Glamping accommodations near Boscobel, Wisconsin sit within the Driftless Area, a unique landscape untouched by glaciers during the last ice age, leaving dramatic ridges and valleys. This region features elevations ranging from 600-1,300 feet above sea level with numerous spring-fed streams. Winter temperatures typically drop to single digits, while summer camping season averages 75-85°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Hiking through varied terrain: Governor Dodge State Park offers trails with diverse difficulty levels. "I love coming here. It's very convenient to get to and it has some great campsites. I recommend going in the Fall to see some great Fall colors!" notes Elise M. The park features two lakes for water activities alongside hiking options.
Kayaking the Kickapoo River: Access points near Wildcat Mountain State Park provide excellent paddling opportunities. "Great location for kayaking and hiking. The facilities are well maintained and clean. Camping sites are spacious and the stars at night is amazing. Bring or rent kayaks to float the Kickapoo River. Ontario to bridge 5 was 2.5 hours," shares John B.
Cave exploration: The area's limestone geology creates unique underground systems. At Eagle Cave Resort LLC, visitors can experience spelunking with seasonal considerations. "We only spent a night at the resort (actually slept in the cave). One thing to know for sure, bring a tarp or tent to cover yourself. We went in March, so with all the runoff from the snow ir was a very wet experience," advises Charles M.
What campers like
Secluded walk-in sites: Nelson Dewey State Park offers private camping spots with Mississippi River views. "I'll begin by saying this is by far the cleanest campground I have stayed at. The facilities were well kept including the vault toilet houses. We stayed in a walk to site and the views were incredible," reports Ashley F. Sites require advance planning as they fill quickly.
Spacious group camping areas: Westfork Sports Club provides ample room for larger parties. "Huge open sites. Not a lot of trees for privacy but the sites are huge so it's all good! Hot water and flush toilets and hot showers (need quarters). $40 for a yearly membership covers your camping fee and then any time you return in the year the camping is only $20," explains Randall K.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds throughout the region maintain higher-than-average cleanliness standards. "Clean restrooms, park and trails. Good views of the Mississippi while hiking. Trails are good for beginners and moderate hikers," notes Chris G. about Nelson Dewey State Park. Most campgrounds offer shower facilities, though some require quarters.
What you should know
Train noise impacts: Several riverside campgrounds sit near active rail lines. At Grant River Recreation Area, Leslie P. comments, "Stop here on a whim. Loved the view of the the Mississippi River. But, the trains going by during the night was a bit annoying. Though, would not stop me from camping here again." Bring earplugs if staying at Mississippi River locations.
Seasonal flooding concerns: Low-lying areas can experience standing water after heavy rains. "The park provided cart to use to haul all your stuff to the walk to sites. There is 1 designated parking spot per walk to site as well. The walk to sites are small and only accommodated our one (6 person) tent which was not a problem for us as we knew this ahead of time," reports Ashley F. at Nelson Dewey State Park.
Wildlife encounters: Cox Hollow Campground at Governor Dodge State Park has active wildlife. "Beware of raccoons at this campground they are BOLD! Perfect for a family get away - showers, flush toilets, lots of hiking but trails aren't very challenging, swimming area and boat launch, playground," warns Jen L.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Wisconsin Riverside Resort offers multiple swimming options. "There is a decent sized pool that is clean and well-maintained with a smaller kiddie pool with a slide. There is also a man-made lake with a beach for swimming and bigger kids to enjoy the large inflatable slides and swim platforms," describes Kim L.
Family-friendly campground layouts: Sites designed for family safety and convenience exist throughout the region. "We took the opportunity to kayak down the Kickapoo and had a blast - make sure you do some exploring while you are here. This is a top pick of ours and well worth a try if you are considering," shares Holly W. about Wildcat Mountain State Park.
Accessible trails for all ages: Many parks feature shorter hikes suitable for younger children. "Two good lakes for kayaking/canoeing/fishing/swimming. Lots of good hiking trails and they are working on a big improvement to the equestrian campground. Lots of activities in the area and close to shopping in the town of Dodgeville," notes Paul C. about Governor Dodge State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds have mixed terrain affecting RV leveling. "Our site was hike in but the distance was pretty short. There were wagons available for transporting things to sites but I just carried my pack. No pit toilets but the bathroom facilities were close enough," shares Emily H. about Wildcat Mountain State Park.
Hookup availability varies: Electric options often limited to specific sections. "Overall my family LOVED this campground. The electrical and water hook ups were conveniently located, and the site was easy to get into. There were a lot of big Class A motorhomes, so the sites are plenty big," reports Kim L. about Wisconsin Riverside Resort.
Pull-through site limitations: Some designated pull-through sites work better for smaller rigs. "We stayed in a pull thru site. The camp fire was located under a tree. We didn't have a fire. It's a little unusual location. I think the pull Thru are more fit for travel trailers not more 31 feet. We had 5th wheel 40 feet it felt tight to get into," advises Juliana R.
