The best camping near Wyalusing State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Wyalusing State Park adventure.

83% (4 reviews)

Discover Wyalusing State Park's scenic vistas and outdoor adventures.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Wyalusing State Park

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Shady Rest Acres

4 sites · Lodging, Tents23 acres · Brownsville, MN

Once the site of the historic V.J. Fetzner Brewery from the late 19th Century. The land is now used as a hobby farm, honey bee sanctuary and nursery to a unique tree species normally not found in Southeastern Minnesota. Remnants of the brewery are still visible. Foundation walls outline the massive structure of the brewery. Nestled in the center of the foundation is the entrance to the sixty-seven foot deep cave that once held barrels of beer and can be accessed by canoe only. Hops have been located on the property and are believed to be ancestors of those raised to make the beer once stored in the cave. The pond that provides access to the cave was dug out in the early 1990's to create a fish out for the Spring Falls Trout Farm that used to exist across the highway. Some of the original brood stock still exist and continue to naturally stock the pond. It is not uncommon to see fish that are five to ten pounds in size. We do not allow fishing from our pond. The residents house is built to scale to the original brew master's house. While the house is only twenty-four years old it looks as though you have taken a step back in time. The name Shady Rest was given to the house by the Brew Master's wife. We thought it was appropriate to keep the name alive. Shady Rest Acres is comprised of twenty-three acres of beautiful woodlands and pasture that are protected forever in the Minnesota Land Trust. The pasture is home to Scottish Highlander cows, two miniature donkeys, five sheep, four goats, honey bees and a flock of chickens. Scottish Highlanders were selected for both their grazing and browsing abilities. They are very docile and make excellent pasture mates to the smaller species sharing the pasture. The cows are excellent forest managers. They clear out invasive species such as Honey Suckle, Buckthorn, and Barberry which can often be difficult to manage. A guided tour with the host can be taken to meet the pasture animals. The forest is comprised of many tree species. Some are unique in that they normally do not grow in this region of Minnesota. The yellow birch is a species normally found in Northern Minnesota. It's bark is golden in color and glistens when the sun hits it just right. We have a cluster of several yellow birch including one that is so big that the bark no longer looks golden but instead is grey and very rough. Years ago the largest of these trees made excellent wood for turning bowls. Blue Beech (musclewood) can also be found on the property. As the name indicates the bark is shaped like muscles. Songbirds and some other species will use different parts of the tree as a food source. Towering white pines also speckle the landscape. Mother pine requires at least two humans arm lengths to encircle the whole tree. She is a favorite resting spot for the barred owl. There is oak, elm, maple, ceders, poplars and numerous other species. Honey bees are an integral part of the landscape. We partnered with a friend and started raising honey bees two years ago in order to do our part to keep pollinators thriving. Their hives are located in the pasture where it has the perfect amount of early morning sun to get them moving and afternoon shade to balance out the summer heat. It is not uncommon to see them pollinating garden plants, trees and wild flowers around the property. One of their favorite feeding spots is the acre and a half prairie which offers a range of plants including big blue stem, wild indigo and baby blue stem, to name a few. Not only are honey bees essential to the food chain but they also provide a very enriching experience when they are observed moving about their hives. There is nothing more relaxing and fascinating than watching these amazing creatures.

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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.

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Sleepy Valley Springs

1 site · Tent4 acres · Boscobel, WI

4 acres nestled bordered on all sides by thousands of acres of public lands. Hike the hills and bluffs for scenic views of the Lower Wisconsin Riverway. Descend to enjoy the sandy Wisconsin River. Walk over to Knapp Creek and fish for Catfish, etc. One mile to the Wisconsin River for Catfish, Northern, Rock Bass, Flat Heads, Sturgeon, etc. We are in SW Wisconsin’s Driftless Region. Apple orchards, Vineyards, Cheese factories, National Brewery Museum, Mississippi River, all within 10-40 minutes. 4 great parks within 30 miles. Wildlife abound including deer, turkey, fox, coyote, beaver, muskrat, river otter, raccoons, squirrels, eagles, swans, yep fish of all varieties, etc. Fill your canteen from our natural spring to enjoy along the way. Pause to reflect beside the babbling brook. We do have chickens and 3 Guinea Fowl. They are fenced on the opposite side of the creek. Please be aware: the rooster crows around 0500. They are 300’ away on the opposite side of the main house. Audible but hopefully not annoying. That said we are happy to have fresh eggs available for your enjoyment. Add them in the “extras” at checkout or mention when you arrive. We have one nice medium dog who won’t likely visit.

