Best Camping near Elmwood, WI

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Elmwood. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Discover great camping spots near Elmwood, reviewed by campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Elmwood, WI (127)

    Camper-submitted photo from Willow River State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow River State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow River State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow River State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow River State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow River State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Frontenac State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Frontenac State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Frontenac State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Frontenac State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Frontenac State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Frontenac State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Highland Ridge
    Camper-submitted photo from Highland Ridge
    Camper-submitted photo from Highland Ridge
    Camper-submitted photo from Highland Ridge
    Camper-submitted photo from Highland Ridge
    Camper-submitted photo from Highland Ridge

    3. Highland Ridge

    15 Reviews
    45 Photos
    91 Saves
    Spring Valley, Wisconsin

    Overview

    Highland Ridge overlooks the sparkling Eau Galle Reservoir located in Spring Valley, in western Wisconsin. The area boasts 648 acres of scenery with numerous opportunities for recreation, including fishing, canoeing and plenty of hiking. Horseback riders enjoy the trails around the lush region.

    Recreation

    Hikers can enjoy the 7 miles worth of trails, along with overlook seating areas and a swimming beach. Horseback riders have a variety of trails to choose from. Fishermen cast their reels year-round. Kayaking, canoeing, and electric-motor boating are common.

    Natural Features

    The 35-mile Eau Galle River feeds into 150 acre Eau Galle Lake, which is surrounded by steep hills and bluffs. The campground is opposite the dam on the north side of the small reservoir. The area is set in a heavily wooded area that provides a welcoming habitat for native plants and animals.

    Contact Info

    This location has limited staffing. Please call (715) 778-5562 for general information.

    Nearby Attractions

    Highland Ridge is minutes from Spring Valley Golf Course, Crystal Cave, Cady Cheese Factory, Red Cedar Bike Trial, Vino in the Valley, Nugget Lake, Wakanda Water Park, Maple Leaf Orchard and Goven's Farm.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $28 - $216 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Afton State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Afton State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Afton State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Afton State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Afton State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Afton State Park Campground

    4. Afton State Park Campground

    36 Reviews
    93 Photos
    199 Saves
    Denmark, Minnesota

    Located on the St. Croix River, just 20 miles east of Saint Paul, Afton State Park is great for those looking for camping near Minneapolis and is 1600 acres of rolling prairies, oak woodlands, and limestone river canyons amid an ancient glacial landscape. The land for the park was acquired in 1967, but it took almost 15 years of planning revisions and compromises with local residents before the park finally opened in 1982. Little development has gone into Afton State Park in an effort to maintain its natural characteristics, and former farmland atop the bluffs are continuously being restored to their original state. This makes Afton an ideal destination for campers looking to experience the outdoors in a wilder setting.

    Load up your backpack with all you’ll need for your stay, as camping at Afton State Park requires a hearty, 0.75-mile hike in from the parking area. The year-round campground offers 27 rustic sites with picnic tables and fire pits, with options for pitching your tent in either open or wooded areas. There is drinking water, a vault toilet and firewood is supplied within the camp area. There is also three boat-in campsites, and two group campsites that can accommodate up to 60 people each. If you’d rather not rough it, the park also offers four camping cabins and two yurts, some of which are wheelchair accessible. There are also several picnic areas and restrooms within the park. Campsite rates range from $15–$23/night; cabins range from $55–$70/night, and yurts $50–$65/night.

