🌤 Weather at Black River State Forest by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20–68 °F | 54–80 °F | 24–71 °F | 5–29 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Neillsville 3ESE, 17 mi away, elevation 1,080 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
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.
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.
Wildlife & Nature
Black River SF — in Jackson County, Wisconsin — provides recreation in the driftless area’s pine and oak barrens. The forest’s sandstone mounds, wetlands, and pine plantations support black bears, bobcats, and wild turkeys. Karner blue butterflies (federally endangered) inhabit the lupine meadows. Timber rattlesnakes sun on the sandstone.
Nearby Attractions
Black River Falls — adjacent. Castle Mound — within the forest — is the highest point in Jackson County. La Crosse — 40 miles south.
More parks in Wisconsin: Mill Bluff State Park and Great River State Trail. See the full Wisconsin state parks guide.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Black River State Forest
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are welcome in most Wisconsin state park campgrounds, trails, roads and outlying areas, but must be leashed and under control at all times.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- 8 ft maximum physical leash required at all times (except in designated pet swim areas while the pet is in the water)
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not allowed on public beaches, but over 30 properties (e.g. Devil's Lake, Governor Dodge, Point Beach) have designated pet swim areas
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are not allowed in buildings, picnic shelters or other structures unless specifically signed as open to pets
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Pets prohibited entirely at Copper Culture, Heritage Hill and Hoffman Hills State Recreation Areas; designated pet picnic areas exist at many properties
Are dogs allowed at Black River State Forest?
Pets are welcome in most Wisconsin state park campgrounds, trails, roads and outlying areas, but must be leashed and under control at all times. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via dnr.wisconsin.gov. More: Wisconsin state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
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