Fox Landing

For Wisconsinites who cherish the simple pleasures of the great outdoors, especially along the iconic St. Croix River, Fox Landing in Grantsburg, WI, offers a truly unique and appealing experience. This isn't your typical commercial campground with extensive amenities; instead, it presents itself as a special, natural "landing" on the St. Croix, celebrated for its swimming opportunities and, remarkably, for being a "Freeeee" place to enjoy nature. If you're seeking a casual, unadorned riverside spot to cool off, relax, and connect with the natural beauty of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, Fox Landing is a hidden gem worth discovering.

Many Wisconsin locals have a deep appreciation for accessible public lands and waterways, and Fox Landing perfectly embodies this spirit. As one reviewer enthusiastically puts it, "Every landing on the St Croix River is something special. Fox Landing is a really nice one for swimming." This highlights its primary appeal: a fantastic spot for aquatic recreation. The specific mention of "a lot of sand further out" in the swimming area, despite some initial "rocks," suggests a comfortable entry into the water, making it more inviting for families and casual swimmers. However, the consistent advice to "wear water shoes or old tennis shoes" indicates the presence of underwater rocks, a common feature of natural river bottoms that wise campers prepare for.

The fact that a popular time to visit is "Father's Day weekend" and that it was "Freeeee!" speaks volumes about its local appeal and value. This suggests that Fox Landing is a cherished community spot, likely maintained as a public access point rather than a privately run, fee-based campground. The emphasis on it being "free" is a significant draw, especially for budget-conscious families or individuals looking for a spontaneous outdoor excursion without the overhead of camping fees or complex reservations.

Given the nature of the reviews, it's clear that Fox Landing is more of a rustic, day-use or very primitive overnight spot rather than a developed campground with extensive facilities. The focus is purely on the natural environment and river access. This "wilderness right next to the road" feel, as some similar informal spots on the St. Croix might be described, allows for immediate immersion in nature. For Wisconsinites who are self-sufficient and prioritize direct contact with the river over amenities like showers or electric hookups, Fox Landing represents an ideal, unpretentious slice of riverside paradise.

Fox Landing is situated in Grantsburg, WI 54840, USA. Grantsburg is a village in Burnett County, Wisconsin, known for its picturesque natural surroundings and its close proximity to the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. This particular address places Fox Landing directly on the renowned St. Croix River, which forms part of the border between Wisconsin and Minnesota.

Accessibility to Fox Landing appears to be straightforward, likely via Fox Landing Road, which leads directly to the river. The reviews indicate it's a spot where you can "drop by," suggesting easy road access. Its location along the St. Croix River implies it functions as a public landing point, making it easily reachable by vehicle for day-trippers and those planning to launch watercraft. For paddlers and boaters on the St. Croix, it serves as a convenient stop or access point along their journey. The presence of a phone number associated with the National Park Service (NPS) suggests it might be managed or overseen by the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, further confirming its public and accessible nature.

For locals in Wisconsin, especially those in the northwestern region or traveling through Burnett County, Fox Landing's location makes it a highly convenient option for spontaneous river activities. It's a spot that capitalizes on Wisconsin's abundant natural resources by offering direct, unhindered access to one of the state's most cherished rivers.

Based on the provided reviews and the nature of "landings" along the St. Croix River, Fox Landing appears to offer very limited, if any, formal services typically found at a commercial campground. It functions primarily as a public access point to the river, with the following implied offerings:

• River Access: The primary "service" is direct access to the St. Croix River, enabling activities such as "swimming," boating, and potentially fishing. It serves as a natural launching point for watercraft.
• Swimming Area: While not a structured swimming pool, the site is highlighted as a "really nice one for swimming" with "a lot of sand further out," indicating a natural swimming spot.
• Primitive Overnight Stay (Implied): The review mentioning "spending Father's Day weekend here" and it being "Freeeee!" strongly suggests that primitive, free overnight camping is permitted, likely without designated campsites or amenities.
• Natural Environment: The natural surroundings, including wildflowers and the general "wilderness" feel, are an inherent offering, providing a setting for relaxation and connection with nature.

It is crucial to understand that "free" implies minimal to no developed facilities. Visitors should expect: no restrooms (or very primitive ones like vault toilets, if any are present), no potable water, no electricity, no trash disposal (pack it in, pack it out principle), and no on-site staff or a camp store. Campers visiting Fox Landing should be entirely self-sufficient, bringing all necessary supplies and adhering to Leave No Trace principles.

