National Park

The best camping in Effigy Mounds National Monument, IA

Name: Effigy Mounds National Monument
Address: Effigy Mounds National Monument
Rating: 4.65

93% (7)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Effigy Mounds National Monument adventure.

Top-rated campsites near Effigy Mounds National Monument

Relax near the Mississippi

1. Relax near the Mississippi

92%

(25)

2.9mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 3 sites

Relax

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Full hookups

BoscoBelle

2. BoscoBelle

90%

(10)

23mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Beautiful 10 acre wooded/pasture, walking distance to Wisconsin State Riverway in the heart of the Driftless Region. Close to Mississippi and Kickapoo rivers as well. Deer, turkey, bald eagles, trout streams, world class smallmouth bass. Nearby attractions include Wyalusing State Park, Kickapoo Valley Preserve and Class A trout streams. This is one special, private site, an open meadow for tent and small rv camping. Features fun frog and dog pond, running, potable water, toilet, shower and and fire pit. Canoe and kayak available if you want to hit the river. Hike the property or nearby Wyalusing State Park.

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Heart of the Driftless

3. Heart of the Driftless

100%

(16)

29mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 1 site

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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S-Camp at Turtle Head Rock

4. S-Camp at Turtle Head Rock

93%

(67)

31mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 1 site · Tent, RV

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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Driftless Haven 125 Acres & Creek

5. Driftless Haven 125 Acres & Creek

100%

(49)

33mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 1 site · Tent, RV

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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Bubbling Springs

6. Bubbling Springs

97%

(18)

36mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 1 site

Learn more about this land: You will be sleeping beneath the stars; which are never ending when the lighting bugs are around. The smell of fresh cut grass envelopes you and the soothing melody of running waters surrounding you. Once in a while if you are really patient and quite you can see wild animals like deer, turkey, coyotes, and maybe a fox or two. One of the few signs of people will be an occasional car passing on the gravel road. There are many local attractions such as out door theater, winery, and local festivities in near by Richland center. One of the highest recommended activities is kayaking on the pine river.  There are some beautiful land marks as well (wisconsin river, many parks, historical sites) We are not a commercial campground.

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Tent camping on secluded 40 acres.

7. Tent camping on secluded 40 acres.

100%

(53)

36mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 1 site

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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Hideaway Camper by the Cave 2.0

8. Hideaway Camper by the Cave 2.0

95%

(10)

38mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 1 site

Hideaway Camper by the Cave 2.0 is a clean and quiet camper that is located just a few feet from your private cave and waterfall! KAYAK and CANOE RENTALS AVAILABLE ON SITE by Uncle Jon. A gem that you cannot find anywhere else in Decorah! A secret hideaway for photos, hiking, sightseeing and connecting to nature. A secluded area for easy R&R while listening to water flow, chirping birds, watching deer and horses pass by. 1 queen bed sleeps 2, 1 twin bed sleeps 1, and 2 full bunk beds sleep 2-4. We charge a $25 non-refundable pet fee. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings and have fun! Uncle Jon and Rose

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Roy's Acres

9. Roy's Acres

100%

(28)

40mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Our 360-acre family farm—held by our family for nearly 80 years—has been transformed from a tree grove and a former highway borrow pit into a welcoming campground. We’ve built two structures on the property, including a shop with a restroom and a cozy porch where my wife and I enjoy evenings watching deer and other wildlife. What began as a spot for family camping has grown into a campground we’re now opening to guests. Campsites range from electric-hookup sites for convenience to primitive sites for those who want to unplug and enjoy quiet time in nature. Beyond relaxing, guests can fish and paddle-boat on our pond or access the nearby Volga River for canoeing and kayaking. The Volga River State Recreation Area is just 10 miles away and offers additional fishing, boating, hiking, and horseback-riding opportunities. Update: So far this spring we haven't seen any fish in our pond. We don't know what happened to them and if fishing on the pond will be possible this year.

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West Fork Sports Club

10. West Fork Sports Club

99%

(108)

41mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

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 and cabins are not reservable through Hipcamp. Please visit our website for more information.

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Shady Rest Acres

11. Shady Rest Acres

100%

(317)

42mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 3 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.

