At Gobler Lake, different landscape features converge: a 20-acre bog lake with a muddy bottom and a geologically significant esker. Rare breeding birds are also part of this natural area. Discoveries like these reflect the character of Wisconsin’s Northwoods, where forests, lakes and the logging tradition shape visitors’ experiences in Oneida County.
Waterways and Lakes
The water landscape can also be described in numbers: Oneida County has 68,096 acres of open water, 406 named lakes and 830 miles of flowing water. Of these, 192 miles are classified as trout streams. For a look at specific access points, Willow Flowage is one example: the lake covers 6,392 acres and is accessible via public boat landings. Seven are managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources; they provide access for motorboats, canoes and kayaks. At some landings, water levels can affect access, and conditions may vary seasonally.
The Tomahawk River is also accessible to canoes and kayaks. Access roads are Willow Dam Road, Running Bear Lane, Swamp Lake Road, Prairie Lake Road and Peaceful Lane. If you are planning a specific water route, these different access points can serve as a guide, without confusing the Willow Flowage landings with the access points on the Tomahawk River.
Forest Landscapes and Natural Areas
The forest areas differ significantly in character. Holmboe Conifer Forest features several types of mature northern forest on steep, moraine-shaped terrain along the south bank of the Pelican River. It was designated a State Natural Area in 1983. Access is via Boyce Drive; the parking area is south of the bridge over the Pelican River, and trail maps are available at the property sign. Since the property is privately owned, check access conditions with the owner before visiting.
Big Swamp is an extensive peatland with large areas of muskeg, open bog, nutrient-poor fen and sedge meadows. Enterprise Hemlocks showcases a different forest type: a mature mesic forest dominated by hemlock trees. Four trees were determined to be more than 200 years old. Together, the two areas represent different natural landscapes—from open, boggy terrain to a tree-filled forest.
At Gobler Lake, bog, geology and birdlife come together. Rare breeding birds found there include the Black-and-white Warbler, Canada Warbler, Connecticut Warbler and Lincoln’s Sparrow. Lower Tomahawk River Pines, meanwhile, features mature stands of dry to mesic pine forest. The area is accessible by boat. Canoeists can launch at the intersection of Bearskin Trail and County Highway L and paddle about 3 miles downstream to reach it.
Trails, Seasons and History
The 21.5-mile Bearskin State Trail runs between Minocqua and Tomahawk along a former railroad corridor. Its surface is compacted granite; as a recreational corridor, it offers a way to experience Wisconsin’s Northwoods. In winter, snow changes the seasonal landscape: Oneida County receives an average of more than 60 inches a year, and winters are considered suitable for outdoor activities. This average describes the climate, not the conditions on a particular travel day.
The Rhinelander Railroad Museum in Pioneer Park offers another glimpse into the region’s history. It features an authentic Soo Line depot and a model railroad depicting Rhinelander in the 1950s. For a trip that combines nature and history, a variety of themes are on offer: forest types and birdlife, water access points, a former railroad corridor and railroad history.
The Oneida County Forestry Department maintains county parks, picnic areas, swimming beaches, boat landings, fishing bridges and scientific areas. Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport (RHI) serves a large area that includes northern Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Check flight routes and schedules before your trip.
Discover more destinations: Minocqua, Rhinelander, Three Lakes, Hazelhurst, Jefferson County, Bayfield County, Ozaukee, Monroe.
For the broader travel overview: Wisconsin.
