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Black River State Forest

The best camping in Black River State Forest, WI

100% (3)

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Stories from the community

Cricket

1 week ago

11 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Camp-Inn Teardrop factory camping

We were really happy to get to sleep test a Road Toad, and Cary’s tour of the Camp Inns and the factory was awesome. Campsite and fire rings great, even pre-raked the area for us so there weren’t leaves near fire. Loved having a hot shower available before returning to spaces full of other humans. On our walk at the Wildlife Refuge, we saw trumpeter swans and sandhill cranes 🙂 There is some highway noise and there are some lights , for those who are sensitive to either, but we still had lots of stars on our first night!

Our earthen cabin nestled in the valley.

Douglas

3 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Echo Valley Farm

We had a great time in the Straw Clay Cabin! It was clean, cozy and comfortable. We really enjoyed this unique cabin, including the woodland animals that are built in to the walls, and also having some information available in the cabin about how it was constructed. We also enjoyed hiking around property and seeing the chickens and sheep wandering around! Overall a great stay, we'd be happy to come back.

Katia

November 2025

With pets

2 nights at Elysian View Farms

The location of the accomodation has views in almost all directions and includes natural light. The main area is very comfortable for the stay with plenty of indoor and outdoor table space with seats.

Emma

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Echo Valley Farm

Echo Valley Farm is absolutely beautiful, and Maggie's Cabin was just right for what we were looking for! Dena was wonderful - kind and helpful and willing to accommodate a scheduling mistake on my part. The cabin itself was cozy and warm, and the farm was beautiful - rolling hills, grazing sheep, and forests in the distance. Echo Valley Farm is just right for a trip to get away from the demands of daily life and slow down a bit!

Susanna

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to West Fork Sports Club

so fricken awesome. so fricken awesome. so fricken awesome.

Haley

October 2025

3 nights at Elysian View Farms

Great spot to stay. Bed is very comfortable and host is very accommodating.

Bory

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to DeLeeuw Dens

The yurt itself was a beautifully set up — spacious, warm, and very accommodating. Even with the cool October evenings, the heated yurt kept us toasty, and gathering around for games of dominoes while being warm and cozy. If you’re looking for something memorable and a little different, I recommend this yurt. The blend of nature, comfort, and family connection made it one of our favorite getaways. We’ll be back next fall!

Anna

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Elysian View Farms

We had an incredible time staying in the red barn! Loved interacting with the turkeys and cows and being so close to them was a real treat. The barn is also on a little hill, which gives you an incredible view of the surrounding area. The barn was very clean and had everything we needed. Truly our favorite stay to date.

Melanie

October 2025

3 nights at Echo Valley Farm

Location was perfect for biking the driftless! No shortage of great loops

Quarry in the spring. View from the scenic overlook up on the bluff.

Paul

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Quarry in the Mississippi Bluff MN

The host did a great job of communicating clearly where to go to get to the site. The Quarry is a great place if you want to camp in the woods with no amenities and to rough it, which is what I was looking for. I really enjoyed my stay as it was exactly what I wanted.

Wilson

October 2025

Tent

4 nights at Quarry in the Mississippi Bluff MN

We loved camping at this location. The views from the outlook and from driving around the area are amazing. The camping was great and the host was attentive to all texts. We will definitely come back again.

Kelley

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Quarry in the Mississippi Bluff MN

We loved camping in Erica’s quarry! The views were beautiful and there was a state park 10 minutes away for even more beautiful views of the Mississippi River. Even with a couple other groups on the property, it was quiet and secluded in our little corner. The end of the drive was marked with a camping symbol and the instructions provided were clear. Would absolutely come back.

Daphne

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to 🦫 Flutterby 🦋 Farm 👩🏽‍🌾

Beautiful, secluded campsite with a babbling brook running through!! The region is gorgeous in the fall. The outhouse was clean and well kept. Tai + Stella’s visitor guide and map were very informative and easy to follow. Logan brought us firewood and allowed us to enjoy the area in peace. Highly recommend if you’re looking for an escape out in nature.

Luca

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Quarry in the Mississippi Bluff MN

I was arriving at night, and Erica was super responsive and gave me great directions on how to find my site. Awesome spot with the quarry cliffs and view over the Mississippi! Sites feel spread out enough.

