Tent campers visiting the Ferryville area access primitive sites across diverse state forests and public lands within a 30-mile radius. The driftless region's bluff country creates distinctive camping opportunities with significant elevation changes between 600-1200 feet. Tent campsites typically require walks ranging from 500 feet to 1 mile from parking areas, with seasonal availability from April through October.
What to do
Trout fishing opportunities: Echo Valley State Park Campground offers stream access for anglers. "There is a nice trout stream, with a few sites right by the stream. It is most suitable for tent, truck, or teardrop camping," notes Kerry M.
Backpacking preparation: Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry serves as training ground for longer expeditions. "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," reports Brooke M.
Hike to scenic overlooks: When tent camping near Ferryville, make time for bluff-top views. "There are many hiking trails, including a trail that goes on top of the bluff with views of the forest and of Wisconsin and the Mississippi River," shares Joanna B. about Reno Horse Campground.
Wildlife observation: Many backcountry sites feature wildlife viewing opportunities. "Well spaced out camp sites, very primitive. Great spot to view the stars. Awesome for kids," notes Macel C. about Camp Glen Wendel.
What campers like
Remote solitude: Yellow River State Forest offers true backcountry seclusion. "I've backpacked here multiple times and have only run into other people once or twice. Hidden gem," says Brooke M.
Water features: Creeks and small ponds enhance campsite appeal. "The 2nd site in has a small pond at Camp side," James M. notes about Camp John Schultz.
Budget-friendly pricing: Many primitive sites have minimal fees. "This site fills up really fast because of the cheap price of only 9 dollars. This is the cheapest but one of the best campsites I've been to," Kevin T. shares about Yellow River.
Trail access: Houston Nature Center provides immediate trail connectivity. "This campsite is at the trailhead for the Root River Bike Trail. This bike trail is so awesome and by far the best in the tri-state area," writes Alison.
What you should know
Varied site sizes: Campsite dimensions differ considerably. "The site was small, but we did manage to fit a 4-person tent, two 2-person tents, a screen-house, and 5 bikes," reports Jamee H. about Sparta Campground.
Water accessibility: Most primitive sites require carrying water. "Potable water is at HQ near registration kiosk," notes James M. about Camp Glen Wendel, while Camp John Schultz has "Water available but needs to be carried in."
Trail conditions: Weather impacts hiking difficulty. "There are some thin trails down steeper hillsides, so make sure to take it slower if the ground is muddy," advises Kevin C. about Camp Glen Wendel.
Highway noise: Some sites experience road noise. "The most disappointing factor for me was the highway noise. I had to wear noise-cancelling headphones to drown out the noise in order to sleep," warns Jamee H. about Sparta Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Natural playgrounds: Houston Nature Center offers unique play spaces. "Even though I'm not a kid, I thought the park was AWESOME. They litterally have a tree house to play in!" Alison enthuses.
Animal encounters: Shady Rest Acres provides farm animal interactions. "They have donkeys, Scottish Highland cows (a family of them), sheep, goats, chickens (and they'll even pick the bugs off your car), bees, horses, ducks, cats and dogs," describes Amy G.
Safety considerations: Weather and wildlife awareness matters. "Been coming to yellow river for years but have always wanted to go backpacking. Finally, convinced one of my friends to come with, we ended up getting scared around midnight from the noises," shares Shyla G. about her Camp Glen Wendel experience.
Shower access: Limited facilities exist for families needing full amenities. "Sparta Aquatic Center (10 minute bike ride) allows shower access for $3," notes Jamee H.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most primitive tent camping areas near Ferryville restrict RV access. "RV's would have a difficult time," notes Wilber S. about Echo Valley State Park Campground, confirming its tent orientation.
Alternative locations: RV campers should consider developed campgrounds instead of primitive sites. Gateway Park Campground offers "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," according to Brody.
