Yellow River State Forest provides backcountry tent camping opportunities northwest of Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. The forest terrain features sandstone bluffs, dense woodland, and elevation changes unusual for Iowa. Campers should prepare for primitive conditions with no facilities at many sites, as potable water is only available near forest headquarters and must be carried to backcountry locations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Camp Glen Wendel in Yellow River State Forest offers access to stocked ponds and nearby streams. "Very secluded with good fishing opportunities and great fishing in the area!" reports Lindsey R.
Training for longer trips: The interconnected trail systems at Yellow River make it ideal for practicing backpacking skills before bigger adventures. "Great park with a few longer trails for backpacking. Have used these trails/this park to prepare for longer trips. Wonderful spots to camp and the creeks are very clean and pretty!" notes Brooke M. about Camp Glen Wendel.
Wildlife viewing: Campers at Shady Rest Acres near Brownsville can observe farm animals up close. "They have donkeys, Scottish Highland cows (a family of them), sheep, goats, chickens, bees, horses, ducks, cats and dogs," writes Amy G., adding that "the chickens roam, the dogs make friends and the cats meander."
What campers like
Star visibility: The open skies at Camp Glen Wendel provide excellent night viewing opportunities. "Great spot to view the stars. Awesome for kids," says Macel C. about the primitive tent camping experience.
Seclusion: Tent campers appreciate the privacy at Worthington Sportsman's Club, where sites feel hidden even when others are nearby. "So secluded without being in the middle of nowhere. People driving around the pond didn't even know we were there!" reports Becky.
Challenging terrain: The hills and valleys provide unexpectedly difficult hiking for Iowa. "There are some thin trails down steeper hillsides, so make sure to take it slower if the ground is muddy," advises Kevin C. about Camp Glen Wendel.
What you should know
Free backcountry camping: Some sites at Yellow River don't require payment but operate first-come, first-served. "This site fills up really fast because of the cheap price of only 9 dollars. This is the cheapest but one of the best campsites I've been to," notes kevin T.
Limited facilities: Echo Valley State Park offers basic amenities for tent camping near Prairie du Chien. "This campground is non-electric, self-pay, non-reservable, and has only a few sites. There is a nice trout stream, with a few sites right by the stream," explains Kerry M.
Cell reception varies: Coverage depends on location within the forests. "I've backpacked here multiple times and have only run into other people once or twice. Hidden gem," reports Brooke M., while another camper notes you can find cell reception near the fire tower.
Tips for camping with families
Easy overnight practice: Yellow River offers good introductory backpacking for families with children. "Been coming to yellow river for years but have always wanted to go backpacking. Finally, convinced one of my friends to come with," shares Shyla G., though she humorously adds they "ended up getting scared around midnight from the noises."
Accessible nature exploration: Camp John Schultz provides less strenuous options while still offering a wilderness feel. "Hiked into this Camp that includes 5 primitive sites: fire rings and benches. Lush dense forest with intermediate hiking including typical summer insects," describes James M.
Animal encounters: Kids enjoy the wildlife viewing opportunities in the region's parks. "There is hunting open to the public so enjoy and/or be careful!" cautions Lynn G. about Yellow River State Forest.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most primitive sites in the region work best for tents or small vehicles. "This is most suitable for tent, truck, or teardrop camping… large RVs would not do well," warns Kerry M. about Echo Valley State Park.
Alternative options: If you need hookups, look beyond the state forests. "The driveways are gravel and pretty level. 3 drive through sites and 4 back in spots with a few nice trees. Water electric and sewer connections at each site with a separate dump station," explains Brody about Gateway Park Campground, though he rates it only 2 stars, noting it's essentially an "Iowa corn field roadside park."
