Oneida County sits in Wisconsin’s Northwoods, surrounded by an incredible number of lakes. More than 1,100 of them are scattered across the county, so water is a huge part of life here. Minocqua, the largest community, is known as the “Island City” because of its lake-filled setting. Fishing, boating, swimming, and other water activities are simply part of the local lifestyle.

Winter brings a whole different kind of adventure. Snowmobilers and cross-country skiers hit the trails once the snow arrives. The county also has one of Wisconsin’s most unusual legends—the hodag, a mythical creature said to roam the area. Rhinelander, the county seat, proudly celebrates the quirky local folklore.

Oneida County also includes part of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, giving nature lovers plenty of room to explore. But the county isn’t all wilderness. Logging has played an important role in its history, and traces of the old timber industry can still be found among the forests, including stands of impressive pine trees.