Mooney Dam County Park & Campground

For Wisconsin locals seeking a truly picturesque and amenity-rich outdoor escape, Mooney Dam County Park & Campground in Gordon, WI, is a destination that consistently exceeds expectations. Nestled along the serene shores of Lower Eau Claire Lake, this county park campground offers a remarkable blend of spacious campsites, excellent water access, and family-friendly features, making it an ideal choice for a memorable getaway. Whether you're an avid angler, a family looking for fun, or simply someone yearning for a peaceful retreat amidst nature, Mooney Dam provides an experience that resonates with the heart of Wisconsin's outdoor spirit.

Mooney Dam County Park is renowned for its expansive, well-maintained grounds and its direct connection to a vibrant aquatic environment. Unlike some campgrounds that feel cramped, here you'll find "huge and wide open sites with beautiful views on the water," as noted by delighted visitors. This allows for ample space to relax, set up your camp comfortably, and truly soak in the natural beauty surrounding you. The park's commitment to enhancing the visitor experience is evident, with recent additions like a "new playground by the camping and bathroom area," a thoughtful touch that makes it even more appealing for families with children and grandchildren.

Imagine waking up to the sounds of birds, stepping out to a beautiful lake view, and having direct access to boating, fishing, or simply dipping your toes in the cool water. Mooney Dam County Park & Campground offers this quintessential Wisconsin experience, making it a perfect spot to create lasting memories with loved ones. It’s a place that effortlessly combines the tranquility of the Northwoods with convenient amenities and endless opportunities for recreation.

Mooney Dam County Park & Campground is perfectly situated at 14293 Fowler's Cir, Gordon, WI 54838, USA. This prime address places it directly on the beautiful Lower Eau Claire Lake, approximately 13 miles east of the town of Gordon along County Road Y. For Wisconsin residents, this location offers a desirable balance of peaceful, Northwoods seclusion while remaining accessible.

Gordon is a quaint community in Douglas County, making the drive to Mooney Dam a scenic journey through Wisconsin's picturesque landscapes. The campground's setting on Lower Eau Claire Lake provides immediate access to excellent fishing and all sorts of water fun, as highlighted by visitors. Furthermore, its proximity to the dam offers unique vantage points for enjoying the "beautiful flowing water from below" and the sounds of nature. While immersed in this natural haven, campers are still within a reasonable driving distance of larger towns like Hayward (approx. 22 miles away) and Superior (approx. 34 miles away), providing access to additional supplies, services, and attractions if needed. The ease of access combined with the stunning natural environment makes Mooney Dam an ideal choice for a convenient yet deeply immersive Wisconsin camping adventure.

• 14 campsites available, including 10 electric sites and 4 non-electric sites.
• Electric sites are available at $25.00/night, with Electric & Water sites at $30.00/night (new in 2024 for some sites).
• Non-electric sites are available at $20.00/night.
• All campsites are spacious and include fire rings, picnic tables, and benches.
• Newer vault toilets are available for campers.
• Drinking water is accessible within the park.
• A public boat launch with an easy tie-out system is available, allowing campers to leave their boats in the water.
• Firewood is available for purchase at $5.00/armload.
• Publicly owned and operated by Douglas County Forestry.
• Pets are welcome (inquire for specific policies).
• The campground runs seasonally, typically from two Fridays before Memorial Day to one week after Labor Day. An "Extended Season" may be available until October 31st, weather and staffing dependent, with full services.
• An "Off-Season" is offered at Gordon Dam (another Douglas County campground), but not generally at Mooney Dam, except possibly until snow conditions make roads inaccessible, on a first-come, first-served basis with limited services.
• Wi-Fi access is available for $3 per day or $10 per week for unlimited connectivity.

• Expansive Lakeside Sites: A consistent highlight from visitors is the sheer size and openness of the campsites. They are described as "huge and wide open," offering plenty of space for setting up camp and enjoying privacy, even with other campers nearby. Many sites boast "beautiful views on the water," providing a serene and picturesque backdrop to your stay on Lower Eau Claire Lake.
• Excellent Water Access and Activities: With its location directly on Lower Eau Claire Lake, Mooney Dam County Park offers unparalleled access for water-based fun. There's a "pretty nice boat ramp and dock next to the dam," with easy tie-outs for leaving boats in the water. This makes it a dream for boaters, kayakers, canoeists, and paddleboarders. The lake is known for "excellent fishing opportunities," with reports of various fish, including potential trophy muskies, making it a prime spot for anglers.
• New Family-Friendly Playground: A significant recent improvement is the addition of a "new playground by the camping and bathroom area." This is a fantastic amenity for families, providing a dedicated space for children to play and socialize, greatly enhancing the overall experience for those camping with kids or grandkids. It adds a layer of modern family entertainment to the natural setting.
• Scenic River and Dam Views: The park offers unique scenic views beyond just the lake. There are "stairs on each side of the dam so you can get a better look at the beautiful flowing water from below." This provides a captivating natural spectacle and another area for exploration and relaxation, with benches available to sit and enjoy "the beautiful sounds and many beautiful views of nature."
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Visitors frequently report seeing diverse wildlife, including "a few different birds you don't normally see in your back yard and seen quite a few fish of different sizes jumping around." The natural setting provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching and observing local fauna, enhancing the outdoor experience.
• Rustic Charm with Modern Touches: While offering a largely natural experience, the campground provides convenient amenities. Most sites have water and electric hookups (new drop pots for water and electric are noted), along with fire rings and picnic tables. The newer vault toilets also contribute to a comfortable stay, blending rustic appeal with essential modern comforts.

