Near Glenwood City, Wisconsin, campers find seasonal accommodations in wooded settings across multiple state and county parks within a 50-mile radius. The region sits at approximately 1,150 feet elevation, with the St. Croix River valley defining much of the surrounding landscape. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F with high humidity levels, while sites at higher elevations catch cooling breezes.
What to do
Hiking diverse terrain: Wild River State Park Campground offers extensive trail networks with varying landscapes. "The park is huge and beautiful. We snowshoed and skied. I really enjoyed the snowshoe hike along the St Croix River and watched the full moon rise," reports one visitor who stayed during winter.
Swimming at natural beaches: Families enjoy clean swimming areas with shallow entry points at several parks. At Lake Wissota State Park Campground, "Beautiful shaded campground with semi private sites. Nice beach that is a walkable distance from the sites. Lots of walking, biking and horse trails that are full of wild berries."
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities. "We saw sooooo many deer some even walking right through campsites! You can hear coyotes, raccoons and very loud owls," notes one visitor to Wild River State Park.
What campers like
Private sites with natural screening: Kruger Campground receives consistent praise for site layout. "This is a well maintained campground with private feeling sites. Some with firewood provided. Fire rings have attached grills. Lovely walking trails," writes one reviewer.
Affordable primitive camping: Budget-conscious campers appreciate Kruger's basic amenities at reasonable rates. "Very affordable, a lot of space between sites so you feel like you have some privacy. A beautiful hiking trail. Definitely bring some bug spray for the mosquitos," advises one visitor who paid just $17 per night.
Seasonal yurt options: Afton State Park Campground provides year-round yurt camping approximately 45 miles from Glenwood City. "Minnesota State Parks have just started to build Yurts for 3 campgrounds around the state; Afton, Cuyuna and Glendalough State Parks. These have some great amenities and are perfect for family camping, especially in Fall, Winter and Spring."
What you should know
Water availability varies: Some campgrounds have limited or seasonal water access. A visitor to Afton State Park warned, "NO WATER ON TRAIL 4TH JULY WEEKEND 2019 (FILL UP AT VISITOR CENTER). This may be an ongoing issue but none of the water faucets or water pumps on the trails at Afton State Park are working."
Train noise at riverside sites: Stockholm Park Campground sits near active railroad tracks. "Trains come by every 15-30 minutes just feet away from camp site," notes one camper, though another mentioned, "The trains do not use a horn, and we didn't hear any at night."
Reservation requirements: Many sites require advance booking, particularly for specialized accommodations. At Afton State Park, camper cabins fill quickly. "Perfect little cabin nestled in the southern half of the park! Screened in porch, heated with electricity, and two double bunk beds!"
Tips for camping with families
Pack insect protection: The wooded sites in this region harbor significant mosquito populations. "Definitely bring some bug spray for the mosquitos," warns one visitor to Kruger Campground, while another noted Wild River State Park was "Very woodsy! Mosquitoes, gnats, and bugs galore."
Consider hiking distance to sites: Some campgrounds require carrying gear from parking areas. At Afton State Park, "The hike to the campground is short and grueling. A few of the sites are in wooded areas, but we stayed in one of the prairie sites. The terrain is just hilly enough - and in August - the grass long enough to give the sites a sense of privacy."
Check for family programming: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park offers educational activities. "The nature center is nice and a great place to spend some time if it is raining during their open hours," shares a visitor who appreciates having indoor options.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most campgrounds offer basic electric but limited water or sewer connections. At Eagle Ridge Campground, "If you've been anywhere in Minnesota or Wisconsin, you know about all the trees! As other reviews mention, this campground has a large grassy area - that gives a 100% clear obstruction for Starlink."
Check shower availability: Many rustic sites lack shower facilities. Lake Wissota State Park offers "Clean bathrooms with showers," according to a recent visitor, which contrasts with more primitive options at smaller parks.
Proximity to services: Locate campgrounds near towns for supplies. Stockholm Park Campground sits adjacent to a walkable community: "The town of Stockholm is an easy walk with restaurants, baker, gift shops, and art gallery."
