Jackson County, Wisconsin
Jackson County sits in west-central Wisconsin, where the Driftless Area blends into the Central Plains. The landscape changes as you travel across the county, with sandy plains in the east giving way to rugged hills and forests farther west.
The Black River winds through the area, offering excellent opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Outdoor enthusiasts can also explore the county’s extensive ATV trails, while Black River State Forest is a favorite for hiking and enjoying the spectacular fall colors.
Cranberry bogs cover much of the eastern part of the county, helping make Jackson County one of the nation’s leading cranberry-producing areas. The Ho-Chunk Nation also has a strong cultural presence in the region. When winter arrives, locals embrace the snow with cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and other cold-weather activities. Jackson County is a peaceful place where it’s easy to escape the crowds and reconnect with nature.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Jackson County |
| County Seat | Black River Falls |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Black River Falls, Alma Center, Melrose, Taylor, Merrillan |
| Interstates and Highways | I-94, US-12, WI-27, WI-54 |
| Etymology | Named after President Andrew Jackson |
| FIPS Code | 55-053 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 1,000 sq mi (Land: 987 sq mi; Water: 13 sq mi) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CT) |
| State | Wisconsin |
| Coordinates | 44.3184° N, 90.8356° W |
| Major Landmarks | Black River State Forest, Wazee Lake Recreation Area, Sand Creek Brewery |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Clark County (North), Wood County (East), Juneau County (Southeast), Monroe County (South), La Crosse County (Southwest), Trempealeau County (West), Eau Claire County (Northwest) |
| Population | Approximately 21,000 |
