Doolittle Park
Very compact
The sites are VERY close to each other.
The western Wisconsin landscape surrounding Colfax features diverse camping opportunities within a 30-mile radius, particularly along waterways and forested areas. Lake Wissota State Park Campground, located near Chippewa Falls, offers year-round camping with 116 sites nestled among trees and along the lakeshore. Brunet Island State Park provides a unique island camping experience on the Chippewa River with two distinct camping loops. Several private campgrounds like O'Neil Creek, Eagle Ridge, and Twin Springs Resort complement the state park options, with most offering both tent and RV accommodations. Red Cedar Glamping represents the growing trend of upscale outdoor stays with yurt accommodations for those seeking comfort without traditional camping equipment.
Reservations are essential during the peak season from May through October, when most campgrounds operate at full capacity. The camping season varies by location, with some facilities like Lake Wissota and Brunet Island State Parks remaining open year-round, while others like Twin Springs Resort (May-October) and O'Neil Creek (April-October) have defined operating seasons. Cell service can be inconsistent throughout the region, with T-Mobile coverage particularly spotty at Highland Ridge, as noted by camper John B. Most campgrounds provide standard amenities including fire rings, picnic tables, and access to drinking water. According to Debra M., Lake Wissota State Park offers "sites that are large, surrounded by trees and very private," with lakeside sites that don't have electric hookups but provide more seclusion.
Water access represents a significant draw for campers in the region. Mary, a visitor to Brunet Island State Park, highlighted that "you can kayak on the river and in-between the islands where the water is very calm and full of lily pads and wildlife." The Old Abe bike trail connects several camping areas, extending 20 miles to Chippewa Falls and providing recreational opportunities beyond the campgrounds. Campers seeking the perfect campsite near Colfax should consider their privacy preferences, as site separation varies significantly across the area's campgrounds. Noise can be a factor at certain locations, with Donella L. noting that Lake Wissota has "lots of boat noise from the lake and plane noise from a nearby airport," making it "a great family destination, not so great for a peaceful couples weekend."
"This park is on a smaller scale and less crowded than Devil’s Lake. There is a small beach that is in the process of renovation. The sites are large surrounded by trees and very private."
"Continuing my quest to visit as many Wisconsin state parks as possible. I stopped by here to check out the campsites for potential future camping and look over the park."
$38 / night
"If you’ve been anywhere in Minnesota or Wisconsin, you know about all the trees!"
"Full hook up, and firepit conveniently located . Nice walking path to the river. Staff was friendly, and the grounds were super clean!"
$35 - $70 / night
"After winding through a few roads off the highway, Twin Springs emerges from a bend in the road. The sites have a reasonable amount of space surrounding them."
"Beautiful lake. Lots of space. Friend host."
"Creek,lake,showers,laundry,full hookups,camp store,arcade,kids play areas,beach and more. Pricey! Plan on 60$/day"
"This is one of our favorite Wisconsin state parks. It is quiet and shady, next to the Chippewa River."
"Beautiful Wisconsin state park. Two campgrounds, the north campground is more primitive, the south campground, where we stayed, has electrical hookups."
$24 - $280 / night
"T-mobile service is almost non-existent depending on location. The showers and bathrooms were spotless. Firewood is available at several roadside stands just outside the entrance."
"Came here without a reservation while driving cross country. It is only a few miles from the highway but is a beautiful and quiet, natural environment with lots of trees."
$15 - $40 / night
"Site was a nice size, we have a smaller pull behind. They were really close to each other. Nice bathroom and showers if you need them."
"It's located close to lake Winnsota."
$15 - $30 / night
"There is WiFi for an extra few (there is also a library nearby with free WiFi!) There are lots of great places to exercise your four legged camper and we would certainly return if in the area!"
$69 - $120 / night
"With comfortable beds, firewood, firewood starters, and trails, this property has it all. Secluded but close to town. Book them today and leave them a review here!"












The sites are VERY close to each other.
Clean and well-kept, this is a very small park with mowed lawn but no separation between the campsites, and close to a highway. Quiet at night. We stayed there off-season, and had it mostly to ourselves. It's convenient for an overnight stay while hiking the Ice Age Trail road connection nearby.
Just for clarification, the map coordinates are about 2 miles off here. The address brings you to the lock and dam and while there appears to be a 10 hour parking sign, it is just the parking lot. About 2.1 miles north on the road is the small campground and park. This is seasonal camping closed over winter. The campground and the road is on a narrow piece of land between the Mississippi and a ponds/backwaters that has an impressive amount of waterfowl present.
Small basic campground in Wabasha MN. Mostly permanent sites. There is a dog park directly next to the campground.
This campground is well known in the area as it has many permanent sites where many of the sites have had generations of families stay. There are many permanent type dwellings like trailer homes and campers that have been set up permanently. There are some transitional sites available as well. They have a clubhouse/store. Pool. A dock on the Mississippi and supper club type restaurant is down the road a bit.
This is the city of Wabasha MN campground. It is only for seasonal camping meaning they DO NOT offer daily/weekly sites. Lots are situated at the end of a Main Street and there is a public bathroom with a shower nearby. There is also a beach (Mississippi River) a marina/docks/slips, and a public park nearby.
Well maintained campground in Wabasha. They have sites and other accommodations as well.
