Camping spots near Galesville, Wisconsin range from riverside facilities to bluff-top parks with Mississippi River views. The region lies within the Driftless Area, characterized by steep limestone ridges and deep valleys that escaped glaciation during the last ice age. Many campsites experience dense morning fog from May through September due to proximity to water and the unique topography.
What to do
Kayaking on backwaters: At Merrick State Park Campground, paddlers can explore the Mississippi River's quieter channels. "The shore consists of large rocks to prevent erosion so a canoe would have been difficult to put in but it was easy to carry my kayak into the water and paddle across the channel to the kayak/canoe trail that we could see from the campsite," notes one visitor who adds that "boat traffic on the channel does get heavy at times and they do go rather fast so beware."
Explore heritage sites: Seasonal historical displays provide educational opportunities for campers. At Pettibone Resort, visitors can learn about local history. "The Saturday we were there they had a heritage camp set up to learn about how things were done in the past," reports a camper who stayed in summer 2022.
Disc golf access: Prairie Island City Campground integrates camping with recreational facilities. "My kid loves all the playgrounds. The whole tent camping area is in the middle of a frisbee golf course so lots of foot traffic by the sites," mentions a visitor. This layout provides convenient access to activities but less privacy for tent campers.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Great River Bluffs State Park Campground offers opportunities to spot native species. "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," shares one camper. The park's location along migratory routes makes it particularly good for birdwatching.
Water access variety: Veterans Memorial Park & Campground provides different options for water recreation. "I love the fact that I can take her hiking here and not have to worry. The slow peaceful kayaking almost feels like time stops for a moment and you can actually reconnect with nature," notes one local visitor. The La Crosse River wraps around the campground, creating multiple access points.
Private campsites: Several campgrounds offer well-separated sites with natural barriers. "The sites are spacious and private and the fire rings are massive! We even had a white raven spend a few days with us which was wild," reports a camper at Perrot State Park. Site privacy varies significantly between campgrounds and specific site locations.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Seasonal water advisories affect some campgrounds. "There were signs posted that the drinking water cannot be boiled, nor can it be given to babies or elderly due to high nitrates. But we brought our own water anyways," explains a visitor to Perrot State Park in late September.
Flooding potential: Sites near rivers may experience seasonal flooding. At Frickson Family Farms, one visitor shared, "We got flooded out the only day we stayed. Got our money back for second night. Thank you. Mississippi was over flowing this flood plain and yet still beautiful and want to return." River levels rise significantly during spring melt and after heavy rains.
Train noise: Railway lines run near several campgrounds in the area. "However, two thirds of us slept no more than 4 hours total. Highway noise from the highway running along the river and from I-90 (while not really noticeable during the day) is ridiculously loud at night," notes a camper at Great River Bluffs, adding that there were "half dozen trains that ran through the night (horns going off too)."
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Champions Riverside Resort offers numerous family-oriented facilities. "The kids stuff was busy at all times showing us with older children how happy the kids were. Our teenagers were still engaged in the activity of camping. We brought their bikes along which was fun to hit the bike trails at midway," reports a visitor who noted the campground also "charters a canoe trip."
Playground access: Multiple campsites provide play areas for children. "This Campground offered beautiful views of the Mississippi river Trempealeau bay, rock formations And most excellent hiking trails," shares a visitor about Perrot State Park. Veterans Memorial Park features "baseball fields, playgrounds, a couple of group shelters, volleyball courts, and tons of space for activities."
Bug preparation: Insect protection is essential, particularly for children. "We fogged the site daily, had thermacells, and coated ourselves in bug spray - still came home completely bit up," shares one camper at Perrot State Park. Morning and evening hours typically have the highest mosquito activity, especially in riverside locations.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites in the area require adjustment. "Site was a little unlevel. Neighbors are close," notes an RVer who stayed at Pettibone Resort in a travel trailer. The campground has "asphalt with two concrete strips for your tires in the sites," which helps with parking but may still require leveling blocks.
Electrical options: Different amperage hookups are available at various campgrounds. Pettibone provides "20A/30A electric and water" at some sites, while other campgrounds offer 50-amp service for larger rigs. Veterans Memorial Park provides electric hookups with standard amenities including "drinking water, showers, toilets, trash, and water hookups."
RV size limitations: Some campgrounds have restrictions or challenges for larger vehicles. At Great River Bluffs, the narrow roads can make maneuvering difficult. RVers should call ahead to confirm site dimensions, as the online information isn't always complete regarding maximum length accommodations.
