The Driftless region near Viroqua, Wisconsin occupies a unique geographical zone that escaped glaciation during the last ice age, creating steep valleys up to 500 feet deep and narrow ridges ideal for dispersed camping. This topography produces numerous microhabitats supporting trout streams and diverse wildlife around camping areas. Elevation changes of 250-400 feet between valley floors and ridge tops create distinct temperature variations campers should prepare for.
What to do
Kayaking the Kickapoo River: Multiple campgrounds provide river access, including Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground where one visitor reported, "We took the opportunity to kayak down the Kickapoo and had a blast - make sure you do some exploring while you are here." Another camper noted specific durations: "Bring or rent kayaks to float the Kickapoo River. Ontario to bridge 5 was 2.5 hours."
Fishing for trout: The region offers exceptional coldwater fishing opportunities across several watersheds. At Esofea/Rentz Memorial Park, one visitor highlighted, "There is good trout fishing at this campground. Recommended spots are one of the 5 ponds or the Bad Axe River." The limestone-filtered spring water creates ideal conditions for brown and brook trout.
Hiking the Ice Cave Trail: Several short but dramatic trails showcase the region's unique geology. A visitor to Wildcat Mountain mentioned, "Ice Cave trail was a neat, quick walk. The trails around have gorgeous views of the driftless area and Kickapoo river." Winter visitors can see actual ice formations when temperatures drop sufficiently.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings provide optimal wildlife spotting opportunities. One camper at Goose Island noted the diverse fauna: "Eagles, geese, pelicans, barred owls, ducks, deer, rabbits, raccoon, possum, etc. are abundant."
What campers like
Night sky viewing: The limited light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. At Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground, visitors frequently mention astronomical viewing: "The stars at night is amazing." Another camper noted that sites at Blakey Hobbit Campground offer "Great place for star gazing as well."
Spacious, secluded sites: Unlike crowded commercial campgrounds, many camping sites near Viroqua provide ample separation. A visitor to Westfork Sports Club & Campground observed, "Huge open sites. Not a lot of trees for privacy but the sites are huge so it's all good!" Another camper at Wildcat Mountain valued that "The sites were spaced apart far enough so you weren't on top of the other campers."
Disconnecting from technology: Limited connectivity forces a digital detox. As one camper noted about Sidie Hollow County Boat Landing Campground, "Just about 30/40 minutes outside of La Crosse is a quite place called Sidie Hollow Park. You will have patchy phone coverage. If that's what you are looking for, then you will find it here."
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain high standards for bathrooms and showers. A visitor to La Farge City Park noted, "They do have showers, bring your quarters," while another at Wildcat Mountain appreciated that "The shower house was close and clean."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most camping sites near Viroqua operate from mid-April through mid-October with variable conditions. A visitor to Blackhawk Park noted that during a thunderstorm, the "sites are fairly flat clay soil, so I didn't have to level much. A thunderstorm didn't create any driving issues."
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. At Westfork Sports Club, "A membership is required and covers all the amenities, well worth the cost," while one camper explained the value: "$40 for a yearly membership (covers your camping fee and then any time you return in the year the camping is only $20)."
Wildlife precautions: Local fauna may become curious about your supplies. One camper at Wildcat Mountain warned, "It was recommended that we keep all food in our car, but we were drinking and too lazy/drunk to take back all our food to the car... so we woke up in the middle of the night to find some smart raccoon (or whatever it was) had enjoyed our breakfast."
Accessibility challenges: The topography creates navigation issues for some vehicles. A visitor to Wildcat Mountain cautioned, "We drove a truck so getting up/down the mountain wasn't a problem, but if you have a low car, the front end is going to get scraped at the bottom of the mountain."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. One visitor to Sidie Hollow County Main Campground noted, "The main camp area of the 3 parts of Sidie Hollow Parks...Nothing to do but connect with nature or take long country drives."
Beginner-friendly hikes: Look for shorter trails with educational elements. At Wildcat Mountain, a camper mentioned it's "Very nice park. Great views. We were hoping for some more rock faces and challenging/longer distance hiking. We'd love to come back and see the ice cave when it's cold enough for ice."
Site selection for children: Choose locations away from water hazards for younger children. One camper at Sidie Hollow Boat Landing Campground pointed out, "You can see the playground from all 20ish camp sites."
Wildlife education opportunities: Many campgrounds offer informal wildlife viewing. La Farge City Park was described as "perfect for more rustic family camping without being too rugged," while another camper called it a "Cute easy spot."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric access varies widely between campgrounds. At Esofea/Rentz Memorial Park, visitors have access to "Electricity, potable water connections, sewer," while at Sidie Hollow Main Campground, "Electric but no water hook up. There is an RV fill up and a dump."
Site leveling requirements: The region's topography creates challenges for larger rigs. At La Farge City Park, "Sites are slanted on hillside," while Sidie Hollow has some "very level" sites like "#34 which has shade all afternoon."
Road access limitations: The narrow, winding roads can challenge larger vehicles. One RVer at Blackhawk Park noted the campground "is not far off The Great River Road," making it accessible for most sizes.
