Black River Falls ATV Trails Wisconsin: Maps, Camping And More - Wild ATV (2024)

Black River Falls Off-Roading

Overview

• Location: Jackson County / Clark County
• Length: 235 miles total
  • Jackson – 100 miles (UTVs not allowed in winter)
  • Clark County– 135 miles spring, summer, fall / 180 miles winter (UTVs not allowed in winter)
• Fees:
  • WI Resident ATV Trail Pass:Not required (vehicle must be registered)
  • 5 Day Non Resident ATV Trail Pass:$20
  • Annual Non Resident ATV Trail Pass: $35
  • Motorcycle Sticker: $21
• Skill Level:Easy
• Vehicles Allowed:ATV, UTV, street legal motorcycles (there are 2 riding area for non street legal dirt bikes)

Riding Season

Clark County ATV Info(includes current trail conditions)

Jackson County ATV Info/ Jackson Current Trail Conditions

Black River Falls ATV Trails

This is some of the best ATV riding in the midwest with over 200+ miles of summer riding miles.

In the winter, there are an additional 100 miles of trails open, but UTVs are only allowed to use these trails when there is no snow.

ATVs & motorcycles can ride year round.

But, UTVs are only allowed on the trails in the summer and when there is no snow on the trails in the winter.

In the past, UTVs have been allowed on the trails during the winter as part of a test program, but it didn’t take.

Who knows, maybe this will change in the future. UTVs and SxS are becoming increasingly popular and more and more communities are looking for that sweet tourist $$$

One of the best things about this trail system is the level of services easily available. The towns are ATV friendly and welcome riders as an essential part of their economy.

The trails connect the towns of Millston, Pray and Black River Falls, so it’s easy to hop on and off the trail for gas, food or lodging.

Vehicles Not Allowed On The Trails

• 6-8 wheel amphibious
• Golf carts
• Go carts
• Off road motorcycles (see exceptions below)

Black River Falls ATV/ UTV Trail Brochure (with map)

Related: Ride In Ride Out Wisconsin ATV Campgrounds

Fees

• Residents of Wisconsin are not required to have a trail permit, but they are required to have their ATV registered in the state of Wisconsin.
• Non residents are required to purchase a trail pass. ATV/UTV passes are $35 and expire April 1st of the following year.
• There is also a 5 day ATV/UTV pass available for $20.
• Trail passes are to be displayed in a visible location on the front portion of the ATV. Stickers are not transferable – you can’t use the sticker on multiple vehicles.

Purchase An ATV/UTV Trail Pass

Call Before You Haul

• Black River Powersports
  W10120 WI-54
  Black River Falls WI 54615
  (715) 284-2600
  
• Double T Quik Stop
  302 N Washington St
  Merrillan WI 54754
  (715) 333-7650
  
• Melrose Express Mart
  301 S Washington
  Melrose WI 54642
  (608) 488-7017
  
• Moe Hardware
  33 Main St
  Black River Falls WI 54615
  (715) 284-4621
  
• Taylor General Store
  30 2nd St
  Taylor WI 54659
  (715) 662-3673
  
• Wal-Mart
  611 Hwy 54 E
  Black River Falls WI
  (715) 284-2434
  
• Theisen’s
  616 Hwy 54
  Black River Falls WI
  (715) 284-1275

Trail Pass Info & Locations

Motorcycles On Black River Falls ATV Trails

In both Clark County and Jackson County, only street legal motorcycles are allowed on the ATV trail system. Drivers are also required to be licensed.

All motorcycles are required to be registered which costs $20.

Jackson County requires all motorcycles using any trail systemto have a Jackson County Motorcycle Sticker ($21). You can buy these onlineor at several local businesses. Stickers expires on Oct 16of year purchased

Street Legal Motorcycle Riding Areas

• ATV Trails
• Knobby Ridge Motorcycle Trails – Clark County (see below)
• Crawford Hill Motorcycle Trails (see below)

OHM/Non Street Legal Motorcycle Riding Areas

Crawford Hill Motorcycle Trails – Jackson County

Trails

• 26 miles of one way singletrack
• 92 miles of shared use trails with ATVs

Open to both street legal motorcycles and OHVs.

Unregistered dirt bikes are not allowed on the 92 miles of ATV trails, but they are allowed on the 26 miles of singletrack trail.

