Camping near Holmen centers on the Black River watershed which meets the Mississippi River through a series of wetlands and backwaters. The region's elevation varies from river bottom at 630 feet to bluffs reaching over 1,200 feet, creating diverse camping environments. Summer temperatures typically range 75-85°F with higher humidity levels near water.
What to do
Hiking scenic overlooks: Great River Bluffs State Park offers multiple viewpoints of the Mississippi River valley. One camper noted, "Beautiful and clean, views were stunning, trails and picnic areas were well maintained" while another mentioned "King's Bluff Overlook which is about a 2.5 mile roundtrip from the parking area."
Water activities: Goose Island provides multiple water access points for boats and paddlers. "This campground is right on the waters of the Mississippi. There are several locations to launch boats, canoes, & kayaks. Plenty of areas to take a dip," shares a visitor. The campground is particularly suited for water enthusiasts with "tons of fishing, several boat launches" available.
Winter recreation: Trails transform for cold-weather activities when temperatures drop. According to one reviewer at Great River Bluffs, "There are 9 miles of groomed X-country ski trails; you need a MN Ski Pass." Winter camping offers a quieter experience with significantly fewer visitors.
Family entertainment: Champions Riverside Resort focuses on structured activities for all ages. As one camper mentioned, "The kids had fun swimming, we got out as a family to enjoy a weekend away from home," while another praised "Saturday bar bingo and the large sand bar" as highlights of their stay.
What campers like
Natural wildlife viewing: The Mississippi flyway attracts diverse bird species throughout seasons. One camper at Perrot State Park Campground observed "a white raven spend a few days with us which was wild!" Wildlife sightings extend beyond birds, with deer commonly spotted at dawn and dusk.
Unique farm experiences: Some visitors prefer non-traditional camping options. At Frickson Family Farms, campers can experience agricultural life firsthand. One reviewer appreciated being "neat to see baby pigs and also grill some tasty steaks from the cool farm store!!"
Varied swimming options: Larger campgrounds typically offer both natural swimming and pool facilities. At Neshonoc Lakeside, "two swimming pools, daily activities, movies, and a full ice cream shop" keep families entertained according to reviewers. One visitor specifically noted "the top one is very large and new with a splash pad area. The lower pool is older and smaller, and where grown ups tend to go for a dip."
Evening natural phenomena: The river valley's dark skies create memorable nighttime experiences. At Blueberry Fields Forever, a camper shared, "Great views of the stars. Plenty of deer this last time!" Another camper at a nearby park mentioned "The fireflies at night were an added bonus!"
What you should know
Seasonal flooding concerns: Riverside campgrounds experience periodic high water. At Veterans Memorial Park & Campground, the La Crosse River "wraps around the campground" providing scenic views but occasional flooding. A Goose Island camper warned the area is "a campground on a flood plain" that can be "all under water" during high water events.
Water quality varies: Natural water sources require testing awareness. At Perrot State Park, "there were signs posted that the drinking water cannot be boiled, nor can it be given to babies or elderly due to high nitrates." Most campgrounds provide potable water stations for filling containers.
Weekend noise levels: Many campgrounds experience higher activity levels during weekends. A Goose Island camper noted, "Sites are right on top of each other and often people are very noisy here. There's a big weekender/party crowd here and often they are at the beach until the wee hrs of the morning."
Seasonal insect populations: Ticks remain common from April through October. Mosquito density varies by location, with one camper at Perrot State Park reporting "the bugs and mosquitos were almost unbearable. We fogged the site daily, had thermacells, and coated ourselves in bug spray - still came home completely bit up."
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Pettibone Resort offers water recreation beyond the natural waterways. One family enjoyed "renting a golf cart for the day as the campground is pretty spread out." Their riverside location allows visitors to "bring your boat and beach it right by your campsite."
Playground distribution: Larger facilities offer multiple play areas for different age groups. At Veterans Memorial Park, campers appreciate that there are "several playgrounds for kids, plenty of roads to bike and trails to hike." Another visitor noted the park has "baseball fields, playgrounds, a couple of group shelters, volleyball courts, and tons of space for activities."
Dog friendly campgrounds near Holmen: Most campgrounds welcome pets with specific guidelines. Blueberry Fields Forever provides a quieter setting for pets and owners, with a camper noting it's "very quiet, when we were there we were the only campers." For those seeking pet-friendly spaces with more amenities, Veterans Memorial Park includes "a very nice dog park."
Scheduled activities: Weekends typically feature more structured events for children. At Champions Riverside Resort, families enjoy that "the overall environment is just fun!" with activities targeted toward different age groups throughout summer weekends.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At dog friendly campgrounds near Holmen, RV sites vary significantly in privacy and access. A visitor to Great River Bluffs State Park noted sites are "spacious and shaded and have a picnic table and fire pit" while explaining "there are 31 pull in/back in sites" available for reservation.
Hookup variations: Water and electric connections differ between parks. At Neshonoc Lakeside, "the sites are all flat with a gravel pad, some also have concrete patio and all have nice fire pits." RVers appreciate that sites are "very roomy and level" with "1-2 bars on AT+T" cellular service.
Dump station timing: Facilities can become congested during peak checkout times. At Pettibone Resort, a visitor mentioned "a little pricey at $54 considering there were no sewer hookups" but the campground does offer a dump station. Plan dump station usage for non-peak times to avoid waiting.
