Dispersed camping near Cochrane, Wisconsin offers campers remote wilderness experiences along the Mississippi River watershed. The area sits within the Driftless Region, an unglaciated landscape characterized by deeply carved river valleys, forested bluffs, and limestone outcroppings that create distinct camping environments. Winter temperatures can drop below zero, while summer camping conditions are often hot and humid, with seasonal flooding affecting site accessibility.
What to do
Bike trail access camping: The Root River Canoe Campsite connects to regional bike trails that offer vehicle-free access to established tent sites. "It's free to stay here, and doesn't seem like people really camp here anymore. Has a pit toilet, picnic tables, and a fire ring. Ideal for tent camping via bike, kayak or canoe," notes camper Michael V. about this Root River Canoe Campsite.
Hiking nearby trails: Multiple sites connect to hiking networks that offer additional exploration beyond your campsite. At Richard J Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest, campers appreciate the trail system regardless of site selection. "I stopped here after a 12 hour drive got set up and even walked the trails for a few miles before bed," shares Demeri C. about their experience at the forest's camping areas.
Water recreation: Boating campers can access island camping spots throughout the Mississippi backwaters. Crater Island provides sandy beach camping without facilities. "If it is closed, there are plenty of islands and beaches near by to set up for camping," suggests Michael V. about Crater Island and surrounding water-access sites.
What campers like
Elevated views: Some sites offer dramatic overlook vistas for those willing to carry gear uphill. "We used a collapsible wagon to haul all the supplies up the hill. There are two hike in sites here at overlooks that give spectacular views. The site has a shelter for the tent as well as other places outside for it," reports Stephanie K. about Richard J Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest.
Vehicle-adjacent options: Not all dispersed sites require hiking. Zumbro Bottoms provides convenient roadside camping for those who prefer keeping their vehicle close. "There is a parking spot near a known dispersed camping site with easy vehicle access next to it. There are hiking trails that pass by this site," notes T S. about the Zumbro Bottoms State Forest camping area.
Social boating scene: Water-access sites create gathering spots for boaters during summer months. "Big parties in the cove. No bathrooms no showers, just sand and water. Very busy on weekends in the summer, as long as there is no dredging operations going on," describes Michael V. about the island camping experience.
What you should know
Southern approach recommended: Access roads to some sites can be problematic depending on direction. At Zumbro Bottoms, campers advise specific routing: "This area is off a low maintenance dirt road. It is best to come in from the south as sometimes the gate on the river bridge to the north is closed," advises T S.
Variable facilities: Amenities differ significantly between sites. Some offer basic infrastructure while others have none. The Root River site maintains "a pit toilet, picnic tables, and a fire ring," according to Michael V., while Crater Island has "no bathrooms no showers, just sand and water."
Seasonal closures: Water-access sites may have operational interruptions. Crater Island specifically can be affected by "dredging operations going on, otherwise it's closed," notes Michael V.
Tips for camping with families
Wagon accessibility: For sites requiring hiking, consider equipment transport options. At Richard J Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest, one camper found success with "a collapsible wagon to haul all the supplies up the hill" to reach premium sites, according to Stephanie K.
Overnight flexibility: Some areas accommodate short stays with minimal setup. "An ideal spot for a one nighter," suggests Demeri C. about the Richard J Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest Isinours Management Unit drive-in sites.
Water safety awareness: Island camping requires boat transport and water safety knowledge. Sites like Crater Island have "no bathrooms no showers, just sand and water," requiring self-sufficient camping skills and proper waste management.
Tips from RVers
Road condition assessment: Forest access roads may not accommodate all vehicles. "This area is off a low maintenance dirt road," notes T S., suggesting campers check current conditions before attempting access to remote sites.
Parking limitations: Dispersed sites rarely accommodate larger rigs. The Zumbro Bottoms area features "a parking spot near a known dispersed camping site," but space may be limited for larger vehicles.
