Some parts of Wisconsin don’t make a lot of noise—and that’s the point. You won’t find tourism brochures for Newald, Mosling, or Star Lake stacked in highway rest stops. These are places where roads get narrow, trees crowd the shoulders, and locals wave whether they know you or not. There’s a kind of unspoken pride in these towns—not loud, but rooted. They keep their own time.
These aren’t vacation towns chasing a version of quaint. They’re not curated, they’re lived-in. A mailbox on a rural route, a snowmobile leaned against a porch, an old truck with the heat cranked. They are wooded, weathered, and, in their own way, remarkable. The kind of places where people know the landscape because they walk it. Not for recreation, but because it’s theirs.
Wisconsin gets called the Badger State thanks to 19th-century lead miners who dug into hillsides for shelter. That same instinct—to burrow into the land and stay put—still runs deep in towns like Clam Lake and Herbster, where the forest acts as both boundary and sanctuary. These communities don’t just sit on the map—they stand apart.
Here are 10 of the most secluded neighborhoods in Wisconsin. You won’t stumble on them. But if you find them, you might stay a while.
10. La Rue – Sauk County
La Rue, a quiet unincorporated community in Sauk County, is a hidden gem in Freedom. With only a handful of residents, La Rue offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle surrounded by rolling hills and dense woodlands.
The area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking trails, fishing spots, and nearby access to the Baraboo Range for more adventurous excursions. Agriculture remains a cornerstone of the local economy, with small family farms and forestry contributing to its rustic charm.
La Rue’s seclusion comes from its remote location off the beaten path, with few neighboring communities and limited commercial activity. This allows residents to enjoy the simple pleasures of country living, from quiet evenings on the porch to long walks in the woods.
Where is La Rue?
La Rue is located in southern Wisconsin, within Sauk County, about 15 miles west of Baraboo. Tucked away near the Baraboo Hills, the community is far removed from busy highways and is accessible only by smaller county roads like La Rue Road.
Its secluded nature is amplified by the surrounding forests and agricultural lands, creating a peaceful buffer from urban life. While remote, La Rue is still within a short drive of Baraboo, providing access to groceries, restaurants, and other essentials.
The journey to La Rue offers a scenic drive through rolling hills and quiet farmland, a perfect prelude to the tranquility of this hidden neighborhood.
9. Mosling – Oconto County
Mosling, a tiny unincorporated community in Oconto County, is a serene rural haven straddling the towns of Gillett and Underhill. Home to just a small group of residents, Mosling embodies the quiet charm of Wisconsin’s countryside.
The area is known for its open fields, dense forests, and access to the Oconto River, ideal for fishing, kayaking, and nature walks. Agriculture and small-scale forestry form the backbone of the local economy, with family farms dotting the landscape.
Mosling’s seclusion stems from its distance from major towns and location along a quiet county highway, making it a peaceful retreat for those seeking solitude. Without bustling businesses or crowded streets, it offers a sense of escape while preserving its residents’ strong sense of community.
Where is Mosling?
Mosling is located in northeastern Wisconsin, about 3.4 miles west-southwest of Gillett in Oconto County. It’s positioned along County Highway P, a quiet road that winds through rolling farmland and forested areas.
The community’s secluded feel comes from its lack of major roadways or commercial hubs, ensuring a calm, undisturbed atmosphere.
Despite its remoteness, Mosling is still within a short drive of Gillett, providing residents access to basic amenities. The peaceful drive through rural landscapes sets the tone for a visit to Mosling, where nature and quiet living define the neighborhood.
8. Popple River – Forest County
Tucked within the lush greenery of the Nicolet National Forest, Popple River in Forest County is a tranquil enclave that promises peace and seclusion. This small community is surrounded by dense woodlands, offering expansive properties that blend seamlessly with the natural environment.
Outdoor activities abound, from hiking and hunting to exploring the meandering Popple River, a favorite for canoeing and fishing. The area’s unspoiled wilderness provides a habitat for abundant wildlife, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
With just around 40 residents, Popple River is one of Wisconsin’s smallest towns, fostering a serene atmosphere free from the hustle of city life. Its remote setting ensures that residents can enjoy the quiet sounds of nature uninterrupted.
Where is Popple River?
