Paddling Brule River: A4 Stones to CR Campground — 2-Day Canoe & Kayak Trip

Paddling from Stones to CR Campground on the Brule River is an uncomplicated, scenic two-day float that threads 19.5 miles through the northwoods of Brule, Wisconsin. Departing near the Brule River Office, this A4 route—listed as “A4: Stones – CR Campground”—is a classic overnight canoe run: accessible water, frequent sandy pullouts, and low-moderate current that suits families and paddlers building mileage. The river here cuts through mixed northern hardwoods and stands of red and white pine, carving shallow riffles and occasional deeper pools where trout and perch hold. Expect stretches of flatwater interrupted by short, friendly rapids and twisty oxbows that swivel the current and reveal small granite ledges and glacial erratics along shore. Spring and fall paint the banks in bright greens or burnt gold; summer opens warm, slow eddies that are perfect for swimming and beachside camping. Brule River Canoe Rental keeps this corridor simple to enjoy: daily rentals with shuttle service are included in most packages, and options range from tandem recreational kayaks to 2–3 person canoes and sit-on-top kayaks. Rates vary by season and craft size; check-in is at the Brule River Office, where staff route shuttle logistics and load gear so you only need to focus on paddling. The two-day itinerary gives time for relaxed pace, fishing breaks, and setting up camp at CR Campground, a functional riverside option for tents and small cook fires. The route’s appeal lies in its balance: enough moving water to feel like a true river trip without technical portages or expert lines. Wildlife is constant if discreet—deer browse along shorelines, otter tracks mark muddy banks, and songbirds hold territory in the canopy. For photographers and naturalists, dawn and dusk throw warm light across ripples and expose reflections of pines and sky. Practical notes: pack a small dry bag with layers and a headlamp for camp, and use the rental shuttle to avoid leaving a vehicle at the takeout. Campfires follow local rules, so check restrictions at the Brule River Office on arrival. Because the trip runs through public lands and private inholdings, practice Leave No Trace and secure food from critters. Typical rates for rentals on this corridor range from $78 to $117 depending on craft and weekend or weekday reservations; shuttle-only passes are available if you bring your own boat. Reservations are recommended on summer weekends—book through the provided reservation link or call the Brule River Office to confirm takeout conditions and current river levels. Be mindful of insects midsummer and pack insect repellent and sunscreen. For paddlers wanting a friendly overnight river experience in Wisconsin’s northwoods, A4: Stones – CR Campground delivers solitude, manageable water, and an efficient rental/shuttle operation that keeps logistics low and enjoyment high.