Discover the best campgrounds in Wisconsin with wildlife watching

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Wisconsin

96% (5445 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Wisconsin

Dog-friendly getaways

Star Hosts in Wisconsin

98%

(430)

Bad River Wilderness

4 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Mellen, WI

Update: This property was just awarded 2nd place for 2024 as the 2nd best Hipcamp in Wisconsin out of 252 Hipcamp's based on reviews and ratings! Thank you to all who have enjoyed this amazing property and provided a review or rating!!! On the upper Bad River, I have a special location that I'd like to share for others to enjoy. I was fortunate to acquire this land 20 years ago and now that I have retired from the United States Air Force, I can dedicate time to create peaceful campsites along the river. This land was originally railroad property as the railroad companies bought much land in the late 1800's to have options to place their railroads. There is still a railroad track nearby but it has been abandoned since 2015 and it makes a nice hiking path along the river for many miles to the north. There are 3 waterfalls nearby and I will have many signs leading to the waterfalls. There are 4 total campsites on the property, 1 site you can drive to (Eagle Pines), and 3 tent sites that require 1/8 mile hike to 2 sites, and a 1/4 mile hike to the other hike-in site.

Quarry in the Mississippi Bluff

4 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Dakota, WI

This is a very private location. In its former life this property was a limestone quarry. Evidence of it's history remain with high rock walls on both ends of the property. In the center of the property is about 5 acres that is flat and covered with wildflowers and small trees. There are several good options for camping in this area. Surrounding this area is another 15 acres of hills and trees. We have a scenic overlook open to all guests where you can relax and sit on a wooden swing while enjoying the beautiful view of the Mississippi River below. There is a boat ramp just a mile down the hill for boating or fishing on the Mississippi and the city of La Crosse, WI and La Crescent, MN are each only about a five minute drive. Great River Bluffs State Park and countless other recreational opportunities are just minutes away.

Purplehaze Acres

9 sites · Lodging, Tents60 acres · Rubicon, WI

Purplehaze Acres is a 60-acre organic rustic farm in Rubicon, WI and resides at the beginning of the approx. 650-mile Niagara Escarpment--known locally as "The Ledge". We are in close proximity to the Ice Age Trail, and the natural treasures of the great Horicon Marsh, Lake Sinnissipi/Rock River with canoeing/kayaking/fishing, Ledges County Park, and the world-renowned Holy Hill Shrine. Nearby Hustisford ("Husti") offers unique shopping and dining experiences. Need a few organic groceries? Make sure to visit Back To The Best Organic grocer only 3 miles away, featuring food raised on local organic farms including Purplehaze Acres. We offer a variety of camping alternatives, with 7 tent sites, 1 group site, and a cabin. There is potable water, charcoal grills, firepit grates, eggs and, available for purchase, firewood. COMING SOON: Did you forget something? If so, check out our Camp Cupboard Store. Your approach via 1/2-mile dirt drive up the hills and through the woods . . . to not your grandmother's typical house you go. You'll find wonderful vistas, wildflowers, berries, trails up into the woods, a 900' grass runway for aviators on an overall great "peace" of earth. ☮

🦫 Flutterby 🦋 Farm 👩🏽‍🌾

8 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Cashton, WI

Once a working farm, now a haven for wildlife and peace. Primitive, laid-back camping experience. Surrounded by Amish farms. Check out our full property for our dispersed campsites and additional photos. * 100 acres of rewilded habitat * Potable spring water * Creekside camping * ✊🏻✊🏼✊🏽✊🏾✊🏿 BIPOC, LGBTQ+ 🏳️‍🌈 friendly. All are welcome!

