Camping in the Jackson County area surrounding Merrillan, Wisconsin offers outdoors enthusiasts access to sandy lakeshores and extensive trail systems. The region sits at approximately 900 feet elevation and features several connected waterways including Lake Arbutus and the Black River. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with higher humidity levels, particularly during July and August.
What to do
ATV adventures: The trail systems near East Fork Campground provide extensive riding opportunities. "Very remote, although Hatfield, which is on the nearby lake, seems like it's a party town for Motor boaters, ATVers and Hunters, Depending on the season," notes Brian O.
Hiking at Castle Mound: The trail system offers scenic overlooks and unique rock formations. "Cool rock formations and a decently easy hike," reports Ashley F. from Castle Mound. Another visitor adds "If you are into climbing there are some amazing sandstone boulders that are totally worth checking out."
Fishing and boating: East Arbutus Camp provides direct lake access for multiple water activities. A camper describes it as "Right on the lake so bring water toys. Nearby you can rent canoes and kayaks which will drop off and pick up right to your site."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Coon Fork Campground receives praise for its well-spaced campsites. "The sites are very generous with a lot of green between spaces. You are not on top of your neighbor," writes Amy G. Another camper adds, "Great private campsites. We love it here."
Budget-friendly options: Wildcat Mound County Park offers primitive camping at exceptional value. A visitor notes, "Small informal county campground. Pit toilet only. Large spaces. Only seven dollars a night." Another camper confirms, "7$ a night, pay for six get 7th free."
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the well-maintained grounds at Russell Memorial Park. "Lovely county park with lots of campsites. Office staff is super friendly. Our site is right on the water... so calm and peaceful. Family friendly. Nice and clean," shares Stacey N.
What you should know
Seasonal insects: The mosquito population can significantly impact camping experiences. "The sites on the river were really pretty but full of mosquitos. The sites on the other side are also nice and have a much smaller bug presence," advises Shelagh R. at East Fork Campground.
Weather considerations: Late spring and early fall provide optimal camping conditions with fewer insects and moderate temperatures. "Try early in the season for best experience," suggests a visitor to East Fork.
Campground types: Stoney Creek RV Resort caters to different camping preferences. "This was a great campground that offered many different types of camping. If you like to camp in the open, with alot of tree coverings or in a cabin that had many different options," explains Melissa H.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Coon Fork Campground offers excellent swimming options for children. "Two great beaches on a small, no-motor lake with a large campground and several nature trails," says Benjamin O. Another camper adds, "The kids love swimming, kayaking, fishing, and bike trails."
Activities for children: Hixton-Alma Center KOA provides various family-friendly amenities. "Small, clean campground! Very friendly staff, very well kept! Dog park. There's also plenty of activites to do! You can swim in the pool, fish in the pond etc," reports Lynn N.
Playgrounds and recreation: Multiple dog-friendly campgrounds near Merrillan offer dedicated play areas. "There is a pool, skate park, sand volleyball, pond And concessions. The roads were perfect for our kids bikes," describes a visitor to Stoney Creek RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose carefully when bringing larger rigs to Russell Memorial Park. "Our site was a little hard to get into. We stayed at site 116 with a 40 ft 5th wheel. I would recommend booking early to get a better spot for a big rig," advises Juliana R.
Utility access: Water stations and dump facilities require planning. "Water filling stations are all over the campground. It was our first time and we though the dump area was the water station. It was not," reports an RV camper at Russell Memorial Park.
Size limitations: Consider campground layout when bringing larger vehicles. "The majority are for tent camping and not larger RVs so if you have a bigger RV make sure you are looking ahead at the size of the pad," notes Scott M. about Castle Mound Campground.
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