10 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
State parks and public lands within driving distance of Fennimore, Wisconsin offer a range of tent camping options, from backpack campsites at Governor Dodge State Park to primitive backcountry tent campsites across the border in Iowa. Governor Dodge State Park, located about 30 miles east of Fennimore, features dedicated backpack campsites accessible via short hikes from parking areas. Yellow River State Forest, though across the border in Iowa, provides highly-rated primitive backcountry tent camping with established sites like Camp Glen Wendel and Camp John Schultz. These areas cater specifically to tent campers seeking more secluded experiences away from developed campgrounds.
Most primitive tent sites in the region feature basic amenities like fire rings and benches, with terrain that varies from level to slightly uneven ground. At Governor Dodge State Park, backpack sites require a half-mile to one-mile hike from designated parking areas, with some sites offering rougher ground that may challenge tent setup. Yellow River's backcountry sites typically include fire rings but limited other facilities. Potable water is available at headquarters locations but must be carried to campsites. Campers should be prepared for typical summer insects and potentially muddy conditions after rainfall, particularly in low-lying areas.
Tent-only experiences in these areas provide notable seclusion compared to standard campgrounds. According to reviews, Yellow River State Forest "has a great feeling of isolation and wilderness that can be absent from other places." The park's backcountry sites are well-spaced, offering excellent stargazing opportunities. At Governor Dodge State Park, backpackers report "great views and plenty of privacy" at sites like #806. Campers frequently mention encountering wildlife, with one visitor noting hundreds of butterflies during a morning at Yellow River. The region's backcountry tent camping areas serve as effective training grounds for longer backpacking trips, with multiple reviewers mentioning they've used these trails to prepare for extended journeys elsewhere.
"My friend and I were eager to test out some new backpacking gear for the first time in advance of a larger trip this summer."
"Yellow River has great backpacking sites. 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 Availabilityfrom $50 - $90 / night
Check Availability"Hiked into this Camp that includes 5 primitive sites: fire rings and benches. Lush dense forest with intermediate hiking including typical summer insects."
"Awesome campground, if you require electric bring a generator. Water is available but needs to be carried in. we loved the lack of cell phone reception!"
from $32 - $79 / night
"Pit toilets/shelter/playground near the entrance. Two boat launches.
Variable availability for firewood; the Cenex on the west end of Argyle reliably sells it if there isn't any at the park."
"We saw so much wildlife and really enjoyed the songs of the many species of birds in the area."
from $20 / night
"People driving around the pond didn't even know we were there! The camping spot was beautiful (although you have to watch out for nettles). Great fishing while we were there too."
from $100 / night
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LegendHiked into this Camp that includes 5 primitive sites: fire rings and benches. Lush dense forest with intermediate hiking including typical summer insects. Leave No Trace ethics include: minimizes fire impacts by gathering only dead, down, wood. Sounded by nature atop of hill hike near Fire tower ( only fire tower in Iowa), cell reception is found up here.
TravelerVery nice park. Well marked and maintained trails. A large lake with boat launch and beach area. Separate pet area.
We spent the weekend at site 101, which is a tent site. I wouldn't recommend this site. based on a quick walkaround, it seemed a bit smaller than other sites. That's not really a deal-breaker, but it didn't really have any flat spots to pitch the tent. We ended up pitching it up on the parking area, but it was still a bit slanted and we could feel the tire divot a little through the air mattresses. Aside from that, it was great. The site had a picnic table and fire ring that we used a lot. It was secluded from the surrounding sites.
We hiked the Windy Ridge trail and the Prairie Loop trail. both were well maintained and enjoyable trails. We also spent some time on the beach.
GuideCampsites, trails and facilities were immaculate. Staff was friendly. drive in and hike in sites available. great for families; trails have info markers to educate hikers on geology and flora of area. Drive in campsites had fire rings and picnic tables, vault toilets available.
GuideI wanted so badly to love this campground experience, but just didn't. Site 19 was an easy walk-in that theoretically had nearby vault toilets, parking, and water.
Each site only had space for one car to park before walking in. Not a huge deal, but annoying as there were 2 of us who drove separate and we had to problem solve. When we got to the site I was shocked to see that what was labeled as a tent site had literally NO flat space to actually set up a tent. Spacious site, but fully sloped.
Also, what I would have loved to know, is that the vault toilets are closed because they are doing construction to build something new in that space. Construction that starts loudly each day at 7am. Honestly every site from about #35 down was affected by the noise because the construction is happening in the middle of the loop (and actually blocking some of the one-way road as well).
The park in general was okay. Per the usual, the pet areas were lacking. No beach at all, just grass covered in goose poop and one cut out on the raised shore between tall grasses and foliage where a dog could potentially jump in. Certainly nowhere for a human to enjoy the water with their pups unfortunately.
