Camping in Effigy Mounds National Monument, IA

100% (6 reviews)

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West Fork Sports Club

1. West Fork Sports Club

99%
(104)
41mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Viroqua, WI
Est. 1966, the West Fork Sports Club has been a special place for multiple generations of both local community members and people from across the country. Nestled in between two valleys with 3,500 feet of stream front property on the West Fork of the Kickapoo, we truly have one of the most unique campgrounds you'll ever visit. Having avoided glacial drift during the last ice age, the Driftless area boast beautiful valleys, bluffs and rolling hills that you won't find anywhere well in Wisconsin. We are an Environmental Conservation Club always accepting new members. A temporary membership 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 class 1 trout fishing 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. We are far enough way from light pollution to easily see the Milky Way Galaxy on a clear night. The star gazing is amazing and if you keep your eyes up at night, you're pretty much guaranteed to see a shooting star, if not multiple. The West Fork Sport Club is truly a special campground. We're a short 15 minute drive from Viroqua which has a lot of great local shops, the Driftless Café (Owned and operated by Wisconsin Foodie host Luke Zahm) and a fantastic farmer's market. We're 25 minutes from Wild Cat Mountain which has extensive hiking trails. There are also two great vineyards within 15 minutes. Even on a rainy day, you will have plenty of fun options. ***Electric sites are not reservable through HipCamp.
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$32
 / night
Elysian View Farms

2. Elysian View Farms

100%
(11)
49mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 1 site · Lodging · La Farge, WI
We are a 3 rd generation certified organic dairy and produce farm . We are in the Driftless area of rural Vernon Co . We are in the heart of Amish settlement and are close to many Amish stores, bakery and produce stands . We are 6 miles from Ontario, canoeing capital of Wisc , on the Kickapoo River , Wildcat Mountain state park can be seen from our ridge top . Kickapoo Valley Reserve is minute away for hiking adventures . We have 2 attached bedroom and rooms to our barn , the first bedroom has a queen bed, the second bedroom has a full bed, the living area has a twin sleeper sofa. Also included is a coffee maker, microwave, electric fireplace, fan , and freezer . We have a porta potty with lights right next to the barn . There is hot and cold water and a wash tub in the barn . You can share your morning coffee with our calves and turkey chicks , We have several miles of groomed paths on our land for hiking . Deer, turkeys, song birds , foxes all can be seen on the property . There is a gas grill , camp fire ring , and large overhang with picnic tables . We also have hook up for electric and water for campers. , this is an easy pull through camper hook up on each end of the barn . Sparta and Viroqua are a half hour drive for dining, movies, music festivals and farmers markets, We are beautiful 45 min drive from Lacrosse .
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$40
 / night
Shady Rest Acres

3. Shady Rest Acres

100%
(316)
42mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging · 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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$40
 / night
Upper Iowa Resort Cabins

4. Upper Iowa Resort Cabins

29mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 5 sites · Lodging · Dorchester, IA
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
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$103
 / night
Heart of the Driftless

5. Heart of the Driftless

100%
(15)
29mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 1 site · Lodging · Soldiers Grove, WI
Forty acres of woods, meadows, and fields, in the Heart of the Driftless Area, offers space to unplug, slow down, renew and rejuvenate. On a dark night, stargazing is glorious, and some summer evenings one can barely tell where the fireflies end and the stars begin. Also available here is a sound therapy studio with gongs, crystal and metal bowls, wave drum, hoop drum, chimes, and more. Group sound sessions are available most Monday evenings, or it may be possible to schedule a personal sound session during your stay. For more photos and information see our website: lifeelemental.org Our location is about 13 miles from the town of Viroqua, which has a wonderful Saturday morning farmer's market May-October, the renowned Driftless Cafe, and the Viroqua Food Co-op, among other things. The Organic Valley Food Co-op was established in this area in 1988, and the area in known for an abundance of fresh organic 'farm to table' food. The famous 'Driftless Books' is also found in Viroqua, along with live music on Court Street every other Saturday. Music in the Parks also offers live music in the area on Wednesdays throughout the summer. We are 22 miles from the Kickapoo Valley Reserve, and a bit further North, from Ontario WI, one may embark by canoe or kayak, through some of the most stunning landscape to be found in Wisconsin. This area is called The Driftless because it lacks glacial drift, which refers to the deposits of silt, gravel and rock that glaciers would have left behind had they passed through this part of Southwestern Wisconsin. The area is unique in that the land here was never flattened by the ice that came through most of the Midwest during the last glacial period/ice age. When glaciers were in surrounding areas, the melt-water sometimes made its way into the Driftless Area and contributed to the formation of the valleys and bluffs which characterize the landscape, which is known for steep hills, forested ridges, deeply carved river valleys, and karst geology with caves and spring-fed cold water trout streams. Ecologically, the Driftless Area's flora and fauna are more closely related to those of the Great Lakes region and New England than those of the broader Midwest and central Plains regions.
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$96
 / night
S-Camp at Turtle Head Rock

7. S-Camp at Turtle Head Rock

93%
(63)
31mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 1 site · Tent, RV · 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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$20
 / night
Driftless Retreat 🍃 🎶 📚

10. Driftless Retreat 🍃 🎶 📚

100%
(20)
21mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 1 site · Lodging · 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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$60
 / night
Sunrise at pines campsite.

