The best beach camping near Viola

·

Beach camping in Viola puts you close to sandy stretches and cool water, with over 1,650 options that range from simple sites to spots with hot showers. Average nights run about $45, but you can snag a site for as low as $32. You’ll find plenty of places offering toilets, showers, and campfires—essentials for unwinding after a day of swimming, wildlife-watching, or even snow sports in the right season. Locals keep coming back to 🦫 Flutterby 🦋 Farm 👩🏽‍🌾 (370 reviews), Shady Rest Acres (225 reviews), and Bear Hill (79 reviews) for access to the water and laid-back vibes. Pack your swimsuit and binoculars—Viola’s beaches don’t disappoint.

98% (871)

Top-rated campgrounds near Viola

1. Shady Rest Acres

100%
(316)
33mi from Viola · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$40
 / night

2. The English Pale Campground (21+)

97%
(101)
45mi from Viola · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
IMPORTANT NOTIFICATION: The river edge erosion wall construction is complete. The area is being prepared to have additional river sites added sometime in 2026 depending on vegetation growth. The entire Beach (R3 & R4) will be closed to Campers starting October 1. This is due to hunting season starting. Campsites in the main campground will be still available, but guests are not allowed on the lower 40. Contact Cal or check our Facebook page and web site for more information. The campground and rental house will open about May 15, each year. The English Pale Campground is located along the Black River in Jackson County, 1 mile west of the Village of Melrose. The entire property only allows guests and occupants who are 21 or older. Sites/house can be booked 6 months in advance. The main campground is 70 feet above the river. We have 5 rustic (no hook-ups) RV/Travel Trailer/Tent sites, a fully furnished “Manor” House, a travel trailer as well as 2 rustic beach sites that are located along the river. The property is a total of 70 acres, which includes the 4+ acre beach, a mile of river front and trails through the woods that connect them all. The English Pale opened in 2021 and is a developing property. In late summer of 2025 an erosion wall was built along the Black River. This included clearing of a section of the forest, building a gravel access road and an riprap river wall to prevent further erosion. Since 2016 over 60 feet of the riverbank has washed away. Our property offers a reasonable expectation of privacy and we do not offer day passes as our target guests are campers. We are an adult only property, but not a nudist campground, as that is not our central theme. We do not prohibit our guests from nudity for the purpose of sunbathing on the beach, campsites or sundeck, but nudity is not allowed in general common areas. Part of our nature is allowing discreet nudity for tanning purposes. While we target couples for time together, singles and groups are welcome. This is NOT a party campground, our goal is to let you connect with nature. More campground information can be found on our main web page or on Facebook at The English Pale Campground and Resort. The entire property can be rented by contacting us directly by phone or email.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night

6. Upper Iowa Resort RV Sites

43mi from Viola · 40 sites · RVs
Discover the unique charm of Upper Iowa Resort, nestled in the picturesque Northeast Iowa along the banks of the stunning Upper Iowa River, conveniently located between Dorchester and Waukon. This serene getaway offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, featuring cozy cabins, spacious campsites, and convenient river rentals. At Upper Iowa Resort, you'll find a variety of amenities designed for family fun and relaxation. Enjoy a refreshing dip in our spring-fed swimming pool, complete with a sandy beach, or let the kids explore multiple playgrounds. Engage in friendly competition on our basketball court or sand volleyball court. For those seeking adventure, we offer canoe and kayak rentals, along with shuttle services to enhance your river experience and just be sure to book in advance! Unplug and unwind in this tranquil setting, where cell phone service is limited, allowing you to truly connect with nature. If you need to stay connected, complimentary Wi-Fi is available. Explore the surrounding area for even more outdoor activities. Visit local shops, wineries, and breweries in nearby towns, or embark on a hiking adventure at Mt. Hosmer in Lansing, which offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River. You can also find scenic trails in Waukon and Decorah. Don’t forget to bring your fishing pole to cast a line
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$39
 / night

7. Bear Hill

100%
(95)
43mi from Viola · 2 sites · Lodging
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 15 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 or 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. Three acres of an enclosed Pet friendly Private Property camping. We offer wood for your campfire charcoal and propane grilling. pizza oven electric 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 Wisconsin River Completely Private owned Fenced in property Credit or cash accepted
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$100
 / night

8. Glowconsin Getaway

90%
(68)
43mi from Viola · 1 site · Tent, RV
Adjacent to Buckhorn State Park which is 6,990-acre Wisconsin state park southeast of Necedah. The park occupies a peninsula on Castle Rock Lake, a reservoir formed at the confluence of the Wisconsin and Yellow Rivers. Almost 5 acres of mixed oak-pine woods with sandy, fertile soil. Learn more about this land: The best secluded rustic camping with sky-scraping pines, amazing wildlife, and abundant plant life including wild raspberries on almost 5 acres. The whippoorwills sing at night. Nature's beauty at its finest. A short walk to the lake (.5 mile away) or bring your own boat or paddle boards and cruise out on Castle Rock Lake from a public launch nearby. Cute beach at Buckhorn Boat Landing for picnic and swimming. Bring your own camper, tent, etc. Great fishing nearby. RV hookup and plug-in electricity are available. Please PACK OUT anything you bring with you.  Fines will be assessed for trash left. Fireworks are not allowed. No trash in the fire pit.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night

