Glacial lakes and mixed deciduous forests characterize the landscape surrounding Knapp, Wisconsin, located in Dunn County about 15 miles south of Menomonie. The region's rolling hills were formed by the last glacial retreat, creating diverse ecosystems perfect for camping exploration. Summer temperatures typically range from 60°F to 85°F with higher humidity, while spring and fall offer cooler temperatures and fewer insects.
What to do
Hiking the woodland trails: At Kruger Campground, hikers discover secluded paths through dense forest areas. One visitor mentioned, "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." The trails connect to larger networks throughout the Richard J. Dorer State Forest.
Tubing the Chippewa River: Eagle Ridge Campground offers direct access to popular river recreation. A camper shared, "It is a great place to stay 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! Fun weekend!"
Beach swimming: Lake Wissota State Park features dedicated swimming areas for families. According to one reviewer, "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."
Stargazing opportunities: The open field areas at some campgrounds provide exceptional night sky viewing. A camper at Eagle Ridge noted, "This campground has a large grassy area - that gives a 100% clear obstruction for Starlink." These same open areas make for excellent stargazing locations on clear nights.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Kruger Campground and Management Unit receives high marks for site separation. One camper mentioned, "I love this place. Nice and tucked away. Sites are very private. Has beautiful trails. Next to the river great for exploring and fishing."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. A visitor to Eagle Ridge Campground observed, "The bathrooms were sparkling clean. The showers were hot and the laundry was reasonably priced."
Yurt camping options: For those interested in yurt camping near Knapp, Wisconsin, Afton State Park Campground offers this unique accommodation. A reviewer explained, "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."
Wildlife viewing: The rich ecosystems support diverse wildlife observation opportunities. At Stockholm Park Campground, visitors enjoy riverside wildlife with "Beautiful views and cute town. Small nicely maintained campground along the Mississippi River with great views and boat launch."
What you should know
Seasonal water availability: Water access points may vary by season and location. One camper at Afton State Park warned, "None of the water faucets or water pumps on the trails at Afton State Park are working. The good news is you can fill up on cold drinking water at the visitor center before trekking around the park's beautiful hiking trails!"
Train noise considerations: Some riverside campgrounds experience periodic train activity. A reviewer at Stockholm Park noted, "There are railroad tracks right next to the campground. The trains do not use a horn, and we didn't hear any at night."
Site sizing and selection: Lake Wissota State Park Campground offers varied site dimensions. One camper advised, "We selected site 67E online based on the campsite map and photo provided on the online reservation site. While all of the sites were very private - lots of trees and underbrush between, this one and 65E were ideally situated for dual sites."
Insect preparation: Wisconsin summers bring mosquitoes and other insects. A camper at Lake Wissota observed, "Very woodsy! Mosquitoes, gnats, and bugs galore. Beach is nice, even better that they have a separate beach area for your leashed dog!"
Tips for camping with families
Free recreation equipment: Lake Wissota State Park offers complimentary activity equipment. A visitor noted, "Firewood and ice sold on site. Also boat rentals and free yard games that can be checked out at the visitor center."
Dog-friendly water areas: Pets have designated swimming locations at some parks. One reviewer mentioned, "Beach is nice, even better that they have a separate beach area for your leashed dog! (It's where my little terrier learned how to swim.)"
Camper cabins for easier family stays: For families seeking more shelter than tents provide, camper cabins offer comfort with wilderness access. At Afton State Park, a visitor shared, "Perfect little cabin nestled in the southern half of the park! Screened in porch, heated with electricity, and two double bunk beds!"
Pack-in considerations: Some sites require hiking from parking areas. A camper at Afton State Park advised, "These sites do require a hike from parking. Would strongly discourage big coolers or lots of weight."
Tips from RVers
Satellite and internet access: Chippewa County Pine Point Campground offers varied RV site locations. A visitor mentioned, "This is a nice park with 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. Their measurements on their website are accurate."
Hookup availability: Electrical access varies across the region. At Stockholm Park Campground, RVers will find "$24 nt with hookup" according to one camper who added, "No showers, but bathrooms which were closed due to COVID. You need to fill up on water before arriving, there are electric hookups."
Site measurements: RVers should carefully verify site dimensions before booking. At Pine Point Campground, a camper shared, "We arrived and didn't think we would fit but did." Double-checking measurements online and calling ahead can prevent arrival disappointment.