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S-Camp at Turtle Head Rock

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Viroqua, WI

Hey there Happy Campers! We welcome you to our small slice of Driftless heaven. This private campsite is located in prairie land, surrounded by agricultural and wooded property (it’s quiet). Within a few minutes drive you have access to some of the best trout streams a fishing license can buy. You're also in close proximity to amazing hiking and biking trails, agri-tourism (apple pickin' good times!), endless photography opportunities, wineries, birding, stargazing and visits to downtown Viroqua! After a long day of adventuring, come back to this quiet retreat, make some brandy old fashions and enjoy the ambiance of the stars and crackling camp fire! This site can accommodate 2 large tents with plenty of room for a camp kitchen, fire pit and seating area. There is newly constructed composting style outbuilding (please read instructions before using it) and a camp kitchen table along with solar powered lighting. Firewood and other supplies are conveniently available in downtown Viroqua. Be sure to check out the various retailers and restaurants while you're there! Hope you enjoy the camp and we just ask to please leave it better than you found it!

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Cedar Springs

2 sites · Lodging10 acres · Decorah, IA

The property has been in my family for over 40 years and was originally settled in the mid 1800's. It is about 10 acres and is primarily wooded with Cedar, Oak, Maple, Hickory and Birch. The topography is diverse, having steep heights, easy flats and everything in between; which makes hiking fun and interesting. The lower College Drive side features a historic limestone homestead and quarry, also a fossil rich creek-bed and rustic (4WD) road to the top. The upper property (Hwy. 52 access) offers a secluded forest as well as a spacious meadow. The woods are filled with birds and many other indigenous wild animals. We are only a half mile from towns edge and two miles from its center (also a five minute drive from Luther College). The Decorah area is well known for its scenic natural beauty and has extensive hiking trails, biking trails, cross-country ski routes, rivers, creeks and hunting areas. People come here year round for our outdoor recreation and beauty. Canoeing, Kayaking, Fishing, Tubing, X-country skiing, and Trail Riding are very popular activities around here. Bring a side-by-side or ATV and have a blast both on the property and around the area. Decorah has several museums, a movie theater, 2 golf courses and bowling alley in addition to dozens of charming shops and several restaurants. You'll never get bored staying at Cedar Springs.

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Relax near the Mississippi

5 sites · RVs4 acres · Prairie Du Chien, WI

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The Mother-In-Law’s Pad

1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · Richland Center, WI

This is a cabin based, short-term rental property with a single, well-shaded, RV/Motorhome pad. Located in a rural area this is a great quiet camping spot best for a motorhome or camper under 40’. The location is quiet with expansive views of a crop farming valley with electric and water hookups and free access to a Finnish steam sauna and laundry.

Booked 1 time

Eagleback Farms

1 site · Lodging93 acres · IA

Located in the heart of the Mississippi Valley/Iowa Wine Trail, we are a very secluded 93 acer 'Farm' that hasn't been worked for over 40 years; letting nature do what it does best! The Eagles are back nesting in the trees that have slowly crept their way back into the fields while the beavers have gradually taken back the creek, leaving us with spirit soothing scenery and plenty of swimming holes to bathe in. We have a beautiful tree house and three solid log cabins for rent, as well as many other sites for the casual camper or minimalist seeker. While here, enjoy the 3 acer spring fed pond, 40 acers of woods with trails and the plentiful wildlife that inhabit them; as well as our horses, goats, sheep, chickens, and milk cow. We are 12 miles from Historic River Town Guttenberg, IA [http://www.guttenbergiowa.net/], and less then 2 miles from two major state and federally protected river preserves (Turkey and Mississippi) in which you can enjoy beautiful beaches, boating and all sorts of water sports/relaxation. Other highlight of the area include several River Casinos, and notable Wineries such as Eagle Point and Promise Land, which dot the banks of the Mississippi River, along with the Cassville, WI [https://cassville.org/] Car Ferry Landing that is open from Spring to Fall. Dogs, cats and horses welcome and we are also available for large group retreats of all kinds with affordable catering services options too. Come discover all that the Mississippi Valley has to offer, It will keep you coming back for more!

