The first thing you’ll notice about Hayward Lakes in May and June? All across this northern Wisconsin region, nature is waking up.
“May and June are when the area comes alive,” says Mindy Simons, executive director of the Hayward Lakes Visitors and Convention Bureau. “It’s so fun to see the forest coming through winter and starting to green.”
Wildflowers like white trilliums blanket the forest floor. Trees fill out. Wildlife is active. And the best part? It’s before the summer crowds (and heat) hit. “It’s a really great time to be on the water or in the woods,” Simons adds.
Located about a 6-7 hour drive northwest of Chicago, Hayward Lakes offers families a spring getaway packed with nature, small-town charm and fresh air.
Your first stop: The Hayward Information Center
Before you head out, Simons says, check in with the locals. The Hayward Information Center is filled with helpful maps, guides and advice. Pop by, or give them a call in advance.
“Our office is a wealth of resources,” says Simons. “Our staff loves the area, and we’re happy to help everyone.”
- Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday
- Personalized help: Find trail tips, restaurant suggestions and fishing secrets
- Take-along guides: Shore fishing, playgrounds, rainy-day activities and more
Hundreds of lakes made for spring
With more than 200 lakes, you’ll have no trouble finding water. “We have a lot of smaller lakes which are really hidden gems, especially for early spring fishing,” Simons says.
Lake Hayward and Nelson Lake are family favorites, offering easy boat access and great panfishing. First-timers? Consider hiring a local guide.
“They’ll take you where to go, they’ll have all the gear, they’ll be able to put you on fish,” Simons says. Guides typically run $250-$300 for a half day, and $600 for a full day.
Kayaking and canoeing are also available in May and June, she adds. Find rentals at Camp Namakagon, Jack’s Canoe Rental and M&M Rental, to name a few.
Hit the trails — or the gas
From hiking and biking to ATV or UTV adventures, Hayward Lakes is full of ways to explore the outdoors. “There are so many things to do,” says Simons.
- ATV/UTV trails: These open in mid-May with 200 connected miles of scenic routes.
- Hiking: Try gentle trails like the Library Nature Park, or challenge yourself on the American Birkebeiner Ski Trail.
- Biking: “If you can pedal, we can accommodate,” Simons says. Try the beginner-friendly trails on the local hospital’s land — or explore 130 miles of single-track options.
- Wildlife: “Spring, especially, has lots of bird activity.” Plus, elk roam the eastern side of the county.
Rainy day in Hayward Lakes? No problem
“We actually have a rainy day fun handout here in our office,” says Simons, and plenty of options to go with it.
Families love the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame, home to a giant fiberglass muskie and kids’ playground. Wilderness Walk, a petting zoo with woodland trails, is another hit.
Downtown Hayward offers shops, candy stores, a movie theater and bowling.
And, just to the north of Hayward, the Cable Natural History Museum features raptor programs and hands-on exhibits.
Stay and eat your way through spring
“It really is choose your own adventure,” says Simons, thanks to a wide mix of lodging and dining options.
Hotels like Holiday Inn Express and Flat Creek Lodge offer family-friendly pools, while lakeside resorts often feature flexible 2- or 3-night spring packages. Families can also find plenty of VRBO rentals and campgrounds for a more rustic stay.
As for food, Simons suggests trying:
- A Friday night fish fry: “Wisconsin is known for it,” Simons says. “That happens all year round. We have a complete handout of fish fry places in our office.”
- Burgers at Deerfoot Lodge: “They’ve been grilling their burgers on a flat-top behind the bar for years,” she says — a local favorite.
- Treeland Resorts: Offers lakeside dining and a selfie-worthy bear statue.
- Tamarack Farms: Known for pizza and barbecue, this seasonal favorite opens in May.
This content is sponsored by the Hayward Lakes Visitors and Convention Bureau. To plan your family’s trip in spring or any season, visit the Hayward Lakes website.
