The Driftless Area surrounding Ferryville, Wisconsin features dramatic limestone bluffs and deep valleys formed by ancient rivers that bypassed glacial flattening during the last ice age. The region's topography creates diverse microclimates, with temperature variations of up to 15°F between valley floors and ridge tops. Winter glamping in Ferryville often requires additional insulation as valley temperatures can drop significantly after sunset.
What to do
Trout fishing at stocked ponds: Esofea/Rentz Memorial Park offers exceptional fishing opportunities with five ponds and the Bad Axe River. "Nice campground, beautiful stream runs through it. Mountains, valleys, just gorgeous," notes one visitor who appreciates the "clean bathrooms with hot water" and "shed with dry wood for purchase."
Hiking scenic river trails: Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground provides access to trails overlooking the Kickapoo River. "Loved staying at this campground. I was in the area to run the driftless marathon and needed a place to stay for one night. I loved it so much that I've already planned another trip," shares one hiker who found the site perfect for exploring.
Winter cave exploration: Eagle Cave Resort LLC offers unique spelunking opportunities during colder months. A visitor recommends: "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."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Sidie Hollow County Main Campground earns praise for its layout. "Nice grassy sites next to a cool creek. Electric but no water hook up. There is an RV fill up and a dump. Stayed in site #34 which has shade all afternoon. Also very level," notes one camper who appreciated the practical amenities.
Panoramic ridge views: The elevated campsites at Nelson Dewey State Park Campground provide Mississippi River vistas. A camper advises, "We stayed in walk-in site C, which 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."
Budget-friendly amenities: Waukon City Park stands out for exceptional value. "Free firewood, free wifi, water and electric at each campsite. Found a nice shady site for tent camping," reports one visitor, while another notes it costs "$15 tents. Includes electric and water and showers and firewood. Best value I have found yet."
What you should know
Train noise affects some sites: Several campgrounds near the Mississippi River experience railroad disruption. At Nelson Dewey, a visitor warns: "HUGE caveat - this site sits on a ridge above a county highway and freight train tracks. When trains are blowing their horns miles away, the sound carries. When they go past the site, it's incredibly loud!"
Seasonal restrictions: Most glamping options in Ferryville operate from mid-April through mid-October, with Red Barn Resort and Campground specifically open "April 15 to October 15." Winter camping is limited to a few locations.
Membership requirements: Westfork Sports Club & Campground requires purchasing a membership. "A beautiful location in the Driftless Area of Wisconsin. A membership is required and covers all the amenities, well worth the cost. The club raises trout and does conservation work locally helping the environment."
Tips for camping with families
Prepare for sloped terrain: The dramatic topography means many sites aren't level. At Nelson Dewey, a family camper warns, "Our tent pad was quite rocky so I would recommend sleeping pads or you will be very uncomfortable. Our site was also extremely dusty."
Look for child-friendly amenities: Waukon City Park offers exceptional facilities for families. A visitor mentions they "have a bunch of pavilions and facilities. Pool, tennis, lake" making it suitable for extended stays with children.
Choose rustic sites for memorable experiences: Great River Bluffs State Park provides natural entertainment. "We saw a cardinal and 3 hummingbirds because they came to hang out right in our campsite! The fireflies at night were an added bonus!"
Tips from RVers
Check site specifications: Sidie Hollow provides important distinctions for hookups. "Electric but no water hook up. There is an RV fill up and a dump," notes one RVer who appreciated knowing exactly what to expect before arrival.
Anticipate access challenges: The region's hilly topography can create difficulties. At Wildcat Mountain, an RVer cautions: "The driveway leading to the campground is a bit daunting (especially if pulling a camper), but its well worth it!"
Plan for seasonal maintenance closures: Several campgrounds close water systems during freeze months. Red Barn Resort maintains a strict schedule, operating only from "April 15 to October 15," requiring RVers seeking luxury glamping in Ferryville, Wisconsin to plan accordingly for water and sewer needs outside this period.
