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Mississippi River Pool 9 - COE/Blackhawk Park
Overview
Blackhawk Park, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is a premier destination located within Pool 9 of the Mississippi River. Situated near De Soto, Wisconsin, this park offers a unique island-style camping experience surrounded by the expansive backwaters and the main channel of the great river. It provides a peaceful, natural setting where the steady rhythm of the water and the sight of soaring eagles create a truly scenic riverfront atmosphere for every visitor.
Location & Surroundings
The park is nestled deep within the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge. This location is characterized by lush wetlands, timbered islands, and the towering limestone bluffs typical of the Driftless Area. Being positioned directly on the river, the park offers unparalleled access to the water while remaining easily accessible from the Great River Road, which is widely considered one of the most beautiful scenic drives in the United States.
Amenities & Park Features
Visitors will find a range of amenities designed for comfort and outdoor recreation. The campground features over 150 sites, many of which offer 50-amp electric hookups for RVers. Key facilities include:
- Multiple boat ramps and accessible fishing docks for easy river access.
- Well-maintained shower buildings and flush toilets.
- A sanitary dump station and potable water for self-contained RVs.
- Spacious, shaded picnic areas and a playground for families.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
This region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy the water. Fishing is the primary draw, with the river known for excellent walleye, bass, and panfish populations. Nearby, travelers can visit the Genoa National Fish Hatchery to learn about local aquatic life or explore the historic charm of De Soto and Lansing. Birdwatchers should keep their binoculars ready, as the area is a critical corridor for migratory waterfowl and bald eagles throughout the year.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an ideal match for avid anglers and boaters who want direct access to the water from their basecamp. It also appeals to nature photographers and RV travelers seeking a quiet, rustic environment rather than a high-traffic commercial resort. If you value spacious, shaded campsites and want to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Mississippi River, Blackhawk Park is a perfect stop on your Wisconsin journey.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Jim Hanna
Upper loop is dated, no showers. West loop is nice and modern. Day use area presents nicely.
Tunde Monet
Campsites with electric are good size. Campsites without electric are on a first come, first serve basis. A large loop provides lake side or river side camping. You can land your boat right by your campsite. Playground and swimming are also available. Very well kept Campground.
VJ Garske (VJ Garske)
This is a great CG. Electric available. Dump and potable water. My only complaint is the sites are very close together. Be prepared to make friends or go off by yourself with no electricity.
Todd Sauve
Needed to get a National Parks “America The Beautiful” Annual Pass and didn’t want to risk not getting it by mail in time for an Upcoming trip. Drove from Oak Creek to De Soto to get one in person. Nice park and campground. If I was a camper, I would consider staying there.
Gary & Kris Steiner
This is a clean, well cared for campground. You can't beat COE parks for affordable camping. The park staff was very friendly and helpful also. The bathrooms were modern and clean. We loved it here! Note: there is high manganese levels in their water. There is a filter on one of the spigots but it would be best to arrive with plenty of your own drinking water.
Boden Fortney
My family and I have camped here for my entire life in both the permanent sites and all others. Great fishing with access from THREE boat landings!
Robert Folk
Great public launches for some great fishing. Awesome camp ground for nature and boating.
Phil Wenzel
Great place, nice views, good fishing and boating. Very clean. Sites are level and well kept.
James Jackson
Stop there on our fall road trip to use the rv dump and refill our fresh water tanks what would be a great park . What a great stop to spend a weekend along the river a gem.
Sharon Boehmer
We stayed in the west (newer) loop and is was very nice. These sites are designed for larger rigs with more space for parking and relaxing. There is a great restroom/shower building that is cleaned daily. There is a boat launch for both the river and Green Lake. AT&T cell service was good, but no wifi. This loop is more open than the older one, so not much for trees or shade other than the perimeter. No water at the sites, but you can fill on the way in at the very convenient dump station. There is also 1 spigot (that I know of) in the loop across from site 70, but beware, that water is a little yellow, rusty looking.