The Altoona area sits at the confluence of the Chippewa and Eau Claire Rivers, creating a unique landscape for camping with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,000 feet above sea level. This western Wisconsin region experiences warm summers with highs in the 80s and cool falls with temperatures dropping into the 40s at night, making seasonal camping timing important. RV campgrounds near Altoona typically operate from April through October, with varying levels of site development.
What to do
Tube down O'Neil Creek: O'Neil Creek Campground offers a natural creek that doubles as a lazy river for tubing. "The natural creek that doubles as a lazy river is great," notes one camper. Rentals are available on-site for those without their own equipment.
Visit the nearby deer park: Chapman Park Campground features a deer park that's popular with families. "The deer park was great to see again as I hadn't come across one in a few years," mentions a visitor. The park is located between two small lakes, providing both wildlife viewing and water access.
Play mini golf: Family activities abound at campgrounds like Stoney Creek RV Resort, where mini golf courses are available. "There are a mini golf course and a swimming pool on site. Stoney Creek is a fun place to bring the whole family," says one reviewer who found it ideal for first-time campers.
What campers like
Clean bathhouse facilities: Many campers highlight exceptional cleanliness at local facilities. At Nelson's Landing RV Park, one visitor noted, "The best part was the bathroom/shower house! There were 3-4 private shower/toilet/sink rooms with full locking doors. Everything is brand new and pristinely clean."
Large, spacious sites: Campgrounds in the area often provide generous spacing. "The sites are huge almost state park like with ample room for your kids to play," reported a camper at Stoney Creek RV Resort. This extra space allows for comfortable setups and privacy between camping parties.
Summer recreational amenities: Pools, playgrounds, and outdoor activities are standard at many locations. "They have a nice pool and mini golf. A bouncy pillow and a bubble maker for kids," observed a visitor about recreational offerings that keep families entertained during summer months.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the region close during winter months, typically operating from April/May through October. According to one camper at O'Neil Creek Campground, "We stayed one with one day notice after Labor Day," highlighting the advantage of late-season camping with better availability.
Train noise considerations: Some campgrounds near the Mississippi River experience train noise. A visitor to Nelson's Landing RV Park mentioned, "We heard two around 10 pm and either there were no more until the next morning, or we mercifully slept through them!"
Reservation requirements: Summer weekends and holiday periods fill quickly at popular sites. At Eagle Ridge Campground, a visitor noted they were "the only campground that had open availability at the last minute," suggesting most other facilities were fully booked.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated kid activities: Campgrounds often offer child-specific amenities. "They have a bounce pillow, pool, lagoon, skate park, volleyball, and basketball court," mentioned a camper at Stoney Creek RV Resort, noting the variety of activities available for different age groups.
Consider themed weekend events: Special programming creates memorable experiences. "Campground and staff did a great job putting on Christmas in July. Very Kid friendly environment," reported a visitor at O'Neil Creek Campground, highlighting seasonal themes that enhance family stays.
Seek out water play options: Swimming areas are particularly valuable for families with children. "There is a creek flowing through it to tube, swim and even kayak," noted a camper about O'Neil Creek Campground, appreciating the natural water feature that keeps kids entertained.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Pine Harbor Campground offers big-rig friendly sites, but some require careful positioning. "Site was a nice size, we have a smaller pull behind. They were really close to each other," noted one RVer, suggesting that larger rigs might find some spots challenging.
Consider Starlink compatibility: For remote workers, satellite internet access matters. "This campground has a large grassy area - that gives a 100% clear obstruction for Starlink," reported a digital nomad at Eagle Ridge Campground, noting that other sections are heavily wooded and would block satellite signals.
Look for pull-through availability: Easier access sites save time during setup. "Easy pull-through and back-in sites. We easily backed in to our site," mentioned an RVer at Nelson's Landing RV Park, appreciating the thoughtful site design for different RV configurations.
