Russell Memorial Park and Campground Introduce
For local residents in Wisconsin searching for "camping near me," Russell Memorial Park and Campground, situated at W8180 South Rd, Merrillan, WI 54754, USA, offers a promising lakeside camping experience on the shores of Lake Arbutis. You can reach them for inquiries and reservations at (715) 333-7948 or +1 715-333-7948.
The Scenic Lakeside Environment:
Russell Memorial Park and Campground boasts a desirable lakeside environment, with at least one customer specifically mentioning and appreciating a "lakeside site." This suggests that a significant draw of this campground is its direct access to Lake Arbutis, offering campers the opportunity to enjoy waterfront views and potentially engage in water-related activities. Lake Arbutis appears to be a central feature of the park, providing a scenic backdrop for camping and recreation. However, one reviewer noted that the "water is green with algae bloom in late summer, though not too bad." This is an important piece of information for potential visitors, especially those planning late-season trips, as it might affect swimming or other water activities. Despite this seasonal occurrence, the presence of a "nice long beach along Lake Arbutis" indicates that there are designated areas for enjoying the water and the sandy shoreline.
Updated Park Facilities and Amenities:
A significant advantage of Russell Memorial Park and Campground, according to a customer review, is that it is a "very updated park." This suggests that visitors can expect well-maintained and modern facilities. The review highlights several notable amenities that cater to a variety of interests and needs:
- Numerous Playgrounds: The presence of multiple playgrounds indicates a strong focus on being a family-friendly destination, providing ample space and equipment for children to play and stay entertained.
- Event Shelters: The availability of event shelters suggests that the park can accommodate larger gatherings, such as family reunions, group outings, or organized campground events.
- Brick Outhouse (No Flush, but Doesn't Smell and Stocked): This is a noteworthy feature, indicating that while the restroom facilities are not modern flush toilets, they are maintained to a reasonable standard regarding cleanliness and supplies. The fact that it "doesn't smell and stocked" is a positive aspect for those who prefer more traditional camping facilities.
- Volleyball Court and Basketball Court: These sports facilities offer opportunities for recreational activities and friendly competition among campers.
- A Nice Long Beach Along Lake Arbutis: As mentioned earlier, the beach provides a space for relaxation, sunbathing, and potentially swimming in Lake Arbutis.
- Two Nice Boat Landings: The presence of two boat landings is a significant asset for those who wish to bring their own boats to enjoy Lake Arbutis for fishing, water sports, or leisurely cruising.
- A Nice Campground: This general statement reinforces the positive impression of the camping area itself, suggesting well-maintained campsites and a pleasant overall atmosphere.
Campground Store and Firewood:
One reviewer mentioned that the "campground store has a bit to be desired" and that they "had to go elsewhere for good wood to cook over." This provides valuable insight into the limitations of the on-site store. While it might offer basic necessities, campers looking for specific items or high-quality firewood for cooking might need to venture outside the campground to obtain them. This suggests that while the park offers many amenities, it might be advisable for campers to bring essential supplies with them or plan to purchase them locally.
Pricing and Value:
Interestingly, the same reviewer who noted the shortcomings of the store also mentioned that the "price was actually cheaper than others on this lake." This suggests that Russell Memorial Park and Campground offers competitive pricing for a lakeside camping experience in the Merrillan area. The combination of updated facilities and potentially lower costs could make it an attractive option for budget-conscious campers looking for value.
Return Visitors and Site Preference:
The positive experience of the lakeside site was strong enough that the reviewer stated, "I'll be back and Hope I can get the same site again." This indicates a high level of satisfaction with at least some of the campsites, particularly those with lake views or direct access. It also suggests that specific sites might be more desirable than others, and early booking might be advisable to secure a preferred location.