Must purchase a Jackson County Motorcycle Sticker to ride at Crawford Hills.

There is an onsite camping area with 25 rustic campsites. It’s first come, first serve, no reservations. No hookups, but there is water and pit toilets.

Crawford motorcycle trails are open May 15 – October 15.

Crawford Hill Motorcycle Trails

Knobby Ridge Motorcycle Trails – Clark County

Trails

• 16 miles of looped trails
• Trail-head is located 8 miles west of Neillsville on Hwy 10
• Trail-head includes youth loop, intensive use area, water and a toilet facility

ATVs and UTVs are not allowed on any portion of Knobby Ridge.

County camping is available at Knobby Ridge. Electric hookups are available.

The motorcycle trails are open for the same riding season as the rest of the trails:

• May 15 – October 31
• December 15 – March 15

Knobby Ridge Motorcycle Trails

​

Purchase A Jackson County Motorcycle Sticker

Call Before You Haul

• Millston Kwik Mart
  W6575 County Rd O
  Black River Falls WI 54615
  (715) 284-9471

• Bev’s Saddle Mound Tap
  N8376 Pray Rd
  Pittsville WI 54466
  (715) 884-7355

• Black River Powersports
  W10120 WI-54
  Black River Falls WI 54615
  (715) 284-2600

• Forestry and Parks Offices
  W9790 Airport Rd
  Black River Falls WI 54615
  (715) 284-8475

Jackson County Motorcycle Rules

1. All motorcycle trails are open from May 15-October 15
2. ATV trails are open to ONLY street legal motorcycles
3. Operators of street legal motorcycles must possess and display upon request a valid vehicle operators license
4. Single track motorcycle trails and associated ATV trail connectors are open to off-road and street legal motorcycles.
5. Operators of off-road motorcycles must be at least 12 years old and are required to wear a helmet
6. Motorcycles are prohibited from operating off the designated trails.
7. All motorcycles must be equipped with Forest Service approved spark arrestor.
8. All motorcycles must meet WDNR rules/regulations for us on public trail system.
9. Intoxicated operation of ANY motorcycle is prohibited and subject to all statutory penalties.
10. Decals must be affixed where readily visible to Law Enforcement Officers.

Camping & Hotels On The Black River Falls ATV Trails

There are 7 county run campgrounds with affordable rates from $7 for a primitive site at Wildcat Mound Park to $33 for full hookups (and wifi!!) at Russell Memorial Park and Campground.

Maybe camping isn’t your thing, maybe a soft bed and a hot shower is more your speed. If so, then this trail system is for you too! There are plenty of motels, hotels, BnBs and AirBNB rentals for those seeking a bit more comfort.

Hotels/Motels Right On The Trail

Black River Falls

Black River Falls has an ATV route through town that allows you to access hotels, restaurants and other services.

These hotels are in Black River Falls on the ATV trail:

• Comfort Inn & Suites Website
• AmericInn by Wyndham Website
• Days Inn by Wyndham Website
• SureStay Plus Hotel Website

Hatfield

Hatfield has one motel right on the trail:

• Arbutus Motel and Cabins Website

Camping On The Black River Falls ATV Trails (with direct trail access)

There are 7 county campgrounds with direct access to the Black River Falls ATV Trails.

If you’re looking for electric hook ups, showers and amenities, then your best bets are Russel Park Campground and East Arbus Campground.

These two campground are huge, so they do get busy. But it’s hard to beat drive in – drive out trail access, showers and a swimming beach.

East Arbus doesn’t offer water or sewer hookups, so if that’s important for you check out Russel Park which has full hook up sites.

Clark County WI ATV Campgrounds

In Clark County, you’re only allowed to bring firewood that is local. View the online map showing the allowable firewood range.

Wild Rock Park & Campground

Overview

• Sites Available: 27 campsites
• Reservations Available: Yes
• Open: N/A
• Fees:
  • Electric(20/30/30 amp): $23+
  • Tent (no electric): $17+
  • Online Reservation Fee: $7 non refundable deposit
  • Season Riding Pass/Family Season Pass: $25 / $50

Reservations are accepted for camping between May 1 – September 30. You must book at least 3 days in advance.

This campground is for both ATVers and horseback riders.

ATVers have ride in – ride out access to the Black River Falls ATV Trails while horseback riders have access to 40 miles of horseback trails.