Jennifer

October 2025

With pets

2 nights at DeLeeuw Dens

Wonderful family get away. Slept so well. Lots of stargazing, family game nights, and screen free time. Would absolutely come back! I bet the yurt is beautiful after a snowfall. Responsive hosts, super clean yurt, comfy beds, and a composting not stinky out house! Had a great time.

pamela

October 2025

13 ft travel trailer

2 nights at The Hill Family Camping

The site is beautiful in Autumn and very quiet except for occasional traffic. Bill was very friendly and clearly shows pride in his ancestral land. He has hand crafted a beautiful building as a replica of a lodge in Yellowstone. The entire area in that part of Wisconsin is visually outstanding.

Allison

October 2025

1 night at Elysian View Farms

This was an amazing location and such a fun and unique opportunity! I really enjoyed visiting with the calves, the cows, and the turkeys. I received a great welcome and orientation upon arrival.

Andrea

October 2025

2 nights at Echo Valley Farm

My husband and I stayed in Maggie’s place, a cosy cabin with a screen porch. The setting was beautiful and quiet. We enjoyed walking up the hill for the view and watching the chickens, cats and sheep. There are no cooking accommodations, you can bring a camp stove for the picnic table.

Jawad

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Quarry in the Mississippi Bluff MN

The campsite is beautiful and very well maintained. I got the last minute reservation at the Rocky road by the floor of the bluffs. Communication with Erica was a breeze. She explained everything from directions to view point trail.

David

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Quarry in the Mississippi Bluff MN

Fantastic place to see! Very quiet and well laid out area. Directions were very easy and host was very accommodating. Stars were beautiful at night. Couldn’t ask for a better place! Highly recommended if you’re coming through the area!

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Black River State Forest

100%

(2)

East Fork Campground

8.6mi from Black River State Forest · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · in Black River State Forest

100%

(1)

Pigeon Creek Campground

6.2mi from Black River State Forest · 38 sites · Tents, RVs · in Black River State Forest

Castle Mound Campground

8.1mi from Black River State Forest · 37 sites · Tents, RVs · in Black River State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds

Fall Hall Glen

99%

(43)

13mi from Black River State Forest · 9 sites · Tents, Lodging · Black River Falls, WI

Atop a ridge, nestled in the heart of the forest, you will find Fall Hall Glen located a few miles south of Black River Falls. Made popular in the early 1920’s and rich with history, Fall Hall Glen offers rustic cabins set next to the trickling creek, a great lodge with a picturesque waterfall view, and acres of peaceful prairie to pitch a tent. While you’re here, take advantage of the local trout streams, ATV trails, and public land access; or find peace and rest among the towering pine forest beside a stream, where the water cataracts and falls just beneath your feet. Access to the public bathhouse, with clean restrooms and showers, is included with any cabin rental.

Jeske Equestrian Campground

99%

(39)

23mi from Black River State Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Taylor, WI

The first time we viewed this property, we knew we were home. The woods, fields, wildlife, and house (created almost entirely from the lumber harvested from the land) drew us in. We purchased the home and 40 acres in 2018. Since then it has been a labor of love to make it everything we dream. A campground suitable for horseback riding was the goal for W15266. This was where the original homestead stood (firepit area). That home was transported across 95 on Davis road to become an Amish home. This area was overgrown and filled with rubbish, but still had a great deal of suitable plants hidden in the raspberries. We are continually working to groom it, and eventually, hope to better level the drive and sites and cover them with gravel. We need more and better fire pits and intend to have at least one more cabin- perhaps created from a refurbished corn crib? This cabin was refurbished in 2020 from the original homestead’s summer kitchen (where food was prepared to keep the house from getting too warm). Although it may have been easier to demolish and start over, Julie convinced Craig that the history was worth it. ;) I can’t tell you how disGUSTING it was, but we found treasures like the chair upstairs, the ironing board, and items on the walls and cupboards amongst the piles of Asian beetles and mouse chewings. Our current project you see in front is the bath/shower house. It has a toilet and shower and was completed 2021. With expansion, we will add one more toilet on the other side. The old shed in front, is a disaster. We fluctuate the same way we did with the summer kitchen: bulldoze or refurbish? It currently houses our equipment and lumber, but someday, we are hoping to have a small country Tiki bar. Craig has received the liquor license already. We love tucked away country bars with unique flavors, so we hope we can offer this to our customers. Jeske Equestrian is also a boarding/training facility. We built the horse barn in 2019, and last year we put up a 60x180 indoor riding arena. Maintaining and creating trails has been extensive. Keeping up on the signage and the trail map has been nearly impossible since Craig loves creating new ones with the skid steer on a regular basis! We are working on the pond area to be more recreational in our future as well. Thanks again for choosing us. We hope to see you again! Learn more about this land: The first time we viewed this property, we knew we were home. The woods, fields, wildlife, and house (created almost entirely from the lumber harvested from the land) drew us in. We purchased the home and 40 acres in 2018. Since then it has been a labor of love to make it everything we dream. A campground suitable for horseback riding was the goal for W15266. This was where the original homestead stood (firepit area). We are continually working to groom it. We have added more fire pits and are currently building a bath house with 2 flush toilets and shower. We offer trails and tranquility, while the nearby county parks and landscape provide even more entertainment for nature lovers. We look forward to sharing it all with you!