Cedar Springs

2 sites · Lodging10 acres · Decorah, IA

THE PROPERTY: Cedar Springs includes wooded forest terrain, pasture, an old limestone quarry, and high bluffs with beautiful views. This historic property has multiple elevations and geological features which make it a truly special & unique location. The quarry below the lodgings forms a natural amphitheater with amazing acoustics and has an extra large bonfire pit and two additional fire pits. The quarry space is available for all guests to enjoy except when privately reserved. There are hiking trails, an 1800’s limestone home and scenic bridge which make for great exploring and photo opportunities. Also, if you love art you will enjoy discovering the series of 19 elevated stained glass sculpture panels installed throughout the property.

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Brye Cabin and Bad Axe Camping

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents140 acres · Viroqua, WI

Our family purchased this land for adventure. We would love to share our adventure with you. Groomed UTV/hiking trails on our property. Hiking access into Duck Egg county park with over 10 miles of trails to explore on 900 acres. Drive and park directly at our cabin nestled in the driftless. It is totally private on 140 acres. Watch the wildlife from the porch while enjoying a campfire. The cabin offers 2 queen beds on the loft, a futon and fully stocked kitchen. Outdoor bathroom with plumbing. We offer 2 campsites directly on the Bad Axe River with hike in or utv assist access only. Park at designated parking area. The campsite has fire ring and table and chairs at the site, firewood available for 10/night. 5 gallons potable water provided. Hike in or purchase utv assist to get gear to the site $20 both ways We also have a 'glampsite' which already has a 10x12 wall tent on a 12x20 platform, with a queen bed and all bedding included. 10 gallons potable water provided. An outdoor kitchen contains everything you need to lessen your packing for a total relaxed and spoiled camping experience, all paper products and cookware in stocked kitchen. Charcoal and grill, 24" gas griddle, 2 burner coleman stove with propane included. Glamp directly on the river. There is a separate picnic area with fire ring, picnic table and swing set for the kids! Pets are welcome! We do ask for a $20 pet fee at the cabin and glampsite as there is extra cleaning involved, thank you! Watch the stars at night and catch trout in the river by day! Heavin in the Driftless.

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RidgeRiverView Acres

3 sites · Lodging50 acres · Sherrill, IA

160 y/o six generation farm that has been documented and illustrated in both National Geographic and Picture magazines. Site of original log cabin. 20' deep spring fed pond excavated in 2010. 47 acres of trails,trees and wildlife.

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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.

The best camping near Wyalusing State Park guide

Overview

About

Imagine a slow, carefree paddle through the sloughs of the Mississippi River. At Wyalusing State Park, this vision becomes reality. Take a lazy jaunt through the river bottomlands as you spot waterfowl and aquatic plants of all sorts. Or kick back on the beach for a day in the sun. But if you’re all about those hard-earned tired muscles, don’t hesitate to hit up one of the 14 miles of trails open within Wyalusing State Park. And if you’re up for the challenge, you can even attempt them in the winter! Camp all weekend long, or stay for the afternoon.

Notable campgrounds

Family Campsites - Nestled in the park's lush settings, these sites are perfect for creating lasting memories.
Group Campsites - Ideal for larger gatherings, these sites offer ample space and communal atmosphere.
Overnight Group Lodge - A unique lodging experience for groups seeking comfort amid the park's natural beauty.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your preferred dates, as spots fill up quickly during peak seasons.
Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
Keep an eye on cancellations, which can provide unexpected opportunities for last-minute trips.
Explore nearby camping options if the park is fully booked, ensuring you don't miss out on the area's charm.

When to go

The best time to visit Wyalusing State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer offers full access to all park amenities but can be crowded. Winters are quiet but may have limited access due to snow.

Know before you go

Ensure your vehicle has a valid admission sticker before entering the park.
Check the park's official website for any property notices or closures before your visit.
Remember that the park hours are from 6am to 11pm year-round, plan your activities accordingly.
For a unique experience, reserve time at the Huser Astronomy Center and gaze at the stars.
Be prepared for outdoor activities with appropriate gear and respect the park's natural habitats.