BLACKHAWK PARK
federal · DESOTO, WI
- dump station18 mi
- fuel station3.1 mi

Photo by Dean Klinkenberg · Data Source: Recreation.gov
About
Overview Blackhawk Park is located on a forested bend of the main channel of the Mississippi River. The campground is the largest public use facility in Mississippi's Pool 9, offering a wide variety of recreational activities. Recreation Boating, kayaking, canoeing and fishing are Blackhawk's most popular forms of recreation. Park rangers provide a variety of programs and activities throughout the summer. Interpretive programs are based on recreation, local history and the environment. Other activities range from guided walks and campfire talks, to natural crafts programs. Here, one can view majestic bluffs and rich backwater vegetation. Sometimes a river barge or classic paddle-wheeled steamboat can be seen journeying up the river. Facilities The campground offers 150 campsites, including 73 with electrical hookups. All sites have a picnic table and fire ring provided. Flush toilets and showers are located in the West Camping loop. There are no full-hook up sites but a dump station and potable water are located within the park. The park also has a beach, two picnic shelters, two boat ramps, two playgrounds, a volleyball court, horseshoe pits, fishing docks. Natural Features This peaceful park is situated on the main channel of the Mississippi River. Cottonwoods, green ash, swamp oaks, river birch and willow trees forest the site, offering nice shade in the summer and beautiful fall colors in autumn. Visitors commonly see a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, blue herons, ducks, geese, whitetail deer and wild turkey. Nearby Attractions The small river towns of DeSoto, Wisconsin and Lansing, Iowa are nearby. DeSoto is 5 minutes south, Lansing is 15 minutes south with a few restaurants and shops. LaCrosse, Wisconsin is 30 minutes north, with restaurants, shops, galleries and farmers markets. Effigy Mounds National Monument which is operated by the National Park Service (NPS) is located about a 40 minutes south of Blackhawk Park and offers excellent hiking opportunities, and well as picturesque views, and a visitor center, and is free to enter. The Driftless Area Education And Visitors Center in Lansing Iowa is a short 15 minute drive south, and explores the cultural, recreational, natural, and historical significance of the Driftless Area.
Around this stay
Nearest surrounding services and recreation within ~25 mi — not on-site amenities.
- 18 mi
dump station
Dump station
- 3.1 mi
fuel station
Pronto
- 18 mi
grocery
Nelson Agri-Center
- 18 mi
potable water
Potable water
- 1.2 mi
attraction
Viewpoint
- 0.1 mi
recreation site
Boat launch
Contact & access
- E590 CTY RD BI · DESOTO, WI 54624
- 608-648-3314
Reservations & demand
October weekends are typically reserved about 13 days ahead.
Based on 92 Recreation.gov reservations (Oct 2023–Sep 2024). Historical demand — not live availability.
Outbound provider links only. Roam Atlas does not book sites or show live availability.
Source and verification
Last verified: 10/11/2026
See the Sources tab for provenance detail.

