$10 - $15 / night

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Kickapoo Valley Reserve

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CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Kickapoo Valley Reserve offers camping in a region characterized by rolling hills and river valleys. Temperatures range from lows in the 20s Fahrenheit during winter to highs in the 80s in summer. Nearby attractions include the Kickapoo River for paddling and Wildcat Mountain State Park for hiking.

Description

The Kickapoo Valley Reserve is an 8,569-acre tract of land located between the villages of La Farge and Ontario in southwestern Wisconsin. Its history, resources, administration, and recreational diversity make it unique - a place like no other. The state-sanctioned Kickapoo Reserve Management Board is responsible for managing the property on behalf of the State of Wisconsin and Ho-Chunk Nation. As a publicly protected property - subject to state, tribal, and federal laws - visitors are asked to be aware of the rule and permit requirements. We invite you to come and see for yourself the many wonders of the Kickapoo Valley Reserve. Here, sandstone outcroppings tower over the Kickapoo River as you paddle its quiet waters while native plants and animals abound in all seasons. Whether you'd like to join us for a scheduled interpretive hike, adventure into the backcountry on your own, or simply stop and admire the beauty, the Kickapoo Valley Reserve welcomes you!

Campsites in the Kickapoo Valley Reserve fall into three site types listed below:

Non-Vehicle Accessible – Parking is greater than 500 feet from the campsite. Site access is via trail or canoe. No motorized vehicles are allowed at or access to these sites.

Vehicle Accessible – Seasonally maintained direct access for vehicles to the site. Parking is available on the site. Call the Visitor Center to learn which campsite accesses are plowed in the winter.

Non-Vehicle Accessible-River – The site does not have a trail leading to it. Access is best via canoe or kayak. No motorized vehicles are allowed at or access to these sites.

Each site has a posted capacity limit. All are limited to 10 people. All campsites are intended for one group, family, or party.

Willow Camp (D) has four individual campsites and is for self-contained units only.

Large groups camping on the Reserve need to apply for an event permit at least 45 days prior to the anticipated date. Contact the Reserve office for more information.

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Location

Kickapoo Valley Reserve is located in Wisconsin

Coordinates

43.632752 N
90.616301 W

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Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BY

Westfork Sports Club & Campground

17 min away

Veterans Memorial Park & Campground

47 min away

Drive Time

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59 min from La Crosse
1 hr 42 min from Eau Claire
1 hr 51 min from Madison
1 hr 51 min from Dubuque

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Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.
Hike-In
Backcountry sites.

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Dispersed
Group

Features

For Campers

Phone Service
Reservable
Drinking Water
Toilets
Pets
Fires

Contact

General Info

Reservations

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loren S.

Guide

Reviewed Jul. 30, 2023

Kickapoo kayaking

Great reserve. From OntarioWI to Lafarge WI the creek is over 22 miles. Campsites spacious, wooded and a-lot of hiking trails. No ambient polluty, stars magnificent.

SiteD1

Month of VisitJuly

Sean M.

Traveler

Reviewed Apr. 23, 2023

Great Primitive Camping

I hiked in to Site C. It was maybe around a half mile walk from the closest parking. The trails I saw were more like small roads, but still had beautiful views. You have to book the sites online, but this isn’t a typical campground, you’ll be VERY far away from any other campers.

The site itself was huge. You could easily fit 10 people. Aside from the site having a mowed grassy lawn, these are super primitive. The closest potable water source and bathroom are back at the visitor center which is a 10 minute drive. Bring a good water filter and something to gather firewood with.

SiteC

Month of VisitApril

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Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Kickapoo Valley Reserve campgrounds?

Kickapoo Valley Reserve offers primitive camping with minimal amenities. The sites are designed for a more secluded, backcountry experience. Each site typically provides basic necessities such as a fire ring. The campground emphasizes a natural experience, so don't expect modern facilities like electricity, showers, or running water. Pack accordingly with everything you'll need, including water and waste disposal methods. The remote nature of the sites means you'll enjoy privacy and a true wilderness experience, far from other campers.

Where are the best camping spots in Kickapoo Valley Reserve?

Site C is highly recommended, located about a half mile hike from the nearest parking area. The trails to reach it are well-maintained, more like small roads, and offer beautiful views along the way. The camping areas are spacious and wooded, providing excellent privacy since sites are positioned VERY far from other campers. The reserve offers numerous sites between Ontario and Lafarge along the 22-mile creek stretch. Look for spots that offer both seclusion in the woods and proximity to hiking trails for the best overall experience.

Do I need a permit to camp at Kickapoo Valley Reserve in Wisconsin?

Yes, a permit is required to camp at Kickapoo Valley Reserve. Reservations must be made online through the official reservation system. This isn't a first-come, first-served campground, so securing your permit ahead of time is essential. The permit system helps maintain the remote, uncrowded nature of the reserve by controlling the number of campers. Contact the Kickapoo Valley Reserve office directly for the most current permit fees and reservation procedures if you need specific details about the process.

What activities can you do while camping at Kickapoo Valley Reserve?

Kickapoo Valley Reserve offers numerous outdoor activities for campers. Hiking is a primary attraction with extensive trail networks throughout the reserve. The area features beautiful views and diverse terrain to explore. Paddling opportunities abound on the Kickapoo River, with a 22-mile stretch from Ontario to Lafarge perfect for canoeing or kayaking adventures. Stargazing is exceptional due to minimal light pollution, offering magnificent night sky views. Wildlife observation, photography, and fishing are also popular activities. The spacious, wooded environment provides a perfect backdrop for nature appreciation in all forms.

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