The best camping near Pikes Peak State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Pikes Peak State Park adventure.

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Check out the fall colors at this woodland park on the banks of the Mississippi.

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Community favorites near Pikes Peak State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Pikes Peak State Park

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Pikes Peak Campground

76 sites · RVs, Tents In Pikes Peak State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Pikes Peak State Park

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Brye Cabin and Bad Axe Camping

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents140 acres · Viroqua, WI

Our family purchased this land for adventure. We would love to share our adventure with you. Groomed UTV/hiking trails on our property. Hiking access into Duck Egg county park with over 10 miles of trails to explore on 900 acres. Drive and park directly at our cabin nestled in the driftless. It is totally private on 140 acres. Watch the wildlife from the porch while enjoying a campfire. The cabin offers 2 queen beds on the loft, a futon and fully stocked kitchen. Outdoor bathroom with plumbing. We offer 2 campsites directly on the Bad Axe River with hike in or utv assist access only. Park at designated parking area. The campsite has fire ring and table and chairs at the site, firewood available for 10/night. 5 gallons potable water provided. Hike in or purchase utv assist to get gear to the site $20 both ways We also have a 'glampsite' which already has a 10x12 wall tent on a 12x20 platform, with a queen bed and all bedding included. 10 gallons potable water provided. An outdoor kitchen contains everything you need to lessen your packing for a total relaxed and spoiled camping experience, all paper products and cookware in stocked kitchen. Charcoal and grill, 24" gas griddle, 2 burner coleman stove with propane included. Glamp directly on the river. There is a separate picnic area with fire ring, picnic table and swing set for the kids! Pets are welcome! We do ask for a $20 pet fee at the cabin and glampsite as there is extra cleaning involved, thank you! Watch the stars at night and catch trout in the river by day! Heavin in the Driftless.

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West Fork Sports Club

9 sites · RVs, Tents19 acres · Viroqua, WI

Est. 1966 in a beautiful part of the county on the banks of the West Fork of the Kickapoo River. 5 Glaciers missed the area leaving no "drift", hence the Driftless Area. A Non-Profit, Private campground with modern amenities. WiFi, Showers and a step back into time. We are an Environmental Conservation Club always accepting New Members. Membership fee is included in camping fees and goes toward environmental conservation work and maintaining grounds, free wifi, etc. Our 20 acre property boast 3,500 feet of stream-front on the West Fork of the Kickapoo (a top 100 trout stream in the US). Our entire stretch of stream is fully improved and excellent to fish. We have a healthy native brown trout population. We work with a local school science program to raise and stock brook trout every year. We have resident Sandhill Cranes, Bald Eagles, Oriels, Willow Fly Catchers, Hummingbirds and many other avian species. Nestled between two valleys, we frequently have stunning sunsets. The West Fork Sport Club is truly a special campground.

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Shady Rest Acres

3 sites · Lodging, Tents23 acres · Brownsville, MN

Once the site of the historic V.J. Fetzner Brewery from the late 19th Century. The land is now used as a hobby farm, honey bee sanctuary and nursery to a unique tree species normally not found in Southeastern Minnesota. Remnants of the brewery are still visible. Foundation walls outline the massive structure of the brewery. Nestled in the center of the foundation is the entrance to the sixty-seven foot deep cave that once held barrels of beer and can be accessed by canoe only. Hops have been located on the property and are believed to be ancestors of those raised to make the beer once stored in the cave. The pond that provides access to the cave was dug out in the early 1990's to create a fish out for the Spring Falls Trout Farm that used to exist across the highway. Some of the original brood stock still exist and continue to naturally stock the pond. It is not uncommon to see fish that are five to ten pounds in size. We do not allow fishing from our pond. The residents house is built to scale to the original brew master's house. While the house is only twenty-four years old it looks as though you have taken a step back in time. The name Shady Rest was given to the house by the Brew Master's wife. We thought it was appropriate to keep the name alive. Shady Rest Acres is comprised of twenty-three acres of beautiful woodlands and pasture that are protected forever in the Minnesota Land Trust. The pasture is home to Scottish Highlander cows, two miniature donkeys, five sheep, four goats, honey bees and a flock of chickens. Scottish Highlanders were selected for both their grazing and browsing abilities. They are very docile and make excellent pasture mates to the smaller species sharing the pasture. The cows are excellent forest managers. They clear out invasive species such as Honey Suckle, Buckthorn, and Barberry which can often be difficult to manage. A guided tour with the host can be taken to meet the pasture animals. The forest is comprised of many tree species. Some are unique in that they normally do not grow in this region of Minnesota. The yellow birch is a species normally found in Northern Minnesota. It's bark is golden in color and glistens when the sun hits it just right. We have a cluster of several yellow birch including one that is so big that the bark no longer looks golden but instead is grey and very rough. Years ago the largest of these trees made excellent wood for turning bowls. Blue Beech (musclewood) can also be found on the property. As the name indicates the bark is shaped like muscles. Songbirds and some other species will use different parts of the tree as a food source. Towering white pines also speckle the landscape. Mother pine requires at least two humans arm lengths to encircle the whole tree. She is a favorite resting spot for the barred owl. There is oak, elm, maple, ceders, poplars and numerous other species. Honey bees are an integral part of the landscape. We partnered with a friend and started raising honey bees two years ago in order to do our part to keep pollinators thriving. Their hives are located in the pasture where it has the perfect amount of early morning sun to get them moving and afternoon shade to balance out the summer heat. It is not uncommon to see them pollinating garden plants, trees and wild flowers around the property. One of their favorite feeding spots is the acre and a half prairie which offers a range of plants including big blue stem, wild indigo and baby blue stem, to name a few. Not only are honey bees essential to the food chain but they also provide a very enriching experience when they are observed moving about their hives. There is nothing more relaxing and fascinating than watching these amazing creatures.

