Glamping and yurt camping options near Elmwood, Wisconsin offer campers a rustic yet comfortable experience in the rolling hills of west-central Wisconsin. The area sits within the Driftless Region, characterized by deep river valleys, limestone bluffs, and hardwood forests that weren't flattened by glaciers during the last ice age. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F with higher humidity, while fall brings cooler temperatures and spectacular foliage.
What to do
Hiking diverse trails: Lake Wissota State Park provides extensive hiking opportunities with varied terrain. "We went on a 5-mile hike through fern and pine forests, prairie and grassland habitats, and an abandoned beaver pond. We highly recommend this park both for camping and hiking!" notes Julie P. at Lake Wissota State Park Campground.
River activities: The Chippewa River offers excellent water recreation opportunities. "It is a great place to stay if you want to float down the Chippewa River, Loopy's the bar in town will shuttle you to and from the campsite and drop you off with their tubes at the river! Fun weekend!" shares Anna at Eagle Ridge Campground.
Fishing spots: Several campgrounds provide fishing access for all skill levels. "The park features prairie, forest, and river environments with numerous trails for day hikes. I love this place. Nice and tucked away. Sites are very private. Has beautiful trails. Next to the river great for exploring and fishing," explains Nick G. about Kruger Campground.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds in the area provide adequate space between sites. "Our site was perfect. The woods made it very secluded. It was close enough to water and bathrooms so it wasn't bad if you planned," reports Adam P. about Afton State Park Campground.
Value pricing: Some campgrounds offer excellent amenities at affordable rates. "This is a well maintained campground with private feeling sites. Some with firewood provided. Fire rings have attached grills. Lovely walking trails. Near Lake Pepin. One negative was orange/rusty water from hand pump well. $14 a night!!! We plan to camp there again," shares Neen K. about Kruger Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities enhance the camping experience. "The bathrooms were sparkling clean. The showers were hot and the laundry was reasonably priced. Had I known how much we liked the area, we would've stayed longer. 10/10 would recommend," notes Whistle P. about Eagle Ridge Campground.
What you should know
Site access considerations: Some campgrounds require hiking to reach sites. "The hike to the campground is short and grueling. A few of the sites are in wooded areas, but we stayed in one of the prairie sites. The terrain is just hilly enough - and in August - the grass long enough to give the sites a sense of privacy and seclusion," explains Andrew C. about Afton State Park Campground.
Seasonal water issues: Water availability varies by season and campground. "As expected it has many walk trails. Highlight of this location is beach which is nice for swim and sun bath. But beach isn't motor vehicle accessible so expect 5-10 min walk. Campgrounds are nearby beach and require further walk," Alison mentions about Afton State Park.
Weather preparedness: The region experiences typical Midwest weather patterns with occasional storms. "We had great weather our first day and saw few other people on the trails. It got colder and rainy and most of the campers left," reports Karla J. B. about Whitewater State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's play areas. "This is a great family campground! Camping spots are rather close, but we have two little ones so they made friends quick with other children. The playground is a short walk to the tent area, which was a big hit with our kids," notes Angela L. about Lake Byllesby Regional Park.
Beach activities: Water recreation options for children are available at various locations. "The lake is right next to the campground with RV sites right on the water. The only thing disappointing is the lake becomes green with algae as the summer goes on," shares Kayla O. about Lake Byllesby Regional Park.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. "We went to Afton for a day trip filled with hiking, picnicking and scoping out future camping sites. Then I saw the snake. I literally grabbed my husband to hold him back from stepping on it and then he walks past it like nothing happened. I needed more encouragement. Anyways the hike in sites looked awesome, but a bit of a steep climb to get there," recounts Emily G. about Afton State Park.
Tips for RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water hookups vary by campground. "We were in a teardrop trailer. Plenty of space for the car and the teardrop in space #202, but all spaces that were plowed had plenty of room to pull in. Some were even 'pull through' which would be extra nice if you wanted it (either big rig type RV or pull behind)," advises Amy G. about Whitewater State Park.
Satellite connectivity: Tree cover affects satellite reception for campers who work remotely. "If you've been anywhere in Minnesota or Wisconsin, you know about all the trees! As other reviews mention, this campground has a large grassy area - that gives a 100% clear obstruction for Starlink. We work full time, so this was important for us. HOWEVER, the other half of the campground is within a super treed area, so we got to pick!" explains Whistle P. about Eagle Ridge Campground.
Dump station access: Many campgrounds provide sanitary dump facilities for RVs. "Very nice water front sites, clean, clean restrooms and showers, dump station. Plan on coming back. They're adding a bunch new sites. Should be ready for next season," shares Daryl L. about Lake Byllesby Regional Park.
