As autumn paints the landscape in vibrant hues, Fort McCoy’s Pine View Campground and Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts to unwind and explore its rich offerings. Celebrating 52 years in 2024, this Wisconsin destination boasts miles of hiking trails, the trout-rich La Crosse River, the serene Suukjak Sep Lake and Creek, and the breathtaking Trout Falls.
With the summer rush fading, Pine View transitions into a haven of tranquility, offering year-round recreational activities amidst stunning seasonal scenery.
According to DVIDS, Pine View Campground accommodates a range of guest preferences, offering full-service campsites, basic electric sites, and tent options, alongside yurts and cabins available for rent.
Guests can enjoy amenities like modern comfort stations, a lake with a beach, and a camp store providing essentials like firewood and ice. The campground also features recreational facilities tailored for family and group activities, including miniature golf, volleyball, basketball, and paintball.
Maintenance Supervisor/Facility Manager Alex Karis with the Fort McCoy Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare, and Recreation, emphasizes the area’s year-round appeal. Pine View Recreation Area offers four-season, year-round activities to include camping, hiking, fishing, and more,” Karis said.
In the entire Pine View Recreation Area there are opportunities to enjoy some fantastic outdoor recreation opportunities,” Karis noted. “This is a wonderful place with lots to offer.”
A highlight of an autumn visit is the scenery around Trout Falls. “If you want to see something incredibly beautiful, then come see Trout Falls,” Karis stated.
For anglers, the fall season coincides with Wisconsin’s fishing season. The La Crosse River provides excellent trout fishing opportunities. Anglers should note that a Fort McCoy fishing license is required. Additionally, the appropriate Wisconsin fishing license and trout stamp are necessary.
Suukjak Sep Lake offers another fishing spot. “Suukjak Sep Lake also offers a place for anglers to try their hand at fishing,” Karis said. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout each spring and supports a natural population of bluegill and bass.
As the season progresses, Pine View Campground caters to hunters, remaining open through November. The campground accommodates those participating in the archery season from October through November and the gun-deer season in November. Hunters can bring their campers or rent one on-site.
The Sportsman’s Range offers designated dates for sighting in deer rifles, with appointment options available. For adrenaline seekers, a tactics paintball field is located near the Whitetail Ridge Ski Area, with groups able to organize events with 48 hours notice.
Karis encourages visitors to experience the area’s fall offerings: “Visit the campground and the recreation area in the fall. There’s so much to enjoy here and it’s a beautiful area. Come and see what’s here.”
