Family Fun in the Northwoods: The Ultimate Guide to Family Activities in Vilas County, WI

If you’re planning a family getaway and want to trade screen time for real adventure, Vilas County in northern Wisconsin offers the perfect mix of outdoor fun, hands-on learning, and cozy downtime. From scenic trails and nature centers to fishing off the dock and enjoying s’mores by the fire, families can reconnect in the fresh air of Wisconsin’s Northwoods.

At Northwoods Signature Vacation Homes, we specialize in matching families with the ideal cabin or lakefront home to launch their adventures. Whether you’re staying near Eagle River, Conover, or Land O’ Lakes, here’s your guide to the best family activities in Vilas County—complete with local tips, hidden gems, and unforgettable experiences.

1. Explore the Northwoods Wildlife Center (Minocqua)

For families who love animals and the outdoors, this wildlife rehab center is a must-see. The Northwoods Wildlife Center rescues and rehabilitates owls, hawks, foxes, wolves, and more. The center offers guided tours, where kids can see wildlife up close, learn about local habitats, and even meet animal ambassadors.

Why it’s great for families: It’s interactive, educational, and helps kids understand conservation firsthand.
Tip: Visit in the morning for the best animal activity and fewer crowds.
Drive time: ~35 minutes from Eagle River

2. Hit the Trails: Family Hiking & Biking

Vilas County is home to hundreds of miles of family-friendly trails for hiking, biking, and nature walks. Choose your path based on your kids’ age and energy level:

Three Eagle Trail (Eagle River to Conover)

Length: 11 miles one way, but perfect in short segments
Best for: Biking with trailers, beginner riders, and strollers
Highlights: Boardwalks, forest paths, and wildlife

North Lakeland Discovery Center Trails (Manitowish Waters)

Trail Type: Nature loops, educational trails, birdwatching
Best for: All ages, especially nature-loving kids
Family Tip: Bring binoculars and a nature journal to spot birds and frogs.

Anvil Lake Trail (Nicolet National Forest)

Best for: More adventurous hiking families
Length: 2.5-mile loop with hills and scenic overlooks

3. Visit the Northwoods Children’s Museum (Eagle River)

Hands-on exhibits, pretend play spaces, and educational activities make this indoor destination a family favorite. Kids can:

Build structures in the construction zone
Shop at a mini grocery store
Explore science stations and art corners

Perfect for a rainy day or post-hike wind-down.

Cost: Affordable family passes available
Age range: 2 to 10
Tip: Check their calendar for themed activity days!

4. Fishing, Canoeing & Lakeside Fun

Sometimes the simplest pleasures are the best. Fishing off the dock, paddling a canoe, or skipping rocks can become the highlight of a child’s summer.

Many Northwoods Signature Vacation Homes come with:

Private docks or shoreline access
Rowboats, canoes, or kayaks
Fire pits for evening s’mores

No license needed for kids under 16, and nearby bait shops can help with gear and tips.

Top kid-friendly lakes: Meta Lake, Cranberry Lake, and North Twin Lake

5. Playgrounds & Parks

Looking to burn off some energy? These parks are perfect for younger kids:

Riverview Park (Eagle River)

Playground, boat launch, shaded picnic areas
Close to downtown Eagle River and the ice cream shop

Conover Town Park

Swings, climbing equipment, wide-open fields
Hosts local family events and music in the park

Land O’ Lakes Park

Playground, community bike trail connection, and picnic shelter

Pack a lunch and plan to spend a relaxed afternoon letting the kids run wild.

6. Mini Golf & Go-Karts at Eagle Falls Adventure Golf

For some light-hearted family competition, Eagle Falls offers:

A creatively themed 18-hole mini golf course
A winding go-kart track surrounded by woods
Arcade games and light snacks
Best for ages: 5 and up
Tip: Arrive early or late in the day to avoid crowds and beat the heat.

7. Discover the Vilas County Historical Museum (Sayner)

On a cloudy or rainy day, head indoors to this fun and quirky museum. Exhibits include:

Classic snowmobiles and old boats
Antique toys, games, and local artifacts
Vintage Northwoods cabins recreated indoors

It’s a fun mix of history and nostalgia, even for adults.

Drive time: ~30 minutes from Eagle River
Tip: Don’t miss the scavenger hunt activity sheets for kids

8. Nature Centers & Animal Encounters

Beyond the Wildlife Center, check out:

Trees For Tomorrow (Eagle River)

Nature-based education programs
Family workshops and summer classes
Guided nature hikes

Wildwood Wildlife Park Zoo (Minocqua)

Feed giraffes, goats, and deer
Safari rides and reptile encounters
One of Wisconsin’s largest interactive zoos

9. Rainy Day Fun: Bowling, Arcades, and Movies

Not every day will be sunny—but that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop:

Eagle Lanes: Bowling, pool, and family game nights
Eagle River Cinema: Affordable tickets and kid-friendly movies
Wildwood Arcade: Indoor fun with games, air hockey, and prizes

10. Local Events & Festivals for Families

Summer in Vilas County is packed with family-friendly festivals. Keep an eye out for:

Children’s Day at the Fair (Vilas County Fair in August)
Eagle River Fourth of July Parade & Fireworks
Art on the Square: Kid activities while adults shop for crafts
Local library story times and puppet shows

Family Vacation Planning Tips

To get the most out of your Vilas County adventure:

Book early: Summer homes go fast
Look for pet-friendly homes if bringing the whole crew
Choose a central location for easy access to Eagle River, Conover, and Land O’ Lakes

Northwoods Signature Vacation Homes makes it easy to find the perfect rental with:

Fully equipped kitchens and family dining space
Multiple bedrooms, bunk beds, and game rooms
Lakefront access or proximity to trails and parks

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Don’t Miss Our Next Guide!

Continue planning your Northwoods adventure with our next article: “Top Places to Eat in Eagle River & Vilas County (Especially With Kids)”

From pizza joints and lakeside diners to must-stop ice cream parlors—we’ve got your cravings covered.

Northwoods Signature Vacation Homes Your family’s Northwoods home away from home. Come for the cabin, stay for the memories.