Is Minocqua Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Minocqua, Wisconsin, fondly known as “The Island City,” gets its nickname from the fact that much of the town sits on a peninsula jutting into Lake Minocqua, which gives it a distinct “island” feel.

Surrounded by a network of lakes, the town is a beloved retreat for those seeking the quiet beauty of northern Wisconsin’s lakes and forests, known as the Northwoods.

While we do know the name comes from the Ojibwe people who lived here for centuries before fur traders arrived, the exact meaning of the name is not known. However, one report says that it means “Good Woman.”

Fur and logging were two industries in Minocqua in the 19th century, but the railroad turned the island into a getaway spot.

Even one hot spot that’s still around today was once a gangster getaway for the likes of people like Al Capone.

That tourism spirit reigns today, with visitors returning year after year to experience its tranquil waters, hiking trails, and vibrant downtown filled with small shops and eateries.

One of the best cross-country ski destinations is right here in the small town of Minocqua.

Despite its small size, Minocqua plays an important role in preserving the Northwoods’ heritage and providing a gateway for people to experience Wisconsin’s natural wonders.

Also, you can add Arbor Vitae, Woodruff, and Hazelhurst to your list of places to visit, as those, mixed with Minocqua, make up Lake Country in Wisconsin.

Warnings & Dangers in Minocqua

OVERALL RISK: LOW

File it under "Hope you like being outdoors!" but if you do, you'll find a low-risk and wonderfully charming outdoor haven.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Public transportation in Minocqua is limited. There’s no large-scale transit system, but Northwoods Transit Connections offers some bus services for nearby towns. Taxi services and seasonal shuttles cater to tourists, but having a rental car is strongly recommended in this remote region.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW

Since 2019, just four pickpockets or purse snatchings have been reported, giving this a low risk. Shoplifting is the most common form of theft here.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

The main concerns include severe winter storms, occasional thunderstorms, and rare tornadoes. Heavy snowfall and icy conditions can disrupt travel in winter. Being surrounded by water can lead to flooding, but it's not as common as you might think. Treat it as a medium risk, but staying ahead of the weather and informed about disruptions can greatly lower any risk.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

No robberies were reported in 2023, and even going back five years, there aren't any robbery reports. That means this is a low risk.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

Minocqua faces a very low risk of terrorism, given its rural setting and small population. There are no significant high-risk targets, and the area lacks dense urban infrastructure. Local authorities focus more on general community safety and emergency preparedness for natural events rather than specific anti-terrorism measures.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

Check local police department and sheriff’s office social media sites for the latest scams. That will help keep the risk low. You can also read the Fraud Prevention Resources section of the police department's website.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Women should have no reservations about visiting Minocqua, aside from the standard winter, wilderness, and water safety tips we'd recommend for anyone.

TAP WATER RISK: LOW

The U.S. has strict standards for tap water per the Safe Water Drinking Act. Communities are required to provide a Water Quality Report (Consumer Confidence Report) once a year by July 1. The 2023 CCR for Minocqua shows full compliance and no violations.

Safest Places to Visit in Minocqua

Minocqua.org is the tourism website for the town, Hazelhurt, Woodruff, and Arbor Vitae.

You can get a free tourism guide on the site or fill out a form to get more seasonally-specific information mailed to you.

Of course, there’s a lot to do outdoors here.

Minocqua Winter Park was ranked by USA Today as the best cross-country skiing resort nationwide.

Those trails turn into hiking paths in the summer, with a handful transitioning to mountain biking.

The Bearskin State Trail, a 21.5-mile path following a former railroad corridor, is ideal for hiking and biking during warmer months and transforms into a snowmobiling route in winter.

The Northern Highland–American Legion State Forest encompasses over 225,000 acres, offering camping, hiking, and wildlife observation.

If you want even more space, head west to Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest.

There, you’ll have more than 1.5 million acres to explore, mostly with new-growth forests, since this area is still used for logging.

If you’d rather see wildlife in a controlled setting, Wildwood Wildlife Park & Nature Center houses a diverse collection of animals and interactive exhibits.

Planning a trip to see the fall foliage? Look to late September and early October for peak views.

The tourism website has three mapped dives to maximize your experience.

During the summer, don’t miss the water-skiing show by the Min-Aqua Bats.

The performances are held three days a week and, better yet – they are free!

Don’t let an outdoor activity intimidate you, as many tours or guided trips are available for everything from fishing to snowmobiling to ziplines.

While you can review the list of restaurants online, it’s the Norwood Pines Supper Club that was once the getaway for gritty gangsters.

Plus, when visiting the upper Midwest, a supper club experience is a must-try.

Places to Avoid in Minocqua

You can feel free to explore any public area of this region.

There aren’t bad neighborhoods or dangerous parts of town.

I would avoid driving in this region without a paper map, as spotty cell service could quickly leave you without a digital map.

When you’re exploring the outdoors, please remember to stay on the trails.

Going off the trail can lead to damage of delicate ecosystems.

Carry bear-proof containers for toiletries and food.

Use bear-proof trash cans as provided.

Avoid bringing firewood from outside this region.

Only buy it locally to stop the spread of invasive species.

Safety Tips for Traveling to Minocqua

So... How Safe Is Minocqua Really?

Crime rates here are very low.

Just 10 violent crimes were reported in 2023.

Over the past five years, just three strangers were victims of violent crime, leaving the rest to domestic situations or between people who know each other.

Thefts average a little more than one a week, with 56% of all thefts being shoplifting.

The more pressing safety issues come with your preparedness when dealing with the weather, wildlife, and water.

As noted earlier, you really have to love the outdoors to enjoy everything about Lake Country and The Island City.

That will mean dealing with a lot of bugs, rapidly changing weather, potential loss of internet connection, and self-rescue skills in nature.

Hopefully, we’ve prepared you for a trip to the Northwoods, and you can enjoy your time getting away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

How Does Minocqua Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

All international visitors need either a visa defining the purpose of the trip (tourist, work, school, etc.) or a visa waiver. Start the process using the Visa Wizard module on the U.S. State Department website. You can also download the CBP One mobile app to help on the go. Also, your passport must be valid for at least six months after your trip, or you’ll need to apply for a new one.

Currency

Only the U.S. Dollar (USD) is accepted in the United States. International airports usually have a currency exchange desk on site, while regional airports won’t. Your home bank offers the lowest fees. For those using credit cards, check to see if there’s a foreign transaction fee. Credit cards, not debit cards, offer the best fraud protection.

Weather

Minocqua, Wisconsin, sees classic northern weather, with chilly winters and mild, pleasant summers. January can get cold, averaging around 19°F during the day and dropping to 7°F at night. By July, temperatures warm up to the mid-70s, making it a popular time for outdoor activities. The area gets about 32 inches of rain a year, with the wettest month being September. Snow is a big part of Minocqua’s winter, totaling around 78 inches, mostly piling up in December.

Airports

The closest commercial airports to Minocqua, WI, are Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport (RHI), about 30 miles south, offering regional flights mainly through Delta, and Central Wisconsin Airport (CWA) in Mosinee, roughly 80 miles away, providing additional service through major carriers.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance protects the cost of baggage loss/theft, delays, cancelations, and emergency health issues. Rental car insurance should include roadside assistance and uninsured motorist coverage. Comprehensive insurance offers the best peace of mind.

Minocqua Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Wisconsin - Safety by City