Dispersed camping near Onalaska, Wisconsin offers primitive outdoor experiences in the Driftless Area, a region characterized by deeply carved river valleys and forested ridges that escaped glaciation during the last ice age. Winter temperatures in the area often drop below 0°F, while summer highs typically reach the mid-80s. The Mississippi River backwaters and forested public lands provide seasonal habitat for migratory birds including bald eagles and waterfowl.
What to do
Paddle access camping: Crater Island requires boat transportation but rewards with riverside camping on sandy beaches. "Big parties in the cove" are common according to Michael V., who notes there are "no bathrooms no showers, just sand and water" at this Crater Island location.
Hiking trail exploration: The forested areas provide scenic hiking opportunities with varying difficulty levels. At Richard J Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest Isinours Management Unit, Demeri C. reports, "There are a few spaces with views you can hike in to but I opted for a spot next to my car. And ideal spot for a one nighter. I stopped here after a 12 hour drive got set up and even walked the trails for a few miles before bed."
Cycling and paddling combination: The Root River Canoe Campsite offers unique multi-modal access opportunities. Michael V. explains the site "has a bike trail that had a fork in the road that leads right to it someone could walk, hike, canoe or kayak to access this campground."
What campers like
Secluded overlooks: The elevated campsites provide unique vantage points. At Isinours Management Unit, Stephanie K. shares that "The hike up the hill to the overlook is a daunting one. We used a collapsible wagon to haul all the supplies up the hill. There are two hike in sites here at overlooks that give spectacular views."
Water access sites: The Mississippi River and its backwaters create opportunities for boat-in camping with riverside amenities. Michael V. notes that if Root River Canoe Campsite is full or inaccessible, "there are plenty of islands and beaches near by to set up for camping."
Historical connections: Some sites maintain connections to their past uses. Michael V. describes the Root River site as "used and built by Boy Scouts ages ago. It's still exist, however the river changed course and is further away than it once was."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Water access sites may have operational restrictions. "Very busy on weekends in the summer, as long as there is no dredging operations going on, otherwise it's closed," explains Michael V. about Crater Island.
Challenging terrain: The Driftless Area topography creates steep hiking conditions. Richard J Dorer Memorial State Forest Reno Unit features trails that are "not a very long hike but it's steep with drop offs. Not for those that are scared of heights," according to Michael V.
Limited site identification: Finding designated camping areas can require extra effort. Michael V. notes that at the Reno Unit, "camp spots are not well marked I stayed in the old rock Cory when I camped here, years ago."
Tips for camping with families
Equipment transportation: Consider gear hauling methods for hike-in sites. Stephanie K. recommends "a collapsible wagon to haul all the supplies up the hill" when accessing the Isinours Management Unit overlook sites.
Basic amenities: Some primitive sites retain minimal facilities. The Root River site maintains "a pit toilet, picnic tables, and a fire ring," making it suitable for families needing basic amenities.
Car access options: Not all dispersed camping requires difficult access. Demeri C. appreciated that Isinours Management Unit offered options where you could camp "next to my car," providing easier setup for those with children or extensive gear.
Tips from RVers
Steep access considerations: Most dispersed camping areas near Onalaska have terrain limitations. RV campers should note Michael V.'s warning about the Reno Unit being "steep with drop offs," indicating unsuitable conditions for larger vehicles.
Site size limitations: Dispersed camping areas typically accommodate tents rather than vehicles. Michael V. describes the Root River site as "ideal for tent camping via bike, kayak or canoe," suggesting limitations for larger camping setups.
