Tent campsites near Richland Center, Wisconsin range from walk-in forest sites to established campgrounds with limited amenities. The surrounding driftless region features steep limestone bluffs, sandstone outcroppings, and rolling hills that weren't flattened by glacial activity. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with higher humidity levels, while spring camping often means dealing with seasonal rainfall and muddy trails.
What to do
Hiking scenic trails: Governor Dodge State Park Backpack Campsites offers extensive hiking opportunities beyond the campsite areas. A camper notes there are "great hiking trails throughout the state park" with the Lost Canyon Trail described as "stunning with bluffs, small water fall."
Fishing nearby waters: Tent campers at Camp John Schultz in Yellow River State Forest can access quality fishing. One visitor recommends to "Come a trout fish!" and mentions "awesome campground" conditions despite the need to carry in water.
Disc golf and winter activities: At Justin Trails Resort, disc golf attracts numerous visitors during warmer months. According to a reviewer, "Disc golf is busy here, in winter they have sledding hills." The property also features llamas that guests can feed.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many tent campsites provide good separation from other campers. At Sparta Campground, sites are "large, so if traveling with a group would have room for 3-4 tents in one site," offering space for families or friend groups camping together.
Backpacking opportunities: Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry offers quality backpacking experiences. A camper reports it has "a few longer trails for backpacking" and notes they've "used these trails/this park to prepare for longer trips." Another visitor describes finding "wonderful spots to camp and the creeks are very clean and pretty."
Natural features: Unique geological formations enhance many camping locations. One backpacker at Reno Horse Campground found "a large open area, perfect for multiple tents" with "sandstone bluffs in the background" and mentions "hiking trails, including a trail that goes on top of the bluff with views of the forest and of Wisconsin and the Mississippi River."
What you should know
Highway noise levels: Some campgrounds experience significant traffic noise. Sparta Campground has been described as "very near the interstate so not the quietest of places" with a reviewer noting "truck traffic was loud all night" on weekdays, though "traffic noise was considerable less" on weekends.
Non-resident fees: Wisconsin state parks charge different rates based on residency. One visitor to Devils Lake State Park Group Campground notes that non-residents face an "upcharge ($30 vs. $15 plus fees)" which led them to seek alternative camping at town parks.
Insect activity: Bugs can be problematic at certain times. One camper at Sparta Campground reports they "were met with swarms of mosquitoes" during their visit. Similarly, at Camp John Schultz, a visitor references "typical summer insects" as part of the experience.
Tips for camping with families
Group camping options: Hickory Ridge Group Camp offers facilities suitable for family gatherings. A visitor describes it as a "nice family campground" with "a lot of amenities including shower" facilities that enhance comfort for groups with children.
Beach access: Devils Lake State Park provides swimming opportunities after a hike. A camper mentions there's "a beach and camp store/concession stand (south) a short drive or longer walk away" where families can "rent paddle boards, canoes, kayaks and paddle boats."
Wildlife encounters: Camping in this area often includes animal sightings. One group at Devils Lake "got a visit from some local raccoons at night," while another mentions hearing birds that "can sound like a large pack of dinosaurs squawking at each other...very loud," which might fascinate or frighten children.
Tips from RVers
Water access planning: For tent campers considering small RVs, water availability varies significantly. At Yellow River State Forest, "potable water is at HQ near registration kiosk" but needs to be carried to campsites. Another visitor notes that if you "require electric bring a generator" as hookups aren't available at many primitive sites.
Walk-in distances: Many tent sites require carrying gear from parking areas. At Sparta Campground, sites can be "about a 600 yard hike in from the parking lot, down a trail that can get quite muddy, especially during rain." Plan accordingly with appropriate gear transport solutions.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies throughout the region. Camp John Schultz visitors "loved the lack of cell phone reception," while at the nearby fire tower (the only one in Iowa), "cell reception is found up here." This information helps campers plan communication needs.
