Exhibits

The museum consists of seven exhibit buildings chronicling the history of the Three Lakes area: from the arrival of the first Native Americans, to the influence of logging, farming, and railroad in the 19th and early 20th centuries, to the golden age of the Northwoods tourism in the 40s and 50s, to the notable people and events of recent years.

Admission

Suggested admission: 
$3 for adults
$1 for children ages 5-12
free for members

2020 Hours

Until further notice, the museum will not be open to the public for tours or in-person research. Staff are available by email to answer your questions, help with archival research, and fulfill online orders.

Museum Location

Research

Our archives and research station are open to the public during museum hours. On-site research may be conducted on topics such as: local summer camps & resorts, pioneer living, Native American cultures, general Wisconsin history, family genealogies, logging and forestry maps, tourism brochures, legal documents, etc.

You don't have to have a specific question in mind to browse our archives. You'll know what you were looking for when you find it! Click here for more research resources.

Sam Campbell Memorial Trail

The Three Lakes Historical Society is a partner with the U.S. Forest Service in managing this trail named in honor of nature enthusiast, philosopher, and writer, Sam Campbell. It leads through a forest of pines, balsam, and hardwoods, and offers a variety of spring birds and wildflowers. A newly revised self-guiding brochure is available here and interpets the area using the writings of Sam Campbell. A section of the trail leads to Wegimind Point and Vanishing Lake, a focal point in many of Campbell's writings and lectures. Benches are provided.

Hikers showing interest in the new interpretive signs along the Sam Campbell Memorial Trail.

Trailhead Location