Best Campgrounds near Prairie du Chien, WI

Prairie du Chien in southwestern Wisconsin has several good camping options amid its natural surroundings. Pikes Peak State Park Campground sits just across the river in Iowa, where many campers fish and take in Mississippi River views. Governor Dodge State Park is a quick trip from Prairie du Chien with many hiking trails and interesting rock formations to check out. Oelwein City Park Campground works well for families, with playgrounds and activities everyone can enjoy. You'll likely spot deer, raccoons, and various birds in this area, so keep your food secure to prevent wildlife encounters. The campgrounds typically come with basic stuff like picnic tables and fire rings, though some sites have more privacy than others. You'll find spots with good tree cover and others that are more open. When you're not at camp, you can visit the historic Villa Louis or explore Effigy Mounds National Monument nearby. Many campers prefer spring and fall visits when the weather is cooler and the leaves are colorful. Prairie du Chien has camping that works for both active and laid-back outdoor trips.

Best Camping Sites Near Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin (143)

    1. Wyalusing State Park Campground

    57 Reviews
    McGregor, WI
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 996-2261

    $15 - $35 / night

    "Short nice ride to prairie du chien."

    "This park also has nice hiking trails, good birding, clean bathrooms, recycling drop off, great cell and tv signals and is close to Prairie du Chien. Our site on the ridge was nice."

    2. Pikes Peak State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    McGregor, IA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 873-2341

    $20 / night

    "This campground is a short hike away from beautiful trails that overlook the confluence of the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers. The boardwalk trails also lead to a small falls and more."

    "It is within walking distance of the overlook of the magnificent Upper Mississippi River at the confluence of the Wisconsin River. There are other walking/hiking opportunities."

    3. Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest

    12 Reviews
    Waterville, IA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 586-2254

    $12 / night

    "The 2nd site in has a small pond at Camp side. Potable water is at HQ near registration kiosk."

    "We did the backcountry camping (less than 0.5 miles walking), but did get to see the regular campgrounds. There are other parks and waterways to visit nearby and a town nearby."

    4. Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest

    11 Reviews
    Waterville, IA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 586-2254

    $12 / night

    "The location is very nice, right next to the river. I wouldn't exactly call it a river though. It's nice and quiet, and very nice trail runs through it as well."

    "This site is like being in a garden with trees and flowers surrounding the site. It had rained and more rain was coming, so the gravel parking pad on #35 was appealing."

    5. Bloody Run County Park

    7 Reviews
    Marquette, IA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 245-1516

    "It was a beautiful area with the creek running right next to it only problem was there was some trash in the firing which we had to take care of. People are so lazy."

    "Came to this spot with plans to drive up to yellow river for fishing but ended up with the sweetest spot along bloody run creak."

    6. Little Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest

    4 Reviews
    Waterville, IA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 586-2254

    $12 - $75 / night

    "All of them, including the equestrian, have easy access to trout fishing. All are primitive - non-electric.

    Little Paint Creek:

    This is the larger of the two non-equestrian campgrounds."

    "The campground runs next to a trout stream and can be busy on weekends but with fishing, hiking, horse trails, the only setback is its primitive but being in the valley and near effigy mounds it's a winner"

    7. Nelson Dewey State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Cassville, WI
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 725-5374

    $33 / night

    "The site itself was sloped away from the road making it feel tucked into the trees. The downside was that the only flat space for the tent was very close to the fire pit."

    "Friendly Crowds and secluded spot despite us staying next to the main road for the camping area. Sunsets were beautiful looking west over the Mississippi River."

    8. Camp John Schultz — Yellow River State Forest

    2 Reviews
    Waterville, IA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 586-2254

    "Sounded by nature atop of hill hike near Fire tower ( only fire tower in Iowa), cell reception is found up here."

    9. Boulder Creek Campground

    3 Reviews
    Bagley, WI
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 996-2201

    $32 - $260 / night

    10. Fire Tower Cabin — Yellow River State Forest

    2 Reviews
    Waterville, IA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 586-2254

    $75 / night

    "Cabin has basic kitchen: fridge/freezer, micro, coffee pot, table/chairs, sleeping room with queen bed, 2 futons, AC/heat, fireplace screened porch, grill/smoker& fire ring outside, table, potable"

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Recent Reviews near Prairie du Chien, WI

436 Reviews of 143 Prairie du Chien Campgrounds



Guide to Prairie du Chien

Camping near Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, offers a mix of stunning views, outdoor activities, and family-friendly environments. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking your RV, there are plenty of options to enjoy the great outdoors.

What to do:

  • Hiking Trails: Explore the scenic trails at Wyalusing State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "Great hiking trails, overall a great place to stay," highlighting the beautiful landscapes.
  • Kayaking: The backwaters of the Mississippi River are perfect for kayaking. A visitor at Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground noted, "Awesome campground with lots of hiking trails, and access to backwaters of Mississippi."
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Pikes Peak State Park Campground. One reviewer said, "Beautiful scenery. Easy parking. Dump station," making it a great spot for anglers.

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • Train Noise: Be prepared for train sounds near some campgrounds. A reviewer at Nelson Dewey State Park Campground noted, "When trains are blowing their horns miles away, the sound carries."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Twin Valley Campground — Governor Dodge State Park, may have fewer amenities. A camper mentioned, "The bathrooms were disgusting and there were signs all over complaining about how short-staffed they were."
  • Seasonal Access: Check the season for each campground. For example, Pulpit Rock Campground is open from April 1 to November 1, so plan your trip accordingly.

Tips for camping with families:

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of RV sites. A reviewer at Backbone State Park mentioned, "Some sites seem pretty narrow to use RV awnings."
  • Look for Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups, which can be a lifesaver. A camper at Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park appreciated the availability of electric hookups.
  • Be Mindful of Slopes: Some sites may be sloped, making it tricky for RVs. A visitor at Pikes Peak State Park Campground noted, "Site 51... is near trailhead but on a slight slope."

Camping near Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, offers a variety of experiences, from breathtaking views to family-friendly activities. Just remember to check the specifics of each campground to ensure a great trip!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Prairie du Chien, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, Prairie du Chien, WI offers a wide range of camping options, with 143 campgrounds and RV parks near Prairie du Chien, WI and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Prairie du Chien, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Prairie du Chien, WI is Wyalusing State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 57 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Prairie du Chien, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Prairie du Chien, WI.

What parks are near Prairie du Chien, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Prairie du Chien, WI that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.