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Tent camping on secluded 40 acres.

1 site · Tent40 acres · Readstown, WI

We purchased this property while on our honeymoon in 1996. We camped here often from 1996 until we moved to the property in 2001. We built our home and raised our two kids here. We have enjoyed spending time in the creek, hiking the trails and spending evenings by the fire. In addition to on-site activities our area has excellent biking of all types, trout fishing, kayak/canoeing and several Amish farms where produce can be purchased. Come relax... Learn more about this land: Forty acres of wooded property with trout streams and mountain bike/hiking trails on site. Wild life is abundant. Fire pit with some wood provided. Picnic table at site. The driftless area hosts beautiful gravel and road biking. There are two excellent mountain bike trails within 30 miles.

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S-Camp at Turtle Head Rock

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Viroqua, WI

Hey there Happy Campers! We welcome you to our small slice of Driftless heaven. This private campsite is located in prairie land, surrounded by agricultural and wooded property (it’s quiet). Within a few minutes drive you have access to some of the best trout streams a fishing license can buy. You're also in close proximity to amazing hiking and biking trails, agri-tourism (apple pickin' good times!), endless photography opportunities, wineries, birding, stargazing and visits to downtown Viroqua! After a long day of adventuring, come back to this quiet retreat, make some brandy old fashions and enjoy the ambiance of the stars and crackling camp fire! This site can accommodate 2 large tents with plenty of room for a camp kitchen, fire pit and seating area. There is newly constructed composting style outbuilding (please read instructions before using it) and a camp kitchen table along with solar powered lighting. Firewood and other supplies are conveniently available in downtown Viroqua. Be sure to check out the various retailers and restaurants while you're there! Hope you enjoy the camp and we just ask to please leave it better than you found it!

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Shiloh Farms Treehouse

1 site · Lodging200 acres · Mount Sterling, WI

We are located near the famous Gays Mills Apple Orchards. We have trout streams nearby, biking the back country roads, canoeing nearby, Mississippi River 7 miles from us, Historic sites to visit, like Villa Louis in Prairie du Chien, Pikes Peak and Effigy Mounds. We are in the Ocooch Mountains, so whether you are in the hills or valleys, you are always surrounded by the beauty that nature provides. We have a treehouse on our property that we rent out and offer the use of an updated outhouse that has been here for decades. We also provide an outdoor shower. The treehouse has a small Keurig, toaster and microwave. We have a 36 inch Blackstone griddle on our large deck for your cooking needs. Please wander over this way and enjoy what Southwest Wisconsin’s Driftless Area has to offer. You can bring your own towels, bedding, pillows, etc., but if you forget or don’t have room, I have some all ready for you to use when you come. Just let me know and I will bring it to you or let me know ahead of time and I will have it in the treehouse for you.

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Keewaydin Farms Organic Getaway

3 sites · Tents200 acres · Viola, WI

Welcome to our certified organic farm. Located at the end of a dead end lane in the heart of the hill county of southwest Wisconsin our rustic sites offer you a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of our modern life. Our farm has ridge top views, abundant wildlife, and some of the best night skies a person could hope for. Our property is 200 acres and we have lots of nice hiking trails and place high value on the peace and quiet of our beautiful natural environment. This is a active farm growing fresh organic produce, cut flowers, culinary herbs and fruits. We also host on farm workshops throughout the year through our nonprofit called Driftless Curiosity. Visit our website at driftlesscuriosity.org for a full list of activities. Our farm is minutes away from Camp Creak a class A trout stream as well as an easy drive to the Kickapoo Valley Reserve and the Kickapoo River. The town of Viroqua is about 20 miles away with it's vibrant food scene and unique shops. Our sites are rustic in nature and spread out over our farm so you can expect a relatively private experience.