Cricket Ranch

5 sites · Tents53 acres · Cascade, WI

We are honored to again be named one of the Best Hipcamps in Wisconsin for 2024. Thank you to our guests for your wonderful reviews and helpful suggestions! And a special thank you to one of our guests, Brandon "Da Garbage Disposal" Clark, for featuring Cricket Ranch in his YouTube series "Outdoors Unsupervised: Survival Season 6". Learn more about this land: Cricket Ranch is a crazy combo of Nature's past, present, and future. The property was a farm with 75% of it corn fields until 30 years ago. It has been virtually untouched since then and in just a few decades it has reinvented itself as a forest. Chambers Creek runs thru the west side of the property. As a headwater of the Milwaukee River, it is part of the Great Lakes Basin and a source for Lake Michigan. Wisconsin has identified Chambers Creek as an Exceptional Resource Water (ERWs), Less than 10% of Wisconsin waterways carry this designation. What we do (or don't do) now affects the Great Lakes later. And you'll find fossils in the rock walls of some of the earliest examples of complex life on Earth (from 460 mya, Ordovician, Cambrian). No digging required. Seriously. How they got there is a very long story in the making and involves ancient inland seas, plate tectonics, glaciers, German immigrants, and 19th-20th century farming. Off the Beaten Path @ Cricket Ranch provides a true back to nature environment for campers, sometimes called "backcountry camping". Located on 50 acres of private forest, field, and valley, our campsites are very secluded and separated by acres of woodland. Each layout is unique, embracing what nature has provided. Backpacking (or wagoning) to your camp from the parking area is necessary as the 5' wide paths do not accommodate cars/trucks. Hiking distance from parking area: (1) Camp Cricket is 600 Ft. (2) Haen Hollow is 250 ft. (3) Rocky Top is 700 ft. (4) Grapeline is 1000 ft. Feel fee to explore the land! We are located near the Niagara Escarpment so, as previously mentioned, you might even find a 460 million year old fossil on one of the field rock walls. Keep it! So we can keep a count of how many are found, and out of an overabundance of curiosity, please let us know and send some pics of your find. Chambers Creek provides a spot to cool your feet, stone step, or just listen to the relaxing sound of a babbling brook. The creek is overgrown with brush so access is limited but we do have a trail that follows the creek for about 300 yds. We intend to clear some more of the underbrush in the near future to allow for better enjoyment and management of this invaluable natural resource. Near by: Kettle Moraine National Forest is a 10 minute drive, boasting great hiking and the can't-miss-it view from atop Parnell Tower. Lake Ellen has a nice no-fee public boat landing just 2 miles away. The lake has clear water and is stocked periodically with Pike and Walleye. It is surprising how un-busy this lake is so bring your boat, kayak, paddle board, and/or assorted flotation devices and check it out. Our parking area can accommodate boat trailers during your stay.

12 top campgrounds in Wisconsin with wildlife watching

100%

(439)

Quarry in the Mississippi Bluff

4 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Dakota, WI

This is a very private location. In its former life this property was a limestone quarry. Evidence of it's history remain with high rock walls on both ends of the property. In the center of the property is about 5 acres that is flat and covered with wildflowers and small trees. There are several good options for camping in this area. Surrounding this area is another 15 acres of hills and trees. We have a scenic overlook open to all guests where you can relax and sit on a wooden swing while enjoying the beautiful view of the Mississippi River below. There is a boat ramp just a mile down the hill for boating or fishing on the Mississippi and the city of La Crosse, WI and La Crescent, MN are each only about a five minute drive. Great River Bluffs State Park and countless other recreational opportunities are just minutes away.

Bad River Wilderness

4 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Mellen, WI

Update: This property was just awarded 2nd place for 2024 as the 2nd best Hipcamp in Wisconsin out of 252 Hipcamp's based on reviews and ratings! Thank you to all who have enjoyed this amazing property and provided a review or rating!!! On the upper Bad River, I have a special location that I'd like to share for others to enjoy. I was fortunate to acquire this land 20 years ago and now that I have retired from the United States Air Force, I can dedicate time to create peaceful campsites along the river. This land was originally railroad property as the railroad companies bought much land in the late 1800's to have options to place their railroads. There is still a railroad track nearby but it has been abandoned since 2015 and it makes a nice hiking path along the river for many miles to the north. There are 3 waterfalls nearby and I will have many signs leading to the waterfalls. There are 4 total campsites on the property, 1 site you can drive to (Eagle Pines), and 3 tent sites that require 1/8 mile hike to 2 sites, and a 1/4 mile hike to the other hike-in site.

Purplehaze Acres

9 sites · Lodging, Tents60 acres · Rubicon, WI

Purplehaze Acres is a 60-acre organic rustic farm in Rubicon, WI and resides at the beginning of the approx. 650-mile Niagara Escarpment--known locally as "The Ledge". We are in close proximity to the Ice Age Trail, and the natural treasures of the great Horicon Marsh, Lake Sinnissipi/Rock River with canoeing/kayaking/fishing, Ledges County Park, and the world-renowned Holy Hill Shrine. Nearby Hustisford ("Husti") offers unique shopping and dining experiences. Need a few organic groceries? Make sure to visit Back To The Best Organic grocer only 3 miles away, featuring food raised on local organic farms including Purplehaze Acres. We offer a variety of camping alternatives, with 7 tent sites, 1 group site, and a cabin. There is potable water, charcoal grills, firepit grates, eggs and, available for purchase, firewood. COMING SOON: Did you forget something? If so, check out our Camp Cupboard Store. Your approach via 1/2-mile dirt drive up the hills and through the woods . . . to not your grandmother's typical house you go. You'll find wonderful vistas, wildflowers, berries, trails up into the woods, a 900' grass runway for aviators on an overall great "peace" of earth. ☮

