When you’re deep in the heart of Wisconsin’s Northwoods, surrounded by what feels like an endless expanse of pine and birch forest, the practicalities of RV life can start to weigh on you. Services can be few and far between, and finding a place to dump your tanks can become a top priority. That’s what makes Torch Lake Campground & RV Park such a welcome sight for any RVer exploring this wild and beautiful part of the state. Tucked away near the small town of Conover, this county-run park is a true Northwoods beacon. It sits right beside the tranquil 39-acre lake that gives it its name, offering a serene spot where you can not only empty your tanks and refill with fresh water but also snag a beautiful wooded campsite for the night if you choose.
The context of this place is everything. Conover is located in Vilas County, an area that is legendary among outdoor enthusiasts. The county is home to over 1,300 glacial lakes, making it a paradise for anyone with a canoe, kayak, or fishing boat. In the summer, the lakes are teeming with anglers hunting for the elusive musky, casting their lines along the cedar-lined shores. When winter blankets the region in snow, the landscape transforms. The area boasts an incredible 80 miles of meticulously groomed snowmobile trails, which connect to the vast network in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, creating a snowmobiler’s dream. The campground itself is adjacent to the massive Nicolet National Forest, a million-acre playground for anyone who loves hiking, biking, or trail riding. Torch Lake itself is a classic Northwoods gem. It’s a relatively shallow lake, maxing out at about 14 feet deep, which makes it perfect for panfish and largemouth bass. It’s the kind of place where you can dump your tanks and then, just a few steps away, cast a line from the shore and catch your dinner as the sun sets through the pines. It’s an experience that connects the chores of RVing with the very reason we do it in the first place.
Dumping at a county campground like Torch Lake is typically a laid-back affair. You’ll usually need to check in at a self-service kiosk near the entrance. It’s always a good idea to keep a few small bills on hand for the payment envelope, especially if you arrive after the park attendant has gone home for the day. The dump station is conveniently located near the entrance loop, so you don’t have to navigate deep into the park to use it. The lane is wide enough to accommodate even larger fifth-wheels and Class A motorhomes. One practical tip to keep in mind is that the potable water spigot is located about 20 feet forward from the dump inlet. This means having a slightly longer fresh water hose will make your life a lot easier, preventing you from having to reposition your rig just to fill your tank. Because many of the campers here are in electric-only sites for the weekend, the dump station lines are generally pretty light, except for that peak checkout time on a Sunday morning. If you can, plan your stop for a weekday or later in the afternoon on a Sunday.
The amenities here are what you’d expect from a well-run county park, focused on comfort and outdoor recreation. There’s a potable water fill right next to the dump lane, a crucial feature. Just remember to use a dedicated, clean hose for your fresh water and to sanitize the spigot area before you use it. The heated bathhouse is a real comfort, especially for campers visiting in the early spring or late fall when the nights can get chilly. The park offers a mix of electric-only and a limited number of full-hookup sites. If you’re not lucky enough to snag one with a sewer connection at your site, the central dump station is your go-to. For those traveling with dogs, the Northwoods is pure heaven. The park is pet-friendly, and there are adjacent trails that lead right down to Torch Lake Beach, a perfect spot for your furry companion to take a splash on a warm day. One thing to note is that there are no trash receptacles right at the dump pad itself. The main dumpsters are located up near the park office, so you’ll need to pack out your trash from the dump site and dispose of it on your way out. Also, be aware that there is no gas or propane available on-site, so you’ll want to make sure you’re fueled up in a larger town like Eagle River, which is about ten miles to the south.
As for the cost, the county hasn’t published a separate fee just for dumping. In many parks like this, the use of the dump station is included with your overnight camping rate. However, for those just looking for a day-use dump, it’s always best to call the county parks office directly to see if they offer that option and what the fee might be. Even if there is a small charge, the value is undeniable. The beautiful lakeside setting, access to hot showers, and the direct connection to miles of ATV and snowmobile trails make it a far more rewarding experience than a stop at a sterile service station. It’s a place where you can take care of a chore and feel like you’re still on vacation.
A few tips for a smooth visit to this Northwoods retreat. First, be vigilant for wildlife. This is their home. Deer are everywhere, and it’s not uncommon to see black bears, especially near the park roads at dawn and dusk. Drive slowly and stay alert. Always carry some cash with you. The self-pay station is old-school and doesn’t take credit cards. If you’re visiting in the spring, be mindful of the mud. The ground can be very soft until the frost has fully lifted, so it’s wise to stick to the gravel pads to avoid any chance of getting your rig stuck. And my favorite tip: fish after dumping. While your tanks are rinsing and you’re cleaning up, take your rod and a lure down to the lake. A few quick casts from the shore can easily yield a couple of panfish for dinner. It’s the perfect way to cap off the task. Torch Lake Campground perfectly fuses the practical needs of RV life with the pure joy of Northwoods recreation. You might come for the sewer connection, but you’ll stay for the bass fishing, the spectacular fall colors, and the unforgettable winter adventures.
5130 Torch Lake Rd, Conover, WI 54519
(715) 479-5160
Cost: Price not available
Category: Campground
Has Water
vilascountywi.gov/departments/services/parks_and_recreation/campgrounds/torch_lake_campground___rv_park.php