Popple River is located in northeastern Wisconsin, approximately 20 miles north of Crandon, the county seat of Forest County. Nestled deep within the Nicolet National Forest, it’s accessed via State Highway 139, which traverses some of the state’s most scenic woodland areas.
The town’s namesake river winds through the region, offering picturesque views and recreational opportunities.
The area’s isolation is part of its charm, inviting visitors to disconnect from the modern world and immerse themselves in the tranquility of the forest. The journey to Popple River is as enchanting as the destination, with towering trees and wildlife sightings.
7. Newald – Forest County
Located within the vast stretches of Forest County’s woodlands, Newald is a hidden sanctuary for those seeking solitude and a close connection with nature. This unincorporated community is enveloped by dense forests, providing residents with large properties that offer unparalleled privacy.
The area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, snowmobiling, and bird-watching in their backyard. The nearby waterways are ideal for fishing and canoeing, adding to the area’s rustic appeal.
With a small population of under 100 people, Newald boasts a tight-knit community where neighbors value the peace of rural living. The absence of commercial development ensures that the natural beauty of Newald remains undisturbed.
Where is Newald?
Newald is situated in the northern part of Forest County, near the border with Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. It’s accessible via State Highway 139, which meanders through the scenic landscapes of northern Wisconsin.
The town’s remote location amid the Nicolet National Forest makes it a serene retreat far from the bustle of city life. To reach Newald, travelers can drive north from Crandon on Highway 55, then east on County Road T, enjoying the tranquil forest vistas.
The isolated setting and surrounding natural beauty make Newald a perfect escape for those looking to embrace a quieter way of life.
6. Armstrong Creek – Forest County
Armstrong Creek is nestled in the heart of Forest County and offers a peaceful haven amid Wisconsin’s sprawling woodlands. Vast undeveloped lands surround this small community, providing residents with a secluded lifestyle immersed in nature.
The area is a gateway to numerous outdoor activities, including hunting, ATV riding, and exploring the extensive trail systems in the surrounding forests. The nearby Armstrong Creek, from which the town takes its name, is a favorite spot for fishing and relaxing by the water’s edge.
With a population of around 400 people, Armstrong Creek fosters a friendly, small-town atmosphere where community ties run deep. Its distance from major highways and urban centers ensures that the area’s tranquility remains unspoiled.
Where is Armstrong Creek?
Armstrong Creek is located in northeastern Wisconsin, approximately 25 miles south of the Michigan border. Accessible via U.S. Highway 8, it lies off the beaten path between Crandon and Laona.
The town is surrounded by the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, enhancing its appeal for those looking to escape into nature. To reach Armstrong Creek, travelers can drive east from Crandon on Highway 8, enjoying the serene woodland scenery.
The remote setting underscores the town’s secluded charm, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
5. Fence – Florence County
Situated in the tranquil landscapes of Florence County, Fence is a rural community that epitomizes the essence of seclusion. Offering large acreages nestled among dense forests provides residents ample space and privacy.
The area is ideal for outdoor pursuits like hiking, hunting, and snowmobiling, with trails and natural habitats at one’s doorstep. The serene surroundings make for peaceful living, where the sounds of nature replace the noise of city life.
With a small population hovering around 200 residents, Fence has few neighbors, and the sense of solitude is profound. Being over 15 miles from the nearest urban center, it is perfect for those who want to disconnect.
Where is Fence?
Fence is located in northeastern Wisconsin, approximately 20 miles west of Florence, the county seat of Florence County. It is accessible via State Highway 101, which winds through the scenic countryside of the region.
The town’s geography includes rolling hills and abundant forested land, contributing to its secluded ambiance.
To get to Fence, visitors can travel north from Antigo on Highway 45, then east on Highway 8 before turning onto local roads that lead into the heart of the community. The journey through rural landscapes enhances the sense of leaving the hustle behind and entering a place of quiet retreat.
4. Herbster – Bayfield County
Perched on the southern shore of Lake Superior, Herbster in Bayfield County is a peaceful lakeside community that offers unmatched tranquility. The expansive lots and minimal development allow residents to fully appreciate the surrounding wilderness and stunning lake views.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, fishing, and beachcombing along the pristine shoreline. The nearby forests and nature reserves provide ample hiking and wildlife observation opportunities.
