Mooney Dam County Park & Campground

For Wisconsinites seeking a tranquil and spacious waterfront camping experience in the heart of the Northwoods, Mooney Dam County Park & Campground in Gordon offers an exceptional choice. Nestled along the serene shores of Lower Eau Claire Lake, this campground provides a picturesque setting where natural beauty and outdoor recreation seamlessly blend. Managed as a Douglas County Park, it is known for its commitment to providing well-maintained facilities and generous campsites, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo adventurers looking to immerse themselves in Wisconsin’s pristine natural landscapes. Whether you're planning a fishing trip, a leisurely float down the river, or simply a peaceful retreat by the water, Mooney Dam County Park promises a refreshing and memorable escape right here in the Badger State.

Lower Eau Claire Lake and the surrounding river system are central to the appeal of Mooney Dam County Park. The campground is thoughtfully designed to maximize access to these waterways, offering sites with beautiful views and direct entry points for boats and kayaks. Visitors often highlight the spaciousness of the sites, providing ample room for comfort and privacy, a sought-after feature in any popular camping destination. The park’s commitment to ongoing improvements, such as newer vault toilets and a playground, demonstrates its dedication to enhancing the visitor experience. This overview aims to provide a clear, factual, and engaging description of Mooney Dam County Park & Campground, highlighting its prime location, the essential services it provides, and the key features that make it a perfect fit for Wisconsinites looking for an authentic and relaxing outdoor adventure in the Gordon area.

Mooney Dam County Park & Campground is conveniently located at 14293 Fowler's Cir, Gordon, WI 54838, USA. This address places it approximately 13 miles east of Gordon, along County Road Y, and about 5 miles south of Barnes. For residents across Wisconsin, its accessibility is quite favorable, particularly for those in the northern and central parts of the state. While it provides a sense of being "tucked away" in the Northwoods, the access via well-maintained county roads ensures a relatively smooth journey for vehicles and RVs. It is also within a reasonable drive time from larger regional cities like Duluth, MN, and Eau Claire, WI.

The park's strategic position on Lower Eau Claire Lake provides direct waterfront access, which is a major draw for water enthusiasts. This allows for immediate engagement in activities such as fishing, boating, and kayaking. Furthermore, its connection to the river system offers opportunities for floating adventures. While the campground offers a tranquil, natural setting, the nearby town of Gordon can provide essential amenities such as gas, groceries, and other basic supplies, ensuring that campers have access to necessities without venturing too far. This blend of natural immersion and convenient access makes Mooney Dam County Park an ideal and practical destination for Wisconsinites seeking both adventure and comfort in their camping endeavors.

Mooney Dam County Park & Campground, as a Douglas County Park, provides a solid array of services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for its visitors. Based on available public data and recent reviews, these services are geared towards providing both essential comforts and opportunities for recreation:

• Campsites with Electric & Water: The campground offers 10 electric campsites and 4 non-electric sites. Many sites feature both electric (30 and 50 amp) and water hookups, providing convenience for a wide range of RVs and trailers. Reviewers specifically mention "water and electric on most all sites except for the ones close to the boat ramp."
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill, perfect for outdoor cooking and campfires.
• Newer Vault Toilets: The park features newer vault toilets, emphasizing a commitment to clean and updated basic restroom facilities.
• Drinking Water: A water pump is available within the park for public use, providing access to potable water.
• Boat Launch: A convenient public boat launch is located near the campground, providing easy access to Lower Eau Claire Lake. Reviewers note "easy tie outs to leave boat in the water."
• Playground: A newer playground is available, providing a dedicated space for children to play and enjoy their time at the park.
• Drop Pots: New drop pots are mentioned, indicating improved waste disposal facilities, likely referring to modern, accessible trash receptacles.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally welcome but must be kept on a leash and controlled to ensure minimal impact on wildlife and other campers.
• No Dump Station: It is important to note that reviews indicate there is no dump station directly on-site, requiring campers to plan for waste disposal elsewhere.
• Seasonal Operation: The standard camping season typically runs from two Fridays before Memorial Day to one week after Labor Day, with first-come, first-served availability in the extended season.

Mooney Dam County Park & Campground offers several key features and highlights that make it a highly desirable destination for campers in Wisconsin:

• Spacious Waterfront Sites: Visitors consistently praise the "huge and wide open" sites, many of which offer "beautiful views on the water," providing ample space and privacy.
• Direct Lake & River Access: The campground provides excellent access to both Lower Eau Claire Lake for boating and fishing, and the river for floating adventures. This dual access offers diverse water-based fun.
• Excellent Fishing: Lower Eau Claire Lake is known for its abundant aquatic life, making it an ideal spot for anglers targeting northern pike, bass, perch, bluegill, crappie, and bullhead.
• Quiet and Serene Atmosphere: Reviewers highlight the "very quiet" nature of the park, making it perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape from noise and crowds.
• Newer Facilities: Recent improvements, including new drop pots and a playground, demonstrate ongoing investment in the park's amenities, enhancing the overall camper experience.
• Great Value: At around $30 per night for an electric and water site, many campers consider it an "excellent price" for the amenities and location offered.
• Beautiful Scenery: The picturesque setting on the lake, surrounded by the Wisconsin Northwoods, provides a visually appealing and relaxing environment.
• Family-Friendly: The presence of a playground and opportunities for water fun make it suitable for families with children.

For inquiries, reservations, or the most current information regarding conditions and operations at Mooney Dam County Park & Campground, please use the following contact information. As a Douglas County Park, direct contact might be through the county's Parks Department:

Address: 14293 Fowler's Cir, Gordon, WI 54838, USA

Phone: (715) 378-2027

Mobile Phone: +1 715-378-2027

Reservations for Douglas County campgrounds, including Mooney Dam, can often be made online via the Douglas County, WI official website's campgrounds section or Premier Campground Management's online portal for the park.

For Wisconsinites, Mooney Dam County Park & Campground represents a fantastic opportunity for an authentic and accessible Northwoods camping experience. Its prime location on Lower Eau Claire Lake offers direct access to a wealth of water-based activities, from excellent fishing and boating to enjoyable river floats. The spacious, well-maintained sites, many with electric and water hookups, provide a comfortable foundation for any type of camper, whether you're in an RV or a tent.

What truly makes this park suitable for locals is its ability to deliver a peaceful and quiet retreat without sacrificing quality. The newer facilities, including improved vault toilets and a playground, show a commitment to visitor comfort. Despite the absence of an on-site dump station, which campers should plan for, the overall value and serene beauty make it a highly recommended choice. For families looking to create lasting memories by the water, for anglers seeking their next big catch, or for anyone simply desiring a tranquil escape into Wisconsin's beautiful natural environment, Mooney Dam County Park & Campground offers a compelling and truly local-friendly option.

Mooney Dam County Park & Campground

14293 Fowler's Cir, Gordon, WI 54838, USA