Primitive camping near St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin centers around the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, where multiple dispersed sites can be found within 30 miles of town. The area features sandstone cliffs rising above the river with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,100 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 80°F during day and drop to 60°F at night, with higher humidity levels contributing to significant mosquito activity during peak season.
What to do
Explore river trails: At Sandrock Cliffs, campers can hike along trails with scenic river views. According to one visitor, "The hiking trail was awesome also, you hike along the Saint Croix river. We had some cell service."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes and riverside areas provide good fishing access. One camper at Grace Lake Road Dispersed mentioned, "You're about 20 foot from the water and fishing is good."
Canoe and kayak access: Many sites serve as entry points for water activities. Some sites see regular paddler traffic, with one camper noting a "large group of kids that arrived by canoe/kayak" at Sandrock Cliffs.
What campers like
Secluded riverside spots: Many campers appreciate the quiet locations along the St. Croix River. A visitor to County Road O Landing shared, "We arrived in the late afternoon and drove all the way down the road, there are a few spots near the boat ramp and bathroom, but we parked near the trailhead and it was perfect!"
Natural wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk provide excellent wildlife observation opportunities. One camper staying at County Road O Landing reported, "We ended up staying in the parking lot near the boat ramp and woke up to amazing bird calls and left before 6am."
Spacious campsites: Several camping areas offer ample room for multiple tents at each site. A camper at Sandrock Cliffs noted, "Each one has a fire pit and a picnic table, and you could probably fit three or more tense at each site."
What you should know
Seasonal mosquito challenges: Insects can be problematic, particularly near water. A camper at County Road O Landing warned, "It was easy to find, and the spot itself was good and had restrooms. The only problem was the mosquitoes."
Site conditions vary: Some locations face cleanliness issues during busy periods. Campers should come prepared to potentially clean sites before setting up.
Location discrepancies: Some site coordinates may be inaccurate. A visitor to Graces Lake advised, "This spot was super nice and peaceful! Lots of different dispersed spots. Go down Tamarack Forest Road, which is a little further than the location on here."
Access challenges: Gates and narrow roads can limit vehicle access. One camper reported at Grace Lake Road, "gate is very narrow had to fold the mirrors on my Tacoma to squeeze through but if you park at the entrance it's a short walk."
Tips for camping with families
Select accessible sites: For families with young children, choose locations with minimal hiking required. Several sites offer drive-up access with short walks to campsites.
Pack extra insect protection: The riverside locations experience heavy mosquito activity, especially in summer months. Bring repellent, nets, and enclosed shelter options.
Consider weekday visits: For quieter experiences with children, avoid weekends when sites may attract more visitors. One Sandy Cove visitor noted, "The ease of access probably makes this a hangout spot as we saw a good amount of refuse around the pad."
Plan for variable river conditions: River levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting site conditions. A camper at Sandy Cove observed, "We visited in April after historic snowfall and thaw causing the river to flood. I'd imagine when the river is lower with the fire ring and table where they're supposed to be this would be a nice place for the night."
Tips from RVers
Research access limitations: Not all primitive sites accommodate larger vehicles. A visitor to Chinty Lake Roadside Camp noted, "This is literally just a roadside pull off not really a campsite (and the road was kinda busy)."
County Road O offers RV accessibility: Among the dispersed options, County Road O Landing provides the most reliable RV access with drive-in capability and room for larger vehicles in the parking area.
Limited hookups and services: No dispersed sites offer electric, water, or sewer hookups. RVers must be fully self-contained and prepared for primitive conditions when visiting these locations.
