Best Campgrounds near De Soto, WI

Campgrounds near De Soto, Wisconsin offer multiple established options along the Mississippi River corridor. Blackhawk Park, a Corps of Engineers facility, provides spacious sites with river access and tall shade trees. The camping landscape includes a mix of county parks, state forests, and privately managed resorts spanning both Wisconsin and neighboring Iowa. Most facilities accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several offering cabins as additional lodging options. Sidie Hollow Park features multiple camping areas including main, ridge, and boat landing campgrounds with varied amenities and terrain.

Seasonal operations affect most campgrounds in the region, with many facilities open from mid-April through October. The Mississippi River floodplain and surrounding bluff country create distinctive camping experiences depending on elevation and proximity to water. "Sites are 110 only with ban on air conditioners. All sites on grass with limited picnic tables but price right at $10," noted one camper about Sugar Creek City Campground. Road access varies throughout the area, with some campgrounds offering level, gravel pads while others feature more primitive conditions. Cell service can be patchy in the valleys and ravines typical of the Driftless Area topography. Water levels and seasonal flooding may impact riverside campgrounds during spring.

Campers consistently mention the scenic qualities of this unique Driftless Area landscape where tall limestone bluffs overlook the Mississippi River and its tributaries. Blackhawk Park receives particularly positive reviews for its spacious sites and mature tree canopy. A visitor commented, "The sites are very spacious and easy getting into for RVs/campers. Price is very reasonably priced. The creek adds to the wonderful scenery." Several developed campgrounds feature shower facilities, though cleanliness and maintenance vary by location. The wooded settings provide welcome shade during summer months when temperatures can reach into the 90s. Fishing opportunities are frequently highlighted in visitor feedback, with multiple access points to the Mississippi River, smaller tributaries, and inland lakes throughout the region.

Best Camping Sites Near De Soto, Wisconsin (141)

    1. Blackhawk Park

    10 Reviews
    De Soto, WI
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 648-3314

    $18 - $40 / night

    "From our site (30) we had a nice view of the water which was about a 3min walk. Site was mostly level with gravel, picnic table and fire pit/grate."

    "The people were great, plus you are in distance of 3-4 states within 30 minutes you could be to anyone! The staff check on you and maintain the grounds very well."

    2. Red Barn Resort and Campground

    2 Reviews
    Lansing, IA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 538-4956

    $25 - $39 / night

    3. Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest

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

    $12 / 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."

    4. 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."

    5. Wyalusing State Park Campground

    59 Reviews
    McGregor, IA
    31 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."

    6. Beaver Creek Valley State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    Caledonia, MN
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 724-2107

    "The park has a lot of very well maintained trails. The only thing to know is there is no cell reception because of the valley."

    "Water, garbage and recycling (separated) were all close by. There as no cell signal, so we went to town for that. The park has nice trails that are pretty well marked."

    7. Goose Island

    14 Reviews
    La Crosse, WI
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 788-7018

    $22 - $34 / night

    "This camp South of Lacrosse Wisconsin is a great family or road tripping camp."

    "The sites are close together near the entrance. The spread out as you get deeper into the park. Beautiful grounds. Good communication from the camp rangers when we had to switch sites."

    8. Sidie Hollow County Ridge Campground

    4 Reviews
    Viroqua, WI
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 637-7335

    "No swimming or store, but good hiking / biking trails in the driftless area of SW Wisconsin. Water / electric sites have gravel drives. Not all level."

    9. Upper Iowa Resort and Rental

    4 Reviews
    New Albin, IA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 568-3263

    "We only had a few issues over the 6 times we stayed there relating to reservations....but overall, it was a positive experience."

    "This campground is perfectly situated on the Upper Iowa River."

    10. Sugar Creek City Campground

    1 Review
    Ferryville, WI
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 632-3362
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Recent Reviews near De Soto, WI

525 Reviews of 141 De Soto Campgrounds


  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 18, 2025

    Pulpit Rock Campground

    Excellent

    The camp ground is split in two separate sections. We camped in the south section and found it to be pretty nice spot. Although the north section looks to be a little nicer. Definitely a popular spot so book in advance! The dump station is really small and kind of wonky but works good. Bathrooms and showers are clean. Definitely would recommend during the fall time! The area is absolutely stunning!

  • Anne P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Blueberry Fields Forever

    Great little spot

    Second time I’ve stayed up on Peach Peak. I’ve never had an issue driving up the hill. Great views of the stars. Plenty of deer this last time! It seems very secluded, but I did hear music from nearby one of the nights on my last trip.

  • Ken B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Great River Bluffs State Park Campground

    Very nice

    I arrived late in the day and the office was closed but they have all the instructions and QR codes for an online reservation and check in. Very clean including the showers and bathroom. View of the Mississippi is amazing!

  • 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.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Richard J Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest Isinours Management Unit

    Lovely space

    There are a few spaces with views you can hike in to but I opted for a spot next to my car. And ideal spot for a one nighter. I stopped here after a 12 hour drive got set up and even walked the trails for a few miles before bed.

  • 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

    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 De Soto

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

What to do:

  • Hiking Trails: Explore the stunning trails at Wyalusing State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "Great hiking trails, overall a great place to stay," highlighting the park's natural beauty.
  • Kayaking: Enjoy kayaking on the Mississippi River. A reviewer at Pikes Peak State Park Campground noted, "Awesome campground with lots of hiking trails, and access to backwaters of Mississippi."
  • Fishing: The Goose Island campground is perfect for fishing enthusiasts. One visitor said, "This campground is ideal for boating, fishing, and camping."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the views at Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground. A review stated, "Very cool secluded walk-in sites, pet friendly, awesome trails."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the bathrooms and showers. A camper at Great River Bluffs State Park Campground mentioned, "Very clean bathroom with nice showers."
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Campers often mention the welcoming vibe. A visitor at Pulpit Rock Campground said, "The staff was super friendly and it’s nice being right on the water."

What you should know:

  • Reservation Fees: Some parks, like Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground, have additional fees that can add up. One camper noted, "Brought us to $51 for the stay... but I've stayed in better places for less."
  • Site Proximity: At Goose Island, sites can be close together. A reviewer mentioned, "You are really cramped in (15 ft or less between you and your neighbor)!"
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Camp Glen Wendel, are more primitive. A camper shared, "There is no dump site."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Pikes Peak State Park Campground, where one reviewer said, "Beautiful overlooks above the great Mississippi River! Very nice trails!"
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A camper at Beaver Creek Valley State Park Campground mentioned, "Good trout fishing here, some sites are primitive, some have electric and water."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep everyone happy with snacks during hikes. A visitor at Wyalusing State Park Campground noted, "Lovely morning sunrise and amazing sunsets."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Great River Bluffs State Park Campground said, "I think for any unit more than 30 feet will have trouble."
  • Look for Amenities: Choose campgrounds with good facilities. A camper at Pettibone Resort mentioned, "The park was quiet except when someone decided to shoot fireworks."
  • Stay Connected: Some areas have limited cell service. A visitor at Beaver Creek Valley State Park Campground noted, "There is no cell phone service."

Camping near De Soto, Wisconsin, has something for everyone, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Just be sure to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near De Soto, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, De Soto, WI offers a wide range of camping options, with 141 campgrounds and RV parks near De Soto, WI and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near De Soto, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near De Soto, WI is Blackhawk Park with a 4.6-star rating from 10 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near De Soto, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near De Soto, WI.