    When you’re ready to explore, start at the park’s Nature Store where you can pick up information about the park’s flora and fauna, or join a nature walk. Then choose from more than 20 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, as well as a short barrier-free path. If you’re visiting in winter, many of these trails are open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Bring your GPS and go on a geocaching treasure hunt, or bring your binoculars and go on safari for a variety of migratory birds, waterfowl, and wildlife, including deer, foxes and badgers. And little ones will love becoming Junior Park Naturalists and learning about bugs, birds, plants and other critters. If you’re looking for a real outdoor adventure, Afton State Park has what you’re looking for.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Elmo County Park Reserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Elmo County Park Reserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Elmo County Park Reserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Elmo County Park Reserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Elmo County Park Reserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Elmo County Park Reserve

    5. Lake Elmo County Park Reserve

    36 Reviews
    73 Photos
    154 Saves
    Lake Elmo, Minnesota

    Washington County offers two beautiful campgrounds for a relaxing getaway, one located within Lake Elmo Park Reserve and the other within St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park. Find a campsite that suits your needs, from sites with electric and water hook-ups, to group sites, to rustic hike-in sites. Enjoy all the other amenities the parks have to offer, including hiking, fishing, boating, and more.

    Washington County Campgrounds are open for the season. Online, in-person, and phone reservations are now being accepted.

    Group Campground Features Three sites available for groups of up to 50 people Wheeled cart available for check-out at park office Group Site #2 includes a small picnic shelter Picnic table and fire ring/grill provided at each site Vault or portable toilets available One-day reservations allowed Pets are not allowed

    Hike-In Campground Features Five hike-in tent sites - one tent per site Hiking distance from parking lot is approximately 100 to 300 yards Wheeled cart available for check-out at park office with a refundable deposit Modern bathrooms and water available at the Nordic Center Pets are not allowed

    Modern Campground Features Eighty campsites, suited for tents, trailers, or motor homes - most sites are back-in Sites 1-58 have 20/30/50 amp with water. Site 59 is 50 amp only (no water). Sites 60-80 are 20/30 amp Camp Host/Work Camper sites include sewer hookup Picnic table and fire ring/grill provided at each site Modern bathroom facilities with flush toilets and hot showers Trailer/RV dump station Play area Handicap accessible One camping unit per site Pets are not allowed

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $23 - $80 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park

    6. St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park

    20 Reviews
    25 Photos
    90 Saves
    Denmark, Minnesota
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from William O'Brien State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from William O'Brien State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from William O'Brien State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from William O'Brien State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from William O'Brien State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from William O'Brien State Park Campground

    7. William O'Brien State Park Campground

    38 Reviews
    114 Photos
    151 Saves
    Marine on St. Croix, Minnesota
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $16 - $250 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Highland Ridge - Eau Galle Reservoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Highland Ridge - Eau Galle Reservoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Highland Ridge - Eau Galle Reservoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Highland Ridge - Eau Galle Reservoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Highland Ridge - Eau Galle Reservoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Highland Ridge - Eau Galle Reservoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Interstate State Park — Interstate State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Interstate State Park — Interstate State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Interstate State Park — Interstate State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Interstate State Park — Interstate State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Interstate State Park — Interstate State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Interstate State Park — Interstate State Park

    9. Interstate State Park — Interstate State Park

    50 Reviews
    241 Photos
    215 Saves
    Taylors Falls, Minnesota

    There is so much to do at Interstate State Park along the beautiful St. Croix River. Explore unique geology and stunning cliff-top views, hike trails through diverse habitat, canoe or kayak, or relax on an excursion boat. The park is also a popular destination for rock climbers. Visit in spring for trails lined with wildflowers. Come in fall for picturesque valley views. Experience the park's glacial potholes during any season. These impressive holes were carved into the rock by swirling sand and water thousands of years ago.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $24 - $34 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wissota State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wissota State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wissota State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wissota State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wissota State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wissota State Park Campground
Showing results 1-10 of 127 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Elmwood

Recent Reviews in Elmwood

611 Reviews of 127 Elmwood Campgrounds


  • kcki M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Col Larson County Park
    Nov. 15, 2024

    Col Larson County Park

    Easy Overnight Spot

    Small city park. Just a field for tent camping. A few RV spots. Easy on-and-off if you are looking for a quick overnight.

  • Tori K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wissota State Park Campground
    Nov. 3, 2024

    Lake Wissota State Park Campground

    Lots to do!

