The Kickapoo Valley area near La Farge, Wisconsin sits within the unglaciated Driftless Region, characterized by steep valleys and ridges rising 350-500 feet above valley floors. Camping spots near La Farge, Wisconsin primarily operate from mid-April through October with limited winter options. The area experiences seasonal flooding along the Kickapoo River that can affect campsite accessibility during spring melt and heavy rain periods.
What to do
Kayaking the Kickapoo River: Access the winding Kickapoo River from Westfork Sports Club & Campground, where campers can put in directly from the grounds. "A beautiful location in the Driftless Area of Wisconsin. Near hiking, biking, fishing attractions," notes one visitor. The river's gentle current makes it suitable for beginners, with typical float trips taking 2-3 hours between access points.
Hiking on Ice Cave Trail: Explore the unique geological formations at Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground, where the Ice Cave Trail offers a short but rewarding hike. "We'd love to come back and see the ice cave when it's cold enough for ice," mentions one camper. The trail is approximately 0.7 miles long and features limestone formations that collect ice well into spring.
Trout fishing: The streams around La Farge offer excellent trout fishing opportunities throughout the season. "There is good trout fishing at this campground. Recommended spots are one of the 5 ponds or the Bad Axe River," reports a camper at Esofea/Rentz Memorial Park. Fishing licenses are required and can be purchased in La Farge or nearby Viroqua.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: The camping areas in Kickapoo Valley Reserve provide exceptional privacy. "These are super primitive. The closest potable water source and bathroom are back at the visitor center which is a 10 minute drive. Bring a good water filter and something to gather firewood with," advises a camper. Sites can be up to half a mile from parking areas, so prepare accordingly.
Night sky viewing: The lack of light pollution makes Sidie Hollow County Ridge Campground an excellent spot for stargazing. "Nice woodsy campsites on the ridge. No swimming or store, but good hiking/biking trails in the driftless area of SW Wisconsin," notes a visitor. The upper camping areas provide clearer views than valley sites.
Wildlife encounters: The campgrounds around La Farge offer frequent wildlife sightings. "We hiked a short distance into our site. We had to pass a grassy area that was always full of bunnies! The site was of good size, dark and quiet," shares a Wildcat Mountain camper. Early mornings and evenings offer the best viewing opportunities for deer, wild turkeys, and other woodland creatures.
What you should know
Variable terrain and accessibility: Many campgrounds have steep approaches or uneven sites. "The driveway leading to the campground is a bit daunting (especially if pulling a camper), but its well worth it," notes a camper at Wildcat Mountain State Park. Large RVs may have difficulty navigating roads to some campgrounds, particularly after rain.
Limited cell service: Sidie Hollow Park Main Campground and surrounding areas have spotty coverage. "Just about 30/40 minutes outside of La Crosse is a quiet place called Sidie Hollow Park. You will have patchy phone coverage. If that's what you are looking for, then you will find it here," mentions a camper.
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance bookings while others are first-come, first-served. "Can reserve your spot at the mobil 1 gas station in town," notes a visitor to Beauford T. Anderson Park. La Farge City Park doesn't take reservations and fills quickly with locals on summer weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Best family-friendly sites: Esofea/Rentz Memorial Park offers amenities that work well for families. "The camping options range from full hookups to tent camping. Esofea campground has 27 campsites in total (4 with full hookups, 8 with electricity and 15 primitive sites)," explains one visitor. The park also features accessible fishing ponds suitable for children.
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. "The main camp area of the 3 parts of Sidie Hollow Parks... The main campground had nicer facilities and a playground for kids," mentions a reviewer who visited all three camping areas.
Wildlife education opportunities: Kickapoo Valley Reserve offers seasonal naturalist programs for children. "Great reserve. From Ontario WI to Lafarge WI the creek is over 22 miles. Campsites spacious, wooded and a-lot of hiking trails," notes a camper who enjoyed the educational aspects of the reserve.
Tips from RVers
Best hookup options: Blakey Hobbit Campground offers water and electric hookups with beautiful riverside sites. "Wi-Fi available. However, you should bring your own wood. None was available," mentions a camper. Their tent sites along the trout stream work for small to medium RVs as well.
Water access points: Most campgrounds have limited water sources. "Electric but no water hook up. There is an RV fill up and a dump," notes a camper at Sidie Hollow Park Main Campground. Plan to fill your tanks before settling at your site.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling blocks due to the hilly terrain. "Water/electric sites have gravel drives. Not all level," shares a camper about Sidie Hollow Ridge Campground. Bring additional leveling equipment, especially for larger rigs.