With just over 100 people, Herbster maintains a quiet, close-knit atmosphere that is hard to find elsewhere. Its secluded location ensures that the natural beauty and serenity of the area remain undisturbed by the rush of modern life.
Where is Herbster?
Herbster is located in northern Wisconsin along State Highway 13, between the towns of Port Wing and Cornucopia. It sits nestled on the south shore of Lake Superior, offering breathtaking views of the largest of the Great Lakes.
To reach Herbster, travelers can take Highway 13 north of Ashland, passing through picturesque landscapes and quaint communities.
The town’s location along the lake and proximity to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore make it a hidden gem for those seeking a secluded getaway. The serene beaches and lush forests surrounding Herbster contribute to its status as a tranquil retreat.
3. Gile – Iron County
Nestled near the scenic Penokee Range, Gile in Iron County is a small community that offers a secluded lifestyle amidst Wisconsin’s rugged beauty. The area is characterized by its natural barriers, including forests and hills, which provide residents with privacy and a tranquil environment.
Gile Flowage, a large reservoir, offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and enjoying breathtaking sunsets over the water. The surrounding trails and outdoor recreation areas make it a haven for hikers, snowmobilers, and nature lovers.
With a modest population of around 150 residents, Gile maintains a quiet ambiance, free from heavy traffic and urban noise disturbances. Its secluded homes are perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Where is Gile?
Gile is located in northern Wisconsin, just a few miles northwest of Hurley, the county seat of Iron County. It is accessible via State Highway 77, which connects the community to the surrounding towns and natural attractions.
The proximity to the Penokee Range and Gile Flowage makes the geography interesting, offering a mix of elevated terrains and water bodies.
To get to Gile, visitors can travel north on U.S. Highway 51 to Hurley, then west on Highway 77, enjoying views of the rolling hills and dense forests that define the region. The area’s seclusion and natural beauty make it a hidden treasure in Wisconsin’s Northwoods.
2. Star Lake – Vilas County
Deep within the enchanting forests of Vilas County lies Star Lake, an unincorporated community that epitomizes seclusion and natural beauty. Surrounded by a network of pristine lakes and towering pines, this area offers expansive properties that provide residents with privacy and a deep connection to nature.
The lake is a focal point for recreational activities like fishing, boating, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. The surrounding woods are perfect for hiking, bird watching, and absorbing the tranquility of the Northwoods.
With a small, scattered population, Star Lake remains far removed from commercial zones, preserving its serene atmosphere. The community’s commitment to maintaining the natural environment makes it a sanctuary for those seeking refuge from the modern world.
Where is Star Lake?
Star Lake is located in northern Wisconsin, approximately 15 miles east of Boulder Junction in Vilas County. It is accessible via State Highway 155 and County Highway N, which wind through the scenic beauty of the region’s forests and lakes.
The geography is particularly captivating, with the community nestled among several lakes and state-owned lands, including the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest.
To reach Star Lake, travelers can enjoy a leisurely drive through the heart of the Northwoods, taking in the serene landscapes that define the area. The remote location and abundant natural surroundings make Star Lake a coveted destination for those seeking a secluded and peaceful environment.
1. Clam Lake – Ashland County
At the heart of Wisconsin’s Northwoods, Clam Lake in Ashland County is the epitome of seclusion and natural splendor. Encircled by the vast Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, this unincorporated community offers large wooded lots that provide residents with unmatched privacy.
The area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, hunting, and observing wildlife, including the local elk herd that roams the forests. The serene Clam Lake and numerous nearby streams and lakes enhance the area’s attractiveness for water-based activities.
With a population of just around 40 people, Clam Lake is remote, located over 20 miles from the nearest urban center, ensuring that the tranquility and untouched beauty of the wilderness remain its most defining features.
Where is Clam Lake?
Clam Lake is situated in north-central Wisconsin, approximately 30 miles west of Glidden and accessible via State Highway 77. Nestled deep within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, the area’s geography is marked by dense woodlands, rolling hills, and pristine waterways.
To reach Clam Lake, visitors can travel along the scenic State Highway 77, which cuts through the forest’s heart and offers glimpses of Wisconsin’s unspoiled wilderness. The community’s remote location and surrounding natural barriers make it an ideal destination for those seeking ultimate seclusion and a true escape into nature.
