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Forestry

The Washburn County Forest consists of 149,000 acres of public land in northwest Wisconsin. The forest is comprised of a wide variety of forest types ranging from the Pine Barrens in the northwest; to the large unbroken tracts of aspen, hardwood, and swamps in the northeast; to the rolling oak hills and pothole lakes in the southeast. The management of this forest makes a wide variety of recreational uses in Washburn County possible.

The County Forest is operated under the direction of the 15-year County Forest Comprehensive Land Use Plan. The 15-year County Forest Comprehensive Land Use Plan is set through the input of Washburn County, the State of Wisconsin, local townships, public input and various other groups. The 15-year County Forest Comprehensive Land Use Plan sets policy on all actions conducted on the County Forest. This plan is vital because it involves the public in how the County Forest is managed.

Included in the 15-year County Forest Comprehensive Land Use Plan is the Road and Access Plan. This plan regulates motorized access on the County Forest. This plan allows for areas of no motorized access, areas of limited motorized access, and areas open to motorized uses. This plan alleviates some of the conflicts between motorized and non-motorized users.

Washburn County is a managed forest. The forest provides revenue to the County while practicing sustainable forestry. This revenue also supports recreational uses and environmental protection.

Mission Statement

Natural Resources, such as those provided by the Washburn County Forest, are one of the bases for addressing ecological and socioeconomic needs of present and future generations.

The mission of the Washburn County Forest is to manage and protect its natural resources on a sustainable basis.

County Forest Resources should be protected from natural catastrophes such as fire, wind, insect and disease outbreaks, and from human threats such as encroachment, over utilization, environmental degradation and excessive development.

While managing for environmental needs including, and maintaining native plant and animal diversity, these same resources must be managed for socioeconomic needs which include provisions for recreational opportunities and the protection of raw materials for wood using industries.

Management must balance local needs with broader concerns through integration of forestry, wildlife, fisheries, endangered resources, water quality, soil and recreational recommendations and practices. Management will provide this variety of products and amenities for the future through the use of sustainable forest management practices.

Current News

Campground Reservation System
Washburn County Parks reservations can be made online. You can access the reservation webpage by using the link below. Campground…
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Motorcycles Prohibited on Washburn County Trails
September 28, 2016 – Much confusion is centered around the October 1, 2016 potential allowances for Off-Highway Motorcycles on state funded…
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Washburn County Forest – Annual Reports and Work Plans
Washburn County Forestry Annual Reports and Annual Work Plans are available in pdf format below: 2023 Annual Work Plan 2022…
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Washburn County Forest Comprehensive Land Use Plan 2021-2035
Washburn County Forest Comprehensive Land Use Plan 2021-2035 The 2021-2035 Washburn County Forest Comprehensive Land Use Plan governs all management…
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ATV Trail Status
ATV Trail Status 01/22/2025: Trail 25 South off of Birchwood Fire Lane is closed due to a washout. It will…
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Washburn County ATV Trail Opener
Washburn County ATV Trail Opener Washburn County ATV Trails will be officially open as of 8:00 a.m. Saturday morning May…
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Timber Sales

Washburn County’s Timber Sales program plays a vital role in the sustainable management of our county forests. By conducting periodic timber sales, the county supports responsible forestry practices that promote healthy forest ecosystems, provide economic benefits, and ensure long-term resource sustainability.

Recreation & Resources

Washburn County Recreation

Explore Washburn County’s abundant recreational opportunities and natural resources through our comprehensive program. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a connection with nature, our Recreation & Resources page provides everything you need to plan your experience.

For additional information, you can also visit Washburn County Tourism.

Trail Conditions

Motorcycles Prohibited on Washburn County Trails
September 28, 2016 – Much confusion is centered around the October 1, 2016 potential allowances for Off-Highway Motorcycles on state funded…
Read more
ATV Trail Status
ATV Trail Status 01/22/2025: Trail 25 South off of Birchwood Fire Lane is closed due to a washout. It will…
Read more
Washburn County ATV Trail Opener
Washburn County ATV Trail Opener Washburn County ATV Trails will be officially open as of 8:00 a.m. Saturday morning May…
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Wildcat Bike Trail-Summer Use
Wildcat Bike Trail-Summer Use Wildcat Bike Trail The Wildcat Bike Trail is located roughly 5 miles East of Spooner on…
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