The Forests

Black River State Forest

The 68,000-acre Black River State Forest is located along the edge of where the glaciers once covered Wisconsin. In the unglaciated driftless area, you’ll find lots of unique land forms. Sandstone hills and towering bluffs can be found throughout the forest. Few places in the Midwest feature such a diversity of scenery.

The Black River State Forest is one of the wildest places in Wisconsin. Huge areas of undisturbed wilderness allow a variety of plants and animals to thrive. The area boasts incredible numbers of deer, turkey, grouse and other wildlife, including a resident timber wolf population. The rare and endangered Karner blue butterfly thrives in the unique habitat of the Black River State Forest. A great many miles of motorized trails are located throughout the Black River State Forest, as well as excellent campsites.

Jackson County Forest

Much of the Black River State Forest is surrounded by the vast Jackson County Forest consisting of 120,000 acres of woodlands, meadows and rolling hills. The county forest trails connect with the state forest trails to provide nearly 100 miles of riding. Several camping areas, parking areas, and a number of excellent wildlife observation areas can be found in the county forest.

Clark County Forest

Located just north of Jackson County, Clark County is home to the vast Clark County Forest. Over 135 miles of trails meander through nearly 133,000 acres of Clark County Forest land. The forest, like the Jackson County Forest and the Black River State Forest, is home to the federally endangered Karner blue butterfly and supports a wide variety of wildlife. Aside from motorized trail riding, the Clark County Forest is also a destination for hunters, anglers, birdwatchers, cross-country skiers, snowshoers and campers. ATV trails in the forest connect with 5 campgrounds run by Clark County. Five Clark County campgrounds have direct ATV trail access.