East Fork campground

For Wisconsin residents seeking a tranquil and spacious escape into the state's beautiful natural landscapes, East Fork Campground near Merrillan offers a compelling destination. Nestled within the vast Black River State Forest, this campground provides a peaceful setting with generously sized sites, making it an inviting spot for campers who value both comfort and immersion in the outdoors. It's an opportunity to unwind, breathe in the fresh Wisconsin air, and enjoy the serenity that only a state forest can offer, all within a reasonable drive for many locals.

Customer reviews paint a picture of a campground with significant potential and many positive attributes. One highly satisfied camper enthusiastically stated, "It's a wonderful place to camp. The staff is great, the sites are clean and the scene is amazing. I recommend you go and stay a weekend." This positive feedback highlights the dedication of the staff, the cleanliness of the facilities, and the overall aesthetic appeal of the campground. However, another detailed review brought up a crucial environmental concern: "East Fork Campground had a lot of potential spacious sites and a peaceful setting, but the experience was dampened by the river. Everything was great until I saw the water in the morning; it looked like someone dumped a tank of detergent in it. The foam and pollution were really disappointing, especially when you’re expecting a clean, natural environment. It’s a shame because the campground itself was nice and well-maintained. Hopefully, this issue gets addressed because it has the potential to be a great spot for outdoor lovers." This candid feedback is vital for prospective visitors, indicating that while the campground itself is well-regarded, the condition of the adjacent river may sometimes be a concern, prompting potential visitors to check current conditions.

East Fork Campground, as a Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) managed facility, is designed to offer a consistent and well-maintained camping experience, integrating seamlessly with the recreational opportunities of the Black River State Forest. Its focus on spaciousness and a peaceful setting makes it particularly attractive for those looking to avoid crowded sites and enjoy a more intimate connection with nature, keeping in mind the environmental considerations raised by a previous visitor.

East Fork Campground is conveniently located at N 9534 Campground Rd, Merrillan, WI 54754, USA. This address places it directly within the Black River State Forest, near the village of Merrillan in Jackson County, Wisconsin. Its position within a major state forest means direct access to a vast network of trails and natural landscapes.

For Wisconsin residents, the campground is easily accessible via state highways, making it a practical destination for weekend getaways or longer vacations from various parts of the state. Merrillan itself offers a small-town feel, and while the campground provides a sense of seclusion, it's not too far from basic amenities should they be needed. The ease of access, combined with its immersion in one of Wisconsin's significant state forests, makes East Fork Campground a prime choice for locals seeking genuine outdoor adventure without an overly arduous journey.

As a Wisconsin DNR campground, East Fork Campground provides a range of essential services designed to facilitate a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience while promoting responsible use of the natural environment.

• Spacious Campsites: Reviewers highlight the "spacious sites," offering ample room for campers and their equipment, contributing to a sense of privacy and tranquility.
• Cleanliness: The sites and overall campground are consistently praised for being "clean" and "well-maintained" by staff.
• Electric Hookups: Many sites likely offer electric hookups to accommodate RVs and campers needing power, though the exact amperage (e.g., 30 amp, 50 amp) should be confirmed.
• Water Access: While individual site water hookups are generally not available in state forest campgrounds, central water spigots are typically provided for filling tanks and collecting drinking water.
• Dump Station: A dedicated dump station for RV waste is usually available on-site.
• Restrooms: Clean restroom facilities are a standard offering in DNR campgrounds, ensuring basic comfort for all campers.
• Camp Hosts/Staff: Reviews mention "great staff," indicating helpful and attentive park personnel who can assist with visitor needs.
• Firewood Sales: DNR campgrounds often provide firewood for sale on-site, helping to prevent the spread of invasive species from outside wood.
• Vehicle Permit Required: As with all Wisconsin state forest campgrounds, a valid state forest vehicle admission sticker is required for entry and camping.

East Fork Campground's primary highlights stem from its location within the expansive Black River State Forest and its dedication to providing a peaceful and well-maintained camping environment.

• Peaceful Setting: Described as having a "peaceful setting," the campground offers a serene atmosphere, ideal for relaxation and escaping the noise of urban life.
• Scenic Environment: The "scene is amazing," as noted by a reviewer, indicating the natural beauty of the surrounding forest, which typically includes towering trees, diverse flora, and the sounds of nature.
• Access to Black River State Forest: Being part of this large state forest provides access to a multitude of recreational opportunities, including extensive networks of hiking, biking, and ATV/UTV trails. The Black River State Forest is particularly renowned for its robust ATV/UTV trail system.
• River Proximity: The campground's proximity to the river (likely the East Fork of the Black River or a tributary) offers opportunities for water-based activities, though potential visitors should be mindful of and inquire about current river conditions, as one review highlighted a concern about water quality.
• Wildlife Viewing: The rich forest ecosystem allows for excellent opportunities to observe local wildlife and enjoy birdwatching.
• Clean and Well-Maintained: Consistent feedback about the cleanliness of the sites and the overall campground reflects a commitment to a high standard of maintenance, enhancing the camping experience.
• Winter Recreation: In the colder months, the Black River State Forest offers opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling, making the area a year-round destination.

As a Wisconsin DNR-managed campground, East Fork Campground operates under a standardized fee structure determined by the state. There are no typical "promotions" in the commercial sense. Camping fees are set rates, which vary based on site type (e.g., electric vs. non-electric) and season. A Wisconsin state forest vehicle admission sticker is also required. Wisconsin residents may benefit from purchasing an annual state park/forest pass if they plan multiple visits to DNR properties throughout the year, which can offer overall savings. For the most current and accurate pricing, as well as details on availability, it is essential to check the official Wisconsin DNR website or contact the campground directly. Reservations, especially during peak seasons, are highly recommended due to popularity.

To plan your tranquil camping getaway to East Fork Campground or to get the most up-to-date information on site availability and conditions, please use the following contact details:

Address: N 9534 Campground Rd, Merrillan, WI 54754, USA

Phone: (715) 284-4103

Mobile Phone: +1 715-284-4103

The Wisconsin DNR website is also a primary resource for reservations and detailed park information.

East Fork Campground is an excellent choice for Wisconsin locals seeking a peaceful and comfortable outdoor retreat within easy reach. Its location within the Black River State Forest near Merrillan means convenient access to vast wilderness areas and extensive recreational trails, making it ideal for hikers, bikers, and ATV/UTV enthusiasts. The emphasis on spacious and clean sites, coupled with a supportive staff, ensures a pleasant camping experience for all visitors.

While the concern regarding river water quality is a valid point for consideration by potential visitors who plan to utilize the river extensively, the overall positive feedback about the campground's condition and setting remains strong. For Wisconsinites looking for a serene environment to unwind, enjoy nature, and create lasting memories without the crowds of more commercialized destinations, East Fork Campground offers a compelling and highly recommended local option. It's a place that truly embodies the natural beauty and tranquility of the Badger State.