The Driftless Region around Ontario, Wisconsin sits in a unique unglaciated area characterized by deeply carved river valleys, limestone bluffs, and elevations ranging from 700-1,300 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with higher humidity from June through August, while spring and fall camping seasons offer cooler temperatures ranging from 45-70°F. The region contains over 600 spring-fed streams ideal for trout fishing.
What to do
Kayak the Kickapoo River: Launch from Ontario for a winding paddle through the Driftless Region. Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground provides easy river access. "We took the opportunity to kayak down the Kickapoo and had a blast - make sure you do some exploring while you are here," notes a camper.
Bike the historic Elroy-Sparta Trail: This 32-mile rail-to-trail route features three tunnels dating back to 1873. Tunnel Trail Campground sits directly on the path. "The Elroy Sparta Bike Trail, North America's first rails-to-trails project, runs through the Tunnel Trail Campground," states a reviewer who enjoyed "lots of wildflowers, cow farms and tunnels to bike through."
Explore Ice Cave Trail: A short 0.5-mile hike leads to seasonal ice formations visible in spring. "Ice Cave trail was a neat, quick walk. The trails around have gorgeous views of the driftless area and Kickapoo river," reports one visitor.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Most campgrounds in the region offer wooded, private spots. "The sites were spaced apart far enough so you weren't on top of the other campers. Very beautiful scenery, especially from the lookout," notes a visitor at Wildcat Mountain.
Clean facilities: Chapparal Campground And Resort maintains exceptional standards. "This ultra clean campground has amazing shower and bathroom facilities. All the camp sites are shady and super well kept," writes one camper who appreciated that "bathrooms are cleaned multiple times a day."
Affordable glamping structures: Several locations offer budget-friendly glamping in Ontario, Wisconsin. "Cabins are affordable and packed with amenities. There is a small camp store and boat rental where firewood is available," mentions a visitor to Pine View.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have minimal coverage. Bring printed maps and directions.
Seasonal limitations: Most Ontario area glamping options close by mid-October. "Lake Neshonoc is open April 15 to October 15," notes a camper.
Flood potential: The Kickapoo River can rise quickly after heavy rain. "The trail is washed out shortly to the north of the campground but at check in they let us know and told us what they thought was the best way to address the issue," reports a visitor at Tunnel Trail Campground.
Wildlife encounters: "We were required to keep all food in our car, but we were drinking and too lazy/drunk to take back all our food to the car... so we woke up in the middle of the night to find some smart raccoon had enjoyed our breakfast," cautions one camper at Wildcat Mountain.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Chapparal Campground offers both pool and pond swimming. "On site there is a small swimming pool that is clean and not too deep, as well as a giant beach and swimming hole. Campers may use the beach for free, but the inflatables that are on the water cost extra," explains a visitor.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with organized events. "With 2 swimming pools, daily activities, movies, and a full ice cream shop you won't be bored here," shares a family that stayed at Neshonoc Lakeside. They added, "Bingo, tie dye, outdoor movies, and other relay races kept the kids happy and adults amused."
Bring bikes: Multiple campgrounds have safe riding paths. "Our kids bring their bikes and have a nice time on the quiet and slow paths," mentions a family camper.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds require minimal adjustment. At Neshonoc, "It was spacious and very well kept, with a great view of the lake. Very easy to back in and get set up, almost level and took very little adjustment to get our spot in order."
Military base proximity: Pine View Campground - Fort McCoy has unique considerations. "Reveille, call to mess, retreat, tattoo and taps daily. If you were in the military and haven't heard bugle calls for awhile, this is the place," notes a veteran camper.
Tight turns for larger rigs: Some campgrounds have access limitations. "We had difficulty getting to our site as tight corners for rigs 38 feet or more," cautions an RVer at Tunnel Trail Campground.