    NE of Chippewa Falls, offers secluded campsites, hiking, biking and horseback riding trails, picnic and playground areas and a swimming beach on a man-made lake. Boating, canoeing, kayaking and water skiing are popular summer activities on the lake. Showers and flush toilets in the campground. Firewood for sale at the park office. Picnic table and fire ring at each site. Sites are wooded and fairly secluded.

  • David T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wissota State Park Campground
    Oct. 23, 2024

    Lake Wissota State Park Campground

    Quiet in late October.

    I just stayed here one night because I was passing through the area. It worked out really well. I entered the campground late in the day. It was almost dark. They had a QR code that I used to make a reservation on the spot. I had a great night there. There's a hiking trail that completely goes around the campground. So I was able to walk my dog on that. I'm not sure how it would have been to stay as a vacation Target spot. Probably pretty fine. But it certainly was great on the shoulder season for a stopover.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Highland Ridge
    Oct. 13, 2024

    Highland Ridge

    Beautiful in the fall

    This is a smaller Corps of Engineers park, lots of primitive sites and lots electric sites too. A smaller lake but no gas motors. Cell service with Verizon was ok.

  • Nanette M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sleepy Hollow Campground
    Aug. 5, 2024

    Sleepy Hollow Campground

    Horrible service

    My husband made a reservation for our 25th wedding anniversary and he was rushed in the hospital for an emergency surgery. We notified you 3 days in advance and you refused to give us even a partial refund! We only had that money to celebrate. You didn't even offer another date for us! We are now not able to enjoy our 25th! That's terrible that you will do nothing in such an emergency situation. I will be making this public in every venue I can. Disgusting that you will probably get paid by another person to stay there. How disappointing that you would offer us nothing! Very bad business.

  • Molly M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow River State Park Campground
    Aug. 4, 2024

    Willow River State Park Campground

    Very nice camping

    Lovely trails, the beach is a large area with a nice park and picnic area. The water itself is ok, lots of geese and algae. The falls are wonderful though. The bathrooms are fine. I could not find a garbage bin to save my life, not near the bathrooms or anywhere in campground 200 or by the park ranger post. If there were garbage cans dispersed throughout the campground, I would have given 5 stars. Especially along the trail to the waterfalls because there was garbage all along the trail unfortunately. Not the camps fault, but maybe people would be more responsible if garbage bins were placed along the route.

  • Greg K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Neil Creek Campground
    Aug. 1, 2024

    O'Neil Creek Campground

    They have it all

    Creek,lake,showers,laundry,full hookups,camp store,arcade,kids play areas,beach and more. Pricey! Plan on 60$/day

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from William O'Brien State Park Campground
    Jul. 31, 2024

    William O'Brien State Park Campground

    OK but not great

    The east part of the park was all closed for construction. Everything on the east side of the highway was closed so we could not hike a lot of the trails or use the beach which was a challenge with kids. Constructing is scheduled to the end of 2025.

    We stayed in a group site but there was no way 35 people could have camped in W3. Vaulted toilets need help and a good cleaning.

    The shower house needed a cleaning as well. There is no adjusting the shower temperature. Push the button and you get what you get.

    Wood was $8 bundle. This was steep in my opinion. They do not all any gathering of firewood.

    If your vehicle permit is not properly displayed, you will receive a notice on your windshield and have to talk with the office.

    The dumpster was overflowing the whole time we were there.

    Raccoons will visit your site at night. We had everything secured but they still tried and plenty of racket until we chased them away.

    Lastly we had a battle with mosquitoes. We went through a lot of bug spray and coils. Deer flies were thick around the water filling station.

    Although we did not stay in the main campground the sites are very close in there and were small.

  • p
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Elmo County Park Reserve
    Jul. 23, 2024

    Lake Elmo County Park Reserve

    Great camping

    This was a great experience overall. The sites are spacious and far enough away from others to feel like there was enough privacy.

