The Driftless Area near Highland, Wisconsin averages 34 inches of precipitation annually with distinctive limestone formations and valleys carved by pre-glacial erosion. Camping sites near Highland, Wisconsin typically have challenging terrain with some sites situated along steep approaches that require careful navigation. The region's unglaciated landscape creates unique camping environments with elevations ranging from 900-1,200 feet.
What to Do
Hiking trails and waterfalls: At Governor Dodge State Park, the Lost Canyon and Stephens Falls trails offer memorable experiences. "Stevens Falls and Canyon Trails were the highlight of the trip... Once you continue down to the falls they have another informational plaque about the falls with old pictures... The falls themselves are amazing," reports one visitor who explored despite rainy conditions.
Water activities and beaches: The park features two lakes perfect for kayaking and swimming. "Two good lakes for kayaking/canoeing/fishing/swimming. Lots of good hiking trails and they are working on a big improvement to the equestrian campground," notes a camper. For river recreation, the Wisconsin River provides tubing opportunities from Spring Green.
Mountain biking: Blue Mound State Park maintains dedicated mountain biking trails throughout its hilly terrain. "There are a lot of trails for hiking and mountain biking. A swimming pool and picnic area," explains one visitor who appreciated the variety of activity options available to campers.
What Campers Like
Backpacking sites: Governor Dodge State Park Backpack Campsites offer more seclusion than standard campsites. "Great backpack base camp! Great views, plenty of privacy and an easy hike. We stayed at 806," reports one backpacker who enjoyed the balance between accessibility and seclusion.
Hammock-friendly camping: Many sites feature mature trees perfect for hammock camping. One camper at Governor Dodge noted, "We stayed at a hike in site in May and had great hanging options for our hammocks, excellent privacy in the hike-in sites, and beautiful options for hiking, fishing, and photography."
Family amenities: Wisconsin Riverside Resort offers extensive facilities for family enjoyment. "There is a decent sized pool that is clean and well-maintained with a smaller kiddie pool with a slide. There is also a man-made lake with a beach for swimming and bigger kids to enjoy the large inflatable slides and swim platforms," writes one camper who appreciated the range of activities available.
What You Should Know
Raccoon activity: Multiple campgrounds report bold wildlife interactions. At Twin Valley Campground, campers warn: "The raccoons here are insanely bold, we had one frequently visit our site and get VERY close to us and in the evening ended up ripping thru the roof of our tent... Very frustrating night."
Shower facilities: Availability and quality vary between campgrounds. "Bathrooms/showers were warm and clean, and the vault toilets were not bad although there were a few spiders," notes one camper. Some campgrounds require payment for showers, so bring quarters.
Seasonal considerations: Most camping facilities operate April through November. "Stayed at the Twin Valley campground. Beautiful. Some nice Fall colors... While other Wisconsin state parks have shut off most water & closed their shower houses, this park kept these amenities available this late in October; that was a nice surprise."
Tips for Camping with Families
Swimming options: Blue Mound State Park Campground offers unique water facilities. "This campground has a very clean pool and splash section. There are chairs and lounges around both and shade awnings. The cost is $3 for an adult and $2 for child," explains a visitor who appreciated the well-maintained facilities.
Playground amenities: Several campgrounds feature play equipment. "Perfect for a family get away - showers, flush toilets, lots of hiking (but trails aren't very challenging), swimming area and boat launch, playground. Basically a little bit of everything that makes it family friendly," notes one parent.
Group sites: For larger family gatherings, specialized areas work best. "Stayed here last year with a group of friends! Had 2 different group sites and both were awesome! A lot of space and not close to other group sites so it was nice to not have to worry about surrounding people!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Blackhawk Lake Recreational Area, elevation affects access to amenities. "The campground was higher up on the hill, it took 5 minutes to hike down to the lake with lots of steep steps. Nice beach area. I spent two nights here with an RV. I had electric hookup," explains one RVer who appreciated the facilities despite the climb.
Electrical hookups: Many campgrounds offer electrical service but require advance planning. "I recommend going in the Fall to see some great Fall colors!" advises one camper who found autumn visits particularly rewarding due to smaller crowds and spectacular scenery.
Leveling challenges: The region's hilly terrain can complicate RV setup. "Not all 'driveways' are level which, unfortunately, we discovered in site 33. We slept with our heads lower than our feet in our camper van," warns an RV camper who encountered positioning difficulties at Governor Dodge State Park.
