The Wisconsin River Valley offers access points to numerous camping sites near Spring Green, Wisconsin, with elevations ranging from 700-1,700 feet above sea level. The area features unique geological formations including quartzite bluffs, limestone caves, and river sandbars. Campers often note significant temperature fluctuations between day and night regardless of season, particularly at higher elevation campgrounds.
What to do
River recreation access: Governor Dodge State Park has two lakes for water activities. "Great state park for a family camping vacation, tons of stuff to do. Lakes, trails, kayaking, boating, paddle boarding, fishing. Hidden gem of Wisconsin," writes Meg S. about Twin Valley Campground.
Unique hiking trails: The Ice Age Trail passes through several campgrounds. "I left on foot from my campsite and hiked the Meadow Valley, Lost Canyon, Stephens Falls and Goldmine trails. Lost Canyon was BEAUTIFUL and had so many interesting geographical features," notes Mary M. about her stay at Twin Valley Campground.
Historical sites: Visit the restored shot tower at Tower Hill State Park. "The historic shot tower is so fun to visit," says Brianne M. about Tower Hill State Park Campground. The park also features 3+ miles of trails leading to exhibits and valley views.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many sites offer room for various camping setups. "Site #5 is the largest and nicest. #6 has a stone BBQ, but the grate is missing. #7 is possibly the most unique in the state, it has an old, restored wood burning oven," notes Brian O. about Tower Hill State Park Campground.
River access points: Wisconsin Riverside Resort provides direct river access. "The campground is right on the river, and provides rentals for canoes, kayaks, and tubes. They will shuttle you as far up the river as you'd like to go, and you float or paddle back while enjoying all the sand bars along the way," explains Kim L. about Wisconsin Riverside Resort.
Fall foliage viewing: Blue Mound State Park offers excellent autumn color. "The campground in Blue Mound State Park has well-maintained bathrooms, water faucets nearby, car camping, plus a few hike/bike-in sites. There are good views from a fire tower which sits atop the mound," reports Danielle A.
What you should know
Site-specific characteristics: Not all sites are equal at Blue Mound. "While I've visited several parks now that have 'walk in' sites, with cars parked a minute or two from the campsite, about a dozen sites in Blue Mound State Park take 'walk in' to a new level. Cars can drive to a barrier across the road, and the sites are a 10-15 minute walk downhill," reports Josh F. about Blue Mound State Park Campground.
Seasonal impacts: Insect activity varies by season. "Site 269, genuinely a perfect distance from the road with a reserved parking spot big enough for potentially 2 cars, nice trees for hammock hanging, decently level ground. PSA (obvi) keep your food and garbage locked up and away from your site. The raccoons here and insanely bold," warns Sarah R. about Governor Dodge State Park.
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly. "This park has some fabulous things to offer. There are 2 great (but a bit rocky) swimming beaches, AMAZING hiking with stunning views, the campgrounds are mostly kept up very nicely. Peak season reservations are a definite (weeks to months in advance for weekends)," advises Julie L.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Wisconsin Riverside Resort offers multiple swimming areas. "There is a decent sized pool that is clean and well-maintained with a smaller kiddie pool with a slide. There is also a man-made lake with a beach for swimming and bigger kids to enjoy the large inflatable slides and swim platforms," shares Kim L.
Playground facilities: Blue Mound State Park has excellent facilities for children. "This campground has a nice playground, hiking trails both short and longer and bike trails. The pool is very nice and very clean. There is a pool section and a splash section. There are chairs and lounges around both and shade awnings," details Debra M. about Blue Mound State Park Campground.
Family-friendly hiking: Several parks offer easier trails for children. "Perfect for a family get away - showers, flush toilets, lots of hiking (but trails aren't very challenging), swimming area and boat launch, playground. Basically a little bit of everything that makes it family friendly," explains Jen L. about Governor Dodge State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: Sites vary in their accommodation for larger RVs. "We got site 401 which is near the bathroom. There are plenty of trees between sites so others are heard more than seen. The site is large enough for my teardrop camper and a screen room and still have plenty more room," reports Art S. about Ice Age Campground.
Electrical hookup locations: Some campgrounds have hard-to-find connections. "It was nice that we were escorted to our site. Some campgrounds can be difficult to figure out sites. The staff member showed us where our electric hook up was; this was actually helpful because it was covered by trees. We would have hooked up to the wrong box," shares Kelly M. about Fireside Campground.
Leveling considerations: Not all sites have level parking areas. "The campground itself has wooded sites. Some larger than others so be sure to watch the site listing on ReserveAmerica to see how deep the site it," advises Tammy V. about Blue Mound State Park Campground.
