Lake Wissota State Park and surrounding campgrounds provide diverse glamping options near Altoona, Wisconsin, about 20-30 minutes from town. The Chippewa Valley region sits at approximately 800-900 feet elevation with a continental climate featuring warm summers and cold winters. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, which affects seasonal camping availability throughout the area.
What to do
River activities: Lake Wissota State Park Campground offers excellent water recreation beyond the main beach area. "We took our kayak out onto the lake and had a blast!" notes Brook Jorgensen. Many visitors appreciate the dedicated water access points. "If you paddle North towards the park shoreline, there are shady places to tie up under white willow trees, or to land and use secluded tie-up points just South of the beach area," suggests Beth D.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple trails wind through varied ecosystems. "We went on a 5-mile hike through fern and pine forests, prairie and grassland habitats, and an abandoned beaver pond," shares Julie P. from Lake Wissota. The diverse landscapes support different wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the seasons.
Winter activities: While many glamping options close for winter, Eagle Ridge Campground remains accessible during colder months. The campground offers a "walking path to an area that overlooks the Chippewa River" according to Ben M., providing scenic winter views when snow blankets the landscape.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The heavily wooded camping areas create natural separation between neighbors. "The sites are very private with tall trees and lots of underbrush between," notes Julie P. about Lake Wissota. At Kruger Campground, campers appreciate similar seclusion: "Sites are very private. Has beautiful trails. Next to the river great for exploring and fishing," according to Nick G.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and showers. At Russell Memorial Park, "shower and restrooms were clean," reports Robert W. Similarly, at Eagle Ridge, a visitor noted that "bathhouse in bad need of updating which they're planning on but I've been in worse."
Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds offer specific features for families. Lake Wissota provides "free yard games that can be checked out at the visitor center," according to Donella L., while Kruger Campground offers "fire rings have attached grills," making meal preparation easier for families.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most glamping accommodations operate from May through October. "We would camp here again!" says Stacey N. about Russell Memorial Park, which runs from May 1 to November 1. Winter visitors should verify which specific sites remain open after October.
Insect preparation: Bug spray is essential during summer months. "Mosquitoes, gnats, and bugs galore," warns Hannah E. about Lake Wissota. Another camper at Kruger Campground confirms: "Definitely bring some bug spray for the mosquitos."
Reservation timing: Popular glamping sites book quickly, especially waterfront locations. "The camp has a lot of long term sites on the waterfront so getting on one usually gets you into spring and camping," explains Robert W. about Russell Memorial Park. For Red Cedar Glamping's exclusive yurts, advance booking is essential due to limited availability.
Tips for camping with families
Beach selection: Lake Wissota State Park Campground offers a dedicated swimming area. "Nice beach that is a walkable distance from the sites," notes Donella L., while also mentioning they have a "seperate beach area for your leashed dog!"
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. Eagle Ridge has a "large playground" according to Lisa P., making it convenient for families with younger children who need recreation options beyond hiking trails.
Storage planning: Limited space in glamping accommodations requires efficient packing. At Wedges Creek Hideaway, their rustic cabins are cozy but compact. "Our criteria - less than $100, pet friendly and rustic," shares Amy G. about their stay in the primitive cabins, noting the small but adequate space.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV campers should carefully check site measurements. At Russell Memorial Park, one camper advised, "Site said 25 ft but the picture had a 5'er on it so we booked it. The back sites are ATV/UTV site. They seem a bit bigger. I've seen a few toy haulers back there."
Leveling requirements: Many sites require additional equipment for RV leveling. At Hixton - Alma Center KOA, Cheryl W. notes, "The sides are a little close to together and our gravel. We had to use boards to level our rig."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited at some campgrounds. Russell Memorial Park has "a few full hookup in the center of the campground but not many," according to Robert W., while other campgrounds offer primarily electric-only sites.