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Bluffscapes Camping

12. Bluffscapes Camping

100%

(139)

43mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 2 sites

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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Keewaydin Farms Organic Getaway

13. Keewaydin Farms Organic Getaway

99%

(43)

44mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 1 site

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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Finally A Farm

14. Finally A Farm

100%

(41)

46mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

The original log cabin is still part of the farmstead that originated back in the 1880's. The site was a family farm until around the 1940s. Also, the land was the Eastern banks of a large logging mill lake/pond 150 yrs ago, so the shoreline slopes do not allow campers in/out of the pasture areas. A popup would be feasible with a full size 4 wheel drive utility vehicle in river bottom/shorelines. Tents /Low impact camping are best. In 2019 a transition to Animal Therapy, Fishing Therapy, and Pastured pigs from New Zealand which originally were almost extinct because of their friendly nosey nature at times gets them into trouble. They graze on open pasture most of the year and rest in the sun next to a trout stream. Learn more about this land: We are a working farm with mostly rescued farm animals. Many of the animals have special needs here and live their lives as free-range animals. The river in the back is home to wonderful Brown Trout and smallmouth bass. Also at times, there will be a couple dogs being trained and worked with too. You select your location for your primitive camping experience. If any special needs for a person arise, such as cane, charcoal grill, camp lantern We keep a small shed with supplies even items like tarps, cots, sleeping bags, even fishing rods. The owner is a highly achieved angler that has been filmed for the "Discover Wisconsin" Television TV show. and is available for guided fishing adventures and education in the area for all species. Also, certain times of the year are excellent for wild plants and mushroom foraging. Note this is the Driftless area of Wisc. where no glaciers came through. We have bluffs and streams around every curve of the road. The Wisc. Rivers very close too and has great fishing as well. The neighbor of this farm also rents and performs livery service for kayaks, canoes on the Pine River. Many times of the year, fresh meats are sold right at the farm as well as homemade fishing lures ready for fishing adventures. Note: Many times I am at the river fishing or in the pasture planting and reforesting this former GMO corn farm after years of heavy spraying. With Maples, Willows, apple, pear, plum, oak while trying to manage the evasive plants too. Please understand rainfall, safety of small rivers/waterfront changes. If river front takes on water, camping is all moved from water edges. We do not allow any camper over 15 feet and you must have vehicle that can get through wet mowed fields if it rains since we are along a river/wet lands, if it were to rain we move vehicles to higher dry ground if they a low to the ground . We have a gentle sloped hillside here so always dry areas to park. Other vehicles park at the top of the pasture, in farm front yard and we transport all gear to the river front. Small low to the ground cars are not wise here as there are 4 rain water trenches in the bottom 10 acres the keep rain water draining to ward the river.

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🦫 Flutterby 🦋 Farm 👩🏽‍🌾

15. 🦫 Flutterby 🦋 Farm 👩🏽‍🌾

99%

(573)

48mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

Once a working farm, now a haven for wildlife and peace. Primitive, laid-back camping experience. Surrounded by Amish farms. Check out our full property for individual campsites descriptions. * 100 acres of rewilded habitat * Spring water * Creekside camping * ✊🏻✊🏼✊🏽✊🏾✊🏿 BIPOC, LGBTQ+ 🏳️‍🌈 friendly. All are welcome!

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Lisney Grand Log Cabin-La Farge

16. Lisney Grand Log Cabin-La Farge

99%

(35)

49mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 1 site

Imagine looking out the Lisney Grand Log Cabin window and realizing that the landscape has remained virtually unchanged for over 10,000 years! While most of the State was covered and scraped by glaciers of the last Ice Age, this small section of the State was not. Hence, its geology remained intact. Locally this region is known as the “Driftless Area” and encompasses both the Kickapoo Valley Reserve State Park (8,600 acres) and the Wildcat State Park (3,600 acres).In this area, archeologist have discovered a total of 596 sites dating between 10,000 to 12,000 years ago inhabited by ancient people. This includes ancient campsites, farming areas, linear and conical mounds, once-occupied rock shelters and many petroglyphs. And if that’s not enough to wake-up to, then enjoy the fresh air, clean water, the breath-taking views and the daily visits of wild turkey and deer.This Amish built cabin is 1500 sq.ft. and is minutes from hiking, biking, paddling the Kickapoo River, food and beverages as well as world-class trout fishing, snowmobile and horse trails. Lisney Grand is a two story, two bedroom one bath cabin with an additional large sleeping loft. Open floor plan includes a full kitchen, dining area and living space with a cathedral ceiling. The cabin and grounds are filled with original art from artists across the United States (some available for purchase). Enjoy the beautiful sunsets and amazing views of the Kickapoo Valley Reserve State Park (8,600 acres) while swinging on the porch swing located on the porch that wraps around 3 sides of the cabin. The yard contains a picnic table, fire-pit, and direct access to the Kickapoo Valley Reserve and its trails. Please note that the cabin has a wheel chair ramp off the front porch and that the main Living room, Dining room and Kitchen are open design, however, shower/bathroom may not accommodate a wheel chair. Come To Visit ~ Plan To Stay.Lisney Grand Log Cabin pricing is based on two people, additional charges of $35.00 per person, per night apply with a 10 guest maximum. Cleaning fees of $35.00 per stay. Children under the age of 12 stay Free! In addition, stay 3 days plus a Friday & Saturday and get the 6th day Free! Long-Term rental is also available.Note: Please be patient when booking this cabin since cell reception is very poor in this area and there may be a delay in my receiving your request. Thanks

