Best Campgrounds near Wauzeka, WI

The Mississippi and Wisconsin River confluence area near Wauzeka, Wisconsin provides camping experiences along dramatic river bluffs and forested valleys. Wyalusing State Park Campground, situated on bluffs overlooking the confluence, offers tent and RV camping with both electric and non-electric sites. Additional options include Boulder Creek Campground in Bagley and Sports Unlimited Campground in Prairie Du Chien, both featuring cabin accommodations alongside traditional camping areas. Yellow River State Forest across the border in Iowa offers more primitive backcountry camping experiences with several campground options.

Camping seasons vary significantly throughout the region, with many campgrounds operating from April through October. Wisconsin Ridge Campground in Wyalusing State Park features sites along the bluff with panoramic river views, though these popular spots require advance reservations during peak season. A visitor commented, "The Wisconsin Ridge Campground has great views IF you can get one of the sites with a view. Not all view sites are reservable and none have services." Campground amenities range from basic sites with vault toilets to full-service areas with electric hookups, showers, and sanitary dump stations. Weather considerations include possible flooding along river areas in spring and early summer that can impact lower elevation camping areas.

Many campers highlight the unique topography as a defining feature of camping in this region. The ridge-top sites at Wyalusing State Park provide dramatic views but less privacy than wooded sites in the park's Homestead Campground. A recent review noted, "The Homestead Campground is wooded and more secluded. The Wisconsin Ridge Campground is where the views are at. It is busier and the showers and bathrooms aren't as clean and new." Recreational opportunities include hiking trails through bluff terrain, canoe trails with backwater access to the Mississippi River, and wildlife viewing. The area's campgrounds receive consistently high ratings for their scenic views and proximity to water recreation, though some reviewers mention noise from nearby trains and limited privacy at certain developed campgrounds during peak summer months.

Best Camping Sites Near Wauzeka, Wisconsin (133)

    1. Wyalusing State Park Campground

    59 Reviews
    McGregor, WI
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 996-2261

    $15 - $35 / night

    "Located on the far western edge of Wisconsin this state park offers a little of everything - hiking trails connected to the camp grounds, boat access to the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers, overlook of"

    "This is an amazing park on the Wisconsin/Iowa border, overlooking where the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers join. I usually try to get in at least 1 trip a year, if lucky enough 2-3."

    2. Pikes Peak State Park Campground

    29 Reviews
    McGregor, IA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 873-2341

    $20 - $35 / night

    "This campground is a short hike away from beautiful trails that overlook the confluence of the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers. The boardwalk trails also lead to a small falls and more."

    "It is within walking distance of the overlook of the magnificent Upper Mississippi River at the confluence of the Wisconsin River. There are other walking/hiking opportunities."

    3. Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest

    12 Reviews
    Waterville, IA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 586-2254

    $12 / night

    "The 2nd site in has a small pond at Camp side. Potable water is at HQ near registration kiosk."

    "We did the backcountry camping (less than 0.5 miles walking), but did get to see the regular campgrounds. There are other parks and waterways to visit nearby and a town nearby."

    4. Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest

    12 Reviews
    Waterville, IA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 586-2254

    $15 / night

    "The location is very nice, right next to the river. I wouldn't exactly call it a river though. It's nice and quiet, and very nice trail runs through it as well."

    "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."

    5. Bloody Run County Park

    7 Reviews
    Marquette, IA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 245-1516

    "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. People are so lazy."

    "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."

    6. Nelson Dewey State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Cassville, WI
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 725-5374

    $33 / night

    "The site itself was sloped away from the road making it feel tucked into the trees. The downside was that the only flat space for the tent was very close to the fire pit."

    "Friendly Crowds and secluded spot despite us staying next to the main road for the camping area. Sunsets were beautiful looking west over the Mississippi River."

    7. Little Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest

    4 Reviews
    Waterville, IA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 586-2254

    $15 - $20 / night

    "All of them, including the equestrian, have easy access to trout fishing. All are primitive - non-electric.

    Little Paint Creek:

    This is the larger of the two non-equestrian campgrounds."

    "The campground runs next to a trout stream and can be busy on weekends but with fishing, hiking, horse trails, the only setback is its primitive but being in the valley and near effigy mounds it's a winner"

    8. Boulder Creek Campground

    3 Reviews
    Bagley, WI
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 996-2201

    $32 - $260 / night

    9. Sports Unlimited Campground

    1 Review
    Prairie du Chien, WI
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 326-2141

    10. Camp John Schultz — Yellow River State Forest

    2 Reviews
    Waterville, IA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 586-2254

    "Sounded by nature atop of hill hike near Fire tower ( only fire tower in Iowa), cell reception is found up here."

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Recent Reviews near Wauzeka, WI

483 Reviews of 133 Wauzeka Campgrounds


  • Susan W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Creek Valley Campground

    Trip to Mackinac

    A little cramped, nice people. We didn't use the pool but it had adults only after dark. Our site backed up to the forest, there's a short trail thru the trees. Most sites have FHU, most are back-in. We had one of the sites with only water and electric. There is a dump station, small concession, playground. A small creek runs around much of the outside of the property.

