Best Camping in and near Volga River State Recreation Area

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Top-rated campgrounds near Volga River State Recreation Area

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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 (byo 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 (byo laptop). 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 the 5-gallon 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 (byo sheet set). ***As of August 2024, the property now features a portable toilet ('porta potty') for your convenience, and the compostable toilet is no longer available. Feel free to explore the 3-acre property and discover nearby attractions like Rush Creek State Natural Area, Blackhawk Park, Mt. Hosmer, Effigy Mounds National Monument, 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, 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. Please wash all dishes, place all furniture in its original setting and remove all trash and recyclables from the property upon departure (take extra care to make sure there is absolutely no food left in the cabin). Driftless Retreat is best suited for solo travelers or pairs. Detailed Guide to Driftless Retreat: https://bit.ly/3XqzmEK Learn more about Driftless Wisconsin at driftlesswisconsin.com.

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Relax near the Mississippi

5 sites · RVs4 acres · Prairie Du Chien, WI

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Cedar Springs

2 sites · 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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Pine River Campsites

10 sites · RVs, Tents90 acres · Cresco, IA

This secluded property is just off Hwy 9 five miles west of Cresco, Iowa. It has 50/30/20 amp service with water, sewer, garbage and internet. The property has a view of the north branch of the Turkey River, walking tails, fire ring, picnic table and firewood available for purchase. Open all year, winter rates apply Oct. 31st to March 31st. Daily, weekly, monthly rates also available. Message for special rates. Pet friendly.

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RidgeRiverView Acres

3 sites · Lodging50 acres · Sherrill, IA

160 y/o six generation farm that has been documented and illustrated in both National Geographic and Picture magazines. Site of original log cabin. 20' deep spring fed pond excavated in 2010. 47 acres of trails,trees and wildlife.

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Codys Ranch

2 sites · Lodging215 acres · Lynxville, WI

Looking for a taste of Wisconsin's rolling green hills, bright blue skies, and fresh, crisp countryside air? We have the perfect getaway for you. Cody's Cowboy Retreat Vacation Rental located on a ridgetop in the beautiful Driftless Region of southwest Wisconsin is now available to rent. Come enjoy the rustic, lower level of this lodge with a property manager on site. This is a working ranch. Horses, donkey, and cattle viewable from fence. There are also 3 dogs and hen house. Any and all activities are done at your own risk. Cowboy Retreat is 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 2,000+ square feet. 1 king bed, 1 queen bed. Common area has a trundle bed (twin day bed that has another twin underneath and when pulled out and lifted up the two make into king size). In addition there is a roll away twin, air mattress, and couch. . Amenities include full equipped kitchen, 5 person hot tub, washer, dryer, games, Smart TVs for your personal streaming accounts, Wifi. Property manager onsite. The lodge is a 3-unit building. It consists of Cowboy Retreat, Wrangler Outlaw Suite, and Bunk House. The Wrangler Outlaw Suite may be available if additional lodging is needed. Items included with your stay on the ranch include viewing of animals from fence line, private 5k (3.1 mile) hiking route including Indian mounds & rock out croppings, deer shed hunting, morel mushroom hunting, and fire pit. Ranch activities available for fee include horse back riding lesson and branding over open fire. Once you book your lodging, we can send you further details. Start your day with a blissful hike through the private 215 acres located right outside your door. Or even snowshoe through the oak, birch, and willow tree filled land as you take a break from reality. Our Buffalo Bill Pass hiking trail is marked with markers throughout to guide your adventure. Finish your day by soaking and relaxing in the 5 person hot tub. Then watch the sky light up with flaming red, orange, and pink rays for a gorgeous sunset. Cody’s Cowboy Retreat is also great for finding deer sheds and morel mushrooms. Many wildlife have been found on property from deer, turkey, geese, and ducks. Enjoy your meals outdoor on the patio while enjoying the sunset on the southwest patio. When the night falls, watch the star come out to play and enjoy the fire pit. The driftless area has a lot to offer. Some attractions include Wyalusing State Park, Pikes Peak State Park, Effigy Mounds National Monument, Mississippi river, Kickapoo River activities, apple orchards, natural areas, local wineries, and Villa Louis. There are many annual events that are great to attend including Rendezvous, Spring Fest & Folk Fest, Eastman 4th of July Celebration, Apple Festival, Crawford & Vernon County Fair, Wild West Days, Villa Louis Carriage Classic, Kickapoo Stump Dodger, Driftless Area Art Festival, and wine tasting event in Prairie Du Chien. Please feel free to bring your utv/atv and ride the 650 miles of road trails in Crawford County. Plenty of room for your trailer to be parked and unloading. Enjoy the day and return to peaceful lodging. Property is located on ATV/UTV route. Crawford County has 650 miles of road routes throughout the county. On a trip through the county, you will enjoy the unique landscape of forests, rivers, hills, and valleys. Crawford County is a highly desirable county for bow and gun hunting. Property is available for various hunting seasons including deer, duck, geese, and turkey for a fee. The private hiking trail may not be available during hunting season. Bring your boat and launch at public boat landing. Lynxville is 3.7 miles from property. Crawford County is located in southwest Wisconsin in the heart of the unique Driftless Region. This small area that includes portions of Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, and Illinois was bypassed by glaciers in the last Ice Age. As a result, the area avoided the flattening effect of glaciers on the land. Glacial runoff created many river valleys, steep hills, and limestone bluffs throughout the region. The county is bordered on the west by the Mississippi River, the Wisconsin River to the south, and the Kickapoo River divides the county north to south. Whether you bring your family, have a girls weekend, or come with friends you are bound to enjoy some cowboy life. Codys Ranch makes every effort to provide you a safe and enjoyable experience at the ranch. However, riding horses, being around cattle, horses, dogs and other farm animals, hiking, being around ponds, being in the barn, barnyard and other out-buildings, being around machinery, equipment, and other objects, and participating in activities on the ranch by their very nature include risks of serious injury. Each guest will need to sign a liability release. No smoking or no e-cigarettes.

