Brule River State Forest - Recreation - Other Day Use Activities

Biking

The Brule River State Forest has no designated trails for biking; however, it does contain numerous multi-use trails and roads that are ideal for mountain biking. Cyclists who enjoy getting away from the crowd may use any of the hunter walking trails, the Afterhours Trail (off ski-season), the Brule-St. Croix Snowmobile Trail, the Tri-County Corridor, as well as back roads.

Swimming

The forest has no designated swimming beaches, but some people enjoy swimming at Rush Lake on the eastern edge of the forest, or in the cold waters of Lake Superior at the mouth of the Brule. Both locations have sandy beaches and clear water. Public beaches near the state forest are located on Lake Minnesuing and Lake Nebagamon.

Picnicking

The forest includes three picnic areas with tables and grills. The Mouth of the Brule Picnic Area is on a bluff overlooking Lake Superior. This spot is known for its fishing and swimming opportunities, long sandy beach and adjacent boat launch. There is no drinking water available at the Mouth of the Brule.

The Bois Brule Picnic Area is adjacent to the Bois Brule Campground, near the Village of Brule. It is one of 10 designated canoe landings on the Bois Brule River. Drinking water and rest rooms are available in the campground. Visitors must have a state park and forest admission sticker on their vehicle when using this picnic area.

The St. Croix Picnic Area is located on St. Croix Lake, near the village of Solon Springs. The area includes drinking water, rest rooms, a boat launch and parking for the North Country Scenic Trail and Historic Brule to St. Croix Portage Hiking Trail.

Wildlife Viewing

Wildlife viewing and photography opportunities abound on the forest. Wildlife diversity is influenced by the variety of northern hardwood habitats that exist on the forest, including wetlands, pine barrens, grasslands, shrub-lands, and boreal forest. The diverse terrain and soil types on the forest, as well as the Brule River itself, are responsible for this assortment of habitats.

Over 200 species of birds have been recorded in the Brule River State Forest. Such rare birds as the black-backed woodpecker, white-winged crossbill, merlin, great gray owl, and goshawk have been seen and likely nest on the property. Mammals such as the badger, bobcat, fisher, and timber wolf can also be found.