Jarrett G.
Traveler
TravelerVeterans Memorial Park & Campground
Very nice campground
Large campground with many amenities. Playground for kids and a very nice dog park. Right off the river. Will definitely be back!
Dog-Friendly Camping near De Soto, WI
121 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Blackhawk Park welcomes pets at all campsites with tent and RV accommodations available from April through October. Located in Desoto, Wisconsin, this campground maintains a 4.5-star rating with pet-friendly features including picnic tables, fire rings, and access to both the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers. Wyalusing State Park Campground also accommodates pets with spacious sites offering river views and hiking trails. The park's Wisconsin Ridge Campground provides sites overlooking the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers where campers frequently spot wildlife including eagles. Sidie Hollow County Ridge Campground offers clean facilities with free showers and reasonably priced firewood for pet owners. Most campgrounds in the area require pets to remain leashed at all times, with designated pet exercise areas available at select locations. Veterans Memorial Park features a dedicated dog park that receives positive reviews from campers traveling with their canine companions. Local campgrounds are searchable through The Dyrt's listings.
Hiking trails throughout the region provide excellent opportunities for exercising dogs, with Wyalusing State Park's Bluff Trail particularly noted for its pet-friendly terrain and access to Treasure Cave. The Root River Trail system connects to several campgrounds, offering miles of paved pathways for walking dogs. Goose Island provides water access for pets with sites situated directly on the backwaters of the Mississippi River. Campers should prepare for seasonal mosquito activity when camping with pets, especially during evening hours. Most campgrounds maintain quiet hours that apply to barking dogs, with enforcement varying by location. The area experiences temperature fluctuations, particularly in spring and fall, requiring pet owners to plan accordingly for overnight camping. Several campgrounds feature spacious walk-in tent sites that provide more privacy for those camping with active dogs, with Wildcat Mountain State Park offering particularly secluded options.
Best Dog-Friendly Campgrounds near De Soto (121)
1. Blackhawk Park
"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."
"We had site 40west and it was larger, but too close to the smelly pit toilets. Showers nice, hot and clean. The tent sites looked spacious, but not very private."
from $18 - $40 / night
Check Availability2. Red Barn Resort and Campground
from $25 - $39 / night
Check Availability3. Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest
"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."
from $16 / night
Check Availability4. Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest
"The 2nd site in has a small pond at Camp side. Potable water is at HQ near registration kiosk."
"Park near ranger station and hike in or grab a map and find a smaller parking location near the trail you want to explore. Great scenery."
from $12 / night
Check Availability5. Wisconsin Ridge Campground — Wyalusing State Park
"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"
"Wanted to get away for a few days with Dexter the dog and check out the area. Very relaxing, aside from the bugs; mosquitoes and gnats seemed to be on steroids those few days."
from $23 - $40 / night
Check Availability6. Beaver Creek Valley State Park Campground
"It was also VERY close to several other sites. If you are looking for more privacy, I would suggest a site like 34. Absolutely no cell service, which can be nice as long as you’re expecting it."
"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."
from $20 - $80 / night
Check Availability7. Goose Island
"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."
from $22 - $34 / night
Check Availability8. Sidie Hollow County Ridge Campground
"It was also pet friendly. I do wish that they hadn't cleared away so many trees. A little more shade would have been nice since we were in a tent. But other than that was was perfect."
"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
"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. Boat Landing Campground — Bad Axe Watershed
"Just about 30/40 minutes outside of La Crosse is a quite place called Sidie Hollow Park. You will have patchy phone coverage. If that’s what you are looking for, then you will find it here."
from $10 - $40 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 35 min from La Crosse, WI
- 1 hr 34 min from Rochester, MN
- 1 hr 49 min from Dubuque, IA
- 2 hrs 8 min from Waterloo, IA
Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near De Soto, WI
54 Photos of 121 De Soto Campgrounds
Mark G.
Blackhawk Park
Name
Sidie Hollow County Main Campground
Lynn R.
Bryes Bad Axe Glamping
Tamsyn K.
Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest
Jay W.
Waukon City Park
Randall K.
Westfork Sports Club & Campground
Jillian E.
Beaver Creek Valley State Park Campground
Truly W.
Pikes Peak State Park Campground
Racheal M.
Wisconsin Ridge Campground — Wyalusing State Park
Rose L.
Hideaway Camper By The Cave 2.0
Alicia V.
Veterans Memorial Park & Campground
Michael V.
Justin Trails Resort
Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near De Soto, WI
544 Reviews of 121 De Soto Campgrounds
- Jarrett G.Traveler
Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground
Sweet place
Very cool secluded walk in sites, pet friendly, awesome trails.
