Camping areas near Cochrane, Wisconsin offer several options for outdoor stays in Buffalo County's river valley terrain. The region sits at approximately 670 feet above sea level along the Mississippi River, with steep limestone bluffs rising 500 feet from the river's edge. Winter temperatures drop to average lows of 9°F in January, while summer highs reach 83°F in July with moderate humidity.
What to do
Tubing on Root River: Visitors to The Old Barn Resort can access the Root River directly from the campground. "We spent most of our time exploring the trail, visiting Lanesboro and Whalen," notes one camper. The resort provides river access for a relaxing float with entry and exit points within the property.
Hiking at multiple difficulty levels: Whitewater State Park offers well-maintained trails through varied terrain. "I hiked up Chimney Rock and then looped back to tackle part of the Dakota trail! The hiking paths were well taken care of. There were plenty of places to stop and rest if you need to," reports a visitor. Trails range from 1-5 miles with elevation changes of 100-300 feet.
Biking on paved trails: The Root River Trail System connects directly to several campgrounds. "It really is a treat that the Root River Bike Trail System runs right along the campground," mentions a visitor to The Old Barn Resort. The trail network offers 42 miles of paved surfaces with modest elevation changes suitable for family riding.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Campgrounds offer varying levels of privacy between sites. "The campground is small and quaint...plenty of space without being too close to your neighbors. Super easy to social distance here," notes a winter visitor to Great River Bluffs State Park. Some campsites feature natural vegetation barriers between sites.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The river valleys provide habitats for diverse wildlife. "I spent a day here hiking and had a blast! We saw a cardinal and 3 hummingbirds because they came to hang out right in our campsite! The fireflies at night were an added bonus!" reports an enthusiastic camper at Great River Bluffs State Park.
Seasonal camping experiences: Winter glamping close to Cochrane, Wisconsin provides a different experience. "We visited in winter (February) and while there was snow on the ground, the spaces were kept plowed with easy access to the electric boxes," notes a winter camper at Whitewater State Park.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Some camping areas experience ambient noise from transportation corridors. A camper at Great River Bluffs notes, "Highway noise from the highway running along the river and from I-90 (while not really noticeable during the day) is ridiculously loud at night. Added to this were the half dozen trains that ran through the night (horns going off too) AND the light aircraft flying into Lacrosse airport."
Water quality varies: Water sources at some campgrounds may have mineral content. At Kruger Campground, a visitor noted "One negative was orange/rusty water from hand pump well." Bringing drinking water is recommended at certain sites.
Seasonal facility changes: Winter camping has different amenities available. "This time of year, water is not on in the campground, but there is a spigot right across the road at the visitor center that is on (easy 2 min walk)," explains a winter camper at Whitewater State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options for different ages: Not all water facilities work for younger children. At Eagle Cliff Campground, "The Root River goes right alongside most of the campsites which creates a really peaceful space." Other locations like The Old Barn Resort offer pools: "There's also a nice covered pool, but we didn't use it because the most shallow point was 4'6", which is great for bigger kids, but with little ones, it's a bit more difficult."
Nature education programs: Some parks offer structured learning activities. A visitor noted, "We had so much fun playing on the river and exploring the park! Everything is right there and the river is so pretty! Despite the rain we had a great time! Because of the rain we went to the eagle center near Wisconsin. A must see if your looking for something indoors!"
Playground availability: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. "For the families - there's a couple small playgrounds on site, which is a good opportunity for the littles to burn some energy," mentions a camper at The Old Barn Resort, which also provides indoor options during inclement weather.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing and privacy: RV sites vary in size and placement across campgrounds. At Chester Woods Park, "Nice place but it is a campground not an rv park, 30 & 50 amp service but no water hookup (fill when you come in) and dump tanks when leaving." Sites typically accommodate standard RVs up to 40 feet.
Hookup limitations: Utilities vary by location, with most offering electric but not full service. "Electric only at the camp sites but have water and dump station on site. Clean bathrooms and showers. Best value I've seen for fire wood," reports a visitor to Chester Woods Park.
Winter RV accommodations: Some locations maintain winter access for glamping near Cochrane, Wisconsin. At Whitewater State Park, "Plenty of space for the car and the teardrop in space #202, but all spaces that were plowed had plenty of room to pull in. Some were even 'pull through' which would be extra nice if you wanted it (either big rig type RV or pull behind)."
