Camping in Wisconsin with wildlife watching
Like the state's famous ice cream, outdoor adventures are served year-round in Wisconsin.
- Wisconsin
97% (4208 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Wisconsin
Available this weekend
Under $50
12 top campgrounds in Wisconsin with wildlife watching
98%
(814)
Purplehaze Acres
9 sites · Lodging, Tents60 acres · Rubicon, Dodge
Purplehaze Acres is a 60-acre organic rustic farm in Rubicon, WI and resides at the beginning of the approx. 650-mile Niagara Escarpment--known locally as "The Ledge". We are in close proximity to the Ice Age Trail, and the natural treasures of the great Horicon Marsh, Lake Sinnissipi/Rock River with canoeing/kayaking/fishing, Ledges County Park, and the world-renowned Holy Hill Shrine.
Nearby Hustisford ("Husti") offers unique shopping and dining experiences, such as the Mercantile and Mocha Vino. Need a few organic groceries? Make sure to visit Back To The Best Organic grocer only 3 miles away, featuring food raised on local organic farms including Purplehaze Acres.
Potable water, charcoal grills, firepit grates, eggs and available for purchase--firewood. COMING SOON: Did you forget something? If so, check out our Camp Cupboard Store.
Your approach via 1/2-mile dirt drive up the hills and through the woods . . . to not your grandmother's typical house you go. You'll find wonderful vistas, wildflowers, berries, trails up into the woods, a 900' grass runway for aviators on an overall great "peace" of earth. ☮
from
$40
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Beaver Point Cabin
1 site · Lodging90 acres · Belleville, Green
The cabin is an off-grid, 12'X20' insulated structure, with a 7'X8' loft and a 12'X6' screened covered porch/deck. That overlooks a small stream and a cattail marsh. It is in the center of our 90 acres and is very private but near to some rural houses, only our house is (barely) visible in winter and you might see some lights of one other neighbor when the leaves are off the trees.
We are 1 and a half miles from the village of Belleville and 5 miles from New Glarus. The Badger State Trail runs across the western edge of our property. It connects with the Sugar River State Trail 8 miles away. Near by New Glarus has many shops, restaurants, Baily's Run winery and the famous New Glarus Brewery (tours daily). Everything can be easily reached by bike or, in season, snowmobile.
The marsh is a haven for all sorts of birds and wildlife. Spring brings an abundance of winged migrators and returning residents. There are: sand hill cranes, red wing blackbirds, a number of ducks; buffleheads, mergansers, woodducks, blue winged teal and shovelers just to name a few. The American woodcock can be heard overhead most spring mornings and evenings. The spring peepers (small frogs) are a symphony on their own and they continue into early summer. The woods has many spring flowers and the fall colors are wonderful. In summer there are many song birds like: bluebirds, finches, orioles, humming birds, cedar wax wings, robins, cardinals and herons. Sitting on the screened in deck one can hear a kaleidoscope of bird songs and activity. And an abundance of fireflies in later May through late July and then some.
The cabin is off-grid, what that means is: there is NO RUNNING WATER in the cabin and only a chemical toilet (port-a-potty). A limited amount of water is supplied for drinking and washing. There is a sink with a drain in the cabin but no bathroom or refrigerator so bring a cooler. Very limited electricity. There is basic LED lighting and you will be able to charge your phones/devices. The power is supplied from batteries/inverter charged by solar panels on the roof. There are LED lights and a coffee maker. There is NO air conditioning but excellent ventilation and a small, cozy wood stove for heat.
If you're uncomfortable or unfamiliar with a wood stove, it may not be wise to stay here in the winter heating season,
but we can show most people how to use the stove safely.
This is still considered "camping" so be prepared to bring camping gear: your own pillows, sleeping bag, food, drinks, cups, plates, cooking utensils etc. There are carryout options a short drive away. The only thing you won't need is a tent, the cabin is very cozy, warm on the cold days and cool on the warm ones and there is a picnic table, lawn chairs and a gas grill with a side burner. There are a few spots around the cabin for tents if you have additional friends staying. There is an additional charge for additional guests (over 2) but please be advised: any loud "parties" or disturbances and you will be asked to leave. This is a place to enjoy nature and quiet time. To get away from it all. No extra charge for children 12 or under.
Insects are a part of the woods environment, if you're afraid of bugs this may not be the right fit for you. We rarely have any real issues, so we're reluctant to use toxic chemicals to kill most (normal) bugs. Normal bug repellent is about all that is necessary.
Why we have this cabin; It's a way to share this special place that, judging from the artifacts found here has been a camping area for thousands of years. We want to let others enjoy the seasons; the return of the migrating birds, the spring peepers in the marsh, the fall colors, the silence of a winter day in the woods and the warmth of a wood stove. (many people have found the stove to be their favorite feature) The cabin gives you a front row seat in the middle of, comparatively, pristine nature. Campers will have access to our fine trails for hiking, skiing, snowshoeing and biking. (we would allow a snowmobile from the State trail to the cabin).
