Side 1 Lake of the Falls Campground

For decades, Lake of the Falls Campground/County Park in Mercer, WI, has been a cherished destination for Wisconsin campers, and Side 1 is a testament to its enduring appeal. As one of the three distinct camping areas within this popular county park, Side 1 has consistently drawn visitors who appreciate its blend of essential amenities and direct access to the region's stunning natural beauty. Many locals consider it a personal tradition, with some families having camped here for over 30 years! This long-standing loyalty speaks volumes about the quality of the experience offered, even as the park has evolved with the times, including a new reservation policy to manage its growing popularity. If you're a Wisconsin resident looking for a comfortable yet authentic camping experience that has stood the test of time, Side 1 Lake of the Falls Campground invites you to become part of its storied history.

For us in Wisconsin, finding a campground that feels like home, year after year, is incredibly valuable. Lake of the Falls, particularly Side 1, has cultivated that feeling for generations. It represents the quintessential Wisconsin outdoor getaway – a place where you can return to familiar comforts, reconnect with nature, and create new memories. The fact that it's now often difficult to get a reservation simply underscores its immense popularity and the cherished experiences it offers to those lucky enough to secure a spot. It's a true reflection of the enduring appeal of our state's Northwoods.

Side 1 Lake of the Falls Campground is prominently located at 4720 County Park Rd, Mercer, WI 54547, USA. This address directs you to a key section of the larger Lake of the Falls County Park, situated in the heart of Mercer, a town renowned as the "Loon Capital of the World." The park itself is nestled on the picturesque Turtle River, positioned strategically between Lake of the Falls and the vast Turtle-Flambeau Flowage – a true angler's paradise.

Getting to Side 1 is straightforward for Wisconsin residents. From U.S. 51 just north of Mercer, you can take County Road FF about five miles west, then turn left onto County Park Road or Popko Circle West. The accessibility extends beyond conventional roads, with ATV access to the campground available via a road route off of Trail 17 to Rice Lake Road, connecting to Popko Circle East and Popko Circle West. This 12.5-mile blacktop road makes it convenient for those who wish to incorporate ATV adventures into their camping trip.

Side 1 is distinguished by its more open layout, surrounded by trees, and serves as a central hub within the county park. Its address at 4720 County Park Rd signifies its role as a key access point. While Side 1 offers its own specific amenities, it also provides convenient proximity to other sections of the park, including Side 2 (the quieter, non-electric lakeside area) and Side 3 (the most popular section with flush toilets, showers, and a dump station). This allows campers at Side 1 to enjoy a balance of dedicated facilities and easy reach to additional conveniences within the broader Lake of the Falls County Park. Its location truly maximizes opportunities for fishing, boating, and immersing oneself in the stunning Northwoods landscape, all while remaining accessible from various parts of Wisconsin.

Side 1 Lake of the Falls Campground, a key part of the comprehensive Lake of the Falls County Park, offers a selection of essential services designed to provide a comfortable and functional camping experience, especially for those with RVs or needing power. These services typically include:

• Electrical Campsites: Side 1 features multiple electric sites, providing 20/30 Amp service (and potentially 50 Amp service on some sites within the broader park system). This is a significant convenience for RVs and campers relying on power.
• Pit Toilets: Clean and regularly maintained pit toilets are available within Side 1 for camper use.
• Potable Water: Access to water is provided, typically via a central hand pump or spigots, allowing campers to fill water containers.
• Boat Ramp: A dedicated boat ramp is available in Side 1, offering direct access to the Turtle River and Lake of the Falls, which flows into the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage. This is a major draw for anglers and boaters.
• Pavilion: Side 1 hosts a pavilion, which can often be rented for group gatherings, providing a sheltered common area.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, essential for outdoor cooking and enjoying traditional campfires.
• Parking for Trucks & Trailers: Ample parking is available for vehicles, including those with boat trailers, catering to the needs of fishing and boating enthusiasts.
• Viewing Platform: A viewing platform is present in this area, offering scenic vantage points of the lake and falls.
• Access to Other Park Amenities: While Side 1 has its own facilities, campers also have access to amenities located in other sections of Lake of the Falls County Park, such as flush toilets, coin-operated showers, and a dump station, which are typically found in Side 3.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally welcome, provided they are kept on a leash and campers adhere to park rules regarding pet waste.
• On-site Caretaker Access: During the operational season (approximately May 1 to October 15), a park caretaker is typically available for assistance, reachable via the park's main phone number.