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Sleepy Valley Springs

1 site · Tent4 acres · Boscobel, WI

Notice: 6/26/24 Due to recent torrential rains we are experiencing flooding as the Wisconsin River backs up. We are blocking dates according. Also, accordingly, we have many mosquitoes. They vary from time of day/sun/shade/fire/breeze but please plan accordingly. 4 acres nestled bordered on all sides by thousands of acres of public lands. Hike the hills and bluffs for scenic views of the Lower Wisconsin Riverway. Descend to enjoy the sandy Wisconsin River. Walk over to Knapp Creek and fish for Catfish, etc. One mile to the Wisconsin River for Catfish, Northern, Rock Bass, Flat Heads, Sturgeon, etc. We are in SW Wisconsin’s Driftless Region. Apple orchards, Vineyards, Cheese factories, National Brewery Museum, Mississippi River, all within 10-40 minutes. 4 great parks within 30 miles. Wildlife abound including deer, turkey, fox, coyote, beaver, muskrat, river otter, raccoons, squirrels, eagles, swans, yep fish of all varieties, etc. Fill your canteen from our natural spring to enjoy along the way. Pause to reflect beside the babbling brook. We do have chickens and 3 Guinea Fowl. They are fenced on the opposite side of the creek. Please be aware: the rooster crows around 0500. They are 300’ away on the opposite side of the main house. Audible but hopefully not annoying. That said we are happy to have fresh eggs available for your enjoyment. Add them in the “extras” at checkout or mention when you arrive. We have one nice medium dog who won’t likely visit.

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Bluffscapes Camping

3 sites · Tents235 acres · Brownsville, MN

This 235 acre property, located in the Driftless Region, has been in our family for over 100 years. From the wooded bluffs there are beautiful views of the Mississippi River and surrounding valleys. We never tire of hiking in the woods, seeing many different kinds of wildlife, or seeing the beauty of nature in any season of the year.Learn more about this land:Wooded campsites on bluff top overlooking the Mississippi River. Hardwood forest offering hiking trails, bird and wildlife watching. Convenience store, public boat landing and Mississippi River Trail bicycle route within a mile of the property. You can either take a 20 minute hike to the campsite or if conditions are dry we can give you a ride in our Ranger for a small fee. The trail does get steep in a few areas and the hike can be strenuous for some campers. NO smoking or alcohol.

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Cedar Springs

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Decorah, IA

The property has been in my family for over 40 years and was originally settled in the mid 1800's. It is about 10 acres and is primarily wooded with Cedar, Oak, Maple, Hickory and Birch. The topography is diverse, having steep heights, easy flats and everything in between; which makes hiking fun and interesting. The lower College Drive side features a historic limestone homestead and quarry, also a fossil rich creek-bed and rustic (4WD) road to the top. The upper property (Hwy. 52 access) offers a secluded forest as well as a spacious meadow. The woods are filled with birds and many other indigenous wild animals. We are only a half mile from towns edge and two miles from its center (also a five minute drive from Luther College). The Decorah area is well known for its scenic natural beauty and has extensive hiking trails, biking trails, cross-country ski routes, rivers, creeks and hunting areas. People come here year round for our outdoor recreation and beauty. Canoeing, Kayaking, Fishing, Tubing, X-country skiing, and Trail Riding are very popular activities around here. Bring a side-by-side or ATV and have a blast both on the property and around the area. Decorah has several museums, a movie theater, 2 golf courses and bowling alley in addition to dozens of charming shops and several restaurants. You'll never get bored staying at Cedar Springs.

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Creekside field campsite

1 site · RV, Tent125 acres · Soldiers Grove, WI

Learn more about this land: The campsite is in a fenced pasture that is no longer used for animals, and is alongside a small unnamed creek that feeds into Trout Creek and then the Kickapoo River. Property has walking trails in the grassy pasture areas in the valley (partially mowed), unmowed paths up and down the hillsides and on the ridges, a high bluff overlook, and is between the towns of Soldiers Grove and Readstown, 2 miles from the Kickapoo River. There are public restrooms with showers a 5 minute drive from site, along with an RV dump station There is a mowed path and a cleared area on level grassy ground. Cars have room to turn around and go back out the entry path, larger vehicles are welcome to pull through past our house on arrival to avoid turning. (Pulling through on arrival will have your curb-side of a camper facing the creek during your stay).

