Long Lake (or as it is locally known, Lower Long Lake) is located in Chippewa County, Wisconsin, lying north and east of the city of Bloomer. This area is known as the Chippewa Moraine and was formed by the last Wisconsin glacier. Upon receding, the glacier deposited till to form a terminal moraine through the northern half of the county, consisting of many hills, bogs, swamps, and irregularly-shaped lakes.

Lower Long Lake and the adjoining Herde Lake are the largest local body of water, containing 1,089 acres; depths of up to 101 ft.; and most beautiful with tracts of carefully preserved wooded or wetland natural areas and restored shorelines fronting cottages and homes.  

This lake has been used as the route for 29 previous open water swims held every July prior to COVID.

Camping at the park is available:  https://reservations.chippewacountywi.gov/parks/camping/morriserickson_campground/  
Note: there is a 3 night minimum.   Basic sites are $20/night with optional electricity for $7/night.

We are planning to hold the awards ceremony at Max's (a short walk/drive south of the County Park Beach) shortly after 11AM.  Plan to join in the festivities.  Max's will provide a buffet lunch for an additional charge ($18) for each person (swimmer and fans) to be paid at checkout. 

Safe Swimmer Buoys are required to participate. 

May 12, 2026 Update:  Wetsuits and neoprene caps are allowed if water temperature is below 78 degrees,  Awards will be all-inclusive by age group, without separate wetsuit vs non-wetsuit category.   (Flippers, webbed gloves, snorkels, pull buoys are not allowed under any circumstance.)  Refer to Page 2 of the published Open Water Safety Plan to read the specifics of water temperature guidelines.