Rhinelander Oneida County Airport

Overview

Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport (IATA: RHI) serves as the primary air gateway for Wisconsin's Northwoods region. It is a small regional airport located in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, about three miles southwest of the city center. The airport handles scheduled commercial flights, charter operations, and general aviation. It is used primarily by leisure travelers visiting the area for its abundant outdoor recreation, as well as by business travelers and local residents. The airport's single terminal is compact and easy to navigate, offering a straightforward travel experience. With its focus on regional connectivity, Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport provides essential air service to a region known for its lakes, forests, and seasonal tourism.

Location & Access

Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport is situated at 3371 Airport Road, Rhinelander, Wisconsin 54501. It lies approximately 3 miles (5 km) southwest of downtown Rhinelander, a city of about 7,500 people. The airport is also within reach of several other communities in the Northwoods, including Minocqua (20 miles north), Eagle River (30 miles northeast), and Tomahawk (25 miles south). For travelers coming from larger cities, Rhinelander is roughly 140 miles north of Green Bay and 210 miles northwest of Milwaukee. The airport is accessible via U.S. Highway 8 and County Road P. Given the region's rural character, most visitors arrive by personal vehicle or rental car. On-site parking is available with both free and paid options. Taxi and rideshare services are limited, so pre-arranging transportation is advisable. The airport does not have direct public transit connections, but some area hotels offer shuttle services.

Facilities

Despite its small size, Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport provides a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable journey. The terminal is wheelchair-accessible throughout, including the car park, entrance, seating areas, and restrooms. Travelers with disabilities will find the facility easy to navigate. Free Wi-Fi is available in the terminal, allowing passengers to stay connected while waiting for flights. The restrooms are clean and well-maintained, and there is a changing table in one of the restrooms for families with infants. For parking, the airport offers both a free parking lot and a paid parking lot. The free lot is suitable for short-term stays, while the paid lot may be more convenient for longer trips. Keep in mind that the airport has limited food and beverage options; there is no full-service restaurant or café beyond vending machines. Dining choices are available in nearby Rhinelander. The airport also has a small waiting area with seating.

About the Region

The Northwoods region of Wisconsin is celebrated for its vast forests, thousands of lakes, and abundant wildlife. Rhinelander itself is known as the "City of the Northwoods" and is a hub for outdoor recreation. Anglers flock to the area for fishing on lakes like Lake Minocqua, Tomahawk Lake, and the Wisconsin River. In winter, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing draw visitors. The region also offers hiking, biking, and boating in summer. Rhinelander is home to the Rhinelander Logging Museum and the historic Oneida County Courthouse. The airport serves as a convenient entry point for those heading to vacation homes, resorts, and campgrounds throughout Oneida, Vilas, and Iron counties. The area's seasonal economy relies heavily on tourism, and the airport plays a key role in bringing visitors from across the Midwest and beyond.

Practical Information

Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport is open daily, but operates with limited hours. Peak travel times typically occur in the morning, with the busiest periods around 9 am and 10 am, coinciding with scheduled flight departures. The airport is closed overnight, and passengers should check their airline's schedule for exact times. The airport's phone number is +1 715-365-3416, and the official website is http://www.flyrhinelander.com/ where travelers can find current flight information, parking details, and contact information for airlines serving the airport. For any specific inquiries, calling ahead is recommended, especially if traveling during off-peak seasons or requiring special assistance.