely draws big crowds. That means you should be able to have all the space you want as you go for a swim or reel in the catch of the day. Best accessed via the Whispering Lake Loop, a moderate 2.7-mile trail that offers fantastic views of the lake and the nearby forest, this is an amazing spot to explore year-round. However, it's never better than it is when the days are long, and the cool breeze off the lake is the perfect antidote to the summer sun.

What Makes This Spot So Special

State parks tend to be at their most crowded during the summer months, so Blackjack Springs Wilderness is a true hidden gem, one of the best spots to head when you really want to feel like it's just you and the great outdoors. A 5,800-acre area in northern Wisconsin, it's ideal for those who prefer their hiking, fishing, and water recreation to be on the rustic side.

The largest body of water in the area is Whispering Lake, a pristine 23-acre lake surrounded by a bank of pine trees. The lake is a popular spot for fishing, being home to largemouth bass and local panfish—both of which are top catches for traditional Wisconsin fish dinners. It's a popular spot for boating, although its shallow depth and gravel bottom mean people are more likely to just cool off with a quick dip than to take an extended swim.

What It's Like To Visit

If you want to go hiking here, bring a good pair of hiking boots. The trail leading to Whispering Lake is marked decently, but doesn't have much in the way of amenities or infrastructure and you're likely to have much of the trail to yourself. It's a popular spot for bird-watching, and the wide-open area is a great spot for pitching a tent if you're planning to kick off the fishing day early.

What To Know Before You Go

There is no admission fee to Blackjack Springs Wilderness, and the experience is largely determined by how long you want to stay. Camping is allowed for up to 14 consecutive days, and there are designated hunting seasons and areas for those who follow the state regulations. The wilderness is even quieter during the winter, but bold, cold-loving ice fishers can often be seen making Whispering Lake their home amid the snow-capped trees. If you're looking for a unique place to stay in the area in lieu of camping, nearby Eagle River is home to a treehouse village that has to be seen to be believed.

Have you made your way up to Blackjack Springs State Natural Area and relaxed on the banks of Whispering Lake? If not, tell a nature-loving friend about this article and discover the best lake in Wisconsin for yourself before the word gets out! You can see more information about the amenities at Blackjack Springs Wilderness on the Wisconsin parks website, and make sure to check out Only in Your State's list of the best state parks in Wisconsin if you're looking for some more off-the-beaten-path natural escapes!

Are you on a road trip and looking for more ideas to beat the crowds? Check out our list of the best small-town getaways in the U.S. to plan your next stop!