Cricket Ranch

5 sites · Tents53 acres · Cascade, WI

We are honored to again be named one of the Best Hipcamps in Wisconsin for 2024. Thank you to our guests for your wonderful reviews and helpful suggestions! And a special thank you to one of our guests, Brandon "Da Garbage Disposal" Clark, for featuring Cricket Ranch in his YouTube series "Outdoors Unsupervised: Survival Season 6". Learn more about this land: Cricket Ranch is a crazy combo of Nature's past, present, and future. The property was a farm with 75% of it corn fields until 30 years ago. It has been virtually untouched since then and in just a few decades it has reinvented itself as a forest. Chambers Creek runs thru the west side of the property. As a headwater of the Milwaukee River, it is part of the Great Lakes Basin and a source for Lake Michigan. Wisconsin has identified Chambers Creek as an Exceptional Resource Water (ERWs), Less than 10% of Wisconsin waterways carry this designation. What we do (or don't do) now affects the Great Lakes later. And you'll find fossils in the rock walls of some of the earliest examples of complex life on Earth (from 460 mya, Ordovician, Cambrian). No digging required. Seriously. How they got there is a very long story in the making and involves ancient inland seas, plate tectonics, glaciers, German immigrants, and 19th-20th century farming. Off the Beaten Path @ Cricket Ranch provides a true back to nature environment for campers, sometimes called "backcountry camping". Located on 50 acres of private forest, field, and valley, our campsites are very secluded and separated by acres of woodland. Each layout is unique, embracing what nature has provided. Backpacking (or wagoning) to your camp from the parking area is necessary as the 5' wide paths do not accommodate cars/trucks. Hiking distance from parking area: (1) Camp Cricket is 600 Ft. (2) Haen Hollow is 250 ft. (3) Rocky Top is 700 ft. (4) Grapeline is 1000 ft. Feel fee to explore the land! We are located near the Niagara Escarpment so, as previously mentioned, you might even find a 460 million year old fossil on one of the field rock walls. Keep it! So we can keep a count of how many are found, and out of an overabundance of curiosity, please let us know and send some pics of your find. Chambers Creek provides a spot to cool your feet, stone step, or just listen to the relaxing sound of a babbling brook. The creek is overgrown with brush so access is limited but we do have a trail that follows the creek for about 300 yds. We intend to clear some more of the underbrush in the near future to allow for better enjoyment and management of this invaluable natural resource. Near by: Kettle Moraine National Forest is a 10 minute drive, boasting great hiking and the can't-miss-it view from atop Parnell Tower. Lake Ellen has a nice no-fee public boat landing just 2 miles away. The lake has clear water and is stocked periodically with Pike and Walleye. It is surprising how un-busy this lake is so bring your boat, kayak, paddle board, and/or assorted flotation devices and check it out. Our parking area can accommodate boat trailers during your stay.

🦫 Flutterby 🦋 Farm 👩🏽‍🌾

8 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Cashton, WI

Once a working farm, now a haven for wildlife and peace. Primitive, laid-back camping experience. Surrounded by Amish farms. Check out our full property for our dispersed campsites and additional photos. * 100 acres of rewilded habitat * Potable spring water * Creekside camping * ✊🏻✊🏼✊🏽✊🏾✊🏿 BIPOC, LGBTQ+ 🏳️‍🌈 friendly. All are welcome!

99%

(67)

Fisher Cat Creek Forest Retreat

3 sites · Lodging20 acres · Osseo, WI

Four years ago, David and Veronica began designing and building structures in the 20 acre hardwood forest that Davids' father acquired back in 1969. Now they live there full time in an off-grid cabin with monthly seminars, campsites for rent and a passion for sharing the wonders of the forest.

100%

(174)

The Hill Family Camping

15 sites · RVs, Tents18 acres · Wonewoc, WI

The Hill is a private forested camp area that was originally made for a large group of friend's annual party. Spanning 4 acres on top, there is space for campers including 30 amp plug-ins, tents, and has buildings on-site for groups if needed. We also an add on of a simple rental glamper we call the Sugar Shack (listed as an Extra). The variety of trees, open space, and a group areas including fire pit, horseshoes/bags, and walking paths make the Hill a beloved getaway. Elroy/Sparta trail is 4 miles away that you can reach on the 400 trail just 1.2 miles from Hill. Golf course in town, paddle on Baraboo, fish/swim at Dutch Hollow, or hike at Wildcat --all within 15 miles.