9. Lower Wisconsin State Riverway

100%
(12)
40mi from Viola · 3 sites · Lodging
Round River Adventures offers glamping for 1 to 3 nights on the Wisconsin River in the Spring Green area. The river here offers beautiful sandbars, several state natural areas, good fishing, gorgeous views, the list goes on! Everything you need for a comfortable, safe stay on the river is included with our package. The sites are set up and ready for you to arrive. Glamp sites include 13’ bell tent with stargazing windows, double bed and bedding, two chairs, kitchen cook set, table, water and water dispenser, cooking set, stove, lantern and flashlight, bathroom shelter with toilet, firewood, cooking grate, and cooler loaded with ice. One canoe, two paddles, and two life jackets come with each booking. Additional canoes, coolers, and other equipment is available. If you prefer not to canoe (or are unable), arrangements can be made for a licensed captain to drop-off and pick you up from your camp via jet boat. Just let us know if your reservation request. RRA carefully choses sites to provide guests with opportunities for safe swimming, fishing, and wildlife viewing. We also try to pick sites that offer shade, light breeze, and privacy.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$225
 / night

14. Rivers Edge

33mi from Viola · 1 site · Lodging
The area is home to the Driftless Area of SW Wisconsin. The numerous deep valleys and rock formations of the area set the tone. It is next to the Wisconsin River, Lone Rock, WI which offers kayaking, boating, swimming, and fishing. Bicycling, Hiking, Phenomenal motorcycling, wild life viewing and public grounds surrounding the Wisconsin River. Two bar/grill within 5 minutes and wonderful foodie spots are speckled up and down the river. Spring Green hosts many events about 7 minutes from Frank Lloyd Wrights Taliesin, APT, The Shitty Barn, The Lock of Love Bridge and House on the Rock. The Cabin in a 16x16 one room lofted 6 feet from ground with 2 decks just next to the path to the woods and entrance. It has a queen size bed, large flat screen, wifi, hot pot, mini fridge, outdoor grill and microwave with various kitchen utensils. There is no running water in the cabin but there is a dry sink and compost toilet. A shower is just a short walk away at the main cabin with all the instant hot water that could be asked for. We have plenty of extras to share if you need something, if not a Dollar General is just a mile away. Please be aware there are poisonous plants and various wildlife that roam freely. No animal hunting allowed.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$61
 / night

Beach camping in Viola puts you close to sandy stretches and cool water, with over 1,650 options that range from simple sites to spots with hot showers. Average nights run about $45, but you can snag a site for as low as $32. You’ll find plenty of places offering toilets, showers, and campfires—essentials for unwinding after a day of swimming, wildlife-watching, or even snow sports in the right season. Locals keep coming back to 🦫 Flutterby 🦋 Farm 👩🏽‍🌾 (370 reviews), Shady Rest Acres (225 reviews), and Bear Hill (79 reviews) for access to the water and laid-back vibes. Pack your swimsuit and binoculars—Viola’s beaches don’t disappoint.

98% (871)

Top-rated campgrounds near Viola

1. Shady Rest Acres

100%
(316)
33mi from Viola · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$40
 / night

2. The English Pale Campground (21+)

97%
(101)
45mi from Viola · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
IMPORTANT NOTIFICATION: The river edge erosion wall construction is complete. The area is being prepared to have additional river sites added sometime in 2026 depending on vegetation growth. The entire Beach (R3 & R4) will be closed to Campers starting October 1. This is due to hunting season starting. Campsites in the main campground will be still available, but guests are not allowed on the lower 40. Contact Cal or check our Facebook page and web site for more information. The campground and rental house will open about May 15, each year. The English Pale Campground is located along the Black River in Jackson County, 1 mile west of the Village of Melrose. The entire property only allows guests and occupants who are 21 or older. Sites/house can be booked 6 months in advance. The main campground is 70 feet above the river. We have 5 rustic (no hook-ups) RV/Travel Trailer/Tent sites, a fully furnished “Manor” House, a travel trailer as well as 2 rustic beach sites that are located along the river. The property is a total of 70 acres, which includes the 4+ acre beach, a mile of river front and trails through the woods that connect them all. The English Pale opened in 2021 and is a developing property. In late summer of 2025 an erosion wall was built along the Black River. This included clearing of a section of the forest, building a gravel access road and an riprap river wall to prevent further erosion. Since 2016 over 60 feet of the riverbank has washed away. Our property offers a reasonable expectation of privacy and we do not offer day passes as our target guests are campers. We are an adult only property, but not a nudist campground, as that is not our central theme. We do not prohibit our guests from nudity for the purpose of sunbathing on the beach, campsites or sundeck, but nudity is not allowed in general common areas. Part of our nature is allowing discreet nudity for tanning purposes. While we target couples for time together, singles and groups are welcome. This is NOT a party campground, our goal is to let you connect with nature. More campground information can be found on our main web page or on Facebook at The English Pale Campground and Resort. The entire property can be rented by contacting us directly by phone or email.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night

