Black River State Forest Current conditions

Perry Creek

The Black River Falls area received 7-9 inches of snow earlier this week; however, bright sunshine and above freezing temperatures is melting it quickly. Spring migrants continue to move through the area. Robins, nuthatches, brown creepers, hawks, woodpeckers, geese, sandhill cranes and ducks are just some of the species seen recently. All hiking and biking trails are open but may be muddy, slushy or icy in places. Temperatures this weekend are expected to be in the low to mid 30s with a chance of snow Sunday night.

ATV and UTV trails

ATV and UTV trails are closed for the season. They will reopen May 15th, weather permitting.

Camping

Castle Mound and Pigeon Creek campgrounds are open on a first-come, first-serve basis. East Fork campground and Outdoor Group camp are closed and will reopen on April 15.

The shower/flush toilet building and dump station are closed for the season.

Castle Mound campground is on the reservation system from May 1st through the second weekend in October. East Fork and Pigeon Creek campgrounds are on the reservation season from the Thursday before Memorial weekend through Labor Day weekend. The outdoor group camp is on the reservation season from April 15 through November 30. The indoor group camp is on the reservation system year-round. Go online to make a reservation or call 888-947-2757, TTY 800-274-7275.

Backpackers can use our online permit [PDF] to register for camping. For more information, go to Black River State Forest camping.

Additional resources

• DNR Outdoor Report
• National Weather Service 7-Day forecast [exit DNR]

Firewood notice: As of June 1, 2014, firewood from more than 10 miles away is not allowed on Wisconsin State Park or Forest properties. Also, firewood that has been in an emerald ash borer quarantined area is not allowed on properties outside of the quarantined area. Please buy firewood at or near the park or forest where you are going. Call the DNR toll-free Firewood Hotline, 1-877-303-WOOD (1-877-303-9663) for information before packing for a trip. For more information, see firewood facts, rules and advice or ask the park or forest office. Maps are available to view the 10-mile radius of allowable firewood on state properties.