99%

(75)

West Fork Sports Club

10 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Viroqua, WI

Est. 1966, the West Fork Sports Club has been a special place for multiple generations of both local community members and people from across the country. Nestled in between two valleys with 3,500 feet of stream front property on the West Fork of the Kickapoo, we truly have one of the most unique campgrounds you'll ever visit. Having avoided glacial drift during the last ice age, the Driftless area boast beautiful valleys, bluffs and rolling hills that you won't find anywhere well in Wisconsin. We are an Environmental Conservation Club always accepting new members. A temporary membership is included in camping fees and goes toward environmental conservation work and maintaining grounds, free wifi, etc. Our 20 acre property boast 3,500 feet of stream-front class 1 trout fishing on the West Fork of the Kickapoo (a top 100 trout stream in the US). Our entire stretch of stream is fully improved and excellent to fish. We have a healthy native brown trout population. We work with a local school science program to raise and stock brook trout every year. We have resident Sandhill Cranes, Bald Eagles, Oriels, Willow Fly Catchers, Hummingbirds and many other avian species. Nestled between two valleys, we frequently have stunning sunsets. We are far enough way from light pollution to easily see the Milky Way Galaxy on a clear night. The star gazing is amazing and if you keep your eyes up at night, you're pretty much guaranteed to see a shooting star, if not multiple. The West Fork Sport Club is truly a special campground. We're a short 15 minute drive from Viroqua which has a lot of great local shops, the Driftless Café (Owned and operated by Wisconsin Foodie host Luke Zahm) and a fantastic farmer's market. We're 25 minutes from Wild Cat Mountain which has extensive hiking trails. There are also two great vineyards within 15 minutes. Even on a rainy day, you will have plenty of fun options. ***Electric sites are not reservable through HipCamp.

100%

(25)

Ice Age Retreat

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Palmyra, WI

Surrounded by the Kettle Moraine Forest, we purchased this property in October of 2022 to be closer to nature and to share this property with you. We look forward to hosting you. The forest provides many opportunities enjoy! Close to the Ice Age Hiking Trail, Blad Bluff Scenic Overlook within walking distance of our retreat. Hiking, Moutain Biking, Cross Country Skiing, Snow Shoe, Horse Back Riding and much more

98%

(160)

Superior Beach Camp

2 sites · Tents10 acres · South Range, WI

Escape to Superior Beach Camp and immerse yourself in the beauty and privacy of a cleared camping area situated above 500' feet of sand and pebble beach on the world’s greatest lake. Agate campsite is very generously sized and is all yours. Surrounded by a mix of poplar and birch with a few white pine sprinkled in, the main camp area is set back from the lake atop a 70' bluff with peekaboo views of Lake Superior. A short walk down a private path from your campsite gives you access to a beautiful Lake Superior beach to swim, skip rocks, search for agates, or just enjoy the panoramic views of the lake and the town of Duluth on the opposite shore. Agate campsite previously featured a "look out point" that has been altered by the natural erosion of the red clay banks that comprise much of Lake Superior's south shore. While you can still access this area, doing so will require more effort and care, and we no longer allow camping on the point. Superior Beach Camp located is 2.5 hours north of the Twin Cities and perfectly positions you to discover all the wonders of the Twin Ports. Explore this amazing area or stay at camp, set up your chair in the sand and take in the many moods of Mother Superior. Watch the ships come and go to the sparkly backdrop of Duluth’s city lights. The crackle of a driftwood fire on the beach provides the perfect soundtrack as you watch for shooting stars and the aurora. Stock up on supplies and explore the charming industrial town of Superior, WI – 15 minutes from your campsite. Spend a day mountain biking the Duluth Traverse and touring the the wonderful local dining and tap room scenes of Duluth and Superior. Canal Park, downtown Duluth, is a 25 minute drive. If you’d like to venture further, you could meander up the North Shore. Or keep it local and check out Bayfield and the Apostle Islands – only 75 minutes East. Stop through the charming lakeside village of Cornucopia on your way. Or perhaps you’d like to experience world class trout fishing on the Brule River a half hour from Superior Beach Camp. Maybe Parks are your thing: Amnicon Falls, one of Wisconsin’s most beautiful State Parks, is reachable in 10 minutes by car. Drive a half hour further to Pattison State Park and take in Wisconsin’s tallest waterfall. On the Minnesota side, the magic of Jay Cooke State Park is 30 minutes west (and puts you on the doorstep of legit white water rafting). Whether you're looking for solace and relaxation in a blissful [great] lakeside setting or simply seeking a convenient place to rest your head while exploring the many adventures a stone’s throw from your campsite, there is something for everyone who camps here. Superior Beach Camp is a clean, quiet, peaceful, primitive setting. We appreciate that our campers help us keep it this way; remember to pack in any supplies or provisions you need, and leave no trace when you depart so our next guests can enjoy a clean campsite.