The English Pale Campground (21+)

97%

(101)

24mi from Black River State Forest · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Melrose, WI

IMPORTANT NOTIFICATION: The river edge erosion wall construction is complete. The area is being prepared to have additional river sites added sometime in 2026 depending on vegetation growth. The entire Beach (R3 & R4) will be closed to Campers starting October 1. This is due to hunting season starting. Campsites in the main campground will be still available, but guests are not allowed on the lower 40. Contact Cal or check our Facebook page and web site for more information. The campground and rental house will open about May 15, each year. The English Pale Campground is located along the Black River in Jackson County, 1 mile west of the Village of Melrose. The entire property only allows guests and occupants who are 21 or older. Sites/house can be booked 6 months in advance. The main campground is 70 feet above the river. We have 5 rustic (no hook-ups) RV/Travel Trailer/Tent sites, a fully furnished “Manor” House, a travel trailer as well as 2 rustic beach sites that are located along the river. The property is a total of 70 acres, which includes the 4+ acre beach, a mile of river front and trails through the woods that connect them all. The English Pale opened in 2021 and is a developing property. In late summer of 2025 an erosion wall was built along the Black River. This included clearing of a section of the forest, building a gravel access road and an riprap river wall to prevent further erosion. Since 2016 over 60 feet of the riverbank has washed away. Our property offers a reasonable expectation of privacy and we do not offer day passes as our target guests are campers. We are an adult only property, but not a nudist campground, as that is not our central theme. We do not prohibit our guests from nudity for the purpose of sunbathing on the beach, campsites or sundeck, but nudity is not allowed in general common areas. Part of our nature is allowing discreet nudity for tanning purposes. While we target couples for time together, singles and groups are welcome. This is NOT a party campground, our goal is to let you connect with nature. More campground information can be found on our main web page or on Facebook at The English Pale Campground and Resort. The entire property can be rented by contacting us directly by phone or email.

Wedges Creek Hideaway Pizza Farm!

100%

(11)

27mi from Black River State Forest · 55 sites · RVs, Lodging · Greenwood, WI

Brick oven pizza on many weekends as posted on our website with camping and cabins to relax in the woods. We are third generation family farm in the woods with quiet acreage and trails. Most weekends we have live music. We are in Amish country with many small shops. There are also wineries and cheese stores close by. We have a wedding and event barn and lots of space. New in 2023 was a 9 hole disc golf.

Fisher Cat Creek Forest Retreat

98%

(84)

30mi from Black River State Forest · 3 sites · Lodging · Osseo, WI

Four years ago, David and Veronica began designing and building structures in the 20 acre hardwood forest that Davids' father acquired back in 1969. Now they live there full time in an off-grid cabin with monthly seminars, campsites for rent and a passion for sharing the wonders of the forest.

Justin Trails Resort, LLC

94%

(131)

33mi from Black River State Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Sparta, WI

200-acre very hilly dog-friendly Century farm in the Justin Family over 100 years with acres of alfalfa, 3 acres of gardens around the compound, 150 acres of forest, 2 disc golf courses, 14 miles of grassy "mowed like a lawn" dog-friendly walking trails and 2 lovable pet llamas that love to be hand-fed treats or carrots.

