Castle Mound Campground

Nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of the Black River State Forest, Castle Mound Campground in Black River Falls, WI, stands as a welcoming beacon for campers seeking an authentic Wisconsin outdoor experience. This popular campground offers a blend of rustic charm and essential amenities, making it a fantastic choice for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike. Known for its majestic pine trees and the prominent Castle Mound formation that gives the campground its name, this destination provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Castle Mound Campground serves as a recreational hub within the Black River State Forest, providing convenient access to a variety of outdoor activities right from your campsite. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature through hiking, explore scenic trails, or simply unwind by a crackling campfire under the stars, this campground is designed to facilitate a memorable experience. It caters to both tent campers and RV enthusiasts, with a range of site types to suit different preferences. As part of a state forest system, it offers a well-maintained environment that showcases the natural beauty of west-central Wisconsin.

Castle Mound Campground boasts an excellent and easily accessible location at W10325 US-12, Black River Falls, WI 54615, USA. Situated just off US-12, it is incredibly convenient for travelers coming from various parts of Wisconsin and beyond. The campground is part of the larger Black River State Forest, placing it squarely in an area renowned for its natural beauty and extensive recreational opportunities.

For those traveling on Interstate 94, Castle Mound Campground is a straightforward drive. From I-94, take Exit 116 for Black River Falls. Travel west on Highway 54 into Black River Falls, then turn left (south) onto Highway 12/27. A final left turn (east) onto Highway 12 will lead you directly to the campground, which is approximately one mile down the road. This well-marked route makes it easy to find, even for those who might be navigating without a GPS signal or for those who, like one reviewer, prefer to "do it old school." Its strategic position means it's about an hour's drive from larger cities like La Crosse and Eau Claire, making it a perfect weekend getaway for many Wisconsin residents. The campground's entrance is clearly visible from the highway, ensuring a smooth arrival.

• Campsites for Tents and RVs: Castle Mound Campground offers a total of 35 camp units, accommodating both tent campers and RVs. Many sites provide ample room for multiple tents and hammocks.

• Electric Hookups: Out of the 35 sites, 14 are equipped with electric hookups (30-amp), providing convenience for RVs and campers needing power. There is also one electric ADA-designated site for accessibility.

• Shower Building: A modern and accessible shower building is available, offering clean and hot showers, a highly appreciated amenity, especially after a day of hiking.

• Flush and Vault Toilets: The campground provides both accessible flush toilet buildings and well-maintained vault toilets throughout the site, ensuring restroom facilities are readily available.

• Sanitary Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is located near the campground entrance, available for RVs from May to October, facilitating waste disposal.

• Potable Water: Drinking water is available by the showers and at various points within the campground, ensuring campers have access to fresh water (seasonal availability, typically May-Oct).

• Firewood Sales: Firewood can be purchased directly on-site, making it convenient for campers to enjoy traditional campfires in the provided metal fire rings. Note: Firewood must be purchased within 10 miles of the campground or be DATCP-certified to prevent the spread of invasive species.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a metal fire ring for cooking and campfires.

• Garbage and Recycling Station: Facilities for garbage and recycling are available for registered campers, promoting cleanliness and environmental responsibility.

• Indoor Picnic Shelter: An indoor picnic shelter provides a communal space, particularly useful during inclement weather.

• Year-Round Camping: Select sites at Castle Mound Campground are plowed during winter, offering opportunities for winter camping when conditions and staffing allow.

• Castle Mound Formation: The campground is named after the impressive Castle Mound, a prominent natural feature that offers a "must-see" view from its summit. A dedicated nature trail leads to an observation point, providing stunning panoramic vistas of the surrounding Black River State Forest.

• Extensive Trail System: Directly from the campground, campers have access to a 1.5-mile nature trail and a 1.5-mile cross-country skiing/hiking trail. These trails are scenic, featuring cool rock formations and towering pine trees, perfect for a refreshing walk or a more vigorous hike. Additional trails within the Black River State Forest are easily accessible.

