Spirit Mountain Campground
Great Basecamp
Mountain bikers and hikers will love this beautiful treed campground. Level sites that are spread out enough to offer some privacy. Bath house was old, but adequate.
203 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The St. Croix River region near Danbury, Wisconsin features a mix of established campgrounds and dispersed sites catering to various camping preferences. Several options exist within a 30-minute drive, including St. Croix State Forest Boulder Campground offering primitive tent and RV sites, and Grace Lake Road Dispersed area providing free tent camping. The St. Croix River serves as a central feature, with campgrounds like St. Croix River Resort offering cabin rentals alongside traditional camping areas. Most campgrounds in the area maintain moderate to high ratings from visitors, with particular praise for waterfront access and proximity to hiking trails.
Seasonal considerations affect camping experiences in this region, with most campgrounds operating from May through October. St. Croix State Forest Boulder Campground typically closes in November, reopening in May when weather conditions improve. Many campgrounds require reservations, particularly for electric hookup sites and during summer weekends. Water access varies by location, with some sites offering direct riverfront positioning while others are nestled in forested settings. While developed campgrounds provide amenities like drinking water and toilets, dispersed areas generally lack facilities. According to one visitor, "The sites are very roomy and tucked into the pines. With the highway being right there, this makes a trip to Duluth only about a 20 min drive, yet don't forget to explore this park!"
Campers consistently highlight water access as a primary attraction throughout the region. The St. Croix River and nearby lakes provide opportunities for paddling, fishing, and swimming at select locations. Several campgrounds feature hiking access to waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and wooded trails. Reviews indicate that sites with electric hookups tend to fill quickly during peak season, while primitive sites often remain available for last-minute travelers. Mosquitoes receive frequent mention in visitor feedback, particularly during summer months in wooded areas. Privacy between campsites varies significantly across the region, with some locations offering well-spaced, secluded sites while others position campers in closer proximity. Tent campers report higher satisfaction with sites located in pine-dominated areas that provide natural padding and drainage during wet conditions.
"We had an all around great time. The campsites were all pretty secluded. We got there around 10am on a Friday and there were a couple sites taken but the rest were up for grabs."
"We enjoyed the sense of camping 'away from it all' although it is a bit shady for solar panels to charge up the batteries."
"All the electrical sites were occupied while we were there and a lot of the other sites near the modern bathroom were occupied."
"The drive into the park was absolutely beautiful!! Stayed at old logging trail campground."
from $25 - $35 / night
Check Availability"We stayed at the Resort for 3 nights nice and shady huge playground for kids indoor pool volleyball net lots of water near by getting in and out is easy nice wide roads Wi-Fi was pretty poor at are spot"
"There are atvs and utvs but at night they are not moving around."
from $87 - $999 / night
Check Availability"This is one of my favorite state parks for last minute camping trips due to its proximity to home."
"There is a modern restroom and shower, it is also located near a nature store."
from $25 - $95 / night
Check Availability"Felt nice to spend a weekend without cell service about an hour away from home. Forgot to take my usual photos and video of the site all set up but had a few random to share. Nice campground."
"Some of the campsite around the very outer edge have some coverage, which is helpful in the hot summer sun."
from $25 - $35 / night
Check Availability"It is just over the MN border and about a mile from the St Croix River. ATV trails are accessible from the campground.
Pardun’s also offers canoe and tube rentals in town and also at St.""Lots to do near by Legion 1.3 miles away and a great cafe as well across the street. Ice is in expensive and so is firewood, basic camping, small playground and a basketball court going in. "
"Stayed a night here on our way up to the boundary waters gate is very narrow had to fold the mirrors on my Tacoma to squeeze through but if you park at the entrance it’s a short walk You’re about 20 foot"
"Go down Tamarack Forest Road, which is a little further than the location on here."
"There are miles of trails to hike, including along the river and to a waterfall, all kinds of paddling and rafting possibilities(bring your own, or join a trip sponsored by a local outfitter), or go bouldering"
"Park is close to Sandstone for any last minute needs. Campground is off and a bit sequestered from the rest of the hiking and kayaking, which is nice."
from $24 - $80 / night
Check Availability"The sites are spaced out and although it is a long drive in from the tar and gravel, it's worth the trip. A beautiful lake and lots of trails."
from $17 / night
Check Availability"Ou can walk the nature trails or fish right from your camping spot. Definitely recommend for the whole family."












Mountain bikers and hikers will love this beautiful treed campground. Level sites that are spread out enough to offer some privacy. Bath house was old, but adequate.
A weekend in October...peak color but the campground is crowded and pretty noisy up until 8 pm ish when it does quiet down a bit. Would stay again, just when it's less crowded.
Stay two nights driving through from Apostle Islands, to hit CAMBA trails. Matt is very kind! Sites are spacious and have get wooded back drop.
There are surprisingly few campgrounds in this area with overnight camping - most are just giant trailer parks for people who stay the entire season. We were pleased to find this "real" campground close enough for segment hikes on the Ice Age Trail, 12 miles away at the closest. Some sites do have electricity, but pit toilets, no showers. I took advantage of the Apple River instead - it's just a short walk away, wonderful for wading, has some deeper pools for a cool dip. The water from the hand pump is cold and delicious. We noticed several cars, probably local, stop and fill jugs to take home.
