🌤 Weather at Merrick State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24–69 °F | 59–83 °F | 28–71 °F | 8–28 °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 Minnesota City Dam 5, 3 mi away, elevation 670 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Located on the mighty Mississippi River north of Fountain City, Merrick State Park is an angler’s paradise and a haven for water lovers. Known for its intricate maze of backwaters, islands, and sloughs, the park offers a peaceful riverside experience where the boundary between land and water blurs. It’s the perfect spot to launch a boat, cast a line, or simply watch the great river roll by.
Mississippi Access
Direct access to the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge for endless boating and exploration.
Island Camping
Experience unique island campsites that allow you to moor your boat right at your “front door.”
Prime Fishing
A hotspot for walleye, panfish, and northern pike, known locally for its productive backwater lagoons.
Life on the River
Merrick State Park is defined by the Mississippi. The park’s geography is low and lush, consisting of floodplain forests that teem with wildlife. Egrets, herons, and bald eagles are common sights, making it a fantastic destination for birdwatchers. The quiet backwaters are ideal for canoeing and kayaking, allowing paddlers to drift silently through nature’s wetland corridors.
Wildlife Watch
Keep your eyes peeled for river otters playing in the sloughs and muskrats building their lodges along the banks. The spring and fall migrations bring thousands of waterfowl to the area.
Camping and Family Fun
The park is family-friendly, offering two campgrounds with a mix of electric and non-electric sites. The Island Campground is particularly special, offering waterfront sites that are highly sought after. A nature center offers educational programs during the summer, and the park’s miles of hiking trails provide easy, level walks suitable for all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent a canoe or kayak?
Yes, canoe and kayak rentals are typically available at the park office during the summer camping season.
Is fishing allowed from the shore?
Absolutely. There are many accessible spots along the riverbanks and sloughs for shore fishing.
Are pests a problem?
Being in a river floodplain, mosquitoes can be prevalent in mid-summer. Bringing insect repellent is highly recommended.
Explore More Wisconsin State Parks
Merrick State Park 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.
Nearby state parks: If you have extra time, Perrot State Park is within about an hour’s drive, and Great River State Trail is within about an hour’s drive.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Merrick State Park
- 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 Merrick State Park?
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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