Campers exploring yurt camping near Onalaska, Wisconsin can access a diverse network of waterways including the Mississippi River, Black River, and La Crosse River. The region's driftless topography features deep river valleys, limestone bluffs reaching 500+ feet above the valley floor, and numerous spring-fed trout streams. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing between November and March, while summer highs typically reach the 80s with moderate humidity.
What to Do
Trout fishing at local streams: Great River Bluffs State Park offers excellent fishing opportunities for multiple species. "Lake Sturgeon, Bass, Muskie, Pike, Walleye, and Bluegill can be caught at this location," notes one Neshonoc Lakeside visitor who appreciated the 600-acre lake that reaches about 11 feet at its deepest points.
Explore hiking trails with scenic overlooks: The bluff country provides numerous trail options with panoramic views. "The trail system is mostly level and I would label as easy hiking with rolling hills. The park contains two viewing areas King's and Queen's Bluff," reports a camper at Great River Bluffs State Park, who recommends bringing binoculars for spotting waterfowl, eagles and hawks.
Kayaking and tubing on local rivers: The Root River offers gentle waters perfect for beginners. "The campground rents out tubes as well as provides a shuttle to the starting point and you float down to the campground," explains a visitor to Eagle Cliff Campground, adding that the grounds are "minutes away from downtown Lanesboro, which is a cute little town with some shops, restaurants, and bars."
What Campers Like
Clean, modern bathroom facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high standards for their facilities. "The sites are spacious and the grounds are very roomy and level. Showers are well kept and nice, with plenty of accessible shower facilities," reports a visitor to Neshonoc Lakeside.
Peaceful campsites with river views: Water access ranks high on camper priorities. "The Root River goes right alongside most of the campsites which creates a really peaceful space," shares a visitor to Eagle Cliff Campground, who found the grounds "super clean including the showers and porta-potties that are available for campers."
Various accommodation options: Beyond standard tent and RV sites, the area offers diverse lodging. "A great campground for a nice getaway, Cabins are affordable and packed with amenities," reports a camper at Pine View Campground, which features cabin rentals along with tent and RV sites.
What You Should Know
Seasonal operating schedules: Most campgrounds have limited seasons. "The campground is open for camping between April 15th and October 15th each year," notes a camper at Esofea/Rentz Memorial Park, which offers 27 campsites including 4 with full hookups, 8 with electricity, and 15 primitive sites.
Reservation recommendations: Popular sites book quickly during peak seasons. "Book online before you get there! Also book your car pass separately," advises a visitor to Great River Bluffs State Park, who also mentioned limited staff availability at times.
Weather and bug considerations: The local climate affects camping conditions significantly. "Fall would be the best time to visit after the mosquitoes are gone and when the leaves have turned. Winter would also be good," suggests a camper at Whitewater State Park, noting that the park has "9 miles of groomed X-country ski trails."
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for campgrounds with organized activities: Some sites offer structured entertainment options. "With 2 swimming pools, daily activities, movies, and a full ice cream shop you won't be bored here," reports a visitor at Neshonoc Lakeside, mentioning additional evening activities like "a Glow Parade where the full timers decked out their golf carts and drove around - candy for kids and lots of dancing."
Consider campsites with easy water access: Swimming options rank high for family enjoyment. A Whitewater State Park camper appreciated the "nice swimming beach" and "big nature store with lots of great stuff," adding that families would enjoy the "7 miles of hiking trails."
Select yurt accommodations for comfort: Yurt camping offers a middle ground between tents and cabins. "Campground has a fun vibe with great views if you are looking for lots of activities for kids this is a great place," shares a visitor to Wildcat Mountain State Park, where camping options include convenient walk-in sites with "carts to use and parking wasn't too far."
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions and access roads: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "The sites were spacious and very well kept...very easy to back in and get set up, almost level and took very little adjustment to get our spot in order," reports a Neshonoc Lakeside visitor who stayed in site 183, noting that sites have gravel pads with some featuring concrete patios.
Consider utility hookup availability: Hookup options vary widely between campgrounds. "All sites had a nice picnic table and fire ring. We had to 'dig' to ours with a small snow shovel in the car, but it wasn't an issue," explains a winter camper at Whitewater State Park, who noted that while water service was off in the campground during winter, a spigot remained accessible at the visitor center.
Verify campground policies: Rules differ between locations. "The sites are all level with a gravel pad, some also have concrete patio and all have nice fire pits. While there aren't a lot of trees or shade, it was a great site with our awning out," reports a Neshonoc Lakeside visitor who appreciated the nearby LaCrosse River trail for biking that was "a short drive away."