Amy G.
LegendShady Rest Acres
Bliss in the middle of the country
In the middle of the country, in a tiny town called Brownsville, you'll find a little slice of awesome in the form of a hobby farm with campsites, a cabin, and oh ya...the remnants of an old brewery! Patty and Michelle are nothing less than hospitable, knowledgable and gracious.
Shady Rest Acres is owned and run by two women who are nothing less than the the perfect example of what property owners/business owners should be. Beyond being kind, their property is clean, tidy, beautiful yet rustic and home to so many animals that are all exceptionally well cared for. They have donkeys, Scottish Highland cows (a family of them), sheep, goats, chickens (and they'll even pick the bugs off your car), bees, horses, ducks, cats and dogs (I hope I didn't miss anything!). You have to be "pet friendly" if you stay here, because the the chickens roam, the dogs make friends and the cats meander, just as cats tend to do. If you want to meet the barnyard critters, please only look at them from the outside of the fence unless guided and escorted by the owners. They are happy to let you meet them with their presence.
There are 2 campsites, if you wish. One is in the middle of the pasture (that's right...near the goats) They will pen up the larger animals if you stay at that site, but it's perfect for stargazing! The other is nestled in the woods. Both have fire pits and access to wood. There is an outdoor shower, if you wish, and also a composting toilet. But there is also access to an indoor bathroom and shower inside the main house. The cabin is delightfully lovely with beautiful decor, two full sized beds, space for a few kids to crash, small kitchen items (microwave, mini fridge, coffeemaker) as well as a wood stove for cool nights and some A/C for warm days. The cabin is attached to the main house by way of a small deck (although the cabin is free standing, but sitting above the garage). And some local beverages in the fridge! You will have access to the deck chairs and gas grill, if you want to cook some dinner. For potty stops, you'll have to use the bathroom inside their home, but it's very close and private, as they have another one that they use when guests are staying the night.
At no time did we feel like we were invading Patty and Michelle's space, nor did they invade ours. It was extremely comfortable, and I thought that we could have asked any question without silly looks and even participated in chores, and we would have been welcome to do so. Even though it rained while we were there, it seemed to be just perfect. Beyond the obvious, they are earth conscious, eco friendly in many ways and fully aware of their food sources, which is one reason why they raise their own food. So they know where it comes from and how it was treated. I love it.
This is rustic slice of hospitality is not only peaceful, but friendly, warm and comforting as well as therapeutic. Just what the soul ordered.
- Kayla S.
ScoutEagle Cliff Campground and Lodging
Perfect set-up
This campground has it all. Situated right along the Root River next to the bike trail. They offer kayak, canoe and tube rentals and shuttles. They also have bike rentals.
This facility is clean and very well kept. Even the shower rooms are very nice and sanitary.
This is by far my favorite camping spot. I would recommend this place to any and everyone. Family orientated and pet friendly.
- Kari S.Scout
Pulpit Rock Campground
Beautiful!
My boyfriend and I stayed right on the river with our pups (pet friendly) and it was BEAUTIFUL. Easy access to restrooms but secluded and quiet too.
- WWilber S.Traveler
Echo Valley State Park Campground
Awesome Iowa
Came in late but found a spot, only 6 first come fist serve camping sites. I was a quarter mile from the next nearest site. Certainly a tent oriented campground, RV’s would have a difficult time. Will certainly stay here again. The hiking trail was perfect for a morning stroll with my dog and coffee and there certainly is a petting zoo (my German Shepard was a little uncertain about the goats)
- DDan K.Traveler
Eagle Cliff Campground and Lodging
River Camping
Overall great experience! Located on the Root River. Cliff View has very clean bath houses. Lots of sites to choose from. 50 amp service, sewer hook up and of course water. If your close enough to the office wifi available. Some sites are tight for large motor homes, 5th wheelers and tavel trailer. If your a bicyclist, campgrounds on great paved trail. They like their grass, no rugs or carpet on the grass. I take this as a positive. Dogs n cats are welcome. Lots of seasonal sites. Camping during the week is quite!
Mike G.TravelerPulpit Rock Campground
Nicely Kept Campground
Really nicely kept camp ground. A bit too close to traffic for a completely quiet night. Bathrooms were warm and really clean, staff was really great and if youre bringing a pet, there were plenty of areas to walk. Fishing was really great catching several fish for dinner including some really nice size rainbow trout.
Annabelle G.
GuideRiver's Edge Campground - Black River
Enjoyed stay - More of a permanent campground
We enjoyed our stay except nightly camping sites are stacked on each other so no privacy - we heard the drunk neighbors all weekend long. Eventually left a day early, they were way too loud. Wonderful activities for kids and families, pet friendly, beautiful scenery, beautiful perm site, no room for hiking or nature walks. Bar on premises but very odd hours. Owners on site which was nice.
