The La Crosse River valley around Onalaska offers diverse camping options within Wisconsin's Driftless Area. The region features sandstone bluffs rising 500-600 feet above the Mississippi River floodplain with a continental climate bringing hot summers and cold winters. Campers can expect temperatures ranging from 80-90°F in summer months with occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
Hiking bluff trails: Great River Bluffs State Park offers short but rewarding hikes to scenic overlooks. "I love this area as the bluffs are stunning. It's Minnesota's little Switzerland. The park isn't much to look at and there's only a few look-out point onto the Mississippi but its a nice little campground," says Jason S.
Kayaking backwaters: Goose Island provides access to protected Mississippi River channels. "Excellent place to kayak and explore the backwaters of the Mississippi. You can put in or take out at the boat landing. See map in photos for 'canoe trail'. Goose Island is a nice place for fishing, swimming, and kayaking or canoeing," notes one reviewer.
Cycling trail networks: Veterans Memorial Park & Campground connects directly to the La Crosse River State Trail. "Vet's Park has direct access to the La Crosse Great River Trail where you can connect onto Elroy/Sparta Trail to the east and it directly to La Crosse Great River Trail to the northwest. You can also take the bike trail along the highway into town," explains a camper.
Birdwatching opportunities: The river valley attracts diverse waterfowl and raptors. "Bring binoculars; the river valley is a great viewing area for waterfowl, eagles, and hawks," recommends a visitor to Great River Bluffs.
What campers like
River views: Pettibone Resort offers sites directly on the Mississippi. "We stayed one night on our way to Minnesota. There is plenty of shade. The park streets are asphalt with two concrete strips for your tires in the sites. The park was quiet except when someone decided to shoot fireworks between 10-11 pm," notes David B.
Wildlife encounters: Great River Bluffs State Park provides opportunities to spot local fauna. "We saw a cardinal and 3 hummingbirds because they came to hang out right in our campsite! The fireflies at night were an added bonus!" shares Mi S.
Shaded campsites: Most local campgrounds offer tree cover for summer camping. "Stayed here in the fall. Had a site right next to the bathroom big enough for 2 tents and 2 vehicles. Hikes here offer great views of the river and bluffs and the fall colors are gorgeous!" reports Tori K.
Clean facilities: Perrot State Park maintains well-kept amenities. "Views were stunning, trails and picnic areas were well maintained (w/ clean vault toilets). Campground had nice clean facilities (w/ showers!) and forested campsite added some extra privacy," according to Jenna M.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding: Mississippi River campsites often flood in spring. "This place is a pretty great campground, and would be even better if it wasn't all under water this summer. Our site on the river was under water, so we got moved to another," explains a Goose Island camper.
Mosquito preparation: River valleys create breeding grounds for insects. "The bugs and mosquitos were almost unbearable. We fogged the site daily, had thermacells, and coated ourselves in bug spray - still came home completely bit up," warns Jennifer S. about Perrot State Park.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. "Highway noise from the highway running along the river and from I-90 (while not really noticeable during the day) is ridiculously loud at night. Added to this were the half dozen trains that ran through the night (horns going off too)," reports Bryan P. about Great River Bluffs.
Water quality issues: Goose Island has reported water concerns. "There were signs posted that the drinking water cannot be boiled, nor can it be given to babies or elderly due to high nitrates. But we brought our own water anyways," advises Kayla F.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Onalaska provide children's play areas. "Lots activities to choose from. Mini golf, canoeing, hiking, playgrounds and sandy beach with volleyball, and hayrides. Weekends also feature live bands and kids activities," mentions Dawn N. about Goose Island.
Kid-friendly beaches: Pettibone Resort offers swimming access. "We stayed here last summer and it's a great place to explore the region near the Mississippi River. Lots of amazing views, interactive signs and information that was perfect for our 4 year old," shares Jennifer B.
Pet exercise options: Many campgrounds welcome four-legged family members. "My dog enjoyed all the room he had at this site!" notes Tori K. about Great River Bluffs State Park.
Farm experiences: Some campgrounds offer unique educational opportunities. "Neat to see baby pigs and also grill some tasty steaks from the cool farm store!!" says Andy F. about Frickson Family Farms, one of several pet-friendly camping options near Onalaska.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most area campgrounds offer electric services with varying amp ratings. "Stayed in pull-through campsite #308 which was shady. It was a grass site with two concrete strips for my TT tires. There was more than enough parking for my TT and truck and grass on either side. The site included: picnic table on a concrete pad. Utilities were located in the rear. 20A/30A electric and water," describes David B. about Pettibone Resort.
Site spacing: Blueberry Fields Forever offers more secluded sites. "This campground is unique, and very beautiful. The setting is a blueberry farm, and the scenery is gorgeous! It is very quiet, when we were there we were the only campers," shares Mike H. about this dog-friendly option near Onalaska.
Seasonal camper prevalence: Some parks primarily serve long-term visitors. "Lake Neshonoc is a local favorite! Although this is a very clean campground with lots to offer to me is more like a tiny home 55+ with a golf cart at every trailer. There are maybe five tents site a few rv sites but this campground is all about the seasonal members," notes Sara M.