Nelson Dewey State Park Campground sits on bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River in southwest Wisconsin. Located within the Driftless Area, the park features unglaciated terrain with limestone formations and forested hills. Park elevation ranges between 600-800 feet, with trails traversing steep terrain and offering panoramic views of the river valley.
What to do
River fishing opportunities: Grant River Recreation Area provides direct access to the Mississippi River for anglers. "Right on the Mississippi River. Concrete pads and beautiful views of the Mississippi," notes a visitor at Grant River Recreation Area.
Educational hiking trails: Swiss Valley County Park features informative nature trails suitable for all skill levels. One camper states, "Great walking trails, creek, and small river for fishing," while another mentions "Swiss Valley has Swiss Valley Nature center with trails."
Off-leash dog areas: Pinicon Ridge Park offers designated spaces for dogs to run freely. "We all took the trail into town and found a BIT Brewery where we enjoy woodfired pizza and brought some beer home in a growler for around the fire that night," reports a camper at Pinicon Ridge Park.
Creek exploration: Multiple parks in the region feature small waterways perfect for cooling off. "Small creek runs through the park (on the edge of the campground) and a fun place for kids to explore and play in," remarks a visitor at Delaware County Coffins Grove Park.
What campers like
Trout stream access: Several parks in the area feature stocked fishing streams. A visitor at Swiss Valley County Park notes, "Trout stream (Catfish Creek) runs through campground and park and is stocked by Iowa DNR, has Swiss Valley Nature center with trails."
Clean shower facilities: Many campgrounds maintain modern shower buildings. "Bathrooms and showers are modern and clean," mentions one camper at Nelson Dewey. Another camper at Central Park adds, "Beautiful little lake. Nice beach area. Camping sites pretty level. Park has free WiFi."
Yurt camping options: For those seeking yurt camping near Guttenberg, Iowa, Boulder Creek Campground offers this unique accommodation. "The water attractions are great for the kiddos and the cabins aren't half bad either!" reports a visitor.
Free campground amenities: Some local parks provide unexpected bonuses. A camper at Waukon City Park shares, "Free firewood, free wifi, water and electric at each campsite. Found a nice shady site for tent camping."
What you should know
Train noise issues: Several riverside campgrounds experience significant train disturbances. A visitor to Grant River Recreation Area warns, "A railroad mainline ran along the campground. Our site was about 100 ft from rail and campground was where train would blow their whistle. Until midnight, trains went by about every 1/2 hour."
Seasonal flooding concerns: Some campgrounds experience water issues during rainy periods. A camper at Bailey Ford Delaware County Park notes the park has "everything you need for a night or a week. It's clean and beautiful. Trout stream, trails, river access, showers and a playground."
Water quality variations: Natural minerals affect water in some parks. "The shower facilities weren't bad but they have sulfites in the water so it stinks a little," reports a camper at Swiss Valley County Park.
Campsite layouts: Site arrangements vary significantly between parks. "Some sites were tight and the lack of fire rings was disappointing," mentions a visitor to Palace Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks feature exceptional play areas. "They have the most amazing playgrounds (yes, two of them!) That we've ever seen. There were activities for kids of all ages," writes a camper about Pinicon Ridge Park.
Swimming options: Multiple parks offer water recreation for hot days. A visitor at Central Park shares, "Beautiful little lake. Nice beach area," while another notes there's a "new beach for swimming, and some hiking and nature trails."
Tent site selection: Choose camping spots carefully when bringing children. "The tent area is on a small mound, not a very level area. But was able to make it work. $18 a night for tents," advises a camper at Pinicon Ridge Park.
Nature centers: Educational facilities enhance family camping experiences. A visitor at Delaware County Coffins Grove Park shares, "Nice, smaller campground! No designated spots, so great for groups to circle up and camp together (we camp here every year for our family reunion)."
Tips from RVers
Level site availability: RV campers appreciate well-prepared pads. "The site was a level rock pad witch was very spacious with a fire ring and picnic table," notes a camper at Pinicon Ridge Park.
Hookup options: Multiple parks offer electric and water connections. "Campground is well maintained with full service and primitive sites," states a visitor to Central Park, while another mentions, "Water and electric hookups, dump station near by."
Storm shelter access: Weather safety features benefit RVers. A camper at Pinicon Ridge Park notes, "Clean shower house with storm shelter. Mixed sun and shade with generous grassy sites, fire pit and picnic table."
Dump station locations: Many parks provide convenient sanitation facilities. "Great county campground with water and electric sites, dump at exit," shares a visitor to Pinicon Ridge Park.