• Pine Forest Environment: The campground is beautifully nestled among towering pine trees, providing ample shade, a pleasant aroma, and a true sense of being immersed in nature. This dense foliage contributes to the quiet and well-kept atmosphere often noted by visitors.

• Clean Facilities: Visitors frequently highlight the cleanliness of the shower facilities and the well-maintained nature of the vault toilets and main restroom areas, which significantly enhances the camping experience.

• Spacious Sites: Campsites are generally spacious, offering plenty of room for tents, RVs, and outdoor gear. Many are pull-through, making it easy for larger vehicles to maneuver.

• Proximity to Local Attractions: The campground is conveniently close to Black River Falls downtown, offering access to local amenities like grocery stores, fuel, and restaurants. Lake Wazee Recreation Area, popular for diving and other water activities, is also a short drive away.

• Wildlife Sightings: While not explicitly mentioned in reviews, being within a state forest means opportunities for wildlife viewing, from various bird species to deer and other forest inhabitants, are always present.

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With a playground for children (though not explicitly mentioned in reviews provided, general DNR info suggests it), and ample space, the campground is well-suited for families.

Castle Mound Campground is an integral part of the Black River State Forest and is managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Address: W10325 US-12, Black River Falls, WI 54615, USA

For direct inquiries about the campground or the Black River State Forest, you can reach out to the Forest Headquarters:

Phone: (715) 284-4103

For making reservations, which are highly recommended and often required, especially during peak seasons, you can use the statewide reservation system:

Reservations Phone: 1-888-947-2757

Reservations can typically be made up to 11 months in advance and are essential before setting up on any site. It's also advisable to check the Wisconsin DNR's official website for the Black River State Forest for the most current information regarding camping rates, vehicle admission sticker requirements, seasonal updates on water facilities, and any specific rules or advisories.

For residents of Wisconsin, Castle Mound Campground represents an accessible, well-equipped, and quintessentially "Wisconsin" outdoor escape right in their backyard. Its location in Black River Falls, within the expansive Black River State Forest, makes it an ideal destination for various reasons that resonate deeply with local outdoor enthusiasts.

Firstly, the convenience of its location is paramount. Easily reachable from major population centers across the state via I-94 and US-12, it minimizes travel time and maximizes precious leisure hours. This means locals can enjoy a genuine camping experience without the need for extensive road trips, making weekend getaways or even midweek escapes highly feasible. For those who appreciate the efficiency of booking, the modern online and phone reservation systems cater to both the "old school" approach and smartphone-savvy campers.

Secondly, the campground offers a diverse range of amenities that cater to different camping styles, a significant draw for local families and groups. The availability of both electric and non-electric sites, coupled with clean shower facilities and flush toilets, provides a level of comfort that appeals to those who enjoy a few modern conveniences even while roughing it. This balance is crucial for families with younger children or those who prefer a more comfortable camping experience after a day of adventure. The well-maintained sites, complete with picnic tables and fire rings, offer everything needed for traditional camp enjoyment.

Moreover, the natural features and recreational opportunities at Castle Mound Campground are a huge draw. The iconic Castle Mound itself, with its rewarding views after a hike, provides a unique local landmark to explore. The extensive network of hiking and cross-country skiing trails directly accessible from the campground means that outdoor activities are literally at your doorstep. For Wisconsinites who embrace the changing seasons, the year-round camping options, including plowed sites in winter, mean that the beauty of the Black River State Forest can be enjoyed even when snow blankets the ground.

While some reviewers mention the challenge of mosquitoes, this is often a reality of enjoying Wisconsin's beautiful, lush natural environments. Locals are often prepared for such encounters, armed with their preferred repellents, or simply accepting it as part of the authentic outdoor experience. The trade-off for these "pesky bugs" is the immersive beauty of the pine forest, the tranquility, and the abundant opportunities for wildlife viewing that truly connect campers with the state's natural heritage.

In essence, Castle Mound Campground offers Wisconsin locals a perfect blend of accessibility, comfort, and genuine outdoor adventure. It’s a place where families can create traditions, friends can gather, and individuals can reconnect with nature, all within the cherished landscapes of their own state.