Merrick State Park Campground operates year-round along the Mississippi River backwaters, offering three distinct camping areas with different access methods and amenities. The North Campground provides electric hookups and flush toilets with showers, while the South Campground features non-electric sites directly on the water. The Island Campground requires a short walk from the parking area but offers the most privacy among trees.
Most sites in the South Campground sit right on Fountain City Bay with direct water access, though high river levels can flood some waterfront spots during spring runoff. Patrick M. notes the area is "right on the water" but found it "a bit ill-kept." The rocky shoreline uses riprap for erosion control, making kayak launches easier than canoe access. Frequent train traffic runs along nearby tracks, with some sites experiencing significant noise from passing freight trains.
Campers consistently mention heavy mosquito populations, especially during summer months near the water. The park attracts boaters and anglers, with two boat launches that see weekend traffic. Beth D. returns regularly because "the water access offered is why we stay," particularly appreciating the privacy of walk-in Island sites. Wildlife viewing includes frequent turtle crossings and various waterfowl along the backwater channels.
Reservations are available through the Wisconsin state park system, with sites bookable even during peak summer periods. The facility includes vault toilets in camping loops, though some reviewers note limited restroom facilities for the total site capacity. For additional options in the area, campers can explore campgrounds around Fountain City. The park works best for water-oriented camping, with kayaking and fishing as primary draws rather than hiking or extensive trail systems.
Description
Merrick State Park is located on the beautiful backwaters of the Mississippi River. All island campground sites and some sites in the south campground have river access for mooring watercraft or fishing directly from the sites. There are 3 miles of hiking trails, and two boat landings provide easy launching for boats of all sizes. Canoes and kayaks can be rented at the office in season.
There are 65 individual campsites in three campgrounds and a 50-person group tents-only campsite at Merrick State Park. Large rocks have been set along the shore to halt erosion and protect campsites. Do not move these rocks. Registered campers may moor boats overnight at each campground. There are dumpsters, a recycling station, and a trailer dump station near the contact station at the park entrance.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundMerrick State Park Campground is located in Wisconsin
Directions
From Madison, Milwaukee, and Chicago areas: follow I-90 west to Exit 4 (Hwy 35). Follow Hwy 35 north through Fountain City. The park is 2 miles north of Fountain City on the left side of the road.
Coordinates
44.15200049 N
91.74800018 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileLTESome Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 4/2/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileLTESome Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 4/2/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 44 min from La Crosse, WI
- 1 hr from Rochester, MN
- 1 hr 10 min from Eau Claire, WI
- 1 hr 55 min from Minneapolis, MN

