This is a nice basic campground near Wabasha/Kellogg area. Mississippi is within a few miles. Lark Toys nearby also. The Zumbro River is at the bottom of the campground on opposite side of the road where you can put kayaks/canoes in. (Or swim or fish). Sites are nice size with some having more privacy than others. Campground is on top of/up the hill. Vault toilets. No showers. Fire rings and picnic tables present.
We did a one night camping trip for my birthday at Cart-In Site 1 the second to last weekend of September.
We loved the hiking at Frontenac State Park - walking along the lake and then walking along the bluffs at sunset was magical! Fantastic views. I imagine if we had gone two weeks later, we would have had a fantastic display of fall color. We went a little too early to catch the changing leaves.
We loved how easy Frontenac was for a casual weekend getaway. It was an easy, scenic one hour drive from St. Paul that was very enjoyable. The park was also nice with great bathrooms at the main campsite, nice trails, and they even had board games to check out at the front office for a rainy day- a great idea!
We stayed at Cart-In Site 1. I would rate the site itself a 3. It was very secluded and spacious, which was fantastic! We could not see any other campsites from our site, which was fantastic. We only occasionally saw some hikers on a nearby trail. We could hear some other noisy campers, but it wasn't too much of a disturbance. Very wooded, nice, spacious site. There is not water at the Cart-In parking lot, so be aware that you will have to fill up prior to parking and heading to your site (easiest place to do so is the main office/ visitor center).
I also slept poorly because of a nearby train that kept going past and honking at least until midnight. So if you're a light sleeper, be aware of persistent train noise at these sites!
Overall good site and an easy, fun, and relaxing weekend getaway from the twin cities.
Camping sites near Colfax, Wisconsin sit within the Driftless Area, a unique geographic region untouched by glaciers during the last ice age, creating steeper terrain than surrounding areas. This region receives an average annual rainfall of 32 inches, primarily in summer months when most campgrounds operate at capacity. Campgrounds throughout the area generally sit at elevations between 800-1,200 feet above sea level.
Kayaking on calm waters: At Brunet Island State Park Campground, water activities dominate the experience. "You can launch a canoe/kayak. Definitely one of the better views and water was clear. On the other side water was more marshy," notes Julie W. about Site 44, highlighting the diverse paddling conditions.
Tubing opportunities: Local waterways provide excellent tubing options. At Twin Springs Resort Campground, campers can "tube down the creek, very shallow so even littles can do it too," according to Stina M., making it accessible for families with younger children.
Hiking exploration: Several campgrounds offer trail systems of varying difficulty. Gerald B. found Brunet Island State Park particularly appealing in autumn: "What a great place to visit this time of year (Fall). Falling acorns, frogs and chipmunks chirping, turtles basking in sunlight and more."
Private campsites: Many campers value site separation when selecting camping spots near Colfax. Julie P. reports about Lake Wissota State Park Campground: "While all of the sites were very private - lots of trees and underbrush between, this one and 65E were ideally situated for dual sites."
Clean facilities: Consistently maintained bathrooms rank high in camper satisfaction. At O'Neil Creek Campground, ScottnRobin L. observed, "The restrooms were spotless. It appears many of the sites are season rentals."
Natural water features: Waterfront access directly from campsites represents a significant draw. Christina H. explains why Brunet Island State Park ranks among her favorites: "The spot that I reserved was beautiful. Loved that it was tucked in the back of the camping area and was able to put my canoe in the water at my spot."
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate from spring through fall with varying schedules. Mary S. notes about Highland Ridge: "This is not a good place for solar panels, but almost all sites are electric," highlighting how the heavily wooded sites impact power options.
Reservation requirements: During peak summer months, securing sites requires advance planning. Beth D. observed at Highland Ridge: "We accidentally selected a site without electric, but if we had taken more time to use the website and enter search criteria, we could have found one with electric."
Mosquito preparation: The waterfront location of many campgrounds means insects can be prevalent. Hannah E. warns about Lake Wissota: "Very woodsy! Mosquitoes, gnats, and bugs galore," suggesting campers come prepared with appropriate repellent.
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds specifically cater to younger visitors. Dana A. emphasizes that Eagle Ridge Campground "is awesome for the whole family!!" with numerous amenities designed for children.
Swimming options: Beach quality varies significantly between locations. Delanie F. cautions about Lake Wissota: "It was a very nice campground, it is a very big campground. Unfortunately the beach is not very clean and there are ground bees on the trail."
Playground access: Many campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. O'Neil Creek receives praise from Tony G.: "This place has all kinds of activities for children and large pull thru sites, people are very friendly."
Site selection considerations: RV campers should carefully review site specifications before booking. Whistle P. shares about Eagle Ridge Campground: "As other reviews mention, this campground has a large grassy area - that gives a 100% clear obstruction for Starlink. We work full time, so this was important for us."
Dump station availability: Full-service amenities vary between locations. Brook Jorgensen notes Lake Wissota offers "nice tent and RV sites. Hot showers. Flush toilets," providing essential information for those traveling in recreational vehicles.
Leveling requirements: Site terrain affects setup difficulty. David K. observes about Twin Springs Resort: "The sites have a reasonable amount of space surrounding them. The road intrudes a bit too close for comfort, especially with having kids with."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Colfax, WI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Colfax, WI is Lake Wissota State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 35 reviews.
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