Harstad County Park

Hello, fellow Wisconsinites! Are you yearning for a genuine escape to nature, a place where the sounds of the river replace city clamor and the stars shine bright over peaceful campsites? Look no further than Harstad County Park, a charming rustic campground nestled in Augusta, WI. This isn't your average bustling resort; it's a serene, well-maintained haven designed for those who appreciate simplicity, tranquility, and direct access to the beauty of the Eau Claire River. Harstad County Park offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and peaceful relaxation, making it an ideal spot for individuals, families, and groups looking to truly unwind in Wisconsin’s picturesque landscape.

This article is crafted with you, the local Wisconsin explorer, in mind. Our goal is to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Harstad County Park. We'll explore its convenient location and accessibility, detail the essential services and amenities available (including recent updates), and highlight the key features that make it a standout choice for an authentic camping experience. We aim to equip you with all the necessary information to plan a refreshing and memorable visit to this gem in Eau Claire County, allowing you to fully appreciate what makes it so suitable for locals.

Harstad County Park distinguishes itself through its dedication to providing a "rustic campground" experience, emphasized by its 27 primitive campsites surrounded by trees and brush. This focus on simplicity ensures a "very peaceful" atmosphere, allowing visitors to genuinely "unwind and enjoy the great outdoors without the distractions of modern amenities." While it embraces a more natural setting, it doesn't skimp on thoughtful touches. The presence of a "brand new pavilion" and "playground equipment" signifies recent improvements that enhance visitor comfort and appeal, particularly for families.

A major highlight is the park's direct access to the Eau Claire River, making it "a fantastic spot for canoeing and kayaking." The river also offers "a swimming area and an area that you can fish," broadening its appeal for various water-based activities. The self-registration system, noted by visitors, adds to the laid-back vibe, allowing for spontaneous trips without the need for advance booking. For Wisconsinites who appreciate a quiet, natural setting with convenient river access and updated family amenities, Harstad County Park offers a compelling invitation to disconnect and recharge amidst the state's beautiful scenery.

Join us as we dive deeper into the specifics of Harstad County Park, helping you discover why it might just be the perfect spot for your next Wisconsin camping and outdoor adventure.

Harstad County Park is located at S6455 Co Rd HHH, Augusta, WI 54722, USA. This address places it squarely in Eau Claire County, within the west-central region of Wisconsin. Augusta is a smaller community, ensuring that the park offers a peaceful, rural setting away from the bustle of larger cities. The park is situated between the cities of Fall Creek and Augusta, indicating its convenient location within the county's park system.

A key aspect of Harstad County Park's location is its direct frontage on the Eau Claire River. This provides excellent "canoe landing" and "river access," making it an ideal spot for paddling and fishing enthusiasts. The surrounding area is characterized by lush woodlands and the natural beauty typical of Wisconsin's riverine landscapes. Reviews mention "the campground road is not paved," which contributes to its rustic charm and confirms its natural setting, though it is generally accessible for standard vehicles.

Accessibility to Harstad County Park is relatively straightforward. While the campground road itself may be unpaved, County Road HHH connects to the main road network, allowing for easy access from nearby towns like Augusta and Fall Creek, and larger hubs like Eau Claire (approximately 27 minutes away). This makes it a practical destination for Wisconsin locals seeking a genuine outdoor experience without venturing too far off the beaten path. The drive to the park will likely offer scenic views of Wisconsin's countryside, setting the tone for a relaxing and immersive natural experience.

Harstad County Park, managed by the Eau Claire County Parks & Forest Department, provides essential services and amenities designed for a rustic yet comfortable camping experience, with a focus on self-sufficiency and natural enjoyment:

• Campsites: The park features 27 "nice spacious campsites." These are primarily "primitive campsites," with some offering "electrical" hookups (10 sites have 50/30/20 amp service). There are also "handicap access" sites, indicating inclusivity. These sites are described as "mostly separated by trees and brush," providing a sense of privacy. Non-electric sites are $20/night ($120/week), and electric sites are $25/night ($150/week).

• Self-Registration: The campground operates on a "self registration" system, meaning visitors can check in without prior booking, offering flexibility for spontaneous trips. Fees are paid at the park.

• Water Access: Potable water is available via a "hand pump," which visitors have noted as providing "very good" water. This reinforces the rustic nature of the park.

• Restroom Facilities: The park provides "pit toilets" and "rustic flush toilets." While one review mentioned an "outhouse was closed due to covid" at some point, indicating reliance on pit toilets, the presence of various options for restrooms is noted. Reviews also state "bathrooms are kept clean by rangers who come by daily."