    The one negative thing was that some neighbors watched a movie each night — starting just after quiet hours. We could hear their movie from across a road and through some trees (and tents).

    But overall it was great. Good hiking and geocaching.

    We would go back to this campground.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Highland Ridge
    Jul. 20, 2024

    Highland Ridge

    Clean and relatively quiet

    Lots of RV campers, but none were obnoxious. T-mobile service is almost non-existent depending on location. The showers and bathrooms were spotless. Firewood is available at several roadside stands just outside the entrance.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Morris Erickson County Park
    Jul. 20, 2024

    Morris Erickson County Park

    Small campground

    Well used county park on a nice clear lake. The sites are close together with little privacy and close to the road which is noisy during the morning and evening but quiets down at night. Lots of kids! Nice to see families camping and having fun! Swimming, fishing, riding bikes, playground. Clean bathrooms (at least the women’s). Not our cup of tea but fine for a one night stopover. Loons calling at night and in the morning!

  • Stina M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from O'Neil Creek Campground
    Jul. 17, 2024

    O'Neil Creek Campground

    Beautiful

    Really enjoyed the experience! It’s beautiful and good mix of quiet and lots of activity’s. Can tube down the creek, very shallow so even littles can do it too. Site 133 was super small, so much so I thought he was kidding. Saw site 204 was open and switched to that one instead. Dogs welcome which was super nice!

  • Greg D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from D N Campground
    Jun. 19, 2024

    D N Campground

    Very nice Apple river camping

    In June 2024 we had a one day primitive spot on sperry lane you can drive over a tight steel bridge “crossing a small creek. There’s only 3 sites here but are spacious and separated from the rest of the campground but still having walking distance to exceptional bathroom and showers which you can enter into a bar for a cocktail. We enjoyed our spot #3 but bring mosquito spray there were terrible but we had a screened tent which helped. Will definitely return again.

  • dominick C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildwood RV Park & Campground
    Jun. 9, 2024

    Wildwood RV Park & Campground

    Great family trip

    Through a short weekend trip the camp site was a great size for us. Everyone was nice and friendly especially camp staff. The kayaking/ canoeing was an amazing adventure that everyone should try. It was even great for kids 3 and 6.

  • Jaime P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hidden Meadows RV Park
    Jun. 3, 2024

    Hidden Meadows RV Park

    Staff friendly, but the park is not so great

    Campsites are very closely spaced together. I was thankful no one was placed near our campsite to give us more room. The permanent campsites are practically on top of one another. If you’re bringing the kids there is literally nothing to do there. They do have a play-set but that’s where it ends. I think this campground may be under new ownership and it may be nice to see what they do with it in a year or two. For now the picnic tables are run down. The parking pads are very unlevel. WiFi signal is weak at best. If you have Verizon don’t count on service. Antenna strength is weak. Also oddly spaced power hook up with sewer and water placements. Overall not a horrible experience but not a great one. Mostly like will not return.

  • Tiffany K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow River State Park Campground
    May. 13, 2024

    Willow River State Park Campground

    Nice state park close to the twin cities

    Stayed here for our first camping of the season. It's a great park that has hiking, mountain bike trails, water features and good mix of electric and non electric sites.

  • Jordan D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Afton State Park Campground
    May. 11, 2024

    Afton State Park Campground

    Sites with privacy and great trails near!

    Good pricing, great trails for all different skill levels and nice staff. Our site was mighty large and for the most part secluded from those near and on the path. $22 for the site, $8 for reservation. $8 for wood (all you can chop) and $7 for the overnight and next day parking pass for one car. Beautiful surroundings and clean bathrooms and grills one mile mostly uphill hike from parking lot but not to difficult and some paved parts. Definitely coming back.

