Camping spots near De Soto, Wisconsin offer a unique experience in the Driftless Area, a region untouched by glaciers during the last ice age. This topography creates dramatic limestone bluffs, deep valleys, and cold-water streams that support trout populations. Fall temperatures in the region can drop to near freezing at night during September and October, particularly at higher elevation campsites.
What to do
Trout fishing access: The Upper Iowa River and Yellow River State Forest provide excellent fishing opportunities. "Stocked trout streams are an attraction for fishermen," notes a camper at Big Paint Campground, where a stocking calendar helps visitors plan their fishing trips.
Hiking varied terrain: Wyalusing State Park features multiple trail systems with varying difficulty. "There are miles of great hiking trails and two trails for mountain biking. While the trails to Big and Little Sand caves are lovely, they are also heavily trafficked. We found that the Mississippi Ridge Trail to be a lovely walk in the woods - without any people," reports a visitor.
Water recreation: Upper Iowa Resort and Rental offers tube, canoe and kayak rentals with a shuttle service. One camper explains: "They offer tube canoe and kayak rentals with a shuttle to the put in then you float back to the campground. Also has a 'pool'/man made pond with a beach all the way around it."
What campers like
River access: Blackhawk Park provides direct water access from many sites. "Nice campground. Book the non-electric site to have a better opportunity of being right on the water," advises a visitor who gave the park a 5-star rating.
Spacious sites: The Red Barn Resort receives positive comments about site dimensions. One camper reports, "The sites are very spacious and easy getting into for RV's/campers. Price is very reasonably priced. The creek adds to the wonderful scenery."
Natural springs: Beaver Creek Valley State Park features cold-water springs that create unique swimming areas. "The Big Spring was also a great natural water feature to relax in after a hot hike!" notes a visitor, while another appreciates how you can "Fall asleep to the creek."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds operate from mid-April through October. Sugar Creek City Campground has specific electrical restrictions: "Sites are 110 only with ban on air conditioners. All sites on grass with limited picnic tables but price right at $10."
Cell service limitations: Service varies dramatically throughout the region due to the valley topography. At Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry, one camper mentions, "I've done this loop several times, and have never been disappointed. Lots of quiet, and many more great views on the upper trails."
Weather impacts: Spring flooding affects riverside locations. A camper at Goose Island notes: "This place is a pretty great campground, and would be even better if it wasn't all under water this summer. Our site on the river was under water, so we got moved to another."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Goose Island provides multiple recreation options for children. "There are a few playgrounds for kids to have fun at. Lots of areas for picnics and just to hang out, bring your hammock if you have one!" suggests one visitor.
Educational opportunities: Yellow River State Forest offers nature programs and cultural sites. "Visited the 3 lookouts including Iowa only Fire tower. Bird life is colorful. Lots of places to hike. Scenery is lush," shares one visitor who had a 5-star experience.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas for children. The Upper Iowa Resort has a unique feature as one camper describes: "Loved the sand bottom pool, owners were so nice and kids loved getting hard ice cream everyday from the shop! Clean, quiet, friendly place!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Wyalusing: The park offers different campground sections with varied experiences. "Wisconsin Ridge is the second campground in this state park. This is the quintessential Wyalusing experience with sites overlooking both the Wisconsin and Mississippi River valleys...This campground is also noted for its rip-roaring winds."
Water crossings: At Beaver Creek Valley, RVers should note: "In order to get to sites #27 through #37 you have to drive through some water. In September it was only about 8 inches."
Shade considerations: Site selection impacts comfort in summer heat. At Blackhawk Park, a visitor recommends: "The trees on this look are amazingly tall and provide great shade. Park was clean and maintained. The loop that the shower house is on has very young trees so little shade."
