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Lac Courte Oreilles Reservation Forest Lands adventures

Lac Courte Oreilles Reservation Forest Lands Adventures

The Lac Courte Oreilles Reservation Forest Lands offer a richly forested region featuring diverse ecosystems and cultural heritage sites, popular for outdoor recreation and tribal resource management in northwest Wisconsin.

17,200
Acres Protected
35
Miles of Trails
12,000 (estimated)
Annual Visitors
1854 (Reservation established)
Year Established

About Lac Courte Oreilles Reservation Forest Lands

 

Located in Sawyer County, Wisconsin, the Lac Courte Oreilles Reservation Forest Lands encompass significant forested areas managed by the Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians. The landscape consists primarily of mixed hardwood and conifer forests, wetlands, and numerous lakes and streams, supporting a variety of wildlife including deer, black bear, bald eagles, and waterfowl. The reservation forest lands play an essential role in the tribe's cultural heritage and natural resource stewardship, balancing traditional uses with modern conservation and sustainable forestry practices. Historically, these lands have been vital for Ojibwe cultural and spiritual practices, including wild rice harvesting and medicinal plant gathering. Visitors to these forest lands can enjoy hiking, fishing, birdwatching, and snowmobiling in winter months. The region provides primitive camping opportunities and access to several small lakes and waterways well-suited for canoeing and kayaking. The forest lands also serve as a habitat sanctuary for species native to northern Wisconsin's boreal and northern hardwood ecosystems. Visitors with interest in cultural history can learn about tribal traditions and stewardship efforts through programs and community events hosted by the Lac Courte Oreilles Tribe. Remote trails and forest roads allow for quiet exploration, wildlife photography, and seasonal hunting opportunities in accordance with tribal regulations. Overall, the Lac Courte Oreilles Reservation Forest Lands represent a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and cultural importance in northern Wisconsin.

Highlights

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Bayfield Peninsula mixed hardwood and pine forest ecosystem

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Traditional wild rice beds on reservation waters

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Historic tribal cultural sites and interpretive opportunities

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Lac Courte Oreilles Lake access with excellent angling prospects

Notable Natural Features

Lac Courte Oreilles Lake

A large lake popular for fishing walleye, muskellunge, northern pike, and panfish, accessible via several tribal boat ramps.

Wild Rice Beds

Important cultural and ecological sites where tribal members harvest wild rice, a traditional food source significant to Ojibwe heritage.

Reservation Forest Trails

A network of forested trails that wind through mixed hardwood and conifer stands, offering opportunities for hiking and snowmobiling.