Wisconsin's Chippewa County offers a variety of camping experiences within a short drive of Jim Falls. Located in the heart of the Chippewa Valley at approximately 950 feet above sea level, this area features a mix of deciduous forests, rolling farmland, and water features including the Chippewa River. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F with higher humidity levels, while spring and fall camping offers cooler temperatures with colorful seasonal changes.
What to do
Water activities at Lake Wissota: Lake Wissota State Park Campground provides excellent access to water recreation. "Beautiful shaded campground with semi private sites. Nice beach that is a walkable distance from the sites... Boat rentals and free yard games that can be checked out at the visitor center," notes Donella L. The park includes boat launches and swimming areas.
Hiking and trail exploration: The area offers numerous hiking options for all skill levels. At Lake Wissota State Park Campground, "We went on a 5-mile hike through fern and pine forests, prairie and grassland habitats, and an abandoned beaver pond," shares Julie P. Trails range from short lakeside paths to more challenging forest routes.
Stargazing and night activities: The rural setting makes for excellent night sky viewing. At Eagle Ridge Campground, one camper noted the benefits of the "large grassy area - that gives a 100% clear obstruction for Starlink." Many campgrounds maintain minimal light pollution, creating optimal stargazing conditions.
River tubing and water access: Several campgrounds offer river access for tubing and kayaking. "It is a great place if you want to float down the Chippewa River, Loopy's the bar in town will shuttle you to and from the campsite and drop you off with their tubes at the river!" explains Anna at Eagle Ridge Campground.
What campers like
Private, wooded campsites: Many campsites in the area offer seclusion. At Big Falls County Park, "This campground and campsites are large and you can hear the falls in the background. Each site comes with a picnic table and wood that looks like leftovers from a lumber mill in the area," writes UnnamedAdventures.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain good hygiene standards. "Bathroom/shower facilities were very clean and centrally located, pit toilets were provided at much closer intervals, and there were lots of water fountains located throughout the entire park," notes a visitor to Lake Wissota State Park Campground.
Easy river access: Many sites feature convenient water access. At Thornapple River Campground, "The Thorneapple River is a sleepy, winding river. There are campsites right on the river. You can float or wade in it; it's shallow and refreshing," explains Amanda W.
Affordable glamping options: For those seeking glamping close to Jim Falls, Wisconsin, several locations offer reasonably priced accommodations. One visitor to the area mentioned, "Our criteria - less than $100, pet friendly and rustic," noting they found exactly what they wanted.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Bug activity varies by season. At Lake Wissota, one camper reported, "Very woodsy! Mosquitoes, gnats, and bugs galore." Another visitor at Chippewa NF Campground experienced "Tent worms! This memorial weekend was horrible! Tent worms had infested the campground! Dropping from the trees and landing on you and all your belongings!"
Bathroom availability: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. Some offer modern amenities while others are more primitive. "Flush toilets with token operated showers. Waterfront sites are usually full, but shallow boat ramp for trailers is close by," reports Philip M. about Chippewa NF Campground.
Site spacing: Campsite proximity differs by location. At Eagle Ridge Campground, one reviewer noted, "The spots were narrow and opened up to neighbors. We were fortunate to have no neighbor on either side, but I could see how that would limit privacy."
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during summer weekends. Chippewa County Pine Point Campground has "a variety of sites. If you can book lakefront with a dock those are the best. Others are quite small and tight for big rigs," according to David G.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. The Hixton - Alma Center KOA has "a swimming pool and a store and two bath houses. The lawn is cared for and there are flowers everywhere," according to Cheryl W. Eagle Ridge Campground mentions having "a large playground" available.
Beach considerations: Lake swimming areas vary in quality. One visitor to Lake Wissota State Park Campground noted, "Beach is nice, even better that they have a separate beach area for your leashed dog! (Its where my little terrier learned how to swim:)" However, another mentioned, "Unfortunately the beach is not very clean."
Noise levels: Some campgrounds experience noise from recreational vehicles. A Lake Wissota visitor mentioned, "Lots of boat noise from the lake and plane noise from a nearby airport. Close to Chippewa Falls for restaurants and stores. A great family destination, not so great for a peaceful couples weekend."
Glamping alternatives: For families seeking upscale glamping near Jim Falls, Wisconsin without roughing it, several options exist. Hixton - Alma Center KOA received praise for being a "Small, clean campground! Very friendly staff, very well kept! Dog park. There's also plenty of activities to do! You can swim in the pool, fish in the pond etc."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Some campgrounds require additional equipment for leveling RVs. At Hixton - Alma Center KOA, "The sites are a little close together and are gravel. We had to use boards to level our rig," reports one RVer.
Hookup availability: Electric and water services vary by campground. At Chippewa County Pine Point Campground, "Their measurements on their website are accurate. We arrived and didn't think we would fit but did," notes David G.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer on-site dump services. At Thornapple River Campground, "The hosts will pump your tanks for a $10 fee," which can be convenient for longer stays.
Cell coverage and connectivity: Signal strength varies throughout the region. At Eagle Ridge Campground, campers report good connectivity: "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."
