Tent camping around Scales Mound, Illinois provides access to the distinctive unglaciated terrain of the Driftless Area, characterized by steep limestone bluffs and deep river valleys. This unique geological region spans the tri-state area where Illinois, Wisconsin, and Iowa meet, with elevations ranging from 600 to nearly 1,200 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 70°F to 85°F, though nights can cool significantly even in July.
What to do
Fishing access: At Lock and Dam 13 near Fulton, tent campers can enjoy quality fishing along the spillway after a mile-long walk from the parking area. One visitor notes it's "not exactly a campsite" but offers "great fishing, especially along the spillway" with "a little beach next to the dam."
Nature observation: The diverse ecology surrounding Scales Mound tent camping sites supports abundant wildlife viewing. At Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area, campers will find "native forbs and wildlife surrounding the area" according to reviews, making it ideal for birdwatching and nature photography.
Quiet seclusion: Campers seeking true solitude can find peaceful tent sites that require modest effort to access. Worthington Sportsman's Club offers tent spots where "people driving around the pond didn't even know we were there," and the reviewer appreciated how "secluded without being in the middle of nowhere" the camping was.
What campers like
Off-grid experience: Many tent sites near Scales Mound offer minimal amenities for those seeking a back-to-basics camping experience. One camper at Blackhawk Memorial Park described it as "great little off grid camping for people that aren't afraid of bugs," adding it was "quiet, off the grid! Very pleasant!"
Access to breweries: Tent campers appreciate that some campgrounds provide convenient access to regional attractions. A reviewer at New Glarus State Park Campground commented that "its proximity to the brewery and the restaurants, shops, and bars of New Glarus, can't be beat. Also on the Sugar River Trail so bring your bike!"
Varied terrain: The Driftless Area provides distinctive camping surfaces. At Goatland, primitive tent sites are set among wooded ridges with varied elevation. Several sites at New Glarus have unique features, with one camper noting "there was a spring on our site! We hiked in a bit to a wooded quiet site."
What you should know
Highway noise concerns: Some tent campgrounds experience road noise despite wooded settings. One camper at New Glarus State Park Campground warned that sites are "right next to the highway and are subject to continuous, round the clock highway noise" with "trucks revving up for a climb, then engine-breaking on the way down."
Water quality issues: Several water features near tent camping areas have seasonal quality concerns. A reviewer at Blackhawk Memorial Park noted "the lake water is like green paint and the river is now brackish, but moving."
Reservation requirements: Camping policies vary significantly among sites near Scales Mound. Joinerville County Park allows primitive tent camping "by approved permit application 1 month in advance of stay" despite being primarily a day-use area.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Families tent camping near Scales Mound should consider sites with recreational facilities. A reviewer at New Glarus mentioned "the playground was great. We spent the day exploring our Swiss heritage in New Glarus."
Site selection strategies: When tent camping with children, choosing the right location makes a significant difference. At Governor Dodge State Park Backpack Campsites, one camper recommended site 806 for families, noting it offers "great views, plenty of privacy and an easy hike."
Bathroom considerations: Toilet facilities vary widely across tent camping areas near Scales Mound. At Worthington Sportsman's Club, a family camper wrote: "I was skeptical about the pit toilets but the one closest to our site was very clean!"
Tips from RVers
Limited electrical options: Most primitive tent camping sites near Scales Mound lack RV hookups. At Hickory Ridge Group Camp, though primarily a tent-focused area, some sites do offer limited facilities with "a lot of amenities including shower" according to a reviewer.
Access challenges: Several tent camping areas have narrow, steep, or rough access roads unsuitable for larger vehicles. Governor Dodge State Park receives praise for its tent camping with backpack sites requiring a "1/2-1 mile hike from parking lot" with "great hiking" throughout the park.
Multi-use considerations: Tent campers should be aware of shared-use areas. At Blackhawk Memorial Park, one reviewer noted it gave "the impression of a beer drinking hideaway," suggesting families might want to consider timing their visits carefully.