6. Upper Iowa Resort RV Sites

43mi from Viola · 40 sites · RVs
Discover the unique charm of Upper Iowa Resort, nestled in the picturesque Northeast Iowa along the banks of the stunning Upper Iowa River, conveniently located between Dorchester and Waukon. This serene getaway offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, featuring cozy cabins, spacious campsites, and convenient river rentals. At Upper Iowa Resort, you'll find a variety of amenities designed for family fun and relaxation. Enjoy a refreshing dip in our spring-fed swimming pool, complete with a sandy beach, or let the kids explore multiple playgrounds. Engage in friendly competition on our basketball court or sand volleyball court. For those seeking adventure, we offer canoe and kayak rentals, along with shuttle services to enhance your river experience and just be sure to book in advance! Unplug and unwind in this tranquil setting, where cell phone service is limited, allowing you to truly connect with nature. If you need to stay connected, complimentary Wi-Fi is available. Explore the surrounding area for even more outdoor activities. Visit local shops, wineries, and breweries in nearby towns, or embark on a hiking adventure at Mt. Hosmer in Lansing, which offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River. You can also find scenic trails in Waukon and Decorah. Don’t forget to bring your fishing pole to cast a line
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$39
 / night

7. Bear Hill

100%
(95)
43mi from Viola · 2 sites · Lodging
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 15 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 or 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. Three acres of an enclosed Pet friendly Private Property camping. We offer wood for your campfire charcoal and propane grilling. pizza oven electric 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 Wisconsin River Completely Private owned Fenced in property Credit or cash accepted
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$100
 / night

8. Glowconsin Getaway

90%
(68)
43mi from Viola · 1 site · Tent, RV
Adjacent to Buckhorn State Park which is 6,990-acre Wisconsin state park southeast of Necedah. The park occupies a peninsula on Castle Rock Lake, a reservoir formed at the confluence of the Wisconsin and Yellow Rivers. Almost 5 acres of mixed oak-pine woods with sandy, fertile soil. Learn more about this land: The best secluded rustic camping with sky-scraping pines, amazing wildlife, and abundant plant life including wild raspberries on almost 5 acres. The whippoorwills sing at night. Nature's beauty at its finest. A short walk to the lake (.5 mile away) or bring your own boat or paddle boards and cruise out on Castle Rock Lake from a public launch nearby. Cute beach at Buckhorn Boat Landing for picnic and swimming. Bring your own camper, tent, etc. Great fishing nearby. RV hookup and plug-in electricity are available. Please PACK OUT anything you bring with you.  Fines will be assessed for trash left. Fireworks are not allowed. No trash in the fire pit.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night

9. Lower Wisconsin State Riverway

100%
(12)
40mi from Viola · 3 sites · Lodging
Round River Adventures offers glamping for 1 to 3 nights on the Wisconsin River in the Spring Green area. The river here offers beautiful sandbars, several state natural areas, good fishing, gorgeous views, the list goes on! Everything you need for a comfortable, safe stay on the river is included with our package. The sites are set up and ready for you to arrive. Glamp sites include 13’ bell tent with stargazing windows, double bed and bedding, two chairs, kitchen cook set, table, water and water dispenser, cooking set, stove, lantern and flashlight, bathroom shelter with toilet, firewood, cooking grate, and cooler loaded with ice. One canoe, two paddles, and two life jackets come with each booking. Additional canoes, coolers, and other equipment is available. If you prefer not to canoe (or are unable), arrangements can be made for a licensed captain to drop-off and pick you up from your camp via jet boat. Just let us know if your reservation request. RRA carefully choses sites to provide guests with opportunities for safe swimming, fishing, and wildlife viewing. We also try to pick sites that offer shade, light breeze, and privacy.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$225
 / night

14. Rivers Edge

33mi from Viola · 1 site · Lodging
The area is home to the Driftless Area of SW Wisconsin. The numerous deep valleys and rock formations of the area set the tone. It is next to the Wisconsin River, Lone Rock, WI which offers kayaking, boating, swimming, and fishing. Bicycling, Hiking, Phenomenal motorcycling, wild life viewing and public grounds surrounding the Wisconsin River. Two bar/grill within 5 minutes and wonderful foodie spots are speckled up and down the river. Spring Green hosts many events about 7 minutes from Frank Lloyd Wrights Taliesin, APT, The Shitty Barn, The Lock of Love Bridge and House on the Rock. The Cabin in a 16x16 one room lofted 6 feet from ground with 2 decks just next to the path to the woods and entrance. It has a queen size bed, large flat screen, wifi, hot pot, mini fridge, outdoor grill and microwave with various kitchen utensils. There is no running water in the cabin but there is a dry sink and compost toilet. A shower is just a short walk away at the main cabin with all the instant hot water that could be asked for. We have plenty of extras to share if you need something, if not a Dollar General is just a mile away. Please be aware there are poisonous plants and various wildlife that roam freely. No animal hunting allowed.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$61
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field