Lake of the Falls Campground/County Park

For Wisconsin residents seeking an exceptional outdoor experience that blends rustic charm with modern conveniences, Lake of the Falls Campground/County Park in Mercer, WI, stands out as a prime destination. This isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's a comprehensive recreational hub offering a diverse range of camping options and amenities, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of a 10-foot waterfall and direct access to some of the state's best fishing waters. Whether you're an avid angler, a family looking for a comfortable retreat, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the Northwoods, Lake of the Falls Campground provides an ideal setting for creating unforgettable memories. It's a testament to Iron County's commitment to providing quality outdoor access for locals and visitors alike.

Here in Wisconsin, we cherish our natural resources, and finding a campground that offers both the wild beauty of our state and the practical comforts that make a trip enjoyable is a true find. Lake of the Falls Campground delivers on both fronts, making it a highly suitable choice for our local community. The ability to have electricity at your site, access to clean, modern bathrooms, and still be on the water with incredible views of a waterfall, truly sets this park apart. It strikes that perfect balance for a memorable Wisconsin adventure.

Lake of the Falls Campground/County Park is ideally situated at 4775 N Popko Cir W, Mercer, WI 54547, USA. This prominent location places it directly on the Turtle River, nestled between Lake of the Falls and the expansive Turtle-Flambeau Flowage, making it a highly sought-after destination for water enthusiasts. Mercer, known as the "Loon Capital of the World," is a charming town in Iron County, celebrated for its pristine natural environment, abundant lakes, and vast trail systems.

Access to the campground is convenient for most Wisconsin residents. It's located just a short distance from downtown Mercer, easily reachable via County Highway FF off of U.S. 51. For those who enjoy ATVing, there's even direct ATV access to the campground via a road route off of Trail 17 to Rice Lake Road, connecting to Popko Circle East and Popko Circle West. This accessibility, combined with the park's natural setting, means campers can easily transition from a scenic drive to wilderness immersion.

The park is divided into three distinct areas, or "sides," each offering a slightly different experience. Side 1 has electrical campsites, a pavilion, pit toilets, water, and a boat ramp. Side 2 (at 4815N Popko Circle West) is the quieter, non-electric section with lakeside campsites, pit toilets, and water. The main Lake of the Falls Campground/County Park, often referred to as Side 3 (at 4775 N Popko Cir W, the provided address), is the most popular, featuring electrical campsites, flush toilets, showers, a dump station, and potable water fill. This variety ensures that campers can choose the experience that best suits their preferences, from rustic tent camping to comfortable RV stays with full amenities. The proximity to Mercer means that campers are never too far from supplies, local eateries, or additional recreational opportunities, making it a truly accessible Northwoods getaway.

Lake of the Falls Campground/County Park, particularly the main section (Side 3) at the provided address, offers a robust set of services designed to enhance the camping experience for all visitors. These include:

• Electrical Campsites: Most sites at the main campground (Side 3) are equipped with electricity (20/30/50 Amp service available on some sites), catering to RVs and campers who require power for their stay.
• Modern Restroom Facilities: Concrete bathhouses are available, featuring very nice and clean flush toilets.
• Coin-Operated Showers: Clean showers are provided for campers, typically requiring quarters for use, offering a convenient way to freshen up after a day of outdoor activities.
• Potable Water: Easily accessible water fill stations are available for campers to fill up their tanks or containers.
• Trailer Clean Out (Dump Station): A dedicated dump station is provided for RVs, allowing for convenient waste disposal.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Every site generally includes a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor meals and evening campfires.
• Boat Launch: A boat launch provides direct access to Lake of the Falls and the Turtle River, leading to the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage, ideal for anglers and boaters.
• Pavilion: A communal pavilion is available, often rentable for groups, providing a sheltered area for gatherings.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally welcome in the campground, provided they are kept on a leash and campers adhere to park rules regarding pet waste.
• On-site Caretaker: During the camping season (approximately May 1 to October 15), a park caretaker can be reached at (715) 329-0826 for assistance.
• Reservation System: The park has a reservation policy, with reservations strongly encouraged due to the popularity of camping, opening January 1 for the current year's reservations.