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Driftless Retreat 🍃 🎶 📚

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Ferryville, WI

Welcome to Driftless Retreat, a charming Amish-built, Scandinavian-influenced cabin nestled on 3 acres in the heart of the Driftless Region of Wisconsin. Tucked away high on a Mississippi River bluff, the property offers privacy and seclusion in a rural setting, but is within easy reach of quaint river towns and villages, major hubs and some of the best spots in the Driftless area. - 5 minutes from Ferryville / Mississippi River - 12 minutes from Lansing, Iowa - 25 minutes from the vibrant, eclectic destination town of Viroqua - 45 minutes from western Wisconsin's largest city, La Crosse - 2 hours from Madison, WI - 3 hours from Minneapolis, MN - 4 hours from Chicago, IL While the cabin is rustic and simple, it is equipped with a number of modern amenities and thoughtful extras to make your stay cozy and comfortable. The ideal spot for bibliophiles and music lovers alike, the cabin has a record player (bring your own vinyl), an Amazon Echo with SiriusXM, a large collection of reading materials, including 200+ books and 100+ magazines ranging on topics from nature, music, health and wellness, mindfulness, sustainable living and more. There is also a variety of games, puzzles and coloring books and two yoga mats + blocks. The cabin is equipped with a reliable 52 Mbps fiber optic internet connection, perfect for remote work or for those seeking a secluded retreat while staying connected. An Epson projector and pull-down screen make for an intimate home theater experience. Sleeping options include a pullout sofa (full-sized bed) with futon mattress to lay on top for comfort, as well as an Exped self-inflating air mattress if needed. There is NO RUNNING WATER, but the cabin does have an electric water cooler on site that offers both hot and cold water options (bring your own water to fill container). Additionally, you'll find a small refrigerator with freezer, microwave, two electric heaters for warmth, a hot water kettle, and a Chemex for your coffee brewing needs. Dishes, cookware, blankets and pillows provided (please bring your own sheet set). There is both a Nature's Head Composting Toilet inside, as well as a rough, but useable, outhouse on the property. For any shower or laundry needs, flush toilets and showers can be found at Blackhawk Park in De Soto, a 10-15 minute drive from the cabin, and there is a laundromat in Lansing. You are free to explore the 3-acre property as well as local gems like the Rush Creek State Natural Area, Blackhawk Park, Mt. Hosmer, Wyalusing State Park, Kickapoo Valley Reserve, Wildcat Mountain State Park and more. This property is located in a rural setting, so you can expect to hear occasional noise from passing farm equipment and trucks. Across the street, a hobby farm adds to the countryside charm, and you may hear the morning greeting of a rooster and honking of geese. It's not uncommon to see deer on the lawn, as there is an orchard neighboring the south end of the property that they like to frequent, and you'll likely hear coyotes howling in the distance at night. Also note that while we do our best to keep nature outside the cabin, please be aware that bugs and mice do sometimes happen. As a guest at Driftless Retreat, you're responsible for leaving the cabin in clean condition, ready for the next guests. There is no cleaning fee charged, and no cleaning services are available after your stay, so it is important to honor this agreement. Remember to wash all dishes, place all furniture in its original setting and remove all trash and recyclables from the property upon departure. Driftless Retreat is best suited for solo travelers or pairs. Learn more about Driftless Wisconsin at driftlesswisconsin.com.

The best camping near Pikes Peak State Park guide

Overview

About

Looking out over the Mississippi River, Pikes Peak is a great place for hiking and camping, particularly in autumn, when the leaves turn from green to brilliant hues of orange and gold. The most popular activity in the park is taking a stroll up the boardwalk to Bridal Veil Falls via Bear Mound, a bear-shaped effigy built by Indigenous people in ancient times. Pikes Peak is also a great spot for overnight camping, with a 70-site campground offering a mix of electric and non-electric sites, plus showers, restrooms, and a dump station.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Campsite reservations can be made up to three months in advance and up to two days before arrival.
You can reserve your site through the Iowa State Parks website or by calling the reservation call center. Online reservations incur a slightly lower fee than phone reservations.
Pikes Peak offers a mix of first-come, first-served and reservable sites. If you’re hoping to get to a same-day reservation, it’s wise to arrive early.
If you can’t secure a spot at Pikes Peak, look into booking a private campground or Hipcamp in the area, or in the nearby Yellow River State Forest.

When to go

The park is open throughout the year, and while winters get cold, some people still opt to camp here. Summertime is busy with the school vacation crowd, while the month of October draws throngs of visitors who come to the park and its surrounding areas to check out the fall colors. There’s also an arts-and-crafts festival in the nearby town of McGregor that takes place over the first two full weekends in October.

Know before you go

The closest towns for picking up groceries and other supplies are McGregor and Marquette, each just a few minutes' drive from the park.
Visitors can buy snacks, souvenirs, and ice at the Park Store, open Wednesday through Sunday from Memorial Day Weekend until the third Sunday of October.
Accessible park features include a wheelchair-accessible stone picnic shelter, as well as viewpoints and showers.
While winter camping is available, the dump station, showers, and water spigots shut down before the first freeze. The vault toilet at the southern end of the campground remains open year-round.