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Elysian View Farms

17. Elysian View Farms

100%

(20)

49mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 1 site

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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Gearhead Gulch Campground

18. Gearhead Gulch Campground

16mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 1 site · Tent, RV

Off-Road Park & Camping – 6 Acres of Trails & Obstacles in Rural Iowa! Looking for a place to wheel and camp for the weekend? We’re renting out 6 acres of off-road terrain with two private campsites designed for off-roaders! 🏕 Campsites: Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, parking for one Jeep, Truck, or SUV, and access to a shared porta potty $25 per site per night (weekends only) Firewood bundles available for $5 each Located on a quiet dead-end road, just 5 minutes from Waukon, IA, where you’ll find restaurants, fuel, and entertainment 🚜 Off-Road Park: A variety of mud trails, flex tests, ramps, log trails, and more! $30 per day for access On-site shop rental available in case of breakdowns Recovery services offered—go ahead and test your rig’s limits! 🔧 Additional Info: Sign a release of liability before entry Wrench anywhere in the park or rent the shop if needed 📍 Location: Rural Iowa (near Waukon) 📅 Weekends only Message for reservations or more details!

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The Prairie Lodge

19. The Prairie Lodge

100%

(1)

19mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 1 site

Welcome to The Prairie Lodge — A Rustic Retreat on Historic Land Nestled in the heart of the Driftless Region of Northeast Iowa, The Prairie Lodge sits on 200 acres of native prairie and timber as part of the Cook Heritage Farm Estate. This cherished family property has been passed down through generations for over 173 years. The property borders the scenic Turkey River and is surrounded by rolling farmland and gentle bluffs that lead toward the mighty Mississippi River. Rich in natural beauty, the Driftless Area is geologically unique—never touched by glaciers—and is known for its caves, underground streams, blind valleys, sinkholes, and cold spring-fed creeks. The Prairie Lodge, once the main “corn crib” used for drying and storing harvested corn, has been thoughtfully renovated into a comfortable and charming retreat. Inside, you’ll find a full kitchen, two bathrooms, a cozy living room, and an open loft with four queen beds. The loft comfortably sleeps eight and can accommodate up to ten guests with a blow-up mattress if needed. Step onto the east-facing patio deck with your morning beverage and watch the sunrise over fields of blooming prairie flowers. Wildlife is abundant—deer, rabbits, songbirds, pheasants, and even eagles are frequent visitors. As night falls, the second-floor deck becomes the perfect spot for stargazing and listening to the calls of coyotes echoing across the land. Next door to the Lodge, you’ll find the Bin Bar—a once-abandoned grain bin transformed in 2017 into a unique gathering space ideal for late-night storytelling and nightcaps under the stars. For those traveling with a larger group, RV campsites with full water, sewer, and electrical hookups are available near the Lodge. If additional accommodations are needed beyond the Prairie Lodge, please contact your Hipcamp host for details and availability. Activities nearby: Iowa towns including Decorah, Clermont, Elgin, Elkader, and Prairie Du Chen, Wisconsin are within driving distance. Each town boasts its own fun for day and evening entertainment including local artisan wares, antiquing, hiking, biking, golfing, water recreation, breweries, and dining spots.

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Windy Ridge Retreat

20. Windy Ridge Retreat

100%

(4)

25mi from Effigy Mounds National Monument · 1 site

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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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Jaime

3 days ago

Weekend Trip to Elysian View Farms

What a little piece of heaven that we needed for the weekend. We did all the Amish things, had great local food, LOVED petting the calves, and relax by the fire at night with a beautiful sunset! Breezy on the ridge, so no mosquito bites. Christine is a sweet, attentative host. Will def be back ☺️

Eric

4 days ago

13 ft campervan

1 night at Roy's Acres

We had an amazing visit at Roy’s Acres. Well maintained land with roomy camping sites. Bathroom was very clean which meant a lot to my wife. Steve and Ellen, the owners, were very friendly and accommodating. We will definitely be back multiple times. Already planning the next visit.

Adie

4 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tent camping on secluded 40 acres.

We loved this hipcamp and would highly recommend! A nice and private campsite that is within 10 minutes of a cute town that has all the essentials… including great coffee!

Erich

4 days ago

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Driftless Haven 125 Acres & Creek

We had an outstanding trip over Memorial weekend. We loved being the only campers on Andy & Marla’s property. It was really easy getting in and out with the camper. Gorgeous rolling hills and bluffs all around. Hiking the property and getting to the top of the bluff was an absolute treat. Andy and Marla are outstanding hosts that genuinely cared that we were having a nice time. They even made sure the pups were enjoying themselves. My kiddo loved splashing around in the creek. A+ trip all around.