All campers take note:
1.
Please do your best to arrive/check in before dark!
The cabin is dark; no yard lights, no streetlights, and if it isn’t a moonlit night, it IS very dark. Some of you are not used to real darkness. We provide some flashlights and headlamps (if you forgot yours) and there are LED lights in the cabin we keep charged for you.
Camping headlamps are great for cooking, using the port-a-potty and finding your way around, etc.
Bring yours or you can borrow ours, just ask.
2.
Take safety precautions with the wood stove and learn how to use it correctly.
The only source of heat in the cabin is a small, very nice wood stove.
Those without any experience with using wood for heat are advised not to stay at the cabin during the cold season. Those that are eager to learn--we can help you, but safety is very important and you must at least have some basic skills to handle wood heat: using a propane torch, using kindling, splitting wood, operating the stove airflow.
3.
Campfires: Campfire wood can be purchased for a reasonable price @$10 for a tote, or @$20 for a large pot/container. We do allow people to bring their own if they are coming from less that 50 miles away. Some exceptions do apply.
4.
It has been very enjoyable meeting the many campers. Everyone has been very well prepared and it has been a pleasure seeing them have fun. We especially have enjoyed the families with young children and people with their dog(s). All have been very well behaved and very enthusiastic.
5
Dogs are welcome, but please let us know if your dog does not get along well with other dogs, so we can let others know. We have a young golden retriever that is very friendly and does very well with other dogs, kids and all people. If your dog doesn't get along with others (dogs or people) please let us know in advance, so we can warn others and please, for safety, keep them on a leash.
Your hosts,
Dan and Anne
from
$80
/ night
99%
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Star Camp
2 sites · Lodging20 acres · Osseo, Jackson
Four years ago, David and Veronica began designing and building structures in the 20 acre hardwood forest that Davids' father acquired back in 1969. Now they live there full time in an off-grid cabin with monthly seminars, campsites for rent and a passion for sharing the wonders of the forest.
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$115
/ night
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(15)
Kickback’s Angler Shack
1 site · Lodging5 acres · Elk Mound, Dunn
This cabin is nestled on the banks of Elk Creek. The creek wraps around the entire property and is a Class 1 trout stream. The camp site is completely secluded and private. There is a tri-pod for cooking. The cabin comes equipped with 3 cots and a full futon. It sleeps up to 4 people. No linens or pillows are provided, so be sure to pack your sleeping bag. No running water or electricity as it is off grid. Site utilizes a composting toilet for sanitation purposes.
from
$120
/ night
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Ice Age Retreat
3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Palmyra, Jefferson
Surrounded by the Kettle Moraine Forest, we purchased this property in October of 2022 to be closer to nature and to share this property with you. We look forward to hosting you. The forest provides many opportunities enjoy! Close to the Ice Age Hiking Trail, Blad Bluff Scenic Overlook within walking distance of our retreat. Hiking, Moutain Biking, Cross Country Skiing, Snow Shoe, Horse Back Riding and much more
from
$40
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92%
(46)
Terra Growers Organic Farm
9 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Waunakee, Dane
Terra Growers is a 100 year-old organic family farm in Springfield WI near Waunakee. We raise free-range chickens (for eggs), grow an extensive variety of vegetables, tend to several fruit orchards, and grow a variety of berries. Terra Growers also has a year-round on-farm store, events open to the public, multiple campsites for rent, as well as extensive volunteer opportunities.
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$40
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The Heifer Pasture
1 site · Lodging40 acres · Cross Plains, Dane
Located on a hill side pasture on the properties back forty along the Ice Age Trail. This fenced off area within the pasture includes a small pond, walking trails, forest and prairie areas. There is a “feed shed” that is available to use (generator on site for electricity)otherwise just pitch a tent. Completely remote from any other houses.
from
$100
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99%
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Healing Hills
9 sites · Lodging, TentsHillsboro, Vernon
We are nestled into a hillside in Wisconsin's Driftless and amish country. Surrounded by beautiful ridges, valleys and trout streams, campers can enjoy hiking trails throughout our land, nearby streams and rivers for fishing and paddling, amish markets, famous bike trails, Wildcat Mountain and the Kickapoo Reserve. Or sit back and relax in one of our private camp sites and fall asleep under endless stars while coyotes lull you off to sleep.
from
$30
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98%
(113)
The G Farm
1 site · Lodging27 acres · Larsen, Winnebago
Ever want to leave your job and unite with nature. Me too, after 10 plus year of tax preparation, I found myself with a desire to farm and to become closer to the food we take for granted. This farm is unique in that it was cleared and striped of its topsoil and its fill was sold off to the state. What was left behind was a pond and some poor farmland. I purchased this less desirable property inexpensivly and have been working tirelessly to regenerate the property to a farm that mimics nature and our natural ecosystem. I have planted over 1000 trees and perennial shrubs to move this property in to an oak savannah like natural farming system. In 2015 I purchased this property without any farming experience and have begun to transform this property into a beautiful destination. We look forward to seeing you and welcoming you into our ecosystem.
