Highland Ridge Campground at Eau Galle Reservoir sits approximately 1,100 feet above sea level in Pierce County, Wisconsin. The campground's topography features rolling hills and deciduous forest that provides dense shade coverage throughout summer months. Most sites remain naturally cooler than surrounding areas due to the mature oak and maple canopy, with summer temperatures typically ranging 5-10 degrees lower than open areas.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Eau Galle Reservoir offers calm waters ideal for kayaking and canoeing. Highland Ridge - Eau Galle Reservoir provides easy access points for small watercraft. "Great for hiking and kayaking/canoeing is near by," notes reviewer David E.
Explore hiking trails: Several connecting trails from 0.5-2 miles long wind through the campground and surrounding forest. "There are several short hiking trails. I give this campground 4 stars instead of 5 because Eau Galle Reservoir (Lake George) is about a 10-minute drive from the campground," explains Lee D. from Highland Ridge.
Visit nearby attractions: The surrounding Amish country offers cultural experiences within a 10-15 minute drive. "Beautiful Amish country, green, green, green, beside the lake...this place is a little off the beaten path, but a great place to stay while driving through WI," shares Chelsie N.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: The generous spacing between campsites consistently receives positive feedback. "The sites are large and very well shaded for privacy," notes Courtney C. at Highland Ridge - Eau Galle Reservoir.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness stands out compared to other campgrounds in the region. "Very clean, well maintained sites and group shelter area. The staff are very frirndly and knowledgable, but also respectful of the sites," says Brigid K. at Highland Ridge.
Peaceful environment: The campground's layout and wooded setting create a quiet camping experience. "Good veiw, clean bathrooms with hot showers. Quiet," explains Luke V. about his stay at Highland Ridge Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: August brings increased mosquito activity due to the wooded environment. "Aside from the plentiful bugs (in August), we enjoyed our two-night stay at this campground!" shares Lee D. from Highland Ridge Campground.
Limited amenities: While most sites have electric hookups, there are no water or sewer connections at individual sites. "There is a dump station that includes a potable water filling station. There are water spigots in the camping areas," explains reviewer Mary S.
Reservation requirements: Most sites require advance booking, especially during summer weekends. "We drove around and found a relatively level site with a very long driveway, then went online to recreation.gov to check it's availability and reserved/paid for it," notes Laurel about the reservation process at Highland Ridge.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: The campground features a modern playground area for children. "There is also a nice, modern playground," mentions Lee D., making it suitable for families seeking pet friendly camping near Eau Galle Lake with recreational options for children.
Nearby attractions for kids: Nugget Lake County Park provides additional family-friendly options within a short drive. "Nice grass trails. Looked like a decent playground," notes Ames about the facilities at Nugget Lake.
Educational opportunities: The interpretive center offers learning activities, though hours may vary. "There was an interpretive center, but it was locked when we were there," shares Lee D., suggesting families check operating hours in advance.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Certain sites accommodate larger rigs better than others. "All sites are gravel/dirt (except for the ADA-accessible site), and most are very generous in size. Our site (7) sloped down but leveled out with plenty of room for our campervan at the bottom," explains Lee D. about Highland Ridge.
Solar limitations: The dense tree coverage affects solar panel efficiency. "First thing you need to know: It's completely in the woods, and sites are FULLY shaded. This is not a good place for solar panels, but almost all sites are electric," advises Mary S.
Dump station information: A convenient dump station is available near the entrance. "There is a little dump station near the entrance where we got potable water and will dump on the way out," shares Laurel, highlighting the pet-friendly camping amenities near Eau Galle Lake that RVers appreciate.
