Map showing campground location near Merrillan, Wisconsin

Camper submitted image from Black River State Forest Outdoor Camp — Black River State Forest

Black River State Forest Outdoor Camp — Black River State Forest

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Low, sandy ground and a location near a road and a honky tonk define the character of this drive-in campground within Black River State Forest. The site drains quickly in dry conditions but sits on swamp-reclaimed land, so heavy rain can flood fire pits and picnic tables. Vault toilets and firewood are on-site. Tent campers should bring a tarp and consider that this spot tends to work best for RVs. Reserve ahead; the campground runs from mid-April through November 30.

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Map & DirectionsBlack River State Forest Outdoor Camp is located in Wisconsin near Merrillan

Public Campground

Directions

From Interstate 94, take exit 116 onto highway 54, proceed east 7.4 miles and turn left (north) onto Cemetery Road. At four miles when Cemetery Road ends, take a right onto Old Highway 54. Travel half a mile and take a left onto Campground Road. After 1.5 miles the outdoor group camp will be on the right.

Coordinates

44.41747525 N
90.675101 W

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Connectivity

Presented by

T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More

T-Mobile
No Coverage
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
Verified by 2 users
Last on 7/29/26
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Connectivity

Presented by

T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More

T-Mobile
No Coverage
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
Verified by 2 users
Last on 7/29/26
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

Picnic Table
Firewood Available
Phone Service
Reservable
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

1 hr 5 min from Eau Claire, WI
1 hr 20 min from La Crosse, WI
1 hr 38 min from Wausau, WI
2 hrs 12 min from Rochester, MN

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Reviews1 Camper Review - Black River State Forest Outdoor Camp

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2.0

out of 5

1 Review

Lesley R.

Legend

Reviewed Oct. 29, 2022

Low Ground

This campground would be best for RVing IMO. The entire place is lifted from a swamp which means that it’s low, damp ground. They also must have used sand, as it drains very quickly. I describe the site as such because we spent the weekend in a tent and it literally rained the entire weekend. The site we were at turned into a lake four times, submerging our fire pit and picnic table. This made making a fire near impossible, let alone accessible, it was in the middle of a small lake! As we scrambled most of the fear to the car, we watched the water creep to the front door of the tent, from the highest ground. It’s a good thing we had a tarp under the tent, otherwise we would have been swimming in our tent. Anyway, busy place, near the road and a honky tonk. Not our preferred experience. Vault toilets, firewood, nice beach if the weather was nice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do visitors say in reviews about Black River State Forest Campground?

Black River State Forest Outdoor Camp features terrain that's been developed from formerly swampy ground, with sandy soil that provides quick drainage. The campground is particularly well-suited for RV camping due to its layout and facilities. Tent campers should be prepared for potentially damp conditions, especially during rainy weather. The low-lying terrain can make for challenging tent camping during wet periods, so bringing appropriate rain gear and waterproof equipment is advisable. The surrounding forest environment offers natural beauty, but campers should come prepared for the specific ground conditions.

Are there photos available of Black River State Forest camping areas?

Yes, photos of Black River State Forest camping areas are available online. These images can help you visualize the campground layout, individual sites, and surrounding forest environment before your visit. Photos typically showcase the camping pads, picnic tables, fire rings, and natural surroundings. To find the most current and comprehensive collection of images, check the official Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website or popular camping platforms like The Dyrt, which feature user-submitted photographs of the campground.

What is the elevation of Black River State Forest Outdoor Camp — Black River State Forest?

Black River State Forest Outdoor Camp — Black River State Forest is located at 906 feet.

Are fires allowed at Black River State Forest Outdoor Camp — Black River State Forest?

Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Black River State Forest Outdoor Camp — Black River State Forest, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

Is there cell phone reception at Black River State Forest Outdoor Camp — Black River State Forest?

According to campers on TheDyrt.com, there is some coverage for AT&T, no coverage for T-Mobile, and some coverage for Verizon.

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