Tent campsites near Spring Valley, Wisconsin provide diverse seasonal experiences with over 30 miles of connecting hiking and river access points. Located where the Rush River meets the Mississippi River Valley, this area sits at elevations ranging from 600-1,300 feet. Summer camping conditions typically reach 80°F daytime temperatures with cooler 60°F nights, while spring and fall campers should prepare for temperature swings of up to 40°F within 24 hours.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Campers staying at Apple River County Park Campground can access multiple water recreation options. "This is a good spot for fishing, and canoeing or kayaking," notes reviewer Janet R., who suggests using this as a stop on a multi-day paddling trip.
Beach swimming: The swimming beach at William O'Brien State Park Campground offers a refreshing break from hiking. A reviewer mentions, "Tons of hiking, fishing, and great picnic area next to the river!" while another camper notes the "nice 40 mile ride mostly on paved or limestone trails" when biking to the park from St. Paul.
Wildlife observation: Early morning and dusk provide optimal wildlife viewing times around tent camping areas. At Savanna Campground, one visitor reported "You can hear frogs all night and we even saw a turtle laying eggs in a different campsite," highlighting the natural encounters possible when camping without the noise of RVs nearby.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: The walk-in tent sites at Lily Springs Regenerative Farm receive high praise for their privacy. "While the Lakeside site was serene, walking into the White Pine Meadow campsite felt magical," writes Krista T., who appreciated the combination of "farm animals of some sort and enough privacy" with "mowed grass and not being in someone's backyard."
River landscapes: Campers consistently mention the varied terrain surrounding tent sites near Spring Valley. A William O'Brien visitor noted, "We love this park! Two campgrounds to chose from. Tons of hiking, fishing, and great picnic area next to the river!" highlighting the diversity of landscapes in a single location.
Seasonal wildflowers: Spring and early summer campers can experience peak wildflower displays. One camper at William O'Brien State Park observed, "We loved the trails. It was easy to take hikes of varying lengths. There were so many different kinds of birds, and the wildflowers were blooming and ferns were unfurling - so many shades of green!"
What you should know
Tick precautions: Tent campers should check themselves daily, particularly in tall grass areas. At Lily Springs Farm, a visitor noted, "The pines tower over you, and the understory is full of beautiful ferns. The site is mowed, but we still managed to pick up one tick walking through the trail that leads to it."
Water availability varies: Not all tent camping areas maintain reliable water sources throughout the season. At Afton State Park Campground, one camper reported, "None of the water faucets or water pumps on the trails at Afton State Park are working. The good news is you can fill up on cold drinking water at the visitor center before trekking around the park's beautiful hiking trails!"
Firewood options: Pack a handsaw if staying at certain sites. At Afton State Park, a camper reported, "They do have firewood available however it is long slab wood, so you do need to cut it yourself. Hand hacksaws are provided, but were not great quality which made cutting the wood difficult."
Tips for camping with families
Cabin alternatives: Tony's Backyard and several state parks offer cabin options for families not ready for tent camping. "Camper Cabin (Eastern Bluebird) - Perfect little cabin nestled in the southern half of the park! Screened in porch, heated with electricity, and two double bunk beds!" reports a visitor to Afton State Park.
Kid-friendly wildlife: Reserve sites near water features to maximize wildlife encounters. At William O'Brien State Park's Savanna Campground, a camper reported, "This campground is lovely. You can hear frogs all night and we even saw a turtle laying eggs in a different campsite."
Playground access: Some campgrounds include playground facilities within walking distance of tent sites. A reviewer notes that Apple River County Park Campground features "adjacent day use areas including a group picnic shelter and playground," making it suitable for families with younger children.
Tips from RVers
Small trailers only: Many tent camping areas near Spring Valley can accommodate small trailers but have limitations. At Hok-Si-La City Park & Campground, a reviewer explains, "The campground was very full that weekend but the group sites are spacious and well spaced out...you definitely don't feel like you are on top of each other or another group."
Loading/unloading procedures: At tent-only campgrounds, special arrangements exist for gear transport. A Hok-Si-La visitor explains, "You cannot leave any cars near your campsite, you can drive in to drop off or pick up your gear but otherwise vehicles are parked in the main parking lot outside of the gate, which is not a big deal but from the group sites it is a trek to the lot and to the beach."
Limited electrical access: Most tent campgrounds offer minimal electrical outlets. Apple River County Park Campground provides "15 simple campsites geared towards tent camping, though 5 of the sites are equipped with electricity so folks with vans or small trailers might be comfortable here," according to a reviewer.
