Big Eau Pleine Park Campground spreads across 1,450 acres of mixed hardwoods on a peninsula extending into Big Eau Pleine Flowage. The park offers two separate camping areas with 106 total sites and approximately 60 sites with electrical hookups. Horse enthusiasts can access 12 miles of maintained trails through wooded terrain from May through October, with trail systems connecting to water access points and scenic areas.
What to do
Primitive camping experience: Underdown Campground provides a completely undeveloped camping option near Merrill. "No running water, no bathrooms, no crowded plots. It's as primitive as can be. Very ample space except near the water. Multiple small lakes around the area. Can set up camp anywhere but the road really," notes Wade W. at Underdown Campground.
Disc golf course: The disc golf course at Big Eau Pleine Park offers a recreational option beyond hiking and horseback riding. Visitors should note there is "a daily fee for disk golf course," according to Nicole H., making it an affordable add-on activity for campers looking to diversify their recreation options.
Swim in the Eau Claire River: Marathon County Dells of the Eau Claire Park features impressive rock formations and mini waterfalls along the river. "In the summertime you will see people all over the rocks swimming/sun bathing/having picnics/weddings/photo shoots…. You name it. The weekends are busy there all summer long," writes Raechel S. at Marathon County Dells of the Eau Claire Park.
What campers like
Spacious sites with privacy: The camping areas at Big Eau Pleine Park provide good separation between sites. According to Terri, "This gorgeous county park in Marathon County, Wisconsin is 1,450 acres of mixed hardwoods forming a two-mile peninsula jutting out deep into the waters of the Big Eau Pleine Flowage." The natural setting creates a sense of seclusion even with other campers nearby.
ATV access for riders: Embarrass River Campground provides options for equestrian camping near Merrill, Wisconsin with additional motorized trail access. "You can bring your ATV to ride on the ATV track there or on the trails in the woods. We seen deer while riding through the trails," shares Matthew J. at Embarrass River Campground and ATV Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The trails and campgrounds in this region offer chances to spot native wildlife. Matthew J. mentions seeing deer while riding the trails at Embarrass River Campground, and the forests around Underdown Campground support diverse wildlife populations accessible from the Ice Age Trail for hiking.
What you should know
Firewood restrictions: At Big Eau Pleine Park, campers must purchase firewood during limited hours. "Firewood permits are required and only sold from 8am - 8pm. The permit lasts for one day and can only be purchased from one location," notes Nicole H., requiring planning ahead to ensure evening campfires.
Water quality concerns: The Big Eau Pleine Flowage sometimes experiences algae issues. Lori S. reports, "The water quality suffers from green algae almost the entire season. Fishing can be good. No longer good for nocturnal carp due to water." This affects swimming and fishing activities at certain times.
