Camping options around Luck, Wisconsin feature a mix of state parks and private facilities, with elevations ranging between 925-1150 feet throughout the St. Croix River Valley region. The area's northern location offers cooler summer temperatures than nearby Minneapolis, typically 5-10°F lower during peak camping season. Winter camping is available at select locations, though most facilities close from late October through April.
What to do
Kayaking the St. Croix River: Access the river from Interstate State Park's North Campground where "Several people seemed to be there in groups, but we had no issues with noise. The pit toilets were cleaned and stocked with TP and sanitizer." Sites near the water provide convenient river access with "a small beach, boat dock for canoes and kayaks and fishing" available at D N Campground.
Ice Age Trail hiking: Follow glacier-formed terrain through multiple campgrounds in the region. "We loved the trails. It was easy to takes hikes of varying lengths. There were so many different kinds of birds, and the wildflowers were blooming and ferns were unfurling -so many shades of green!" reports a camper at William O'Brien State Park.
Explore glacial potholes: Visit the unique geological formations at Interstate Park. "The draw here is the world's largest glacial potholes. When the river ran 200' higher than it does today, tornados of water eroded smooth round, massive holes in the rock. Some are so big that they still to this day have no idea how deep they go."
What campers like
Private campsites: Many locations offer good site separation. At Wild River State Park, campers appreciate that "The sites are private, couldn't see any neighbors as there are a lot of trees. The park rangers were very helpful and informative." Sites vary in privacy levels across the region.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear night skies are frequently mentioned in reviews. "This is a solid state park offering. The sites are decently spaced with good tree cover... The star gazing area was great!" noted one visitor to Wild River State Park. Similar conditions exist at many campgrounds in the region, especially those farther from town lights.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse animal populations. At Interstate State Park Wisconsin, visitors enjoy "many interesting trails" with wildlife sightings common. Another camper at Wild River State Park mentioned: "We saw sooooo many deer some even walking right through campsites! You can hear coyotes, raccoons and very loud owls."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during summer weekends. "We had a last minute idea to go camping on Labor Day weekend... As luck would have it, there were no campsites available at any of the local state parks on the Wisconsin side or Minnesota side of the river."
Site selection considerations: Research carefully before booking as site quality varies significantly. "Be careful when booking as some sites are very close to others," warns a camper at Interstate State Park Wisconsin. For tent campers, one visitor to Straight Lake State Park noted: "There are two parking lots. Path good condition. Fire ring and picnic table with private site. 10 total."
Shower availability: Facilities range widely between campgrounds. "The bathrooms had been renovated" at one location, while at others "The pit toilets in the South Camp were not the cleanest, but it was a big end-of-summer holiday weekend. Some went up to use the showers at North Camp and they said they were nice (strong water pressure)."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access: Several campgrounds offer water access for children. At Wildwood RV Park & Campground, "The pool and playground were clean and nice. Our site had it's own picnic table and firepit." Another family mentioned "The kayaking/canoeing was an amazing adventure that everyone should try. It was even great for kids 3 and 6."
Playground amenities: Multiple locations feature play areas. "Along the river is a small beach, boat dock for canoes and kayaks and fishing, and a nice playground for kids" at D N Campground, providing entertainment options beyond hiking.
Noise considerations: Sound carries between sites at many locations. One camper at Wild River State Park reported that "Noise seemed to travel between sites, I had some loud neighbors during the day but they settled down before quiet hours." Family groups should select sites away from main roads when possible.
Tips from RVers
Limited big rig access: Many campgrounds have restrictions for larger vehicles. At Big Rock Creek, "We came up with our camper with the expectation we'd have electric and water hook ups... The electricity was not for a 30 amp hook up. It's 50 amp or us an adapter. We used the adapter and blew a circuit breaker when we used the A/C and the microwave at the same time."
Levelness challenges: Prepare for uneven sites. "Site was level and plenty. There was a shallow area not far from our door that we put the picnic table in as it seemed likely to be a place to fall otherwise," reported a camper at Interstate State Park Wisconsin.
Electric site limitations: While many campgrounds offer electric sites, they fill quickly and may have restrictions. One camper noted that Interstate State Park has "very small sites" and recommends against picking "a site inside the loop (the electrical hookup sites) if you want privacy."