Guide to De Soto
Campsites in the De Soto area offer access to multiple waterways along the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers. Located within Wisconsin's Driftless Region, the area features steep bluffs and river valleys created when glaciers bypassed this section during the last ice age. The terrain ranges from 600-1,200 feet above sea level with significant temperature variations between river valleys and hilltops.
What to do
Trout fishing access: At Yellow River State Forest, anglers can enjoy stocked trout streams. "Stocked trout streams are an attraction for fishermen; see photo of stocking calendar," mentions Mary S. from Big Paint Campground. The park maintains fishing access points with clearly marked stocking schedules.
Historical exploration: Blackhawk Park offers educational opportunities about Native American history. "The Blackhawk monument is one of a humbling experience. Sad to hear how it all happened," notes Amurican L. The monument provides context about regional historical events.
Water sports: Upper Iowa Resort and Rental provides equipment rentals with shuttle service. "They offer tube, canoe, and kayak rentals with a shuttle to the put in, then you float back to the campground," explains Erin A. Rental prices typically range from $20-45 depending on equipment and trip length.
What campers like
Secluded backcountry options: Yellow River State Forest offers primitive camping about one mile from headquarters. "Camp Glen Wendel is about 1 mile in from self camp registration at HQ. Sites have fire rings and benches, some more spacious than others," shares James M. The camp features stands of coniferous trees with a small pond at one site.
Private tent sites: Big Paint Campground features walk-in camping options. "It is a primitive campground. There were walk-in campsites available too which we decided we would try if/when we come back again since they are a bit more secluded and private," notes Sara S. These sites require carrying equipment a short distance from parking areas.
Clean facilities: Sidie Hollow County Ridge Campground maintains well-kept bathrooms and showers. "Clean and spacious sites. The bathrooms were even clean. They also provided free showers," reports Tanner D. Firewood is available for $5 per bundle from local vendors.
What you should know
Weather fluctuations: The region experiences significant temperature changes between day and night, particularly in spring and fall. "The area experiences temperature fluctuations... requiring pet owners to plan accordingly for overnight camping," with valley temperatures often 5-10 degrees warmer than ridge sites.
Water crossings: Some campsites require driving through shallow water. "Be warned that in order to get to sites #27 through #37 you have to drive through some water. In September it was only about 8 inches," advises anne K. from Beaver Creek Valley State Park. Water levels vary seasonally.
Hunting areas: Several parks permit hunting in non-campground sections. "Caution: hunting is allowed in the non-campground area of the state forest," notes Mary S. regarding Yellow River State Forest. Always wear bright colors when hiking during hunting seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Beach and playground combination: Goose Island offers family-friendly water activities. "The playground is on the beach. My kid really loves that!" shares Sara M. The campground provides volleyball courts and swimming areas suitable for various ages.
Kid-friendly programming: Some parks offer free ranger activities and equipment loans. "There are fun free activities for kids to check out from the park office and a playground," mentions Lacey F. about Beaver Creek Valley State Park. Activity availability varies seasonally.
Dog friendly campgrounds near De Soto: Most area campgrounds welcome pets with specific regulations. "The campground is ideal for boating, fishing and camping with pets," notes Michael V. about Goose Island. Pet owners should pack extra towels for dogs after water activities and keep pets leashed near wildlife areas.
Tips from RVers
Elevation considerations: Wyalusing State Park Campground offers spectacular views but challenging conditions. "This campground is also noted for its rip-roaring winds, one camper told us that during the rainy and wind night before, their shelter took off and tumbled down the valley," reports Josh F. RVs should use extra stabilizers during windy conditions.
Seasonal RV options: Late season camping provides quieter experiences. "Was very thankful to find a place to overnight in mid-November. Not a lot of free parking options in this part of Iowa," shares Stuart O. about Big Paint Campground. Off-season camping means fewer amenities but more isolation.
Cell service considerations: Coverage varies dramatically throughout pet-friendly campgrounds near De Soto. "The park has no cell reception because of the valley. This is great if you want to get away from it all, but if you're staying a while and need to work, this isn't the place to do it," advises Kat C. AT&T typically provides better coverage than T-Mobile in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly
campsite near De Soto, WI?
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near De Soto, WI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near De Soto, WI is Blackhawk Park with a 4.6-star rating from 10 reviews.
What is the best site to find
dog-friendly camping near
De Soto, WI?
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near De Soto, WI?
TheDyrt.com has all 121 dog-friendly camping locations near De Soto, WI, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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