Campgrounds near Platteville, Wisconsin offer diverse terrain ranging from steep limestone bluffs to river valleys, with elevations between 600-1,200 feet throughout the region. The driftless area remains untouched by glaciers, creating unique landscapes with deep valleys and sandstone formations. Proximity to both the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers provides varied camping environments within a 30-mile radius.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: Grant River Recreation Area in Potosi features riverside trails with Mississippi River views. "Nice views of the Iowa and Wisconsin Mississippi River bluffs. Lots of noise from the railroad that has a train every 30 min," notes Adam in his review of Grant River Recreation Area.
Water activities: Yellowstone Lake State Park offers a 455-acre lake with multiple access points. "What really makes this campground is the lake. There's a nice beach for kids and adults to relax at and lots of kayaks on the water," according to Ryan K., who visited the park in May 2024. The park maintains Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground with both swimming and fishing options.
Geological features: Explore unique rock formations throughout the region. Twin Valley Campground features "Lost Canyon was BEAUTIFUL and had so many interesting geographical features. The trails behind the hike-in campsites also lead to some cliffs with some really amazing views," according to Mary M., who hiked directly from her campsite.
Winter activities: Limited winter camping options exist, but some parks remain open year-round. "The first weekend in October can sometimes be a little iffy weather wise, but we lucked out with pretty warm temperatures," notes Siobhan R. about her fall trip to Governor Dodge State Park.
What campers like
River views: Many campers value sites with views of the major rivers. "Nice campground. Cement pads and blacktop roads. Clean shower houses. Has sites with views of the Mississippi," writes Dave M. about his experience at Grant River Recreation Area.
Private sites: Secluded camping spots offer respite from crowded conditions. "We stayed at a 'walk in' spot about 200 feet from where you can park the car. It is very secluded and tree cover allows you to be hidden from all others," Michael S. mentions about his stay at Yellowstone Lake State Park.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities receive frequent positive mentions. "Bathrooms were clean enough. What really makes this campground is the lake," states Ryan K. about Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife populations. "There are lots of wildlife to enjoy and Yellowstone. A beautiful park and tons of hiking and nice lake," notes Mallory M. in her review, highlighting the natural setting that attracts many campers.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds along the Mississippi report significant railroad noise. "Stop here on a whim. Loved the view of the Mississippi River. But, the trains going by during the night was a bit annoying," Leslie P. writes about her experience at Grant River.
Seasonal flooding: Spring camping can encounter high water levels along river areas. "Some sites were tight and the lack of fire rings was disappointing," Mike F. noted about Palace Campground in Galena, Illinois, which sits within the regional watershed.
Reservation requirements: Most developed campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak season. "Peak season reservations are a definite (weeks to months in advance for weekends)," Jen L. advises about Governor Dodge State Park.
Site selection considerations: Campground terrain varies significantly. "If camping with a trailer or RV check to make sure you will get a campsite that is level enough for your vehicle. Lots of the campsites are uneven and larger vehicles may have issues getting level," warns Jeanne M. about Yellowstone Lake State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "Very spacious, grassy and clean. There are a lot of people with RVs so it's pretty lively. Swings and playground for kids," Ivana B. writes about Palace Campground in her review.
Beach activities: Lakes with swimming areas provide family-friendly recreation. "Great family friendly. Showers, flush toilets, lots of hiking (but trails aren't very challenging), swimming area and boat launch, playground," Jen L. shares about Twin Valley Campground.
Wildlife awareness: Prepare for wildlife encounters, particularly after dark. "Beware of raccoons at this campground they are BOLD!" warns Jen L. about Twin Valley Campground, while another camper adds "PSA keep your food and garbage locked up and away from your site. The raccoons here are insanely bold."
Bathroom proximity: Consider site location relative to facilities when camping with children. "Big private sites but the toilet is a hike," Kay K. notes about Yellowstone Lake State Park, an important consideration for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring preparation. "All sites had gravel driveways and looked level. Decent separation between sites although they are close together, as would be expected in an RV park," Lee D. notes about Rustic Barn Campground RV Park.
Hookup availability: Full hookup options vary throughout the region. "Some are long pull-throughs, some are back-in, some have 30 amp with or without a patio, and some have 50-amp electric with or without a patio," explains Lee D. about Rustic Barn Campground.
Size limitations: RV campers should verify site dimensions before booking. "Lower being better for larger RVs while upper has more shaded, cozier sites better for smaller rigs and tents," Brian O. advises about Twin Valley Campground's two sections.
Weather considerations: Rain can create challenging conditions at some RV sites. "We stayed in site 25 which was on an end, had great views, a concrete patio with table and chairs, and was level. Not all sites had the patio nor were level," notes Chris S. about site selection at Rustic Barn Campground.