11. Keewaydin Farms Organic Getaway

99%
(43)
44mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 3 sites · Tents · 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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$40
 / night
Windy Ridge Retreat

13. Windy Ridge Retreat

100%
(4)
25mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 1 site · Lodging · Fennimore, WI
The rustic cabin sits on a beautiful ridge. You will have a great view of the sky. Birds and wildlife watching along with listening to them. The property is a second farm that has been in my family's history since the 1960's. We are a working crop, horses and beef cattle farm. We raise crops on this property. We have a main farm down the road that if you would like to visit, we can try setting that up so you can see the animals if you would like. Please note that the cabin has a porta potty outside. The cabin does not have electricity, but an extension cord can be brought and plugged into the outdoor electric outlet. The cord can be run into the cabin to use the fan, lamp and electric skillet or infrared heater in the colder months. There is a water hydrant outside for bathing or boiling. The water is non potable. We have direct access to the property for ATV/UTV's for the public road use on the back roads. You can travel from town to town and sight see. The property is between two towns and is close to places to see and things to do, driftless area history, wineries, caves, hiking, canoeing, fishing, sightseeing, river, streams and more.
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$89
 / night
Roy's Acres

15. Roy's Acres

100%
(25)
40mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Randalia, IA
Our expansive 360-acre farm, in the family for nearly 80 years, has undergone significant transformation. What was once a grove of trees and a borrow pit for highway construction has evolved into a welcoming campground. Amidst this landscape, we've erected two buildings, one of which is a shop equipped with a restroom and a charming porch. Nestled on this porch, my wife and I delight in evenings spent observing the deer and other wildlife, fostering a serene atmosphere for relaxation. Originally conceived as a space for family enjoyment and camping, we've now decided to extend this hospitality to others, embarking on further campground development. Our campground offers a variety of spots, some equipped with electricity for convenience, while others offer a more primitive experience, allowing guests to disconnect and embrace the tranquility of nature. While relaxation is our specialty, we have other outdoor activities to enjoy. With a pond for fishing and paddle boating, as well as close access to the Volga River for canoeing and kayaking, there’s plenty to explore. The Volga River State Recreation Area is only 10 miles away and offers more fishing, boating and hiking opportunities.
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$20
 / night
Beautiful camp site

17. Driftless Haven 125 Acres & Creek

100%
(46)
33mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Soldiers Grove, WI
Learn more about this land: The property is 125 acres, triangular in shape and bound by low-traffic township roads on two sides and by farmland at the back of the property. We have valleys with three ridges, total elevation is about 300 feet from low point to high point. We have two springs on the property that are the source for a small unnamed creek that feeds into Trout Creek and then the Kickapoo River.  The property has walking paths in the grassy pasture areas in the valley (partially mowed), unmowed trails up and down the hillsides and on the ridges, and a high bluff overlook. We are between the towns of Soldiers Grove and Readstown, 2 miles from the Kickapoo River and US Highway 61 on paved roads.  There are public restrooms with showers a 5 minute drive from site in Soldiers Grove, where there is also an RV dump station. One of the photos in the property overview is a trail map to give you a sense for the layout.
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$38
 / night
Tent camping on secluded 40 acres.

18. Tent camping on secluded 40 acres.

100%
(51)
36mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 1 site · Tent · 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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$40
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facing south

19. Cedar Springs

93%
(21)
36mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 2 sites · Lodging · 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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$88
 / night
100% (6 reviews)

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Camping in Effigy Mounds National Monument, IA guide

Overview

About

Effigy Mounds in Harpers Ferry, Iowa (not West Virginia), provides a fascinating tour of an ancient Native American site. More than 200 earthen mounds are preserved on beautiful land overlooking the Mississippi River on the Wisconsin border. More than 30 of these mounds depict animal shapes.

This sacred plot preserves a vital part of the culture of the Eastern Woodlands people. This group built mounds in Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin and Minnesota, most of which date back to sometime between 500 B.C. and 1300 A.D. Explore these prehistoric mounds thanks to 14 miles of trails throughout this wooded park. Some mounds are in the shapes of bears, while others show birds. One amazing group of these mounds has 10 bears and three birds, a formation archaeologists call the Marching Bears.

Hiking trails take you through heavily wooded areas and to a lookout point above the picturesque river. In winter time, keep an eye out for nesting bald eagles as they perch above the river looking for food. In autumn, fall foliage offers a beautiful reminder of nature's splendor. Scenic roads surrounding this area give you a Norman Rockwell-like view of this idyllic rural paradise. It's no wonder people have loved coming here for thousands of years.

When you hike through this park, please respect the sanctity of the mounds. Some of these may have been used as burial grounds.

100%
6 ratings · 4 reviews
  1. Effigy Mounds National Monument