  • Jaime P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Stoney Creek RV Resort
    May. 11, 2024

    Stoney Creek RV Resort

    Amazingly well kept and clean

    We’re new to camping and we had no idea what to expect. I thought campgrounds would be loud, but this place is so peaceful. Even with kids running around and having fun. There are plenty of activities to keep our kids occupied. There was a craft fair on Saturday morning we went to. My teen loved searching for “moose antlers”. I think he searched the entire park. The park is well kept and clean. Money well spent here. We even got to see the northern lights our first night here.

  • Tori K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Minneiska Campground — Whitewater State Park
    Mar. 31, 2024

    Minneiska Campground — Whitewater State Park

    Nice state park

    Stayed here for a couple nights on a mini state park road trip. Nice place, like most of the MN state parks. Spotty cell service. Hiked a trail with lots of steps. Fire ring and picnic table are provided at each site. Restroom with showers also available in campground. Site was large and easy to back into and offered some tree cover for shade during certain times of the day. Was unable to hang hammock in specific site we stayed at, but some of the sites looked like they would be suitable.

  • Jamie S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wissota State Park Campground
    Jan. 6, 2024

    Lake Wissota State Park Campground

    Great!

    Great camp site, the ground was a little rocky so it was a little difficult to get the stakes in but we were able to get them in. Hiking trail right next to the campsite. Bathrooms and showers are nearby as well. Great place to stay!

  • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tresure Island RV Park
    Oct. 26, 2023

    Tresure Island RV Park

    Crowded park, nice people

    We were here for a night to see a concert at the amphitheater and everyone was super friendly. It was easy to check in, and we were able to do laundry and shower which was great. It’s mostly gravel but they have some tent sites on the grass. They are dog friendly and have some grassy areas to walk your pets which was great.



Guide to Elmwood

Camping near Elmwood, Wisconsin, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for serene nature trails or family-friendly campgrounds, there's something for everyone in this area.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Willow River State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "Lovely trails, the beach is a large area with a nice park and picnic area." The park features stunning waterfalls and diverse landscapes.
  • Water Activities: At Perrot State Park Campground, you can enjoy kayaking and canoeing. A visitor shared, "This park has good access for a kayak/canoe path."
  • Wildlife Watching: Wild River State Park Campground is great for spotting deer and other wildlife. One reviewer noted, "The woods surrounding were dense enough to obscure others while still feeling open. Also open enough to spot three white-tail deer."

What campers like

  • Privacy: Campers appreciate the spacious and well-separated sites at Lake Wissota State Park Campground. A visitor remarked, "The sites are spacious and far enough away from others to feel like there was enough privacy."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campers enjoy the clean restrooms and showers at Whitewater State Park Campground. One camper said, "The main shower/restroom area looks brand new and is very nice."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpful staff at Lebanon Hills Regional Park. A reviewer stated, "The maintenance staff is excellent."

What you should know

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially at Perrot State Park Campground. One camper warned, "Had to pull out the heavy-duty spray right out of the car."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Lake Elmo County Park Reserve, lack certain amenities. A visitor noted, "Only portapotties. I think the best camping opportunity I saw was the group campgrounds."
  • Busy Weekends: Popular spots can get crowded, especially during events. A camper at Interstate State Park mentioned, "It was very busy with people and traffic."

Tips for camping with families

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Lebanon Hills Regional Park noted, "Sites that back up to the green space are very sunny."
  • Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups, like Willow River State Park Campground. One reviewer said, "The sites are level, electric power and fire ring."
  • Plan for Dump Stations: Ensure you know where the nearest dump station is located. A visitor at Whitewater State Park Campground mentioned, "There was water and a vault toilet closer, about four campsites away."

Camping near Elmwood, Wisconsin, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a great destination for families and RVers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Elmwood, WI?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Elmwood, WI offers a wide range of camping options, with 127 campgrounds and RV parks near Elmwood, WI and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Elmwood, WI?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Elmwood, WI is Willow River State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 58 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Elmwood, WI?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Elmwood, WI.

  • What parks are near Elmwood, WI?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 parks near Elmwood, WI that allow camping, notably Eau Galle Lake and Saint Croix National Scenic River.