Jackson County, situated in West Central Wisconsin, is nestled among majestic mounds, beautiful rolling hills and crossed again and again by cold flowing trout streams and is almost bisected by the scenic Black River. The rich farmlands bordering the west side of Jackson County reach from Northfield to North Bend, producing a bounty of crops and farm products and the area’s largest industries.

The charming communities of Jackson County offer a warm and friendly rural Wisconsin atmosphere that makes visitors feel right at home, and welcome them year ‘round for "four seasons of fun" surrounded by unparalleled natural beauty.

The country ambiance and other amenities draw thousands of visitors annually to Jackson County - the second largest industry is tourism.

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In the northeast portion of Jackson County is Hartfield-Lake Arbutus, a recreation area with a population of 50 in the winter - and 5,000 in the summer! Along with a pristine, natural beauty, Lake Arbutus offers fishing, boating, swimming and water skiing, with approximately 250 campsites along its shores.

The eastern portion of Jackson County lies mostly in state and county forests. Combined, these forests cover more than 180,000 acres. The forests have long been a favorite destination of the outdoor enthusiast. The Wazee Trail, a winding, pleasant 62-mile auto tour, traverses the area’s fascinating sights.

These lands have been the home of the Winnebago Indians since long before the white man settled the area. The Indian mission, located east of the city of Black River Falls, along with Sand Pillow Indian Village, are home to many Native Americans. Red Cloud Memorial Park, the site of their biannual Indian Pow Wow, is located nearby.

The Black River and Trempealeau River and their many tributaries deliver excellent fishing - stalk the mighty Muskie, soak a line for a channel catfish or float a fly over a rising brook trout. For canoers, the Black River and its East Fork offer 75 miles of scenic waters. Along your journey you can fish, swim, sight-see, and camp on an island or rock outcropping. The lower Black River offers placid waters while the upper river and East Fork have fast-moving, rocky waters for whitewater rafting and other exciting outdoor adventures.

Jackson County and the Black River State Forest have over 254 miles of snowmobile trails crisscrossing the idyllic countryside. State trail corridors link with adjoining counties for almost limitless riding area. There are more than 100 miles of ATV trails between City Point, Pray, Lake Arbutus, Black River Falls and Millston. The Crawford Hills-Pray area has over 32 miles of motorcycle trails, 10 in the Millston area. Recreational vehicle trails are open May 15 – October 15 and December 15 – March 15. A new addition to the trail system is Crawford Hills ATV/Motorcycle Park with camping, picnicking and playground facilities. The forests are well-known as an excellent hunting area for deer, turkey, grouse, woodstock, waterfowl, squirrel and rabbit.

The new 18-hole Skyline Golf Course in Black River Falls will challenge the best players, handicappers and duffers alike, and is recognized as one of the most scenic course in the region.

The Black River Falls Community Park is a 44-acre multi-use recreation facility focusing on entertainment, education and the environment. Park amenities include a large community shelter and picnic areas, smaller family picnic areas, a new aquatic center, game fields and court, a children’s play area, scenic overlooks, and biking/hiking trails.

Many service clubs and organizations enhance the quality of life in Jackson County. "Project Christmas" was started here locally and distributes donated items and food to needy families. Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers coordinates volunteers from numerous area churches to serve elderly and disabled persons.

Community support for youth sports is unsurpassed in Jackson County. Summer and winter, spring and fall, children of all ages are encouraged to participate in organized athletics including baseball, softball, soccer, figure skating, hockey and more.

The Lunda Recreation Center is open to the public and has a large swimming pool, hot tub, sauna, racquetball courts, walking/jogging track and weight room. The Center serves as a high-level physical training facility as well as offering a comprehensive, year ‘round program of recreational activities.

The Falls Players Community Theater is a showcase for exceptional local talent. Supported by large, enthusiastic audiences, generous area patronage and the Wisconsin Arts Board, the theater produces three major plays each year.

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You won’t find any big city traffic jams, but Jackson County’s vigorous business activity affords a wide variety of services and lifestyle conveniences. Direct access to I-94 has been an important factor to the area’s growth, as has the unique cooperation between county and city administrations. Unity, along with support of local financial institutions, has created a powerful force for the continued development of economic opportunities in Jackson County. A new industrial park includes an incubator building - a flexible facility designed specifically to stimulate and support new businesses.