Half of the campsites in this campground can be reserved in advance, while half are first come first serve.

Address:

N7171 Bald Peak Ave
Willard WI 54493

Wild Rock Park and Campground

Snyder Park Campground

Overview

• Sites Available: 49 campsites + a large group and overflow sites
• Reservations Available: Yes
• Open: Year round
• Fees:
  • Day Use: Free
  • Electric(20/30/30 amp): $23+
  • Tent (no electric): $17
  • Online Reservation Fee: $7 non refundable deposit

Reservation are available for camping May 1 – September 30.

Campground is open year round, but services are limited in the winter.

They do keep the hot showers open and running through deer gun season. In fact, it’s the only county run campground with hot showers open for the gun season.

Snyder Lake is a no-wake lake.

Address:

W8046 Arndt Rd
Neillsville WI 54456

Snyder Park Campground

Wildcat Mound Park

Overview

• Sites Available: N/A
• Reservations Available: No
• Open: N/A
• Fees:
  • Primitive Camping: $7

Wildcat Mound camping area is located in Wildcat Park. This is a remote area not located on most mapping/gps services, so research before you drive. The link below shows the location.

Located on forest service land, the camping is primitive with no services.

In addition to Black River Fall ATV Trails access, campers will also enjoy access to miles of back country trails.

Since this campground is off the beaten path, it doesn’t get huge crowds. During the fall, you’ll see more people as the region is becoming known as a great place to hike and enjoy the fall color change.

Address:

W9841 Cty Hwy B
Humbird WI 54746

Wildcat Mound Park

Russell Memorial Park and Campground

Overview

• Sites Available: 230 campsites
• Reservations Available: Yes
• Open: Year round
• Fees:
  • Electric Site: $23+
  • Electric & Water Site: $26+
  • Lakeside Electric Site: $28+
  • Electric, Water, Sewer: $30+
  • Non-Electric Site: $17
  • Boat Landing Parking Daily: $3.00
  • Boat Landing Parking Annual: $25.00

This is the jewel of Clark County campgrounds – it has all the bells and whistles.

Reservations are accepted for camping May 1st –September 30^th. The campground is still open the rest of the year, but with limited services. In the off season, campers self register. Due to winter conditions, access isn’t guaranteed.

Along with the Jackson County run East Arbutus Campground, this campground is also located on Lake Arbus. This 821 acre lake offers plenty of recreation opportunities including swimming, boating, fishing and water-skiing.

And, of course, ride in – ride out ATV access!

Address:

W8180 South Rd
Merrillan WI 54754

Russell Memorial Park and Campground

Rock Dam Park Campground

Overview

• Sites Available: 150 campsites
• Reservations Available: Yes
• Open: Year round
• Fees:
  • Electric Site: $23+
  • Electric & Water Site: $26+
  • Lakeside Electric Site: $28+
  • Electric, Water, Sewer: $30+
  • Non-Electric Site: $17+

Located at the junction of Hay Creek and Rock Dam Lake, campers can enjoy boating and fishing in addition to ATVing. Families, kids and sunbathers will all appreciate the swimming beach.

Reservations are accepted for camping May 1st –September 30^th. The campground is still open the rest of the year, but with limited services. In the off season, campers self register. Due to winter conditions, access isn’t guaranteed.

Extended stay rates are available.

Address:

W10666 Camp Globe Rd
Willard WI 54493

​Rock Dam Park Campground

Jackson County WI ATV Campgrounds

East Arbutus County Campground

Overview

• Sites Available: 187 campsites
• Reservations Available: Yes
• Open: N/A
• Fees:
  • Lakeside Electric Sites: $28
  • Electric Sites: $25
  • Tent (no electric): $20
  • Online Reservation Fee: $7 non refundable deposit
• Vehicle Admission:
  • Daily Pass: $5
  • Annual Pass/2nd Annual (same household): $30 / $15

If you’re planning on accessing the trails from the campground, be sure to book one of the designated 38 ATV campsites. 26 of the ATV campsites have electric.

ATV campsites allow direct trail access for ATVs and street legal motorcycles. This is the only area of the park where ATVs are allowed to operate.

The speed limit is 10 mph at all times. No riding is allowed during the quiet hours of 11 pm – 6am.

This is a huge campground with 187 campsites, 136 have electricity.

There are no water or sewer hookups, but water is available throughout the park and the park has its own dump station.

