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.
What to do
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.
What campers like
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.
What you should know
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.
Tips for camping with families
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.
Tips from RVers
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.
