Boat access is the only way in to Crater Island, a free dispersed campground managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers near Goose Island Campground on the Mississippi River. There are no bathrooms and no showers. The site draws large parties, particularly on summer weekends, and can get crowded in the cove. One important variable: dredging operations in the area can trigger closures, so confirming access before launching is worth the extra step. Cell service is available, pets are welcome, and campfires are permitted. Paddlers who want a sandy, amenity-free overnight stop on the river will find this spot delivers exactly that.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsCrater Island is located in Wisconsin near Hokah
Coordinates
43.712632 N
91.264148 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
Verizon5GGood Coverage
AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- Verizon5GGood Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Crater Island needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 15 min from La Crosse, WI
- 1 hr 5 min from Rochester, MN
- 1 hr 40 min from Eau Claire, WI
- 2 hrs 10 min from Dubuque, IA