86%

(43)

Amnicon Adventures & Retreats

8 sites · Lodging, Tents600 acres · South Range, WI

At Amnicon you'll find the perfect blend of far-enough-away and easy-enough-to-get-to. We're located at the end of a 5-mile-long dirt road, just 30 minutes outside of Duluth, MN. Our site features 600 acres of protected forests along the Amnicon River on the South Shore of Lake Superior. The wildlife is abundant, and we even have an eagle's nest on site. You'll enjoy falling asleep to the sound of the waves on Lake Superior, and waking up to 118+ species of birdsongs. We have an enormous sandy beach on Lake Superior that's a great place to watch the sunset and have a SMALL campfire. You're going to love it here.

100%

(16)

Driftless Retreat 🍃 🎶 📚

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Ferryville, WI

Welcome to Driftless Retreat, a charming Amish-built, Scandinavian-influenced cabin nestled on 3 acres in the heart of the Driftless Region of Wisconsin. Tucked away high on a Mississippi River bluff, the property offers privacy and seclusion in a rural setting, but is within easy reach of quaint river towns and villages, major hubs and some of the best spots in the Driftless area. - 5 minutes from Ferryville / Mississippi River - 12 minutes from Lansing, Iowa - 25 minutes from the vibrant, eclectic destination town of Viroqua - 45 minutes from western Wisconsin's largest city, La Crosse - 2 hours from Madison, WI - 3 hours from Minneapolis, MN - 4 hours from Chicago, IL While the cabin is rustic and simple, it is equipped with a number of modern amenities and thoughtful extras to make your stay cozy and comfortable. The ideal spot for bibliophiles and music lovers alike, the cabin has a record player (byo vinyl), an Amazon Echo with SiriusXM, a large collection of reading materials, including 200+ books and 100+ magazines ranging on topics from nature, music, health and wellness, mindfulness, sustainable living and more. There is also a variety of games, puzzles and coloring books and two yoga mats + blocks. The cabin is equipped with a reliable 52 Mbps fiber optic internet connection, perfect for remote work or for those seeking a secluded retreat while staying connected. An Epson projector and pull-down screen make for an intimate home theater experience (byo laptop). Sleeping options include a pullout sofa (full-sized bed) with futon mattress to lay on top for comfort, as well as an Exped self-inflating air mattress if needed. There is NO RUNNING WATER, but the cabin does have an electric water cooler on site that offers both hot and cold water options (bring your own water to fill the 5-gallon container). Additionally, you'll find a small refrigerator with freezer, microwave, two electric heaters for warmth, a hot water kettle, and a Chemex for your coffee brewing needs. Dishes, cookware, blankets and pillows provided (byo sheet set). ***As of August 2024, the property now features a portable toilet ('porta potty') for your convenience, and the compostable toilet is no longer available. Feel free to explore the 3-acre property and discover nearby attractions like Rush Creek State Natural Area, Blackhawk Park, Mt. Hosmer, Effigy Mounds National Monument, Wyalusing State Park, Kickapoo Valley Reserve, Wildcat Mountain State Park, and more. This property is located in a rural setting, so you can expect to hear occasional noise from passing farm equipment and trucks. Across the street, a hobby farm adds to the countryside charm, and you may hear the morning greeting of a rooster and honking of geese. It's not uncommon to see deer on the lawn, as there is an orchard neighboring the south end of the property that they like to frequent, and you'll likely hear coyotes howling in the distance at night. Also note that while we do our best to keep nature outside the cabin, be aware that bugs and mice do sometimes happen. As a guest at Driftless Retreat, you're responsible for leaving the cabin in clean condition. Please wash all dishes, place all furniture in its original setting and remove all trash and recyclables from the property upon departure (take extra care to make sure there is absolutely no food left in the cabin). Driftless Retreat is best suited for solo travelers or pairs. Detailed Guide to Driftless Retreat: https://bit.ly/3XqzmEK Learn more about Driftless Wisconsin at driftlesswisconsin.com.