Have to balance out the last review. Right off the road, you can’t drive very far in. Looks like a squatter camping from the road. Also feels like squatting on the corner of someone’s property off the road.
Many activities throughout the day for the family. Kids enjoyed the pool. The store has a nice selection of items for sale. Firewood is $8 a bundle.
The campsites are close but there is enough trees between sites to make it seem like you are not so close.
There are atvs and utvs but at night they are not moving around.
Nice campsite. Clean and well maintained. Fire ring picnic table and some tree stumps for processing your firewood. I see several campsites in the area but I'm alone here. A river is several hundred yards away from my site, but you have to hike down a bit.
Back in 2020 I did about 3 months camping along here ! Good spot !
Nice campground. We were passing thru to visit a friend. Stayed one night. Very clean bathrooms. The Pizza at the Bear Den (next door) was excellent.
Dispersed camping options near Danbury, Wisconsin offer alternatives to established campgrounds with fewer amenities but greater privacy. The St. Croix River watershed creates varied terrain for camping ranging from riverside locations to wooded pine stands. Winter camping is limited as most facilities close from November through April when temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
River activities: At Boulder Campground, campers can access multiple water recreation options. "The road to the park had water access to the river as well. Lots of ATV and Hiking trails," reports Daniel G. The area's river systems provide fishing opportunities without requiring special equipment.
Waterfall exploration: Located within driving distance of Danbury, Banning State Park Campground offers waterfall viewing opportunities. "One leads to Wolf Creek Falls and is challenging and beautiful. Another goes along the Kettle River with beautiful views," notes Joanna B. The falls are accessible via marked trails approximately 1.2 miles from camping areas.
Cross-country skiing: Winter activities continue at select locations when snow conditions permit. "In the park, there's a lot of ice climbing and cross country skiing," explains Alexa S. about winter camping options. Most trail systems maintain dual-purpose routes that convert to ski trails after snowfall.
Isolation from technology: Many campers appreciate the lack of connectivity as a feature rather than inconvenience. "Felt nice to spend a weekend without cell service about an hour away from home," writes Tori K. about Paint Rock Springs Campground. This digital disconnection is common throughout the region.
Wildlife viewing: The area's forested settings provide opportunities for wildlife observation. "We like camping in state forest for the wild life experience. We seen Bear, Wolf, and plenty of Yote's," reports Scot L. about Saint Croix State Forest Boulder Campground. Wildlife sightings increase during morning and evening hours.
River proximity: Water access remains a consistent attraction for campers. "The St Croix is beautiful," states Arielle P. Many sites offer direct river access or short walking paths to water features where swimming and fishing are permitted without special licensing requirements.
Seasonal bug populations: Insect activity varies by season with peak mosquito presence in summer months. "Secluded camping close to town... My only complaint was how bad the mosquitos were... but it's Minnesota," says Craig B. Bug repellent with DEET content of at least 30% is recommended from May through September.
Water quality considerations: Water sources vary across camping areas with different treatment requirements. "There's a hand pumped well, but the water is fairly brown. $17 per night," Michael U. explains about his experience. Many dispersed sites require visitors to bring potable water or purification equipment.
Limited winter facilities: Cold weather camping options exist but with reduced amenities. "This is a great place for winter camping! The campsites are large enough (despite the snow) to set up suitable winter tents," notes one visitor. Bathroom facilities often convert to vault toilets during winter months with water systems winterized.
Site selection strategy: Family groups should consider accessibility and amenities when choosing locations. "We stayed with my extended family in a couple of cabins. It is nice and wooded. The pool is indoors which is nice and has drawbacks. It is a good sized pool," explains Joe S. about St Croix River Resort.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best seasons for camping in Danbury, Wisconsin?
The best seasons for camping in Danbury, Wisconsin are late spring through early fall, with summer (June-August) offering warm days perfect for water activities. Wild River State Park Campground is particularly beautiful in autumn when early fall colors add splashes to hiking trails and river views. Fall camping (September-October) provides comfortable temperatures and fewer insects. Interstate State Park offers year-round beauty along the St. Croix River, though summer is peak season. Be prepared for mosquitoes in summer months, especially in wooded areas. Winter camping is available for cold-weather enthusiasts but requires appropriate gear and experience.
What campgrounds are available in Danbury, Wisconsin?
Danbury, Wisconsin offers several camping options in the surrounding area. Straight Lake State Park Campground provides hike-in sites near Straight Lake with cart assistance for packing in supplies and access to the Ice Age Trail. Spirit Lake RV and Marina offers waterfront RV camping with direct water access. Other nearby options include Pardun's Jack Pine Campground and Anchor Woods Campground. The region around Danbury is rich with camping opportunities, with many sites within easy driving distance to both Wisconsin and Minnesota state parks, making it a convenient base for exploring the natural beauty of the area.
What amenities are offered at The Ridge Campground in Danbury, WI?
While specific recent reviews for The Ridge Campground aren't available, typical amenities at campgrounds in the Danbury area can be found at similar facilities. Amnicon Falls State Park Campground offers rustic sites with vault toilets, isolated campsites with natural privacy from foliage and trees, and access to hiking trails and waterfalls. Pattison State Park Campground provides clean, maintained facilities with wooded sites that are nicely spaced for privacy. Most campgrounds in the region feature basic amenities like fire rings, picnic tables, and access to water. For current specific information about The Ridge Campground's amenities, it's recommended to contact the campground directly.
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