State: Wisconsin
Address 1: N1895 Council Grounds Dr.
City: Merrill
Zip: 54452
Phone: (715) 536-8773
Open: Open from late Apr through Oct 31
Number of Sites: 55
Electric: 19
Camp URL: http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/land/parks/specific/councilgrounds/
Full Hook:
National Park: null
Council Grounds is a park with something for almost everyone. This 508-acre park along the Wisconsin River in north-central Wisconsin hosts a variety of activities and sights year round. It’s in Wisconsin’s Forest Transition Ecological Landscape. A 21-acre area of old-growth forest in the park is designated as Krueger Pines State Natural Area.
Water-based Activities
Boating, fishing, swimming, and water skiing are popular here. The Friends of Council Grounds State Park rents canoes. The 217-foot beach has an expansive sunning area and picnic area. The best time for swimming is mid-June through mid-August. Lifeguards are not provided.
Camping
A heavily wooded 55-site campground is popular with our warmer weather guests. The campground has showers and flush toilets and 19 electrical sites. Each site has a table and fire ring. The campground has a trailer dumping/fill station and recycling containers. There also is a new outdoor group camp, three sites which accommodate 32 people each. Sites can be reserved 11 months in advance online or by phoning (888) 947-2757, or may be occupied on a first-come-first served basis. Reservations are available from late May to Labor Day and are recommended for holidays, weekends and for electrical sites. Campground hosts are at Campsite 8. The friends group sells firewood.
Picnicking and Events
A log shelter is available to rent for reunions, parties and weddings. It has two fireplaces and plenty of sitting room. Ask at the office about availability and fees.
Hunting
Deer hunting is allowed in the fall by special permit only. The parks deer management unit is 52A.