• Long-Standing Favorite: The most significant highlight, confirmed by reviews, is its status as "one of our favorite places in Wisconsin" for over 30 years, indicating a deeply cherished and consistently positive camping experience for repeat visitors.
• Electrical Campsites: A major convenience, Side 1 offers electric hookups, making it suitable for RVs and campers who prefer or require power for their stay. This allows for a more comfortable and extended camping trip.
• Direct Water Access with Boat Ramp: With a dedicated boat ramp, Side 1 provides immediate and easy access to Lake of the Falls and the Turtle River, which flows into the famous Turtle-Flambeau Flowage. This is perfect for fishing, boating, and paddling enthusiasts.
• Proximity to Waterfall Views: While not all sites may have direct waterfall views like some in Side 3 or Side 2, Side 1's location within the larger county park means campers are just a short distance from the stunning 10-foot waterfall.
• Community and Social Hub: The presence of a pavilion suggests that Side 1 can also serve as a gathering point for families and groups, fostering a sense of community within the campground.
• Essential Amenities: The provision of pit toilets, potable water, picnic tables, and fire rings ensures a comfortable and authentic camping experience without being overly primitive.
• Spacious and Open Area: Side 1 is described as a "more open area surrounded by trees," which can appeal to campers who prefer a less dense, more spacious layout for their campsite.
• Popularity and Demand: While this can mean it's "hard to get into," the high demand for sites at Lake of the Falls (including Side 1) is a testament to its quality and desirability among Wisconsin campers.
• Access to Broader Park Amenities: Campers in Side 1 benefit from being part of the larger Lake of the Falls County Park system, meaning amenities like flush toilets, coin-operated showers, and a dump station (found in Side 3) are within easy reach.

As a public county park campground managed by Iron County Forestry and Parks, Side 1 Lake of the Falls Campground primarily offers value through its established, competitive daily and weekly rates rather than frequent special promotions. Its long-standing popularity, evident from decades of repeat visitors, is its strongest "offer" – a reliable, high-quality Wisconsin camping experience. The current operational model emphasizes a reservation policy, opening on January 1st for the current year's bookings, indicating high demand. While specific discounts for extended stays or off-season deals are not typically advertised, the fundamental advantage of camping at Side 1 is the consistent access to excellent amenities, beautiful natural surroundings, and a well-managed environment at a county park price point. Prospective campers are encouraged to contact Iron County Forestry and Parks directly to inquire about current rates and make reservations well in advance due to its popularity, especially for those looking to secure a spot for an extended period.

For reservations, inquiries about site availability, current rates, or any other questions regarding Side 1 Lake of the Falls Campground, you can reach out to the Iron County Forestry and Parks Department. Here is the primary contact information:

Address: 4720 County Park Rd, Mercer, WI 54547, USA

Phone: (715) 329-0826

Mobile Phone: +1 715-329-0826

During the operational season (approximately May 1 to October 15), a park caretaker can be reached at the same phone number for on-site assistance. Due to the campground's rising popularity and the shift to a reservation system, calling ahead or checking the Iron County Forestry and Parks official website for booking information is highly recommended to secure your preferred dates and site.

For Wisconsin locals, Side 1 Lake of the Falls Campground is more than just a place to set up camp; it's a cherished tradition and an ideal gateway to the Northwoods experience. Its suitability for residents is deeply rooted in its consistent quality, convenient amenities, and prime location within our beloved state.

The decades-long loyalty expressed by campers highlights its reliability and the comfort it provides. For those of us in Wisconsin, finding a familiar, well-maintained spot that delivers a consistently enjoyable experience is invaluable. Side 1 offers the perfect blend of rustic charm with essential comforts like electricity at each site, making it accessible and appealing to a wide range of campers, from those with RVs to tent campers who appreciate a bit of power.

Its location on the Turtle River, between Lake of the Falls and the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage, positions it as a dream destination for anglers and water enthusiasts. For many Wisconsinites, summer means fishing, boating, and enjoying our abundant waterways, and Side 1 provides direct, easy access to some of the best. The boat ramp and ample trailer parking are testaments to its commitment to supporting these popular local pastimes.

While the new reservation system might require a bit more planning than the old "first-come, first-served" days, it also speaks to the park's immense popularity and the value it offers. Locals appreciate a well-managed park that ensures a spot for their highly anticipated getaways. Even with the pit toilets on-site, the proximity to flush toilets and showers in Side 3 means campers can still enjoy a comfortable level of amenities, striking that perfect balance many Wisconsin outdoor enthusiasts seek.

In essence, Side 1 Lake of the Falls Campground offers a time-tested, reliable, and scenic camping experience that truly resonates with the Wisconsin spirit of outdoor adventure and community. It's a place where generations have made memories, and it continues to be a top choice for those of us who call this beautiful state home.