LegendGeneral: This is a small (29-site) county park campground situated along the North Fork Maquoketa River. Nine of the sites are reservable, and the rest are first-come, first-served. Some sites are primitive, and some have water and 30-amp electricity hookups. There is one ADA-accessible site with a paved camper pad.
Site Quality: Most sites are level. The camper pads are gravel/grass, but not all are clearly defined. Each site has a picnic table and a fire ring.
Bath/Shower: The bath/shower house was closed when we were there in November but there are vault toilets about a quarter mile from the campground (in the day-use area) that were very clean and well-stocked when we were there.
Activities/Amenities: Many activities including disc golf, three hiking trails, volleyball, two playgrounds (one in the day-use area and one by the campsites). There are two reservable picnic shelters. There is also a dump station.
We were tent camping in November on a backpacking trip so we didn’t take advantage of any of the activities but would return in our van on a future camping trip. We were the ONLY ones in the campground at this time of year!
LegendThis review is for Yellow River State Forest's Big Paint Campground which consists of sites 35 through 61. Big Paint is a couple miles from Little Paint, a larger campground with 70+ sites. There are two equestrian campgrounds (Creekside and Little Frontier with sites numbered 1 through 34) as well as hike in campgrounds for backpackers. A photo of an area map is included.
Why did we choose Big Paint instead of Little Paint?
It's smaller and that's just our personal preference. There were only 4 sites occupied early Friday afternoon and a few more were reserved. We liked site 35, the first site on the left as you enter. 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. Most of the sites are completely on the grass.
Activities
Stocked trout streams are an attraction for fishermen; see photo of stocking calendar. We enjoyed hiking despite the mosquitoes and humidity in August and were able to make a 5+ mile loop leaving from the campground. You can also hike from Little Paint, and there are equestrian trails. This would also be a good area for X-country skiing and snowmobiling. A photo of the trail map is included. Caution: hunting is allowed in the non-campground area of the state forest.
Amenities
Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. Other than that, you can dispose of your trash and use a vault toilet. There's water at the information center (and a camp host site) outside the campground about 100 yards to the left.
Cost
You're not getting much (and that's not a bad thing) so the $9 fee seems fair. Pay up front at the entrance station, or make a reservation online at last 2 days ahead of time (and pay a reservation fee). There are 7 non-reservable sites at Big Paint. I doubt that Big Paint fills up; just check the reservation site to see if they get crowded.
https://iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com/camping/yellow-river-state-forest/r/campsiteSearch.do?search=site&page=siteresult&contractCode=IA&parkId=610130
LegendI spent two nights in the campground at Blue Mound State Park. Overall, the park has well-maintained hiking and MTB biking trails, extraordinarily clean and well-kept vault toilets, and ample access to drinking water. Both tent and RV/camper sites are on a typical one-way road pattern with a couple of loops there are plenty of sites with and without electricity. At the time I was there, the camp host sold high-quality hard wood for $5/bundle from a trailer on the honor system, so if you run out in the middle of the night, wood was easy to replenish. One of the park's highlights are lookout towers with views above the treetops, Unfortunately in 2020 both were closed, presumably because it would be difficult to keep a safe distance from others when on the stairs or while at the top. Pity, it'll be a reason to return. Still, there are several observation areas that are maintained well enough to keep the undergrowth from blocking the view of the Wisconsin River Valley nearly 15 miles to the north. This is where the "Blue Mound" name must come from, the hills at that distance did have a bluish cast to them.
If you've read any of my other reviews you know what's next, my list of the best campsites. While I've visited several parks now that have "walk in" sites, with cars parked a minute or two from the campsite, about a dozen sites in Blue Mound State Park take "walk in" to a new level. Cars can drive to a barrier across the road, and the sites are a 10-15 minute walk downhill, The park provides ONE medium-sized cart (250 lb weight limit, 20-minute use limit) that I guess would be in high demand during load in and load out. (NOTE TO SELF, camp Thursday through Monday if going here, or arrive EARLY to get a cart). Most of these sites are quite sunny; 105 is nice and shady and private, 106 slightly shaded 109 and 110 are shaded, very close to one another and would be good for a group camp setup 111 is quite shady. There's water and toilets in the walk-in camp ground. You'd want to sip wood for campfires and cooking, the nearest source is a 15-minute walk uphill and back, and then if using the cart, you have to return it for another round trip.
Back in the family campground where mortals and RVs park, I think the following are the nicest in terms of shade, level, size and privacy.
42, 45, 47, 51, 64, 66, 69, 71, 73
GuideThe cart in sites are fantastic at Wildcat Mountain! Each site is spacious with most heavily treed for shade. Each site has a nice large flat pad for a tent or two, fire ring, bench and picnic table. Proximity to potable water, vault or modern toilets and designated parking are all within 400 yards of all sites.