Wendie

6 days ago

3 nights at Heart of the Driftless

This was a very secluded and quiet spot. The cabin is beautiful and comfortable. The cozy fireplace was nice on a chilly day or night. Karen is a kind and helpful host.

Bobby

6 days ago

Weekend Trip to Elysian View Farms

We were pleasantly surprised by the Red Barn, it was so much more than we thought it would be! Christine and David were amazing hosts who thought of everything. We can’t wait to come back!

Richard

1 week ago

15 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Driftless Haven 125 Acres & Creek

This is a beautiful location. Quiet, peaceful and with excellent hosts.

Linda

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Elysian View Farms

Beautiful views!!! Charming living quarters. Christine made sure you have the essentials such as gas grill, coffee pot, microwave, crock pot and electric skillet and cooking utensils. There is no refrigerator or stove so make sure to bring ice. Full size bed is very comfortable . There is a porta potty close to the building. There is talk about a portable shower coming this summer. Very quiet and lovely stay.

Katia

2 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

With pets

3 nights at 🦫 Flutterby 🦋 Farm 👩🏽‍🌾

i loved our stay at flutterby! gorgeous property with helpful & responsive hosts. being allowed to have my dog run around off leash was a huge bonus. highly recommend!

Krystal

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to 🦫 Flutterby 🦋 Farm 👩🏽‍🌾

This is the 2nd time we came here camping and it was just as great as last time! The spring water, the friendly sheep, the walking paths, all so perfect. I also like to note that it was just my daughter and I and we felt completely safe and comfortable! Definitely recommend

Liv

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at West Fork Sports Club

We would totally come back to this beautiful spot. Tucked way in a valley right on the edge of a prairie. It’s an open, grassy area, but there are plenty of nearby trees if you need to find some shade. You will see other sites, but you're far enough away to feel like you have your own space. The best part was the babbling brook! The sound is so peaceful and also helped drown out any noise from other campers. Most people seemed to be here to fish for trout in the stream. Our host, Tina, was laid back and helpful. A tip for early May: it got very chilly at night! We woke up to ice on everything, though the valley warms up quickly once the sun hits. Our dog loved it here too. She enjoyed swimming in the stream and chomping through the tall grass.

Cindy

3 weeks ago

10 ft pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at West Fork Sports Club

Beautiful location, calm and peaceful. Close to many small communities. We like to bike and it was close to the Elroy-Sparta Trail

Kevin

3 weeks ago

6 nights at Elysian View Farms

Great host. Beautiful piece of property in a beautiful area.

Robert

3 weeks ago

22 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Relax near the Mississippi

Super convenient location right north of downtown. Easy in and out. Quiet area with flat spots.

Robert

3 weeks ago

25 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Relax near the Mississippi

Small park just north of downtown. Nice place to stay the night

Ruthie

3 weeks ago

19 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to 🦫 Flutterby 🦋 Farm 👩🏽‍🌾

What a beautiful, peaceful and fun-to-explore campsite! We loved doing a creek walk in our water shoes, hiking the mowed trails and saying hi to the baby lambs. Very kind and accommodating owners/groundkeeper. The road is so quiet. Barely any vehicles went by. We'd book this site again and recommend it!

James

May 2026

Tent

3 nights at West Fork Sports Club

Nothing fancy but good sized and relatively spread out sites along a river with clean bathrooms, clean shower, potable water and easy access to fishing whether on site or in the area, and all at a very reasonable price. I’d stay there again

Tevere

April 2026

With pets

Weekend Trip to Elysian View Farms

We adored our stay at Elysian View Farm. The view is indeed spectacular, especially at sunset, and the rural surroundings, both agricultural and natural are stunning. But even more beautiful, for us, was the warmth, kindness, and generosity of our hosts, Christine and Dave. They made us feel special and cared about, helped us find a beautiful fishing spot, and treated us like family. We are honored and blessed to have been their guests.

Jacob

April 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Roy's Acres

Second time staying at Roy’s Acres. Steve is always very friendly. Campsites are nice and clean, bathroom well kept, with a shower on the way! Can’t wait to visit again.

Nick

March 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to S-Camp at Turtle Head Rock

Beautiful and quiet. Travis is a stand up guy and he makes everything very clear and it makes for an enjoyable experience. Would recommend

Effigy Mounds National Monument camping 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.

Reviews for Effigy Mounds National Monument Campgrounds

93%

7 ratings · 5 reviews

Mixed feelings

· November 2025

Matthew A.

2 reviews

Recommends

· September 2025

Stretching your legs during road trip

Easy to walk to the various mounds, interesting part of the local history. You can stay 45 mins or for the day depending on how many mounds you want to see. Lovely overlook onto the Mississippi River.