Spring Valley, Wisconsin sits within the gentle valleys of western Wisconsin at approximately 1,080 feet elevation. The area features rolling hills, hardwood forests, and access to the Eau Galle River flowing into Lake George reservoir. Camping options around Spring Valley typically remain open from April through November, with most facilities closing during the winter months due to seasonal weather patterns.
What to do
Paddle at Lake George: The reservoir at Highland Ridge - Eau Galle Reservoir offers non-motorized boating opportunities. "Great for hiking and kayaking/canoeing is near by," notes David E. The lake serves as a peaceful water recreation area despite being approximately a 10-minute drive from the main campground.
Disc golf: Hoffman City Park features frisbee golf alongside other recreational amenities. "There are a lot of restaurant options near by if you don't want to cook," notes Anna. This park serves as a convenient base for travelers who want to combine camping with urban amenities.
Fishing access: Local waterways provide fishing opportunities throughout the camping season. At Highland Ridge, "the lake is small and beautiful," with "a couple of people fishing on the lake" according to Lee D. The Eau Galle Reservoir supports several fish species and offers uncrowded shoreline access.
What campers like
Natural privacy: Secluded sites with tree coverage enhance the camping experience at Nugget Lake County Park. "This park had lots of old tree coverage. The site we had was secluded enough from others," writes Ames. The mature forest creates natural barriers between campsites while maintaining access to trails and facilities.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently note well-maintained bathrooms at several campgrounds near Spring Valley. "Very clean, well maintained sites and group shelter area," says Brigid K. about Highland Ridge. The Army Corps of Engineers manages this campground with regular maintenance schedules, including daily bathroom cleaning before 6 AM.
Proximity to Twin Cities: Campgrounds in this region serve as accessible weekend getaways from the metropolitan area. "Nice getaway close to the Twin Cities... only an hour from our home in the northern suburbs," writes Deb M. The relatively short driving distance makes Spring Valley area campgrounds practical for weekend trips from Minneapolis/St. Paul.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Many campgrounds have variation between loops and sites. At Glen Hills Park Campground, "There are three campgrounds in this park. Peninsula is the one with electric and is good and bad. The site really matters," according to Mike R. Research specific site numbers and loops before booking to match your camping needs.
Limited cellular connectivity: Cell service varies widely throughout the area. "AT&T service is spotty throughout the park with either 1 or 2 bars," notes Deb M. Service improves in spring and fall when there are fewer leaves on trees. Verizon shows slightly better coverage across most campgrounds.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance reservations through Recreation.gov or Wisconsin DNR systems. First-come options like Butternut Park with "about a dozen sites with picnic tables on a grassy large circle" provide alternatives when reservation sites are full.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Hoffman City Park, one visitor noted the "great playground area for kids to play," making it "a nice place to stay overnight with kids for a reasonable rate." The park includes multiple play structures suitable for different age groups.
Natural playgrounds: Beyond standard equipment, some parks offer creative play environments. "There is a 'natural playground' by the beach, which is very creative and the kids easily pass a couple hours there," writes John W. These nature-based play areas encourage exploration and imagination.
Pet-friendly options: For families camping with dogs, Willow River State Park Campground allows pets while offering extensive trail systems. "We did SO many miles hiking!" reports Sarah L. The park maintains pet-friendly policies while preserving natural areas through leash requirements.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Highland Ridge sites vary in terrain. "Our site sloped down but leveled out with plenty of room for our campervan at the bottom," notes Lee D. Many sites require leveling equipment, particularly for larger rigs. Sites in the 28-38 loop tend to have more pronounced slopes.
Access limitations: Some campgrounds have restricted access for larger vehicles. At Glen Hills, "Sites are small and can be difficult to get into with large rigs," according to Kristin F. Check maximum length restrictions before booking, as many older campgrounds were designed for smaller trailers and motorhomes.
Limited full hookups: Most campgrounds offer electric-only sites with communal water access and dump stations. Hoffman City Park provides electric hookups but "not water hook up. There is a dumping station at the exit," explains Mary H. RVers should plan water usage accordingly or arrive with full tanks.