Available this weekend

98%

(430)

Bad River Wilderness

4 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Mellen, WI

Update: This property was just awarded 2nd place for 2024 as the 2nd best Hipcamp in Wisconsin out of 252 Hipcamp's based on reviews and ratings! Thank you to all who have enjoyed this amazing property and provided a review or rating!!! On the upper Bad River, I have a special location that I'd like to share for others to enjoy. I was fortunate to acquire this land 20 years ago and now that I have retired from the United States Air Force, I can dedicate time to create peaceful campsites along the river. This land was originally railroad property as the railroad companies bought much land in the late 1800's to have options to place their railroads. There is still a railroad track nearby but it has been abandoned since 2015 and it makes a nice hiking path along the river for many miles to the north. There are 3 waterfalls nearby and I will have many signs leading to the waterfalls. There are 4 total campsites on the property, 1 site you can drive to (Eagle Pines), and 3 tent sites that require 1/8 mile hike to 2 sites, and a 1/4 mile hike to the other hike-in site.

Ice Age Retreat

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Palmyra, WI

Surrounded by the Kettle Moraine Forest, we purchased this property in October of 2022 to be closer to nature and to share this property with you. We look forward to hosting you. The forest provides many opportunities enjoy! Close to the Ice Age Hiking Trail, Blad Bluff Scenic Overlook within walking distance of our retreat. Hiking, Moutain Biking, Cross Country Skiing, Snow Shoe, Horse Back Riding and much more

Purplehaze Acres

9 sites · Lodging, Tents60 acres · Rubicon, WI

Purplehaze Acres is a 60-acre organic rustic farm in Rubicon, WI and resides at the beginning of the approx. 650-mile Niagara Escarpment--known locally as "The Ledge". We are in close proximity to the Ice Age Trail, and the natural treasures of the great Horicon Marsh, Lake Sinnissipi/Rock River with canoeing/kayaking/fishing, Ledges County Park, and the world-renowned Holy Hill Shrine. Nearby Hustisford ("Husti") offers unique shopping and dining experiences. Need a few organic groceries? Make sure to visit Back To The Best Organic grocer only 3 miles away, featuring food raised on local organic farms including Purplehaze Acres. We offer a variety of camping alternatives, with 7 tent sites, 1 group site, and a cabin. There is potable water, charcoal grills, firepit grates, eggs and, available for purchase, firewood. COMING SOON: Did you forget something? If so, check out our Camp Cupboard Store. Your approach via 1/2-mile dirt drive up the hills and through the woods . . . to not your grandmother's typical house you go. You'll find wonderful vistas, wildflowers, berries, trails up into the woods, a 900' grass runway for aviators on an overall great "peace" of earth. ☮

🦫 Flutterby 🦋 Farm 👩🏽‍🌾

8 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Cashton, WI

Once a working farm, now a haven for wildlife and peace. Primitive, laid-back camping experience. Surrounded by Amish farms. Check out our full property for our dispersed campsites and additional photos. * 100 acres of rewilded habitat * Potable spring water * Creekside camping * ✊🏻✊🏼✊🏽✊🏾✊🏿 BIPOC, LGBTQ+ 🏳️‍🌈 friendly. All are welcome!

