Black River State Forest
Black River State Forest is a public state park in Wisconsin near Black River Falls. Established in 1957, the park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | Wisconsin |
| Nearest City | Black River Falls |
| Established | 1957 |
| Google Rating | ⭐ 4.5/5 (400 reviews) |
Location & Getting There
Black River State Forest is located near Black River Falls, Wisconsin. The park’s coordinates are 44.3333, -90.7333.
Things to Do
Wisconsin state parks highlight the natural beauty of the upper Midwest — from Great Lakes shorelines and dramatic river bluffs to deep Northwoods forests and glacial landscapes. Popular activities include swimming and sunbathing at pristine Lake Michigan and inland lake beaches, hiking the Ice Age Trail that crosses several parks, fishing for musky, walleye, and bass, camping in quiet pine forests, kayaking the sea caves of the Great Lakes, mountain biking on extensive specialized trail systems, and exploring dramatic limestone cliffs. In winter, Wisconsin parks transform into major hubs for snowmobiling, ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June–August) is the undisputed peak season for Wisconsin parks, offering the best weather for lake swimming and camping, though popular parks like Devil’s Lake get heavily crowded. Fall (September–October) is spectacular, especially in the northern parks where foliage peaks in late September, offering crisp hiking weather and fewer bugs. Winter (December–March) provides excellent snow cover for Nordic skiing and snowmobiling, particularly in the northern half of the state. Spring (April–May) can be wet and muddy but offers great fishing and quiet trails.
Visitor Tips
A vehicle admission sticker is required at most Wisconsin state parks ($28/year for residents, $38 for non-residents). Annual passes are highly recommended if visiting multiple parks. Camping reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance through the Wisconsin DNR system. Devil’s Lake and Peninsula State Parks are the most visited and their campgrounds often book out entirely for summer weekends by January. Be aware that ticks are prevalent from spring through fall — use insect repellent and check yourself after hiking in grassy or wooded areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a Wisconsin state parks vehicle sticker?
An annual vehicle admission sticker costs $28 for residents and $38 for non-residents. A daily pass costs $8 for residents and $11 for non-residents. The sticker is required at all state parks and forests.
What are the best state parks in Wisconsin?
Top parks include Devil’s Lake (bluff trails and swimming), Peninsula (Door County charm), Governor Dodge (lakes and trails), Wildcat Mountain (Kickapoo Valley views), and Mirror Lake (sandstone formations).
Can I camp at Devil's Lake State Park?
Yes, Devil’s Lake offers multiple campgrounds with over 400 sites. It is the most visited state park in Wisconsin and campgrounds fill very quickly for summer weekends. Reserve as early as possible through the WI DNR.
Are there waterfalls at Wisconsin state parks?
Yes, several Wisconsin parks feature waterfalls including Amnicon Falls, Copper Falls, Pattison (Big Manitou Falls — tallest in WI at 165 feet), and Interstate. Most are in the northern part of the state.
Explore More Wisconsin State Parks
Black River State Forest is one of many outstanding state parks in Wisconsin. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Wisconsin guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