For $3 extra, you can get one of 70 lake front campsites. But, these go fast, so be sure to make reservations.

Be sure to bring a roll of quarters. The showers run on quarters: 25¢ = 3 minutes.

Reservations are accepted for camping from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. A 3 night minimum is required for reservations. Reservations cost $7.00 for each site.

Located on the shores of Lake Arbutus, campers can enjoy swimming, boating,fishingand water-skiing.

Campground attendants are on duty during the busy summer season. Firewood, ice, pop machines, ice cream and camper storage are available for a small fee.

Law enforcement patrols the park regularly keeping it family friendly and safe.

Address:

W7898 Duck Hill Rd
Merrillan, WI 54754

East Arbutus County Campground

Crawford Hills Campground

Overview

• Sites Available: 25 primitive sites
• Reservations Available: No
• Open: Year round
• Fees: $12

Primitive camping with no amenities – campers self register and pay.

First come, first serve campground. Arrive early if you’re hoping to secure a camping spot for the weekend.

This is campground has direct access to over a 100 miles of ATV/dual-sport motorcycle trails.

Horseback riders enjoy riding in the off season before the trails get busy with offroaders.

Address:

Highway 54, 15 miles east of Black River FallsWI

Crawford Hills Campground

Black River Falls Trailheads / Parking

Jackson County ATV Trailheads

• On East 7th St., near Castle Mound State Park
• Off Hwy 12, two miles west of Millston
• Junction County Hwy O and N. Settlement Rd., one mile east of Millston
• Ott Trail parking lot on Airport Rd., east of Black River Falls
• Highway 54, ten miles east of Black River Falls, just east of Wildcat-Spangler Rd.
• West Clay School Rd. near East Arbutus Campground, southeast of Hatfield
• East Arbutus Campground, north of W. Clay School Rd.
• Crawford Hills County Park, twenty miles west of Black River Falls on Hwy 54

Clark County ATV Trailheads

• Oak Ridge Parking Lot, Hwy M north of Hwy GG
• Rock Dam Park, Wildrock Park, Junction of Hwy M and Hwy I
• Hwy 10 Parking Lot, on Hwy 10 one mile northeast of intersection of Hwy B and Hwy 10
• Wildcat Park, Hwy B five miles east of Humbird
• Hatfield Pines Parking Lots, two lots located off Bush Rd. east of Hwy J

• Must have a WI registration sticker (residents) or a trail pass sticker (non residents)
• Wisconsin ATV / UTV Regulations
• ATV/UTV are only allowed on the Black River Falls ATV trails in the winter when they are not covered in snow
• In Jackson County, between December 15 – March 15, ATVs are not allowed on the trails if the temperature drops below 28 degrees
• Gas, food and lodging are easily accessible from the trail
• Wisconsin has additional rules for youth operators
• All vehicles arerequired to have a functioning Forest Service approved spark arrestor. (On most machines, this is stock equipment, so no worries)(fine is $232)
• Must not exceed the 96dB noise limit(fine is $232). Most machines will pass this sound limit unless you’ve made after market upgrades. All approved systems will have a stamp somewhere on the exhaust.

For more great riding in Wisconsin, check out:

Wisconsin ATV Trails

Wisconsin Cheese Trail

HaywardWisconsin/Sawyer County ATV Trails

Youth Operator Rules

• Children 12 and older are required to have a vailid WI ATV safety certificate to operate on trails and public lands. Other state agency and provincial safety certificates are also accepted in WI
• NOTE: ASI (All-terrain Vehicle Safety Institute) certificates are not valid in Wisconsin
• The Department of Natural Resources has an online WI ATV Safety Coursewhich makes it easy to get certified. They also offer in person classes.
• Certification costs $29.50, but you only pay once you pass.
• Children under 12 are not allowed to operate an ATV on a roadway under any circ*mstances
• Children under the age of 12 are allowed to operate on ATV trails if they are on a small ATVs with an engine size of 90cc or less. The child must wear a helmet and always be accompaniedby a parent.
• No one under 16 may rent or lease an ATV.
• DOT / Snell approved helmets are required for all operatorsunder18 years old when ridingon public lands.
• Children under the age of 12 are allowed to operate small ATVs with an engine size of 90cc or less. The child must wear a helmet and always be accompaniedby a parent.

Featured Image by What A Ride | Flickr