Agriculture is an important part of both Jackson County’s culture and economy. Superior dairy products - the area’s largest industry - are only part of of the rich variety produced here. Crops include corn, oats, apples, blueberries, raspberries and strawberries - the village of Alma Center has long been renowned as the "Strawberry Capital" of Wisconsin.

Another significant fruit crop produced here is cranberries, with Jackson County ranked third in the state in cranberry production. It has matured into a major industry with significant economic impact on the community.

During the fall many visitors come to see the cranberry harvest at the many cranberry marshes found throughout the eastern half of the county. The berries, along with sphagnum moss, require the unique mixture of climate, soil and water that make up the area’s wetlands, a combination that is found in very few places around the world.

Forest products are another major factor in the agricultural life of the county. Pulp wood, lumber and even firewood are an important part of Jackson County’s economic picture. Yet another major forestry crop is Christmas trees - the village of Merrillan is the "Christmas Tree Capital of Wisconsin" and in 1970 had the honor of providing the National Christmas Tree adorning the White House.

The most important contribution comes from the people. Friendliness, generosity, and a strong work ethic make up the character of Jackson County.

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Jackson County school systems are excellent representatives of Wisconsin’s outstanding tradition of public education. Superior facilities include a new, multi-million dollar school in Black River Falls. Effective curricula, special programs, and active parental involvement all attest to a positive investment in quality education.

Opportunity for higher education is available through the Black River Falls Extended Campus of Western Wisconsin Technical College. This innovative satellite campus offers valuable training to young people about to enter the work force, and to adults seeking new competitive job skills.

Several excellent child care facilities throughout the county offer the peace of mind and security of small town life with a strong focus on child development.

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Alma Center
Known as the Strawberry Capital of Wisconsin, Alma Center is in the north central portion of Jackson County on Highway 95. The community hosts its annual Strawberry Festival each June, with crafts, a flea market, parade, carnival rides and games, and best of all, lots of fresh strawberries and strawberry shortcake!

Black River Falls
Situated on the banks of the Black River, Black River Falls is the county seat of Jackson County. The community offers residents and visitors alike boating, fishing, canoeing and plenty of parks for picnics - plus a great downtown shopping area.

City Point
Located along State Highway 54 on the eastern edge of Jackson County, is City Point, a favorite spot for deer hunters and snowmobiles.

Hatfield-Lake Arbutus
A friendly resort community which once was a favorite hunting ground of the Winnebago Indians. Vacation and recreation amenities include swimming, boating, water skiing and camping; the area is also popular for picnicking, deer watching, fishing and snowmobiling.

Hixton
This pleasant village located on I-94 at the junction of Highway 95 holds a spectacular community Fourth of July celebration. See brilliant, thunderous fireworks at Hixton Park, which also offers camping and fishing throughout most of the four seasons.

Melrose
Melrose is a small community nestled in the hills and valleys of the coulee region, 16 miles south of Black River Falls on State Highway 54. There’s recreation for all ages - two parks, tennis courts, a basketball court, volleyball pit, softball and little league diamonds and a swimming pool.

Merrillan
Merrillan lies 11 miles from Black River Falls at the junction of Highways 12, 27 and 95. Oakwood Lake, Halls Creek and Trow Lake are just a mile southeast of town. Summer activities include camping, hiking, fishing and picnicking. For winter fun, just three miles away is Bruce Mound with downhill and cross-country skiing and snow tubing.

Millston
Millston is within the boundaries of the Black River State Forest on Highway 12, just off I-94. "The Friendly Village" is a major producer of cranberries in the county, and home to miles of free snowmobiling, hiking and ski trails, plus fishing and swimming.

North Bend
On scenic Highway 54 West, North Bend is noted for canoeing and fishing. The village also boasts an excellent nine-hole golf course that embraces the Black River.  

Northfield
Small town living at it’s best, right in the heart of deer and turkey hunting country. Snowmobile trails to everywhere, and 30 minutes from everything, and located right off I-94.

Taylor
Taylor is home to the Taylor Old Fashioned Days celebration held each year the first weekend in June. Visit the beautiful wood side park with playground, picnic, volleyball and baseball facilities.

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Locator Map

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