• Firewood Sales: "Wood was for sale" on-site, with self-service firewood available for $7.00/bundle, a convenient service for campers.

• Picnic Areas: The park includes a "picnic area with grills" and "picnic tables" for day-use visitors and campers.

• Pavilion: A "brand new pavilion" was completed in 2023. This "timber framed park pavilion" provides "outstanding views of the mouth of Bridge Creek and the Eau Claire River" and is available for reservations ($80/reservation), including vehicle entrance passes for guests.

• Playground Equipment: Modern "playground equipment" (new in 2022) is available, making the park very appealing for families with children.

• River Access: A crucial service is the "canoe landing" for easy access to the Eau Claire River, facilitating paddling and fishing activities.

• Sports Facilities: The park also includes a "ball diamond," "horseshoe pits" (shoes not provided), and a "volleyball court."

Harstad County Park is rich with features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for a variety of outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those seeking a peaceful and authentic Wisconsin camping experience:

• Direct Eau Claire River Access: A major highlight is its direct access to the Eau Claire River. This offers fantastic opportunities for "fishing the river," "canoeing," and "kayaking." The river is known for its beautiful scenery, including sandbars and sand hills, making it ideal for paddling adventures. There's also a "swimming area" along the river with "natural sand bars and deeper pools suitable for splashing and tubing."

• Rustic and Peaceful Atmosphere: The park provides a truly "rustic campground" experience with a "very peaceful" and "quiet" environment. Its unpaved roads and "spacious campsites" (27 total, described as "large rustic sites") separated by natural brush enhance the feeling of being immersed in nature, allowing for genuine relaxation.

• New and Improved Facilities: The "brand new pavilion" (completed in 2023) and new "playground equipment" (2022) signify modern upgrades that enhance the visitor experience while maintaining the park's rustic charm. The pavilion offers excellent views and a comfortable gathering spot.

• Family-Friendly Amenities: The presence of a playground, picnic areas, and ball fields makes it an excellent choice for families with children, providing ample space and equipment for outdoor play.

• Self-Registration Convenience: The "self registration" system offers great flexibility, allowing visitors to arrive without prior booking, which is a boon for spontaneous trips.

• Handicap Accessibility: The availability of "handicap access" on some sites and wheelchair-accessible entrances ensures inclusivity, making the park accessible to a broader range of visitors.

• Affordable Camping: With rates of $20-$25 per night, Harstad County Park offers an "affordable" camping option for those looking to enjoy nature on a budget.

• Wildlife Viewing: The natural setting offers opportunities to encounter various wildlife, such as "deer, squirrels, birds, and possibly some small mammals," adding to the natural experience.

For inquiries, information on current conditions, or to confirm details about Harstad County Park, please use the following contact information. While it operates on a self-registration basis for camping, direct contact can be helpful for specific questions, especially regarding pavilion reservations or larger group visits.

Address: Harstad County Park, S6455 Co Rd HHH, Augusta, WI 54722, USA

Phone: (715) 839-4738

Mobile Phone: +1 715-839-4738

It is generally recommended to contact the Eau Claire County Parks & Forest Department (which manages Harstad County Park) using this number, especially if you have detailed questions about site availability (though self-registration is the norm), current conditions of facilities (like water pump or specific restroom types), or if you wish to reserve the pavilion. Calling ahead can also provide updates on any specific advisories or seasonal changes to park operations. This direct communication will help ensure your visit to Harstad County Park is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Harstad County Park stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for Wisconsin locals seeking an authentic and peaceful outdoor experience. Its prime location in west-central Wisconsin, with direct access to the scenic Eau Claire River, makes it an ideal spot for activities cherished by many Wisconsinites, such as canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and simply enjoying time by the water. The presence of a swimming area and a shallow creek nearby further enhances its appeal for families and those looking to cool off during warmer months.

The park's commitment to providing a "rustic" yet well-maintained camping environment, complete with spacious sites (some with electrical hookups) and updated amenities like a new pavilion and playground, strikes a perfect balance. It offers a genuine opportunity to disconnect and immerse oneself in nature without sacrificing essential comforts, which is highly appealing for local campers seeking a true escape from their daily routines. The self-registration system also provides remarkable flexibility, allowing for spontaneous weekend trips without the hassle of advance bookings, catering to the casual nature of many local adventures.

Furthermore, its affordability and family-friendly features underscore its value for Wisconsin residents looking for accessible and enjoyable outdoor recreation. Harstad County Park is not just a place to camp; it's a community asset that fosters connection with nature and provides a tranquil backdrop for creating lasting memories. For any Wisconsin local yearning for peace, river adventures, and a touch of rustic charm, Harstad County Park in Augusta is an excellent choice for your next outdoor getaway.