Camping cabins near Onalaska, Wisconsin range from basic wooden structures to more elaborate accommodations with kitchen amenities. Onalaska sits at approximately 710 feet above sea level in Wisconsin's Driftless Region, an area characterized by steep ridges and river valleys that escaped glaciation during the last ice age. Winter temperatures can drop below 0°F, while summer highs typically reach the mid-80s with moderate humidity.
What to do
Trout fishing: Access excellent fishing at Beaver Creek Valley State Park Campground, where cold, clear streams provide ideal trout habitat. "A lot of very well maintained trails. The only thing to know is there is no cell reception because of the valley," notes Kat C., highlighting the park's secluded nature.
Water activities: Enjoy kayaking and swimming at Neshonoc Lakeside, which features a 600-acre lake approximately 11 feet at its deepest point. "Lake Neshonoc is a local favorite! There is so much to do in La Crosse county. Shopping, food, hiking, boating, fishing kayaking," says Sara M. The campground offers both cabin rentals and RV sites.
Hiking options: Explore numerous maintained trails throughout the region, particularly at state parks like Whitewater State Park. "We hiked up Chimney Rock and then looped back to tackle part of the Dakota trail! The hiking paths were well taken care of," reports Sarah C., who visited on a day trip.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Champions Riverside Resort receives positive reviews for its maintenance standards. "We just returned from our second visit at Champions. The staff makes you feel welcomed and the overall environment is just fun! We love Saturday bar bingo and the large sand bar," writes Michelle A.
Swimming areas: Many cabin rentals provide access to swimming facilities, from natural lakes to constructed ponds. At Money Creek Haven, "The lake is murky and there are a lot of frogs, but that's camping. There are chairs and a shaded area available," explains Erica H.
Weekend activities: Organized events keep families entertained at several resorts. Kim L. from Neshonoc Lakeside notes, "With 2 swimming pools, daily activities, movies, and a full ice cream shop you won't be bored here. In the evening there was a Glow Parade where the full timers decked out their golf carts and drove around - candy for kids and lots of dancing."
What you should know
Site spacing: Campground layouts vary significantly between properties. At Whiskey Creek Family RV Park, you'll find "a beautiful white sand beach around a 1-acre swim pond. The water was the color of the Caribbean with these huge blow-up toys and slides in the middle," according to Whiskey C.
Seasonal operations: Most cabin rental facilities operate from April through October, with limited winter availability. For example, Neshonoc Lakeside runs from April 15 to October 15, while some state parks offer year-round options.
Reservation requirements: Peak summer weekends book quickly, often months in advance. Booking policies vary by location, with most requiring deposits and implementing cancellation fees.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for properties with dedicated children's activities. River's Edge Campground offers "inflatable rafts, a game room, a pool, boat dock, permanent and non sites, sand pit for kids, pounce pad, basketball court and playground," according to Megan S.
Cabin size considerations: Match accommodation size to your family needs. Some sleep only 2-4 people, while larger units accommodate 6+. At Justin Trails Resort, Michael V. reports, "Beautiful place, tent camping is available. Great breakfast and romantic setting for our anniversary. They sell wine and food in the store."
Budget planning: Cabin rates typically range from $75-$150 per night depending on size and amenities. Many locations charge additional fees for extra vehicles or guests beyond the base occupancy.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: When booking a cabin at a primarily RV-focused campground, ask about parking. Some sites require significant walking distance from parking to cabin locations.
Seasonal differences: Full-time RV residents create different atmospheres at various campgrounds. At Neshonoc Lakeside, Susan & Kevin W. note it "feels like a true old-school 'campground' not an rv resort or even an RV park. The kind of campground you loved as a kid. It is hilly with mature trees, although not every site has shade."
WiFi access: Internet connectivity varies dramatically between properties. At Beaver Creek Valley, campers report no cell service at all, while other locations offer limited WiFi access at main buildings but not in cabin areas.
