Bagley, Wisconsin sits at the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers, creating a unique camping environment in the Driftless Area. The elevation varies from river valleys at 600 feet to blufftops reaching over 1,000 feet. This topography creates distinct microclimates for campers, with river valleys often cooler and more humid than exposed ridge campsites. Trail systems connect riverside flats with dramatic limestone bluffs.
What to do
Trout fishing in creeks: Yellow River State Forest offers multiple stocked trout streams with scheduled releases throughout the season. "Came to this spot with plans to drive up to yellow river for fishing but ended up with the sweetest spot along bloody run creak. Caught plenty of German brown trout and cooked over the fire pits at the site (grate included)," shares a visitor at Bloody Run County Park.
Explore limestone formations: The Driftless Area features unique geological structures including caves and bluffs. "There are miles of great hiking trails and two trails for mountain biking. While the trails to Big and Little Sand caves are lovely, they are also heavily trafficked," notes a camper from Wyalusing State Park Campground.
Visit astronomical observatory: Nelson Dewey State Park offers stargazing opportunities from its ridge location. "Ranger Mark is awesome! He helped me with firewood and helpful facts for the weekend," reports a camper who appreciated the park's educational resources. The open ridge provides excellent night sky visibility with minimal light pollution.
What campers like
Elevated river views: Sites at strategic locations provide panoramic vistas of river confluences. "We visited in 2018 and the views are breathtaking! The sand caves are cool, lots of unique hiking features. The nature program was great for our son who was 2 at the time," mentions a visitor at Wyalusing State Park Campground.
Walk-in site privacy: Nelson Dewey State Park Campground offers secluded walk-in sites overlooking the Mississippi. "Had a hike on site on the bluff. Stunning views and very secluded. Carts available for hauling in your gear. Hiking trails, fire wood for sale on site. Bathrooms very nice, showers like new!" explains a reviewer who valued the solitude.
Modern bathroom facilities: Several area campgrounds have invested in updated washroom facilities. "Let me wax poetic about the new bathroom/shower block. While I didn't take photos (should have) this is one of the nicest public bathrooms I've ever been in. Not just in a state park, ever. It was built in 2019 and has been treated well by visitors," states a Wyalusing visitor describing the Homestead Campground area.
What you should know
Train noise proximity: Several campgrounds in the area sit near active railroad tracks. "First night at 3am we were awoken but a train blaring its horn the whole way threw the camp ground and the second night it happend at midnight and 3 am," warns a camper at Bloody Run County Park. Boulder Creek Campground experiences similar train noise issues according to reviews.
Seasonal closures: Pikes Peak State Park Campground operates from April 15 to October 15, unlike some year-round options in the area. "FYI When we made reservations this site required a two-night minimum stay. Don't know if that is for all seasons," notes a visitor sharing important booking information.
Campsite drainage concerns: Some campgrounds experience flooding issues after heavy rainfall. "It was a beautiful area with the creek running right next to it only problem was there was some trash in the firing which we had to take care of," reports a visitor at Bloody Run County Park, highlighting the importance of site selection during wet weather.
Tips for camping with families
Nature programs: Several parks offer structured activities for younger visitors. "The nature program was great for our son who was 2 at the time," shares a family that visited Wyalusing State Park Campground. Programs typically run on summer weekends and include guided hikes and educational sessions.
Playgrounds and water features: Boulder Creek Campground provides dedicated kids' entertainment areas. "Great for kids! The water attractions are great for the kiddos and the cabins aren't half bad either!" explains a family who appreciated the child-friendly amenities beyond just trails and nature.
Safety considerations: The bluff terrain presents challenges for families with small children. "Just keep in mind that it's on a bluff so there are some steep drop-off points that children could take a pretty nasty fall from," cautions a visitor to Wyalusing describing the need for close supervision of young explorers on certain trails.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Big Paint Campground offers varied options for different RV needs. "We liked site 35, the first site on the left as you enter. This site is like being in a garden with trees and flowers surrounding the site. It had rained and more rain was coming, so the gravel parking pad on #35 was appealing. Most of the sites are completely on the grass," shares an experienced RVer.
Hookup availability: Campgrounds in the area offer varying levels of service. "Unlike Minnesota and Wisconsin, Iowa's state parks do not require a permit-bonus for RVers. Many sites have full hook-up, most if not all have electric. I paid $25 a night. Full week is $150!!" notes a visitor to Pikes Peak State Park Campground highlighting the value for extended stays.
Level site considerations: The hilly terrain creates challenges for larger rigs. "Campgrounds are clean and easy to navigate with our 31' TT. Camp host was very helpful," explains a Pikes Peak State Park visitor who successfully positioned their travel trailer despite the rolling topography.