  • Deb M.
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Blackhawk Park

    Another nice COE campground

    Nice mix of sites at this park, many with electric hookups. There’s also lots of unnumbered sites FCFS sites around the park. Only 1 bathroom/shower building, and lots of vault toilets. The west loop sites (where we camped) were a bit close together, but large and level. Even on a busy Labor Day weekend, the campground was quiet and peaceful. AT&T service was good, and T-Mobile service was very spotty. There’s a dump station and potable water on site. We will definitely be back.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Wisconsin Riverside Resort

    THIS PLACE HAS IT ALL!!

    This campground was fabulous! Great pool, restaurant, live music, and Pickle Ball! Well kept facility. It has a security gate, which I really appreciated.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground

    Cottontail lane

    We hiked a short distance into our site. We had to pass a grassy area that was always full of bunnies! The site was of good size, dark and quiet. The shower house was close and clean.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Tower Hill State Park Campground

    Lightning bugs galore

    We were here during a thunderstorm so didn’t have the best experience. Our hill top site had water flowing through and our screen tent had a branch fall on it. But the sites are adequate for tents and the picnic shelter is lovely. The mosquitoes are ferocious, as expected for July in Wisconsin. We enjoyed chasing lightning bugs. The toilets are as expected for an older park.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Wyalusing State Park Campground

    Gorgeous sunsets

    Clean and beautiful campsite. Dry firewood and kindling available. The toilets were clean. The ridge view sites are spectacular but not for those with a fear of heights.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Pulpit Rock Campground

    Very Nice

    Very nice City owned facility . City water only available central locations otherwise a delight spot in a wonderful town

  • D
    Aug. 6, 2025

    Wyalusing State Park Campground

    Beautiful views

    Clean sites with some privacy. Great showers and clean bathrooms. There are lots of places to walk the dogs and great hiking.

    Even if you have an inside or non cliff side site, there are plenty of places to sit and watch the sunsets.


Guide to Wauzeka

Camping near Wauzeka, Wisconsin, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking Trails: Explore the scenic trails at Wyalusing State Park Campground. Campers rave about the "great hiking trails" and the "lovely morning sunrise and amazing sunsets."
  • Kayaking: The backwaters of the Mississippi River are perfect for kayaking. One visitor noted that the campground has "access to backwaters of Mississippi," making it a great spot for water activities.
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A camper at Nelson Dewey State Park Campground mentioned seeing "bald eagles in a nest down by the river."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Many campers appreciate the stunning views. One reviewer at Wyalusing State Park Campground said, "What a view!" while another highlighted the "gorgeous views of the valley below."
  • Privacy: Campers enjoy the spacious sites. A visitor at Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground noted that "the sites are more secluded from each other than you'll find at most parks."
  • Clean Facilities: Clean bathrooms and showers are a big plus. A camper at Backbone State Park mentioned, "Bathrooms were very clean," which is always a welcome sight.

What you should know:

  • Train Noise: Be prepared for some noise from trains. A camper at Nelson Dewey State Park Campground warned about the "incredibly loud" trains that pass by, so earplugs might be a good idea.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may have fewer amenities. A visitor at Governor Dodge State Park mentioned that while the park has "great hiking," the facilities are "ok, not the worst, not the best."
  • Humidity and Bugs: Expect humidity and bugs, especially in summer. A camper at Nelson Dewey State Park Campground noted the "humidity and bugs" due to its riverside location.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. Blue Mound State Park Campground has a "nice playground" and "hiking trails both short and longer."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities planned. A family camper at Cox Hollow Campground enjoyed kayaking and hiking, saying, "We love to go kayaking here."
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring insect repellent and comfortable gear. A visitor at Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground suggested being prepared for "humidity and bugs."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Dimensions: Make sure to check the dimensions of RV sites. A camper at Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground advised that some sites are "narrow to use RV awnings."
  • Look for Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups, which can be a lifesaver. A visitor at Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park appreciated the "electric hookups" available.
  • Be Mindful of Slopes: Some sites may be sloped, making it tricky for RVs. A camper at Governor Dodge State Park mentioned that "many sites drop off steeply," so check the layout before booking.

Camping near Wauzeka, Wisconsin, has something for everyone, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Just be prepared for the quirks of each campground, and you'll have a great time!

Frequently Asked Questions

What summer recreation activities are available in Wauzeka?

The Wauzeka area offers abundant summer recreation opportunities centered around its rivers and natural areas. At Pikes Peak State Park Campground, you can hike beautiful trails overlooking the confluence of the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers or explore boardwalk paths leading to waterfalls. Water enthusiasts can enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating on the Wisconsin River. Cox Hollow Campground — Governor Dodge State Park features two large lakes with swimming beaches and excellent pan fishing opportunities. The region also offers excellent stargazing, museum visits in nearby towns, and scenic biking trails along riverside paths.

Where can I find camping spots in Wauzeka, Wisconsin?

While Wauzeka itself has limited camping options, several excellent campgrounds are within a short drive. Wyalusing State Park Campground offers both secluded wooded sites in the Homestead area and spectacular ridge sites overlooking the Wisconsin River. For riverside camping, Wisconsin Riverside Resort provides well-maintained facilities with direct access to the water. Nearby Boulder Creek Campground near Bagley is another option with drive-in access, water, and toilet facilities that accommodate larger RVs.

What camping is available near Wauzeka, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, Wauzeka, WI offers a wide range of camping options, with 133 campgrounds and RV parks near Wauzeka, WI and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Wauzeka, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Wauzeka, WI is Wyalusing State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 59 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Wauzeka, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Wauzeka, WI.