Cricket Ranch

5 sites · Tents53 acres · Cascade, WI

We are honored to again be named one of the Best Hipcamps in Wisconsin for 2024. Thank you to our guests for your wonderful reviews and helpful suggestions! And a special thank you to one of our guests, Brandon "Da Garbage Disposal" Clark, for featuring Cricket Ranch in his YouTube series "Outdoors Unsupervised: Survival Season 6". Learn more about this land: Cricket Ranch is a crazy combo of Nature's past, present, and future. The property was a farm with 75% of it corn fields until 30 years ago. It has been virtually untouched since then and in just a few decades it has reinvented itself as a forest. Chambers Creek runs thru the west side of the property. As a headwater of the Milwaukee River, it is part of the Great Lakes Basin and a source for Lake Michigan. Wisconsin has identified Chambers Creek as an Exceptional Resource Water (ERWs), Less than 10% of Wisconsin waterways carry this designation. What we do (or don't do) now affects the Great Lakes later. And you'll find fossils in the rock walls of some of the earliest examples of complex life on Earth (from 460 mya, Ordovician, Cambrian). No digging required. Seriously. How they got there is a very long story in the making and involves ancient inland seas, plate tectonics, glaciers, German immigrants, and 19th-20th century farming. Off the Beaten Path @ Cricket Ranch provides a true back to nature environment for campers, sometimes called "backcountry camping". Located on 50 acres of private forest, field, and valley, our campsites are very secluded and separated by acres of woodland. Each layout is unique, embracing what nature has provided. Backpacking (or wagoning) to your camp from the parking area is necessary as the 5' wide paths do not accommodate cars/trucks. Hiking distance from parking area: (1) Camp Cricket is 600 Ft. (2) Haen Hollow is 250 ft. (3) Rocky Top is 700 ft. (4) Grapeline is 1000 ft. Feel fee to explore the land! We are located near the Niagara Escarpment so, as previously mentioned, you might even find a 460 million year old fossil on one of the field rock walls. Keep it! So we can keep a count of how many are found, and out of an overabundance of curiosity, please let us know and send some pics of your find. Chambers Creek provides a spot to cool your feet, stone step, or just listen to the relaxing sound of a babbling brook. The creek is overgrown with brush so access is limited but we do have a trail that follows the creek for about 300 yds. We intend to clear some more of the underbrush in the near future to allow for better enjoyment and management of this invaluable natural resource. Near by: Kettle Moraine National Forest is a 10 minute drive, boasting great hiking and the can't-miss-it view from atop Parnell Tower. Lake Ellen has a nice no-fee public boat landing just 2 miles away. The lake has clear water and is stocked periodically with Pike and Walleye. It is surprising how un-busy this lake is so bring your boat, kayak, paddle board, and/or assorted flotation devices and check it out. Our parking area can accommodate boat trailers during your stay.

Under $50

99%

(486)

🦫 Flutterby 🦋 Farm 👩🏽‍🌾

8 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Cashton, WI

Once a working farm, now a haven for wildlife and peace. Primitive, laid-back camping experience. Surrounded by Amish farms. Check out our full property for our dispersed campsites and additional photos. * 100 acres of rewilded habitat * Potable spring water * Creekside camping * ✊🏻✊🏼✊🏽✊🏾✊🏿 BIPOC, LGBTQ+ 🏳️‍🌈 friendly. All are welcome!

Bad River Wilderness

4 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Mellen, WI

Update: This property was just awarded 2nd place for 2024 as the 2nd best Hipcamp in Wisconsin out of 252 Hipcamp's based on reviews and ratings! Thank you to all who have enjoyed this amazing property and provided a review or rating!!! On the upper Bad River, I have a special location that I'd like to share for others to enjoy. I was fortunate to acquire this land 20 years ago and now that I have retired from the United States Air Force, I can dedicate time to create peaceful campsites along the river. This land was originally railroad property as the railroad companies bought much land in the late 1800's to have options to place their railroads. There is still a railroad track nearby but it has been abandoned since 2015 and it makes a nice hiking path along the river for many miles to the north. There are 3 waterfalls nearby and I will have many signs leading to the waterfalls. There are 4 total campsites on the property, 1 site you can drive to (Eagle Pines), and 3 tent sites that require 1/8 mile hike to 2 sites, and a 1/4 mile hike to the other hike-in site.

Cricket Ranch

5 sites · Tents53 acres · Cascade, WI

We are honored to again be named one of the Best Hipcamps in Wisconsin for 2024. Thank you to our guests for your wonderful reviews and helpful suggestions! And a special thank you to one of our guests, Brandon "Da Garbage Disposal" Clark, for featuring Cricket Ranch in his YouTube series "Outdoors Unsupervised: Survival Season 6". Learn more about this land: Cricket Ranch is a crazy combo of Nature's past, present, and future. The property was a farm with 75% of it corn fields until 30 years ago. It has been virtually untouched since then and in just a few decades it has reinvented itself as a forest. Chambers Creek runs thru the west side of the property. As a headwater of the Milwaukee River, it is part of the Great Lakes Basin and a source for Lake Michigan. Wisconsin has identified Chambers Creek as an Exceptional Resource Water (ERWs), Less than 10% of Wisconsin waterways carry this designation. What we do (or don't do) now affects the Great Lakes later. And you'll find fossils in the rock walls of some of the earliest examples of complex life on Earth (from 460 mya, Ordovician, Cambrian). No digging required. Seriously. How they got there is a very long story in the making and involves ancient inland seas, plate tectonics, glaciers, German immigrants, and 19th-20th century farming. Off the Beaten Path @ Cricket Ranch provides a true back to nature environment for campers, sometimes called "backcountry camping". Located on 50 acres of private forest, field, and valley, our campsites are very secluded and separated by acres of woodland. Each layout is unique, embracing what nature has provided. Backpacking (or wagoning) to your camp from the parking area is necessary as the 5' wide paths do not accommodate cars/trucks. Hiking distance from parking area: (1) Camp Cricket is 600 Ft. (2) Haen Hollow is 250 ft. (3) Rocky Top is 700 ft. (4) Grapeline is 1000 ft. Feel fee to explore the land! We are located near the Niagara Escarpment so, as previously mentioned, you might even find a 460 million year old fossil on one of the field rock walls. Keep it! So we can keep a count of how many are found, and out of an overabundance of curiosity, please let us know and send some pics of your find. Chambers Creek provides a spot to cool your feet, stone step, or just listen to the relaxing sound of a babbling brook. The creek is overgrown with brush so access is limited but we do have a trail that follows the creek for about 300 yds. We intend to clear some more of the underbrush in the near future to allow for better enjoyment and management of this invaluable natural resource. Near by: Kettle Moraine National Forest is a 10 minute drive, boasting great hiking and the can't-miss-it view from atop Parnell Tower. Lake Ellen has a nice no-fee public boat landing just 2 miles away. The lake has clear water and is stocked periodically with Pike and Walleye. It is surprising how un-busy this lake is so bring your boat, kayak, paddle board, and/or assorted flotation devices and check it out. Our parking area can accommodate boat trailers during your stay.

