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Jackson County/East Arbutus
Overview
Jackson County’s East Arbutus park offers a classic Wisconsin camping experience on the eastern shores of the expansive Lake Arbutus in Merrillan. This county-run facility is part of a larger recreation complex that prioritizes access to nature and water-based activities. Visitors find themselves surrounded by dense woodlands, providing a peaceful backdrop for a weekend getaway or a longer outdoor excursion. It serves as a gateway to the region’s diverse natural landscapes and rugged beauty.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in the heart of Jackson County near the town of Merrillan, WI, the park’s primary draw is its lakefront position. The surrounding area is characterized by the Black River corridor and thousands of acres of public forest. The landscape is a mix of pine and hardwood trees, offering plenty of shade and a sense of seclusion for campers. Its central location makes it a convenient hub for exploring the west-central Wisconsin terrain and local waterways.
Amenities & Park Features
The park provides essential facilities for comfortable RVing, including numerous campsites equipped with electrical hookups. While many sites are wooded and private, others offer easy access to the shoreline. Guests can utilize the on-site boat launch to explore the 840-acre Lake Arbutus or enjoy the designated swimming beach. Modern restrooms, showers, and a dump station are available to ensure a convenient stay while maintaining a rustic, outdoor atmosphere that many travelers prefer.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor recreation is the main attraction, with direct access to the Jackson County ATV/UTV trail system. This extensive network allows riders to explore the forest directly from the park without needing to trailer their vehicles. Nearby, the Black River State Forest offers hiking and birdwatching, while the community of Hatfield provides local dining options. Fishing enthusiasts frequently visit Lake Arbutus to cast for walleye and musky throughout the season.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for outdoor adventurers and families who want to be close to the water. It is a premier choice for ATV and UTV enthusiasts due to the seamless trail connectivity that Jackson County is famous for. Those who enjoy a more traditional, nature-focused camping environment without the commercial buzz of large resorts will find East Arbutus to be a refreshing and scenic destination for their next RV trip.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
PJ
Nice park overall. Campsites variy in size as in most campgrounds. The staff we encountered were helpful and friendly! We arrived on a Tuesday and found a great site away from other campers. Clean pay showers. I would stir clear from a weekend if you are able.
Jerry Kurowski
Great campground for the family. But it's getting over crowded now and there are more seasonal campers. They take up a spot all season and only show up on Friday and leave Sunday. It is quiet durning the week but getting a lake side camp spot is almost impossible nowadays.
Heidi
Beautiful park!! Lake view camping site highly recommend but the whole park is beautiful!! 🏕 Quiet time at night is definitely followed even on the weekends.
Joe S.
We recently camped here for the first time and I will say this county campground is our favorite so far. Many of the campsites are along the lake shore that offer beautiful views of the lake. There is a few beaches too with some of the sites. There is a building with showers and flushing toilets. I did not go into them but was aware they are there. The black and grey water dump station is the best one I have seen and used. There is also a potable water fill station across the street from the waste water dump station. I hate hauling a long distance with a full water tank so its nice to be able to fill water when you get to the campground. There is a large wide open area with a playground for kids close to the main campground entrance that have a few picnic table pavilion areas for group gatherings. I would say this campground is very family friendly. The only thing that frustrated me a little was the narrow lanes that wind through the campground weren’t marked if they were one-way only lanes. The lanes are definitely to tight for two vehicles hauling to pass by each other. I felt like I was driving in and out the wrong way. Maybe there were signs but I didn’t see them.??
Elijah Simion
Great place to visit