Promotional Information for Local Users:
For local residents seeking "camping near me" in the Merrillan area, Russell Memorial Park and Campground can be promoted as an updated and family-friendly destination on the shores of Lake Arbutis. Key selling points include the numerous playgrounds for children, the availability of sports facilities like volleyball and basketball courts, and the presence of a nice long beach and two boat landings for lake access. The fact that it offers lakeside campsites and is reportedly cheaper than other campgrounds on the lake adds to its appeal. The presence of event shelters also makes it a potential venue for local group gatherings.
While the campground store might have limitations regarding selection and firewood quality, this can be mitigated by bringing supplies or purchasing them locally. The seasonal algae bloom in late summer is also something to be aware of for those planning trips during that time. Overall, Russell Memorial Park and Campground offers a range of amenities and a desirable lakeside location at a competitive price, making it a strong contender for local camping getaways.
Recommendations for Local Campers:
Based on the available reviews, local users considering Russell Memorial Park and Campground should:
- Consider Lakeside Sites: If available, lakeside sites seem to offer a particularly enjoyable camping experience. Booking in advance might be necessary to secure these preferred locations.
- Be Prepared for the Campground Store: While it might offer basic necessities, plan to bring high-quality firewood and any specific items you might need for cooking or your stay.
- Take Advantage of the Updated Facilities: Enjoy the numerous playgrounds if traveling with children, and utilize the sports courts and beach for recreation.
- Note the Seasonal Algae Bloom: If planning a late summer trip, be aware of the potential for algae blooms in Lake Arbutis, which might affect water activities.
- Inquire About Specific Site Amenities: When booking, ask about the features of individual campsites, such as shade, proximity to facilities, and accessibility.
- Contact for Reservations and Information: Call (715) 333-7948 or +1 715-333-7948 for booking information and any specific questions about the campground's services and policies.
Conclusion for Local "Camping Near Me" Seekers:
Russell Memorial Park and Campground offers a compelling option for local residents looking for "camping near me" in the Merrillan area. Its updated facilities, including multiple playgrounds, sports courts, a beach, and boat landings on Lake Arbutis, cater to a wide range of campers, particularly families and those interested in water activities. While the campground store might have some limitations, the competitive pricing and the appeal of lakeside camping make it a worthwhile consideration for a local outdoor escape. Be sure to contact them directly for reservations and the most up-to-date information.
Russell Memorial Park and Campground Photos










Russell Memorial Park and Campground Location
Russell Memorial Park and Campground
W8180 South Rd, Merrillan, WI 54754, USA
Russell Memorial Park and CampgroundW8180 South Rd
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Russell Memorial Park and Campground Reviews
Really like the lakeside site. Campground store has a bit to be desired and had to go elsewhere for good wood to cook over. Price was actually cheaper than others on this lake. I'll be back and Hope I can get the same site again.
May 31, 2023 · Donald GilbertVery updated park with numerous playgrounds, event shelters, brick outhouse, ( no flush but dosnt smell and stocked) volleyball court, a basketball court, a nice long beach along lake arbutis, 2 nice boat landings, and a nice camp ground. The water is green with algae bloom in late summer, though not too bad.
Sep 19, 2022 · Jeremy MeddaughBeautiful campground for our stay deer hunting EXCEPT. !!! Why not charge the non campers for dumping garbage every night at all hours. Is this the public dump. Maybe putting a 250.00 fine for illegal dumping will lower our ratesVery DISAPPOINTED AT THE FREE DUMPING
Nov 25, 2024 · Billy SiedschlagGreat park. Nice clean facilities. Plenty of stuff to do for the kids. Neat little beach spreads out nicely along the shore. Great to pull up a boat or take a dip. Easy to use landing (it's a little steep considering the sloping beach). But in the no wake area it's handy. Love to go back! Can't wait.
May 07, 2019 · Mike GLove it here. Not a fan of the boat launch though. Boaters beware very steep make.sure you trim your motor up seen several boaters grind there motor blade fins.
Aug 22, 2023 · Moretti Pyrotechnics,LLC
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