Mooney Dam County Park & Campground, as a facility operated by Douglas County, Wisconsin, adheres to a standardized fee structure rather than offering commercial "promotions" in the traditional sense. The rates are designed to be affordable and support the maintenance and operation of the park for public enjoyment. However, the value provided for the rates can be considered a strong ongoing "offer" for Wisconsin locals.

The current camping rates are as follows:

• Electric & Water sites: $30.00/night
• Electric sites: $25.00/night
• Non-electric sites: $20.00/night
• Firewood: $5.00/armload
• Groups of more than 5 people: An additional $2.00/person per night applies.

Reservations can be made online starting February 1st each year. It is highly recommended to book in advance, especially for popular times like summer weekends and holidays, as sites are available until fully booked. For off-season dates (if offered, which at Mooney Dam is typically only extended season and not the full off-season like Gordon Dam), sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis without advanced reservations.

Additionally, for those who wish to stay connected, Wi-Fi access is available for a fee of $3 per day or $10 per week, which can be seen as a convenient amenity not always offered at county parks.

The transparent and reasonable pricing, combined with the excellent amenities and natural beauty of the park, provides consistent value for Wisconsin residents looking for a high-quality camping experience.

Address: 14293 Fowler's Cir, Gordon, WI 54838, USA

Phone: (715) 378-2027 (This appears to be the primary number for questions regarding reservations and changes).

For general information about Mooney Dam County Park, you may also reach the Douglas County Forestry Department, which oversees the park, at: (715) 378-2219.

Email: Forestry@douglascountywi.org

For online reservations, cancellations, and changes, all updates must be made online by the customer through the customer portal of the specific campground. This is the primary method for managing your booking. You can typically find the reservation portal via the Douglas County, WI official website under their "Campgrounds" section or by searching for "Mooney Dam County Park reservations online."

Mooney Dam County Park & Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination for Wisconsin locals, offering a compelling blend of natural beauty, convenient amenities, and a family-friendly atmosphere that makes it a true gem in our state's outdoor recreation landscape. Its appeal to residents is multifaceted, aligning perfectly with the diverse desires of Wisconsin campers.

Firstly, its location on Lower Eau Claire Lake, easily accessible from various parts of Wisconsin, makes it a prime choice for both spontaneous weekend getaways and more extended vacations. The reasonable driving distance means less time traveling and more time enjoying the picturesque setting, a significant advantage for families looking to maximize their outdoor experience without a lengthy journey.

Secondly, the campground's features cater directly to comfort and enjoyment. The "huge and wide open sites" provide ample space and a sense of privacy, allowing campers to truly relax and spread out, whether in a tent or an RV. The availability of electric and water hookups on most sites offers modern convenience, making it ideal for RV owners or those who appreciate the ease of powering their devices. The recent addition of a "new playground" underscores its commitment to being a "great addition" for "grandkids and their friends," cementing its status as a top choice for family camping.

Moreover, Mooney Dam County Park offers an abundance of activities right at your doorstep. With excellent lake and river access, a convenient boat ramp, and opportunities for "all sorts of water fun," it's a paradise for boaters, paddlers, and especially anglers, with Lower Eau Claire Lake known for its fishing. The picturesque dam area provides scenic views and a tranquil spot for nature observation, a true highlight for those seeking peace and natural beauty. The positive reviews from real customers consistently emphasize the beauty, spaciousness, and the enjoyment derived from both the campsites and the surrounding natural environment.

In essence, Mooney Dam County Park & Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a comprehensive outdoor experience that resonates with the core values of Wisconsin's outdoor enthusiasts. It provides a comfortable, active, and beautiful setting for creating lasting memories, making it an ideal and highly recommended destination for any local looking for their next great Wisconsin adventure.