Cedar Springs

2 sites · Lodging10 acres · Decorah, IA

THE PROPERTY: Cedar Springs includes wooded forest terrain, pasture, an old limestone quarry, and high bluffs with beautiful views. This historic property has multiple elevations and geological features which make it a truly special & unique location. The quarry below the lodgings forms a natural amphitheater with amazing acoustics and has an extra large bonfire pit and two additional fire pits. The quarry space is available for all guests to enjoy except when privately reserved. There are hiking trails, an 1800’s limestone home and scenic bridge which make for great exploring and photo opportunities. Also, if you love art you will enjoy discovering the series of 19 elevated stained glass sculpture panels installed throughout the property.

Twins Campground

3 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Cresco, IA

This campground is located approximately two miles south of Cresco, Iowa on the Turkey River. It offers large sites with fire rings, some have landscaped patios, walking trails, river views, playground area and fishing. It adjoins State of Iowa land. Pet friendly campground. Open all year, winter rates apply Oct. 31st to March 31st. Daily, weekly, monthly rates also available. Message for special rates.

Prairie Horizon

1 site · RV3 acres · Waterloo, IA

Acreage on a gravel road with many shade trees surrounded by farm land. Easy access from Highway 20, Interstate 380, and Avenue of the Saints making it great for an overnight stop from your travels. Wake up to a symphony of song birds (check your Merlin app to see who is singing) and enjoy morning views with your coffee. Beautiful sunrise and sunset views and clear stargazing. You would never guess that within 10 miles you will find hiking and biking trails, municipal golf course, water park, amusement park, casino, shopping (grocery, gas, Target, Walmart, restaurants), Cedar Valley Arboretum, and John Deer tractor museum and factory tours. Our Hound Dog will alert us of your arrival. Not to worry though, he is restrained. We are happy to share garden produce, herbs and flowers that are grown in our gardens. The acreage is also home to several antique tractors. We can accommodate travel trailor, fifth wheel, popup campers (with toilet) and RV's. 1 site, back in. Accommodates slide outs. Surface type - gravel, grass Surface levelness - fairly level Electrical hookup - 30 amp Water hookup - hose for tank fill available Generators allowed - no Sewage hookup - no TV hookup - no Toilets available - no Campfire allowed in fire pit as weather permits. Firewood provided. Pets allowed on leash. Must follow safety and sanitation rules. Pet on leash and pick up poop. Trash bin - yes Picnic table - yes Wifi - no Laundry - no Hot tub - no Check in - after 2:00 pm Check out - before 12:00 pm Cancellation - flexible Minimum nights - 1 Accepts bookings - 4 months out

The best camping near Volga River State Recreation Area guide

Overview

About

Volga River State Recreation Area is the epitome of classic outdoor adventure. Canoe the Volga River, or fish its shores for bass! Plus, the stunning bluff views are enough to keep you there for days. Over 25 miles of trails are waiting to be explored by foot, bike, or horseback, even winter lovers can hop in on some snowmobile action! If you’ve got an inner cowboy waiting to get out, equestrian campgrounds (along with rad regular spots) will have you sippin’ sassparilla and telling’ stories late into the night. The picturesque woodland hills and breezy summer days keep even the fairweather adventurers coming back for more at Volga River.

Notable campgrounds

Volga River Equestrian Campground - A favorite for horse enthusiasts with spacious sites and direct trail access.
Lakeview Campground - Offers stunning views and modern facilities, perfect for families and anglers.
Alger's Landing Campground - Ideal for those seeking a rustic camping experience close to the river.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early, especially for peak season weekends, as sites fill up quickly.
Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter experience.
Keep an eye on cancellation policies and check back for last-minute openings.
Explore nearby camping options to increase your chances of finding a spot.

When to go

The best time to visit Volga River State Recreation Area is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer offers warm days perfect for exploring, though it can be busy. Winters are harsh and may limit access to some park facilities.

Know before you go

Check the weather forecast and prepare for changing conditions, especially if you're planning to camp.
Some areas of the park may be subject to seasonal closures; verify current access before your trip.
Wear appropriate footwear for hiking or horseback riding on the park's varied terrain.
Remember to pack out all trash and respect the park's natural environment.
Facilities such as restrooms and picnic areas are available, but it's wise to bring extra supplies.