• Stunning Waterfall Views: A standout feature, as noted by visitors, is that "All Sites have an excellent View of lake of the Falls waterfalls." This natural spectacle provides a beautiful and constantly engaging backdrop for your camping experience.
• Electricity at Each Site: Unlike some more rustic county parks, Lake of the Falls Campground offers electricity at most sites, providing comfort and convenience for RVs and campers needing power for their devices and amenities.
• Modern and Clean Bathrooms: The "very nice clean bathrooms" with concrete construction and flush toilets are a significant highlight, offering a level of comfort not always found in county parks. The availability of coin-operated showers further enhances the camping experience.
• Proximity to Premier Fishing Waters: Situated on Lake of the Falls and leading to the vast Turtle-Flambeau Flowage, the campground is perfect for anglers. The lake is known for Musky, Panfish, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, and Walleye, making it a fishing paradise.
• Direct Water Access: With boat launches available, campers have immediate access to the lake and river for boating, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. This direct access is invaluable for water sport enthusiasts.
• Rustic Yet Comfortable: As one reviewer noted, the park offers "the ability to have electric and showers while still being on the flowage," striking a perfect balance between a true Northwoods experience and essential comforts.
• Accessible Location: Being close to Mercer means easy access to supplies, gas, and local attractions, providing convenience without detracting from the natural surroundings.
• Diverse Camping Options (within the larger park): While this specific address focuses on Side 3, the overall Lake of the Falls County Park offers three distinct camping areas (Side 1, Side 2, Side 3), catering to varied preferences from fully electric sites to more primitive, non-electric lakeside spots.
• ATV Trail Access: For ATV enthusiasts, the park's location offers road route access to nearby ATV trails, adding another layer of recreational opportunity.
• Seasonal Water Level Management: Campers should be aware that the flowage water levels are managed and are drained by approximately 4 feet starting September 1st each year. This is important information for boaters and anglers planning late-season trips.

As a county park, Lake of the Falls Campground/County Park primarily offers consistently competitive daily and weekly rates rather than seasonal promotions. However, they do provide value through their pricing structure and weekly stay discounts. For the most up-to-date information on rates, it is always recommended to check the Iron County Forestry and Parks official website or contact them directly. Currently, they encourage reservations due to rising popularity, indicating the value campers find in their offerings. While specific "special offers" like discounted weekends are not publicly advertised, the fundamental "promotion" of Lake of the Falls Campground is its ability to deliver a feature-rich, scenic, and well-maintained camping experience at an affordable county park rate. This consistent value, combined with the comprehensive amenities, ensures it remains a top choice for campers in Wisconsin.

For reservations, inquiries about site availability, current rates, or any other questions regarding Lake of the Falls Campground/County Park, you can reach out to the Iron County Forestry and Parks Department. Here is the primary contact information:

Address: 4775 N Popko Cir W, Mercer, WI 54547, USA

Phone: (715) 329-0826

Mobile Phone: +1 715-329-0826

During the camping season (approximately May 1 to October 15), a park caretaker is also available at the same phone number (715) 329-0826 if the Forestry office is unavailable. It is strongly encouraged to make reservations, especially during peak season, due to the park's popularity. Checking the official Iron County Forestry and Parks website is also a great resource for maps, rates, and reservation policies.

For Wisconsin locals, Lake of the Falls Campground/County Park in Mercer is an outstanding choice that perfectly encapsulates the diverse and beloved outdoor experiences our state offers. Its suitability for residents stems from its unique blend of accessibility, modern conveniences, and raw natural beauty, making it a highly practical and desirable destination for various types of campers.

Firstly, the availability of electricity at each site, combined with very clean concrete bathrooms and coin-operated showers, addresses a common desire among many Wisconsin campers for comfort without losing the outdoor feel. This means families can enjoy longer stays with the amenities they need, and RVers can truly relax. This combination sets it apart from more primitive sites and makes camping more accessible to a wider range of people, from seasoned adventurers to those new to the camping scene.

Secondly, the unparalleled natural setting, featuring direct views of the Lake of the Falls waterfalls and immediate access to Lake of the Falls and the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage, is a major draw. For us Wisconsinites, fishing, boating, and enjoying the water are integral parts of summer, and this campground offers a prime location for all these activities. The fact that it's in Mercer, known for its pristine environment and extensive trail systems, further enhances its appeal for those who love hiking, ATVing, or simply observing wildlife in their natural habitat.

The consistent positive reviews highlight a well-managed and enjoyable environment. Knowing that the park is well-maintained and that amenities like clean facilities are prioritized provides peace of mind for local campers. Furthermore, the ability to make reservations ensures that planning a trip is straightforward, a valuable feature for busy Wisconsin families.

In essence, Lake of the Falls Campground/County Park delivers on the promise of a complete Wisconsin camping experience. It’s an ideal spot for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, offering comfort, adventure, and breathtaking scenery all wrapped into one convenient location. For anyone in Wisconsin looking for an accessible, amenity-rich, and beautiful place to connect with nature, this campground is a top-tier choice that truly serves our local outdoor enthusiasts.