Camping spots near Genoa, Wisconsin sit in the unique Driftless Area, a region untouched by glaciers during the last ice age. This topography creates steep limestone bluffs, deep valleys, and cold water streams unlike the rest of Wisconsin's more gentle terrain. Most campgrounds in the region operate from April through October, with fall offering vibrant foliage displays when temperatures range from 40-65°F.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Several camping areas provide excellent trout fishing opportunities. At Beaver Creek Valley State Park Campground, the creek offers cold, clear water ideal for fishing. "The river that runs through is beautiful, cold, and clear. I didn't have any luck fishing though I could see the trout hanging out in an easily accessible pool at the end of a run," notes one visitor.
Hiking trail exploration: The region's topography creates dramatic hiking opportunities with minimal crowds. Great River Bluffs State Park offers shorter trails with substantial payoff. According to a camper, "I love this area as the bluffs are stunning. It's Minnesota's little Switzerland. The park isn't much to look at and there's only a few look-out point onto the Mississippi but its a nice little campground."
Quarry camping: For those seeking more remote experiences, the dispersed camping at Richard J Dorer Memorial State Forest Reno Unit provides unique terrain. "This is an awesome place to hike, not a very long hike but it's steep with drop offs. Not for those that are scared of heights. This is a hike in camping spot, camp spots are not well marked I stayed in the old rock Cory when I camped here, years ago."
What campers like
Waterfront access: Many campers value direct river access at Pettibone Resort. One reviewer mentioned, "We booked this on a whim so what's expecting much but found it to be a wonderful getaway. If you're on the bay side you can being your boat and beach it right by your campsite."
Wildlife viewing: The Mississippi River valley offers abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. At Goose Island, campers report, "Eagles, geese, pelicans, barred owls, ducks, deer, rabbits, raccoon, possum, etc. are abundant. During the week the grounds are super quiet. I was there for the Aurora and it was incredible."
Natural springs: The region's limestone geology creates natural springs throughout the area. Beaver Creek Valley State Park features this attraction with one camper noting, "The Big Spring was also a great natural water feature to relax in after a hot hike!"
What you should know
Flooding considerations: The Mississippi River floodplain affects many campgrounds seasonally. Pettibone Resort experiences this directly, with one camper reporting, "We got flooded out the only day we stayed. Got our money back for second night. Mississippi was over flowing this flood plain and yet still beautiful and want to return."
Limited cell coverage: Many camping areas have spotty or no cellular reception due to the steep terrain. At Beaver Creek Valley, "There is no cell reception because of the valley. This great if you want to get away from it all, but if you're staying a while and need to work, this isn't the place to do it."
Noise factors: Despite the rural setting, some campgrounds experience unexpected noise. At Great River Bluffs State Park, a camper noted, "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. Added to this were the half dozen trains that ran through the night (horns going off too) AND the light aircraft flying into Lacrosse airport."
Tips for camping with families
Animal encounters: Some campgrounds offer unique animal interactions for children. Shady Rest Acres provides a farm experience where "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."
Playground locations: For families with children, consider campgrounds with strategic playground placement. At Goose Island, one parent appreciated that "one of the things I like best is the playground is on the beach. My kid really loves that!"
Water activities: Many camping areas provide safe water access for children. Blackhawk Park offers water recreation, though one visitor noted, "I only dropped a star because the swimming area is very mediocre. The rest, very good!"
Tips from RVers
Electric site selection: For RV campers, Blackhawk Park offers various electric hookup options, but site selection matters. "The electric sites are like a typical RV park, not much space or privacy. We had site 40west and it was larger, but too close to the smelly pit toilets," reports one RVer.
Dump station timing: RV campers should plan waste disposal strategically at busier campgrounds. At Goose Island, one experienced camper advises, "I plan my RV dumping times and have never had to wait in line."
Leveling requirements: Many campgrounds in the area require leveling equipment. At Blackhawk Park, one camper noted, "Sites are fairly flat clay soil, so I didn't have to level much. A thunderstorm didn't create any driving issues."