Camp-Inn Teardrop factory camping

100%

(17)

34mi from Black River State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Necedah, WI

Teardrop camper factory onsite campground (Free factory tours weekdays). Wooded campsites on the edge of Necedah WI. A short walk to the Camp-Inn factory which has a bathroom with an outside entrance for guests to use. Bathroom has shower and is heated year round. Picnic tables, fire rings and firewood in the campsites. Campsites are sized for small campers 13' and less. Teardrop campers, small standee campers, tent trailers, small pop ups, van campers, car campers, roof top tents and ground tents all are invited. Both campsites have dog walking trails Near by to the Petenwell Lake, Castle Rock Lake and the Necedah Wildlife Refuge.

Glowconsin Getaway

90%

(68)

37mi from Black River State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · New Lisbon, WI

Adjacent to Buckhorn State Park which is 6,990-acre Wisconsin state park southeast of Necedah. The park occupies a peninsula on Castle Rock Lake, a reservoir formed at the confluence of the Wisconsin and Yellow Rivers. Almost 5 acres of mixed oak-pine woods with sandy, fertile soil. Learn more about this land: The best secluded rustic camping with sky-scraping pines, amazing wildlife, and abundant plant life including wild raspberries on almost 5 acres. The whippoorwills sing at night. Nature's beauty at its finest. A short walk to the lake (.5 mile away) or bring your own boat or paddle boards and cruise out on Castle Rock Lake from a public launch nearby. Cute beach at Buckhorn Boat Landing for picnic and swimming. Bring your own camper, tent, etc. Great fishing nearby. RV hookup and plug-in electricity are available. Please PACK OUT anything you bring with you. Fines will be assessed for trash left. Fireworks are not allowed. No trash in the fire pit.

Echo Valley Farm

99%

(71)

42mi from Black River State Forest · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging · Ontario, WI

See the Milky Way on 46 acres of sustainably cared for land located in beautiful Driftless Wisconsin. Adjacent to Wild Cat Mountain State Park and near the Kickapoo Valley Reserve, we are a working farm with sheep, mules, chickens, multiple gardens and an heirloom apple orchard. Our onsite bakery has seasonal offerings and more. Our twenty-three year effort to create a regenerative and sustainable farm allows us to offer our unique space and cabins for enjoyment and for learning. There are sites for tents, each site is $20. Cabins are available year round, with water, coffee makers, electric kettles, fire pits, and charcoal grills. Our glamping affords comfortable beds and linens, electric heaters and fans, as well as wood burning stoves for winter comfort. Hike the property or visit near-by Wildcat Mountain State Park, or the Kickapoo Valley Reserve. We are licensed as a campground. We can supply your water, but not your dishes and utensils, please be aware. Don't miss out on the bakery, open May through Oct on Saturdays and by pre-order in off months/ days. We are happy to share our home with you.

🦫 Flutterby 🦋 Farm 👩🏽‍🌾

99%

(569)

43mi from Black River State Forest · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Cashton, WI

Once a working farm, now a haven for wildlife and peace. Primitive, laid-back camping experience. Surrounded by Amish farms. Check out our full property for individual campsites descriptions. * 100 acres of rewilded habitat * Spring water * Creekside camping * ✊🏻✊🏼✊🏽✊🏾✊🏿 BIPOC, LGBTQ+ 🏳️‍🌈 friendly. All are welcome!

Elysian View Farms

100%

(12)

44mi from Black River State Forest · 1 site · Lodging · La Farge, WI

We are a 3 rd generation certified organic dairy and produce farm . We are in the Driftless area of rural Vernon Co . We are in the heart of Amish settlement and are close to many Amish stores, bakery and produce stands . We are 6 miles from Ontario, canoeing capital of Wisc , on the Kickapoo River , Wildcat Mountain state park can be seen from our ridge top . Kickapoo Valley Reserve is minute away for hiking adventures . We have 2 attached bedroom and rooms to our barn , the first bedroom has a queen bed, the second bedroom has a full bed, the living area has a twin sleeper sofa. Also included is a coffee maker, microwave, electric fireplace, fan , and freezer . We have a porta potty with lights right next to the barn . There is hot and cold water and a wash tub in the barn . You can share your morning coffee with our calves and turkey chicks , We have several miles of groomed paths on our land for hiking . Deer, turkeys, song birds , foxes all can be seen on the property . There is a gas grill , camp fire ring , and large overhang with picnic tables . We also have hook up for electric and water for campers. , this is an easy pull through camper hook up on each end of the barn . Sparta and Viroqua are a half hour drive for dining, movies, music festivals and farmers markets, We are beautiful 45 min drive from Lacrosse .

