Wisconsin's Driftless Area near Fennimore features dramatic limestone bluffs and deeply carved river valleys, creating unique camping conditions compared to the rest of the state. The area receives average summer temperatures of 75-85°F with overnight lows dropping to 55-65°F. Primitive and developed camping sites operate primarily from May through October, with limited winter accommodations.
What to do
Kayaking the Kickapoo River: Access the winding "most crooked river in the world" from Wildcat Mountain State Park. "Great location for kayaking and hiking. The facilities are well maintained and clean. Camping sites are spacious and the stars at night is amazing. Bring or rent kayaks to float the Kickapoo River. Ontario to bridge 5 was 2.5 hours," reports John B. from Wildcat Mountain State Park.
Fishing in streams and rivers: The region offers abundant fishing opportunities in spring-fed streams. "Two good lakes for kayaking/canoeing/fishing/swimming. Lots of good hiking trails and they are working on a big improvement to the equestrian campground. Lots of activities in the area and close to shopping in the town of Dodgeville," notes Paul C. from Governor Dodge State Park.
Winter cave camping: For a truly unique experience, Eagle Cave Resort offers winter camping within a natural cave. "This is a great family camp ground! Winter is best for cave camping! Mostly scouts and church groups during the winter," reports Jennfer C. Additionally, "We only spent a night at the resort (actually slept in the cave). One thing to know for sure, bring a tarp or tent to cover yourself. We went in March, so with all the runoff from the snow it was a very wet experience."
Dog-friendly activities: Several campgrounds welcome pets with dedicated amenities. "My boyfriend and I brought our two dogs here to camp. They had a dog beach for them to swim in which was a huge plus! Great hiking with some beautiful scenery," shares Sarah B.
What campers like
Private walk-in sites: For those seeking seclusion, walk-in sites provide privacy and better views. "We stayed in walk-in site C, which is the furthest site from the parking lot. Arrive before dark!! The wheelbarrows provided are a lifesaver, the trail to the site is manageable until the last 50 feet, which is steep and rocky," advises Steph P. from Nelson Dewey State Park. She continues, "While Site C is incredibly difficult to reserve (best dates I could find were a Mon-Wed in October which I booked in APRIL), it's worth the views and the privacy."
Fall foliage viewing: The region's topography creates spectacular autumn color displays. "I love coming here. It's very convenient to get to and it has some great campsites. I recommend going in the Fall to see some great Fall colors!" suggests Elise M.
Group camping options: Several campgrounds offer designated group sites for larger gatherings. "Stayed here last year with a group of friends! Had 2 different group sites and both were awesome! A lot of space and not close to other group sites so it was nice to not have to worry about surrounding people! We have a loud group and had no complaints since they are nice and spaced apart," notes Amanda J.
River access and activities: Proximity to rivers is a major draw for glamping near Fennimore. "Overall my family LOVED this campground. There is a decent sized pool that is clean and well-maintained with a smaller kiddie pool with a slide. There is also a man-made lake with a beach for swimming and bigger kids to enjoy the large inflatable slides and swim platforms. The campground is right on the river, and provides rentals for canoes, kayaks, and tubes," shares Kim L. from Wisconsin Riverside Resort.
What you should know
Train noise at riverfront campgrounds: Sites along the Mississippi experience frequent train traffic. "Nice views of the Iowa and Wisconsin Mississippi River bluffs. Lots of noise from the railroad that has a train every 30 min," warns Adam from Grant River Recreation Area. Another camper adds, "Until midnight, trains went by about every 1/2 hour. After midnight about every other hour. Gave campground a 4, but experience was a 3."
Seasonal flooding concerns: Some campgrounds experience water issues during heavy rain. "Can flood with a good downpour. Nice cabins. Close to railroad tracks so you will hear the trains go by. Does have activities for kids, pool, play area," notes Sharon B.
Raccoon activity: Wildlife encounters are common in several parks. "Beware of raccoons at this campground they are BOLD!" warns Jen L. Another camper adds, "love this place, lots of trails, the waterfall is cool, nice beach. Lots of brave raccoons but nothing to worry about if you prepare well before bed."
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies widely between campgrounds. "My husband's only complaint was Data reception. We really didn't get good cell service," reports Juliana R.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Family-friendly water features are available at several locations. "Great for kids! The water attractions are great for the kiddos and the cabins aren't half bad either!" notes Amanda P. from Boulder Creek Campground.
Educational outdoor activities: Several parks offer nature centers and programs. "Perfect for a family get away - showers, flush toilets, lots of hiking (but trails aren't very challenging), swimming area and boat launch, playground. Basically a little bit of everything that makes it family friendly. Peak season reservations are a definite (weeks to months in advance for weekends)," advises Jen L.
Dog-friendly campgrounds: Pets are welcome at many campgrounds with specific amenities for them. "My boyfriend and I brought our two dogs here to camp. They had a dog beach for them to swim in which was a huge plus! Great hiking with some beautiful scenery."
Seasonal consideration: Family camping is most comfortable from late spring to early fall. "Good place for camping. We camped at site 56,57. Restroom were not so clean. Good hiking trail, lake for kayaking and swimming," reports Meri S.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Not all campsites accommodate larger RVs comfortably. "We stayed in site 33. We slept with our heads lower than our feet in our camper van. Except for the handicap accessible sites, all are non electric," notes Lee D.
Pull-through site considerations: Larger rigs may find certain campgrounds challenging. "We stayed in a pull thru site. The camp fire was located under a tree. We didn't have a fire. It's a little unusual location. I think the pull Thru are more fit for travel trailers not more 31 feet. We had 5th wheel 40 feet it felt tight to get into to. They have more spacious campsites near the lagoon for bigger rigs," advises Juliana R.
Hook-up availability: Electric and water connections vary between campgrounds. "Great campground for everything but big 5th wheelers and motorhomes," warns Paul C.
Security features: Some campgrounds offer added security for RVers. "This campground was fabulous! Great pool, restaurant, live music, and Pickle Ball! Well kept facility. It has a security gate, which I really appreciated."