Quarry in the Mississippi Bluff

4 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Dakota, WI

This is a very private location. In its former life this property was a limestone quarry. Evidence of it's history remain with high rock walls on both ends of the property. In the center of the property is about 5 acres that is flat and covered with wildflowers and small trees. There are several good options for camping in this area. Surrounding this area is another 15 acres of hills and trees. We have a scenic overlook open to all guests where you can relax and sit on a wooden swing while enjoying the beautiful view of the Mississippi River below. There is a boat ramp just a mile down the hill for boating or fishing on the Mississippi and the city of La Crosse, WI and La Crescent, MN are each only about a five minute drive. Great River Bluffs State Park and countless other recreational opportunities are just minutes away.

Purplehaze Acres

9 sites · Lodging, Tents60 acres · Rubicon, WI

Purplehaze Acres is a 60-acre organic rustic farm in Rubicon, WI and resides at the beginning of the approx. 650-mile Niagara Escarpment--known locally as "The Ledge". We are in close proximity to the Ice Age Trail, and the natural treasures of the great Horicon Marsh, Lake Sinnissipi/Rock River with canoeing/kayaking/fishing, Ledges County Park, and the world-renowned Holy Hill Shrine. Nearby Hustisford ("Husti") offers unique shopping and dining experiences. Need a few organic groceries? Make sure to visit Back To The Best Organic grocer only 3 miles away, featuring food raised on local organic farms including Purplehaze Acres. We offer a variety of camping alternatives, with 7 tent sites, 1 group site, and a cabin. There is potable water, charcoal grills, firepit grates, eggs and, available for purchase, firewood. COMING SOON: Did you forget something? If so, check out our Camp Cupboard Store. Your approach via 1/2-mile dirt drive up the hills and through the woods . . . to not your grandmother's typical house you go. You'll find wonderful vistas, wildflowers, berries, trails up into the woods, a 900' grass runway for aviators on an overall great "peace" of earth. ☮

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Campsite 047, in the West Loop. The best sites here are located in the outside loop. The ground is nice and soft, with hemlocks and pine surrounding the campground.

Interstate State Park

Ellison Bay, Wisconsin

100%

(5)

Potawatomi State Park

Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin

100%

(10)

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Bayfield, Wisconsin

100%

(8)

Wild River State Park

Taylors Falls, Minnesota

100%

(4)

Amnicon Falls State Park

Poplar, Wisconsin

100%

(4)

Mirror Lake State Park

Lake Delton, Wisconsin

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(4)

Great River Bluffs State Park

Dakota, Minnesota

Northern Highland American Legion State Forest

89%

(9)

Northern Highland American Legion State Forest

Boulder Junction, Wisconsin

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping in Wisconsin with wildlife watching guide

Overview

Planning a camping trip in Wisconsin? Look no further than Hipcamp. With over 800 options available in Wisconsin for wildlife watching, you're sure to find the perfect spot to connect with nature. Whether you're a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or just starting out, our top campsites, like Purplehaze Acres (295 reviews), Camp Escape (223 reviews), and 🦫 Flutterby Farm 👩🏽‍🌾 (203 reviews), offer the best in wildlife watching experiences. Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like toilets, potable water, and campfires. And with prices as low as $5 and an average price per night of $45, your camping adventure is both affordable and unforgettable. So pack your binoculars and get ready to explore the wild side of Wisconsin with Hipcamp.