Water Recreation

The Black River and East Fork of the Black River offer excellent canoeing and kayaking opportunities. East Fork is scenic with some mild rapids and moderately rocky areas. Paddling on the East Fork is not recommended when water levels are low.

The Black River from Lake Arbutus to North Bend on State Highway 54 is an excellent canoeing river from late spring through fall. The river provides a scenic trip through sparsely populated areas and great opportunities for fishing.

Because there is a dam on the Black River within the city of Black River Falls, canoeing is considered safe only when all gates are closed. It is not recommended when three or more dam gates are open and requires average or better skills when only two gates are open.

Motorized boat and canoe access

• Perry Creek
• Teal Flowage — provides ADA accessible fishing pier and boat launch

Canoe access only

• East Fork campground
• Bottom Road
• Halls Creek
• Mason’s Landing
• Hawk Island Landing

Swimming

Pigeon Creek campground has a picnic area with a sandy beach, drinking water and toilets. Swimmers should exercise caution, as lifeguards are not on duty. Parking at Pigeon Creek does require a vehicle admission sticker.

This is the only designated swimming area on the property. However, swimming is allowed elsewhere unless "closed to swimming" signs are posted. Additional nearby swimming locations outside of the state forest include East Arbutus Park [exit DNR] and Wazee Lake [exit DNR].