The park is located in the Kickapoo valley area where the driftless area is amazing to hike. You can kayak or tube down the river that is flanked by high limestone bluffs. The hiking trails are well maintained. There is also extensive horse trails, a beautiful outdoor ampitheater for viewing sunsets and access to the river right in the park.
The campers were respectful and quiet. Our campsite was fairly clean when we arrived. Contactless registration due to covid 19. That made getting set up quick and easy! The cart provided was fairly big for less trips. I would happily camp here again!
LegendThis campground also goes by the name of Holbert. Small campground but free with a handful of picnic tables and campfires. The vault toilets were cleanish, thou older. This campground is next to a pretty little creek that you can play and fish in. The campground is really just a series of campsites strung out along the creek and road. It was pretty quiet while I was there, not many campers at all. There are no hookups for RV’s/campers so it is primarily tent camping or dry camping. There is an interesting story about how this camping area has come to be: the land was donated by Ella Ellis in memory of her husband William Ellis. They apparently loved the land and wanted to make sure it was never developed and could be enjoyed by all. A lovely story.
Tent camping near Fennimore, Wisconsin offers wilderness experiences alongside the Mississippi River bluffs and valleys. The area features multiple primitive camping options within a 30-mile radius, with terrain characterized by rolling hills and deciduous forests. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F with nighttime lows around 60°F, making lightweight sleeping bags suitable for overnight stays.
Fishing opportunities: Yellow River State Forest's Camp John Schultz offers excellent trout fishing. "Awesome campground, if you require electric bring a generator. Water is available but needs to be carried in," notes Kimberly W. The site's remote location provides a tech detox experience as she adds, "we loved the lack of cell phone reception!"
Trail preparation: Use local trails for conditioning before longer adventures. At Camp Glen Wendel, Brooke M. shares, "great park with a few longer trails for backpacking. Have used these trails/this park to prepare for longer trips. Wonderful spots to camp and the creeks are very clean and pretty!"
Seasonal challenges: When hiking Yellow River trails, adjust your pace based on conditions. Kevin C. recommends, "There are some thin trails down steeper hillsides, so make sure to take it slower if the ground is muddy." After rainfall, trails near water sources can become particularly slippery.
Stargazing conditions: The minimal light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. At Camp Glen Wendel, Macel C. found "Well spaced out camp sites, very primitive. Great spot to view the stars. Awesome for kids."
Water features: Multiple streams and small ponds enhance primitive sites. At Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry, James M. notes, "The 2nd site in has a small pond at Camp side. Potable water is at HQ near registration kiosk."
Wildlife encounters: Morning wildlife viewing is particularly rewarding. While camping at Blackhawk Memorial Park, Christie B. found it "Quiet, off the grid! Very pleasant!" The park's location near water attracts various bird species throughout the seasons.
Cell service limitations: Reception varies dramatically by location and carrier. Shyla G. notes that while backpacking the Paint Creek loop at Yellow River, they "ended up getting scared around midnight from the noises" but fortunately "had service!" allowing them to navigate back to their vehicle.
Water logistics: Most primitive sites require carrying water from central locations. James M. advises that at Camp John Schultz, you'll find "5 primitive sites: fire rings and benches" in a "lush dense forest with intermediate hiking including typical summer insects." Remember water must be carried in from central points.
Site selection factors: Terrain varies significantly between sites even in the same area. At Governor Dodge State Park Backpack Campsites, Nick C. found "site 802" had "small spot on rough ground not to level for tents but still feaseable." He compensated by finding a better tent placement area within the site.
Accessibility choices: Select sites based on children's hiking abilities. Lynn G. shares that at Camp Glen Wendel, "We did the backcountry camping (less than 0.5 miles walking), but did get to see the regular campgrounds. There are other parks and waterways to visit nearby and a town nearby."
Group accommodations: Hickory Ridge Group Camp at Governor Dodge State Park works well for multi-family outings. Matthew O. found the camp offers "Spacious sites, lots of availability to swim and hike. Will definitely come back."
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for sites with basic recreation options. Lesley R. describes Hickory Ridge Group Camp as a "Nice family campground. Has a lot of amenities including shower," making it suitable for families wanting primitive camping with basic conveniences.
Off-grid considerations: Most primitive sites are tent-focused, though some county parks accommodate small RVs without hookups. At Worthington Sportsman's Club, Becky raves about the seclusion: "So secluded without being in the middle of nowhere. People driving around the pond didn't even know we were there!" While primitive, the site offers electric hookups for basic power needs.
Site specifications: Gateway Park Campground provides RV-friendly amenities near the tent camping areas. Brody notes it has "3 drive through sites and 4 back in spots with a few nice trees. Water electric and sewer connections at each site with a separate dump station," making it suitable for RVers wanting to base near more primitive areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Fennimore, WI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Fennimore, WI is Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest with a 4.8-star rating from 12 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Fennimore, WI?
TheDyrt.com has all 10 tent camping locations near Fennimore, WI, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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