Fox Landing, while rustic, boasts several distinct features and highlights that make it a special spot for locals on the St. Croix River:

• Free Access: A major highlight is that visiting Fox Landing is "Freeeee!", making it an incredibly accessible and budget-friendly option for enjoying the St. Croix River.
• Excellent Swimming: It's particularly lauded as a "really nice one for swimming," with a mix of "sand further out" and some rocks, offering a natural and inviting swimming experience in the river.
• St. Croix River Access: As part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, it provides direct and easy access to one of Wisconsin's most cherished and beautiful rivers for various water activities.
• Father's Day Weekend Tradition: The mention of "We love spending Father's Day weekend here!" suggests it's a beloved local tradition, indicative of a welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere.
• Rustic, Natural Setting: For those who appreciate undeveloped natural spaces, Fox Landing offers a genuine "wilderness" feel, allowing for a true escape into nature.
• Scenic Beauty: Being on the St. Croix River ensures picturesque views and the chance to observe local flora and fauna in their natural habitat.
• Opportunities for Self-Sufficiency: For experienced campers or day-trippers, the lack of extensive amenities is a feature, appealing to those who prefer a minimalist approach and a strong connection with the environment.

Visitors should remember the recommendation to "wear water shoes or old tennis shoes" for comfort and safety due to the rocky areas in the water.

As a free public landing and presumed primitive camping spot, Fox Landing does not offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the traditional sense. Its primary "offer" is its accessibility and lack of cost. The value is inherent in its free public access to a beautiful natural resource.

• Free Use: The most significant "promotion" is that usage of Fox Landing appears to be entirely free of charge. This means no camping fees, no entrance fees, and no parking fees, making it an incredibly economical option for outdoor recreation.
• Public Access to St. Croix River: The continuous "offer" is unimpeded public access to the St. Croix River, a federally protected National Scenic Riverway. This allows for swimming, boating, and enjoying the natural beauty without commercial barriers.
• Ideal for Spontaneous Trips: Since it's free and seemingly doesn't require reservations, it's always "on offer" for spontaneous day trips or last-minute primitive camping excursions for self-sufficient individuals or groups.

For any specific guidelines or potential changes in status, it is always recommended to consult official National Park Service or Wisconsin DNR information regarding the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, as "free" spots can sometimes have regulations regarding length of stay or specific activities.

Given that Fox Landing appears to be a public landing and potentially a primitive camping spot along the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, the provided phone number is likely associated with the broader management of the riverway by the National Park Service (NPS), rather than a specific campground office.

• Address: Grantsburg, WI 54840, USA
• Phone: (715) 483-2274
• Mobile Phone: +1 715-483-2274

These phone numbers are generally associated with the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway headquarters in St. Croix Falls, WI. While they can provide information about river conditions, regulations for primitive camping, and overall park guidelines, they are not for booking individual campsites at Fox Landing, as it does not appear to be a reservable, developed campground.

For detailed information on primitive camping rules, Leave No Trace principles, or river safety before visiting Fox Landing, it is recommended to call the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway directly using the provided numbers. You might also consult the National Park Service website for the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway.

For Wisconsinites, Fox Landing in Grantsburg embodies the true spirit of accessible, natural recreation on the beloved St. Croix River. Its fundamental suitability for locals stems from its unique offering as a "Freeeee!" spot, making it an unparalleled choice for spontaneous outings, family traditions like Father's Day weekend, or simply a budget-friendly way to enjoy the state's natural beauty.

The primary draw for many is its excellent swimming conditions, noted for both sandy areas and some rocks, offering a refreshing escape during warmer months. As a key access point to the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, it provides immediate entry for various water activities, whether you're bringing your own canoe, simply looking to cool off, or enjoying the riverside views.

While Fox Landing is a rustic, low-amenity site, this very simplicity appeals to self-sufficient locals who prioritize genuine wilderness experiences over developed facilities. It's a place where you can truly disconnect and appreciate the quiet beauty of the St. Croix, with the practical advice to bring water shoes and be prepared for a natural environment. In essence, Fox Landing is a treasured local secret, offering an unadulterated slice of Wisconsin's riverine charm, making it an ideal destination for those who seek authentic, free, and accessible outdoor adventures right in their backyard.