Lisney Grand Log Cabin-La Farge

99%

(35)

46mi from Black River State Forest · 1 site · Lodging · La Farge, WI

Imagine looking out the Lisney Grand Log Cabin window and realizing that the landscape has remained virtually unchanged for over 10,000 years! While most of the State was covered and scraped by glaciers of the last Ice Age, this small section of the State was not. Hence, its geology remained intact. Locally this region is known as the “Driftless Area” and encompasses both the Kickapoo Valley Reserve State Park (8,600 acres) and the Wildcat State Park (3,600 acres).In this area, archeologist have discovered a total of 596 sites dating between 10,000 to 12,000 years ago inhabited by ancient people. This includes ancient campsites, farming areas, linear and conical mounds, once-occupied rock shelters and many petroglyphs. And if that’s not enough to wake-up to, then enjoy the fresh air, clean water, the breath-taking views and the daily visits of wild turkey and deer.This Amish built cabin is 1500 sq.ft. and is minutes from hiking, biking, paddling the Kickapoo River, food and beverages as well as world-class trout fishing, snowmobile and horse trails. Lisney Grand is a two story, two bedroom one bath cabin with an additional large sleeping loft. Open floor plan includes a full kitchen, dining area and living space with a cathedral ceiling. The cabin and grounds are filled with original art from artists across the United States (some available for purchase). Enjoy the beautiful sunsets and amazing views of the Kickapoo Valley Reserve State Park (8,600 acres) while swinging on the porch swing located on the porch that wraps around 3 sides of the cabin. The yard contains a picnic table, fire-pit, and direct access to the Kickapoo Valley Reserve and its trails. Please note that the cabin has a wheel chair ramp off the front porch and that the main Living room, Dining room and Kitchen are open design, however, shower/bathroom may not accommodate a wheel chair. Come To Visit ~ Plan To Stay.Lisney Grand Log Cabin pricing is based on two people, additional charges of $35.00 per person, per night apply with a 10 guest maximum. Cleaning fees of $35.00 per stay. Children under the age of 12 stay Free! In addition, stay 3 days plus a Friday & Saturday and get the 6th day Free! Long-Term rental is also available.Note: Please be patient when booking this cabin since cell reception is very poor in this area and there may be a delay in my receiving your request. Thanks

The best camping in Black River State Forest, WI guide

Overview

About

Wake up, canoe down the Black River to primitive campsite, stalk a wild turkey. After successful hunt, ride ATV or bicycle for funsies. Break out mom’s famous potato salad for dinner, hope to catch a glimpse of the endangered Karner blue butterfly, watch sun go down over the sandstone buttes and call it a night. Voila: Black River State Forest!

When to go

The best times to visit Black River State Forest are during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers a full bloom of activities, but be prepared for more visitors and warmer temperatures. Winter transforms the forest into a snowy wonderland, ideal for skiing, though some amenities may be less accessible. Avoid peak holiday weekends for a more tranquil experience.

Know before you go

Ensure your vehicle has a valid admission sticker before entering the park.
Check the official website for any property notices or closures before your visit.
Accessibility varies across the park, so plan according to your needs.
Remember that the forest is open from 6am to 11pm year-round, plan your activities within these hours.
Volunteering opportunities are available if you wish to contribute to the forest's upkeep.

100%

3 ratings · 1 review

Recommends

· June 2017

East Fork Campground

You'll need to buy a vehicle pass for your car in addition to the camping fee. I think it's $8 for WI resident and $11/day out of state. They have firewood for sale at the campground for $3/bundle. Clean bathroom, no showers, vault toilet only. It's very quiet and a great campground. We stayed at site #24 and it was very spacious and right on the river.

Brent T.

8 years on Hipcamp