Black River Falls State Forest
🦌 68,000 Acres of Wild Wisconsin — Elk Sightings, ATV Trails, Castle Mound Tower, and 3 Campgrounds — A 68,000-acre Wisconsin state forest with 33 miles of ATV/UTV trails, Castle Mound lookout tower, reintroduced elk herd, 3 campgrounds (97 total sites), swimming beach, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and deer/turkey hunting — Jackson County, central Wisconsin
Black River State Forest is one of Wisconsin’s largest public lands at 68,000 acres — a working forest that doubles as a four-season recreation destination. The big draws: 33 miles of ATV/UTV trails connecting to a regional network, elk reintroduced in 2015 after 125 years of absence, a scenic Castle Mound lookout tower, and three campgrounds ranging from modern to rustic.
In winter, the forest transforms into a snowmobile and cross-country ski playground with groomed trails. In fall, it’s one of Wisconsin’s premier deer hunting destinations. Year-round, you might just spot an elk — one of only a few places in the Midwest where they roam free.
Campgrounds
| Campground | Sites | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Castle Mound | 35 sites | Modern, year-round, electric, showers, lookout tower trail |
| Pigeon Creek | 38 sites | Rustic, year-round, swim beach, canoe launch, bike trails |
| East Fork | 24 sites | Rustic, seasonal (Apr–Oct), canoe access to Black River |
What to Do
| Activity | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ATV/UTV Trails | 33 miles | Connects to county network |
| Castle Mound Tower | Scenic lookout | Trail from Castle Mound CG |
| Elk Viewing | Reintroduced 2015 | Dawn/dusk best, drive-through areas |
| Hunting | Deer, turkey, small game | WI license required |
| Cross-Country Skiing | Groomed trails | When conditions allow |
| Snowmobiling | Forest trails | Winter plowed camping at some sites |
| Canoeing | East Fork Black River | Launch from East Fork CG |
| Swimming | Pigeon Creek beach | Seasonal |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Weather | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | 35–65°F | Hunting, elk bugling, foliage, ATV |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 60–85°F | ATV trails, swimming, canoeing |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | 5–30°F | Snowmobiling, XC skiing, winter camping |
| Spring (Mar–May) | 30–60°F | Turkey hunting, wildflowers, muddy trails |
💰 Trip Cost Estimator
| Expense | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Modern Campsite | $20–$30/night | Castle Mound, electric |
| Rustic Campsite | $15–$20/night | Pigeon Creek, East Fork |
| ATV Trail Pass | $30/year | WI ATV registration required |
| Vehicle Sticker | $8/day or $28/year | WI state forest admission |
| Weekend ATV Trip | $58–$88 | 2 nights + ATV trails + elk viewing + tower hike |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I really see elk here?
Yes — elk were reintroduced in 2015 after 125 years. The herd is growing and sightings are increasingly common. Dawn and dusk along forest roads offer the best chances.
Are ATV trails beginner-friendly?
The forest has 33 miles of trails ranging from easy to moderate. They connect to a larger Jackson/Clark County network for experienced riders wanting longer loops.
Can I camp year-round?
Castle Mound and Pigeon Creek are open year-round. East Fork is seasonal (April–October). Winter camping is available but check if sites are plowed — this depends on conditions and staffing.
🦌 68,000 Acres of Wild Wisconsin
ATV trails, reintroduced elk, Castle Mound lookout, 3 campgrounds, canoeing, snowmobiling, and deer hunting — Wisconsin’s four-season state forest.
Wildlife & Nature
Black River Falls SF — 68,000 acres of pine and oak forest. The forest’s rivers, wetlands, and pine barrens support black bears, timber wolves, and bald eagles. The Black River provides excellent kayaking and canoeing.
Nearby Attractions
Black River Falls — adjacent. Ho-Chunk Nation — tribal headquarters nearby. Castle Mound — a prominent sandstone butte — nearby.
Park Location
Top Tours & Activities Near Wisconsin Dells
from $20
from $25
from $50