Fuchs House
4.3317 reviewsRt 1 Box 144B
Fuchs House
$100.00 - $200.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The Fuchs House rental fees are structured as follows: Sunday, Monday, Thursday, and Friday - $125/night; Tuesday and Wednesday - $100/night; Saturday - $200/night; Weekend rate (Friday + Saturday) - $400; Weekly rate - $975.
About this campground
Step back in time at the enchanting Fuchs House, a 1930s stone masterpiece nestled in the heart of Markham Springs Recreation Area. This five-bedroom historic retreat offers the perfect blend of old-world charm and natural wonder, where crystal-clear springs bubble up from the earth, the Black River winds through ancient forests, and scenic hiking trails beckon adventurers. Whether you're casting a line into pristine waters or launching your boat for a day of exploration, this unique property serves as your gateway to an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Fuchs House offers a unique camping alternative with its historic lodging facility. It is a fully equipped house suitable for large groups and events.
Historical SignificanceThe walls of this remarkable stone house echo with stories from the past, crafted by the skilled hands of Rudolph Fuchs in the late 1930s. This architectural gem stands as a testament to the area's rich heritage, where 19th-century pioneers once harnessed the power of rushing waters with undershot wheel grist mills. Every weathered stone and historic detail connects visitors to generations of families who found sustenance and community along these storied riverbanks.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of moderate temperatures and clear skies during the peak season, when dry conditions create perfect days for outdoor adventures. The property embraces a seasonal rhythm, taking a peaceful winter slumber from December through January each year, allowing nature to refresh and renew for the exciting seasons ahead.
ElevationNestled perfectly within the natural contours of the landscape, the Fuchs House sits at an elevation that offers commanding views of the surrounding wilderness while maintaining easy access to the springs and river below.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a cathedral of towering ash, elm, maple, and poplar trees that create a living canopy overhead, painting the landscape in brilliant seasonal colors. The crown jewel of this natural sanctuary is a historic pond dating to the 1800s, continuously fed by six magnificent springs that pour an astounding five million gallons of crystal-clear water daily into this serene aquatic haven.
Geological RegionDiscover a geological wonderland where the Black River has carved its path through dense forests for millennia, creating a lush ecosystem dominated by majestic ash, elm, maple, and poplar trees. This remarkable landscape features six natural springs that emerge from deep underground aquifers, collectively releasing nearly five million gallons of pure, mineral-rich water each day into a historic pond that has reflected the changing seasons since the 1800s. The interplay of flowing water, ancient bedrock, and thriving forest creates a unique microclimate that supports an extraordinary diversity of plant and animal life.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo details provided about accessibility features.
Sites SizeThe house includes two large bedrooms downstairs and three bedrooms upstairs, capable of accommodating multiple people per room.
Sites PrivacyThe house is secluded, providing a private and quiet experience.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesThe house is ideal for large groups or families seeking a budget-friendly option. Reviews suggest bringing your own cleaning supplies due to varying cleanliness levels.
Best CampsitesThere is only one rentable site, the Fuchs House, with no differentiation between sites.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is available at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The house accommodates up to 14 guests across five bedrooms.
Groups
No designated group camping sites were mentioned, but the house itself accommodates large groups for lodging.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe house features two downstairs bedrooms and three upstairs bedrooms, accommodating up to 14 guests.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from March 1, 2025, to December 31, 2026, with closures from December 1 to January 1 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo information about walk-up availability is provided.
Cancellation PolicyChanges made to reservations incur a $10 fee if dates are completely different. Cancellations result in a $10 fee, and late cancellations will subtract the first night’s recreation use fee. For cabins, late cancellations occur within 14 days of arrival.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Lodging and accommodations
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Guests can enjoy fishing, hiking, canoeing, and birding within the Markham Springs Recreation Area. The Black River, adjacent to the property, is a popular spot for anglers, while the Eagle Bluff Trail offers opportunities for wildlife viewing and exploring scenic areas.
Hiking
The Eagle Bluff Trail, a 1.5-mile loop, provides scenic views of the Black River and is perfect for birding and wildlife enthusiasts. Other trails within the Markham Springs system are also accessible.Fishing
Guests can fish in the Black River, which is home to bass, sunfish, walleye, and catfish. The mill pond offers additional opportunities for fishing, especially for pike.Boating
The Black River allows for canoeing, kayaking, and boating. Float tubes and canoes can access the river directly from the recreation area.Wildlife viewing
Birding and wildlife viewing are popular activities. The Eagle Bluff Trail is particularly recommended for spotting local fauna.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities were mentioned in the source materials.Water Sports
Guests can engage in canoeing and kayaking on the Black River.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No specific fire regulations are provided.
- Quiet hours are No quiet hours are explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mention issues like sinkholes in the pond and outdated facilities.
Active alertsNo active alerts are provided.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 38%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services can be found in nearby Williamsville, including a general store and fuel station. No specific details about hospitals or police stations are provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 1, 2025 - December 1, 2025
Trash and recyclingNo specific details about trash and recycling facilities were provided. Guests are encouraged to leave the house clean for the next use.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Black River and includes a spring-fed pond.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight cleanliness issues, outdated facilities, and malfunctioning amenities like air conditioning.
HostRanger Sherman and caretakers are mentioned as helpful in user reviews.
Campground Map
Rt 1 Box 144B
Driving directionsFrom Poplar Bluff, take Highway 67 north for 14 miles, then drive west on Highway 49 for 9 miles (about 3 miles past the town of Williamsville). Take the first right after crossing the Black River to enter Markham Springs Recreation Area. The drive way to the Fuchs House will be the first Forest Road on the left.
The campground can be accessed via paved roads, with clear directions provided from Poplar Bluff. No mention of seasonal closures or challenging terrain.Nearby places
Poplar Bluff (14 miles, approximately 25 minutes), Williamsville (3 miles, approximately 5 minutes)
Nearby supplies
The town of Williamsville offers a general store and fuel station three miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.3
17 reviews
Fuchs House is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Fuchs House are a mix of appreciation for its historic charm and criticism of maintenance issues. Guests admire the secluded setting, natural beauty, and affordability but highlight cleanliness and repair concerns.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews praise the house's spaciousness, affordability, and suitability for large groups and family events. Guests also enjoy the scenic surroundings, including the pond and the Black River,...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the house's cleanliness, outdated facilities, and maintenance issues, such as faulty air conditioning and plumbing problems. 'The house wasn't cleaned,' 'shower knob was...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing your own linens and cleaning supplies. One reviewer suggested confirming the door code in advance. Another recommended the Korner Kwik in Williamsville for breakfast and...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews spanning multiple years suggest the house is popular for family gatherings and weddings in the warmer months. During colder months, guests appreciate the indoor fireplace but mention issues...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'Everything about this place was awesome!!!,' 'The house is not for everyone,' 'If you love old architecture... this is a wonderful place,' 'The Korner Kwik in Williamsville has an amazing breakfast.'
Based on 17 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback highlights that the Fuchs House is better suited for those seeking a rustic experience rather than luxury. Some recommend it for weddings, family reunions, or budget-friendly...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific mentions of accessibility features or experiences were provided.
Based on 17 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically addressed pet policies or experiences.
Based on 17 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025