from
$60
/ night
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(75)
Bear Hill
2 sites · Lodging3 acres · Lyndon Station, Juneau
Welcome to Bear Hill There is the Love Shack 15ft by 32ft park model camper Site #2
Just add LULU 5th wheel one slide out on site#2 (the Jayco is gone)
Bear Hill is a pet friendly fenced in three acre get away, minutes away from Wisconsin Dells and the Upper Wisconsin River. There is a park model camper at $125 night sleeps 2-4 adults/ 2-3 kids.
kids 14 and under free!
Tents are available for $20/ night extra with the rental your kids of any age can tent it But PLEASE bring your own sleeping things and relaxing. Let us help you explore the river from a boat or we have 2 kayaks and (1) 2/3 person canoe. Rent or bring your own and we will guide you to where you want to go. Enjoy campfires and grilling and games with family and friends. Feel free to enjoy the local night life as I offer a designated driver to get you home safe and worry free. This is where the road ends and the country begins. Dells River Cruise. we do accept credit cards.
Three acres of an enclosed Pet friendly Private
Property camping. We offer wood for your campfire charcoal and propane grilling.
FOR A LITTLE EXTRA FEE you may be interested in asking Kevin about a couple Kayak's or the canoe we have. We can drop you off and pick you up at our favorite Swimming Hole. WE also have a boat Kevin can take you out on for an upper Completely Private owned Fenced in property Camp Ground.
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$125
/ night
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Cricket Ranch
5 sites · Tents53 acres · Cascade, Sheboygan
We are very excited to be named a Best Of Hipcamp 2023 Runner-up! Frankly, it was a goal. We figured if we won then so did our guests. Thank you for all of your wonderful reviews and helpful suggestions!
Learn more about this land:
The property was a farm until 30 years ago. It's been virtually untouched since then. Chambers Creek runs thru the west side. And you'll find fossils in the rock walls.
Off the Beaten Path @ Cricket Ranch provides a true back to nature environment for campers, sometimes called "backcountry camping". Located on 50 acres of private forest, field, and valley, our campsites are very secluded and separated by acres of woodland. Each layout is unique, embracing what nature has provided. Backpacking (or wagoning) to your camp from the parking area is necessary as the 5' wide paths do not accommodate cars/trucks.
Hiking distance from parking area: (1) Camp Cricket is 600 Ft. (2) Haen Hollow is 250 ft. (3) Rocky Top is 700 ft. (4) Grapeline is 1000 ft.
Feel fee to explore the land! We are located near the Niagara Escarpment so you might even find a 460 million year old fossil on one of the field rock walls. Keep it! So we can keep a count of how many are found, and out of an overabundance of curiosity, please let us know and send some pics of your find.
Chambers Creek (small trout stream on the headwaters of the Milwaukee River-North Branch) winds through the valley on the west side of Cricket Ranch, providing a spot to cool your feet, stone step, or just listen to the relaxing sound of a babbling brook. The creek is overgrown with brush so access is limited to a couple spots at this time. We intend to clear some of the underbrush in the near future to allow for better enjoyment and management of this invaluable natural resource.
Near by:
Kettle Moraine National Forest is a 10 minute drive, boasting great hiking and the can't-miss-it view from atop Parnell Tower.
Lake Ellen has a nice no-fee public boat landing just 2 miles away. The lake has clear water and is stocked periodically with Pike and Walleye. It is surprising how un-busy this lake is so bring your boat, kayak, paddle board, and/or assorted flotation devices and check it out. Our parking area can accommodate boat trailers during your stay.
Top Upcoming Local Events (distance):
Autumn 2021 (everywhere): It is a MAJOR event!
from
$40
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Codys Ranch
2 sites · Lodging215 acres · Lynxville, Crawford
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.
from
$150
/ night
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Camping in Wisconsin with wildlife watching guide
Planning a camping trip in Wisconsin? Look no further than Hipcamp. With over 800 options available in Wisconsin for wildlife watching, you're sure to find the perfect spot to connect with nature. Whether you're a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or just starting out, our top campsites, like Purplehaze Acres (295 reviews), Camp Escape (223 reviews), and 🦫 Flutterby Farm 👩🏽🌾 (203 reviews), offer the best in wildlife watching experiences. Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like toilets, potable water, and campfires. And with prices as low as $5 and an average price per night of $45, your camping adventure is both affordable and unforgettable. So pack your binoculars and get ready to explore the wild side of Wisconsin with Hipcamp.
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