Driftless Region camping near Ontario, Wisconsin centers on steep, varied terrain ranging from 300 to 1,700 feet in elevation. The Kickapoo River watershed creates a unique camping environment with numerous access points for recreation. Campgrounds typically remain open from April through October with seasonal closures during winter months due to snowfall and temperature drops.
What to do
Kayaking the Kickapoo River: Multiple river access points near Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground allow for paddling trips of various lengths. "Great location for kayaking and hiking. The facilities are well maintained and clean. Camping sites are spacious and the stars at night is amazing. Bring or rent kayaks to float the Kickapoo River. Ontario to bridge 5 was 2.5 hours," reports John B.
Biking the Elroy-Sparta Trail: The trail runs directly through Tunnel Trail Campground, offering convenient access for cyclists. "The Elroy Sparta Bike Trail, North America's first rails-to-trails project, runs through the Tunnel Trail Campground. We rode from Norcross to Rockland with a stop in Sparta at the Market Tavern. We enjoyed the hot ham and cheese sandwich, fried mushrooms, and excellent brown ale," notes Cindy B.
Winter recreation: While most campgrounds close seasonally, winter activities continue throughout the region. "We'd love to come back and see the ice cave when it's cold enough for ice," mentions Kristina K. about Wildcat Mountain State Park, which maintains year-round operations with limited winter facilities.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The rural setting creates excellent conditions for night sky viewing. "Kickapoo kayaking. Great reserve. From OntarioWI to Lafarge WI the creek is over 22 miles. Campsites spacious, wooded and a-lot of hiking trails. No ambient polluty, stars magnificent," shares Loren S. from Kickapoo Valley Reserve.
Trout fishing access: Streams throughout the region provide fishing opportunities directly from campsites. "One night at a tent spot booked through VRBO. The check-in process was a bit confusing, but that was forgotten with the location. Beautiful trout stream along the sites. Great place for star gazing as well," reports Anthony L. about Blakey Hobbit Campground.
Primitive camping options: For those seeking less developed sites, backcountry options exist. "I hiked in to Site C. It was maybe around a half mile walk from the closest parking. The trails I saw were more like small roads, but still had beautiful views. You have to book the sites online, but this isn't a typical campground, you'll be VERY far away from any other campers," explains Sean M. about Kickapoo Valley Reserve.
What you should know
Campsite terrain variation: Many campgrounds feature significant elevation changes. "We kayaked the Kickapoo river and stayed here for a night. We didn't reserve a site so the only spots left were the walk-in sites. There were carts to use and parking wasn't too far so it wasn't bad at all. Hiking trails were pretty close and we had quite the exercise going up/down the mountain," notes Joyce B. about Wildcat Mountain State Park.
Highway noise concerns: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds due to proximity to major roads. "The campground is super easy to get to as it is adjacent to I-90 which means you'll also deal with highway noise. The noise becomes just background after a while and the full hookups mean running the RV air conditioner at night somewhat blocks the traffic sounds," explains Bob R. about Oakdale KOA.
Seasonal facility limitations: Municipal campgrounds offer varying levels of access to community amenities. "The swimming pool is also available for a $5 admission. Hours are irregular due to a shortage of available lifeguards," points out Pat L. regarding Wilton City Park.
Tips for camping with families
Community pool access: Several campgrounds provide swimming facilities or nearby recreational options. "This campground is owned and operated by the village of Wilton, Wi. It is primarily marketed toward cyclists riding the Elroy Sparta Rail Trail. It is part of a community recreation center that includes a nice swimming pool and various ball fields," mentions Pat L. about Wilton City Park.
Educational opportunities: Military history and environmental programs available seasonally. "A great campground for a nice getaway, Cabins are affordable and packed with amenities. There is a small camp store and boat rental where firewood is available," reports Erick H. about Pine View Campground at Fort McCoy.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds feature wildlife observation opportunities. "We hiked a short distance into our site. We had to pass a grassy area that was always full of bunnies! The site was of good size, dark and quiet. The shower house was close and clean," shares Kay K. about Wildcat Mountain State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Road conditions and site configurations may limit larger vehicles. "We had difficulty getting to our site as tight corners for rigs 38 feet or more," notes Becky M. about Tunnel Trail Campground.
Electric and water hookup logistics: Utilities vary significantly between campgrounds. "I parked my 34' travel trailer with no problem. They have 50amp service and potable water halfway up the hill. They do have showers, bring your quarters," explains Bob M. about La Farge City Park.
Level site availability: Terrain impacts site quality for RVs throughout the region. "Arrived on Saturday so was full of tents and kids. Appears to be many locals. Cost is $20/night for 30amp and one dump use. Shade trees and picnic tables. Sites are slanted on hillside," cautions Lindy T. about La Farge City Park.
