If you are thinking about Camping at Wyalusing state park, this helpful guide will show you everything you need to know. Keep reading to find out where the best campsites are, what amenities and activities are available, what you’ll need to bring, and some interesting history about the park.
What to Expect When Camping at Wyalusing State Park
When you arrive at Wyalusing State Park you will enjoy spectacular views of the 500 foot bluffs. There are so many great things to do while camping at Wyalusing State Park, from hiking, to bird watching, or just relaxing and enjoying the calming sounds of the forest.
Camping
There are 109 campsites at two main campgrounds within Wyalusing State Park. Both campgrounds are pet friendly and campsites are for up to 6 people. Looking to go with friends or family? Group camping is available with several large tent sites that can hold over 100 people. They also have an indoor camp facility for groups with a kitchen and dormitories.
Wisconsin Ridge campground
The more popular Wisconsin Ridge campground can fill up quickly, so make sure to reserve your spot early. The campsites on the North Ridge are especially popular with panoramic views of the bluffs. The campsites here are fairly small and close together. They are great for tent camping but can be hard to get into if you have anything bigger than a medium sized RV or trailer.
Homestead Campground
If larger, more private campsites are your style, check out the Homestead campground. These sites are generously sized and have plenty of space to get your vehicles in and out. They tend to be quieter than the more popular Wisconsin Ridge sites.
Thinking about going last minute? There are a select number of “first come first served” non-reserveable camp sites located at both the Homestead and Wisconsin Ridge campgrounds.
Amenities
In this section you’ll find all the information you need about what amenities are available while camping at Wyalusing State Park.
Facilities
Electricity is available at a number of spots in both campgrounds. There are no water or sewer hookups, however a dumping station is available.
There is a fantastic bathroom facility that was built in 2018 with showers and toilets available to all campers. After enjoying the great outdoors you will feel great freshening up there!
There are no laundry facilities at the park but you can find some laundromats nearby in Prairie du Chien.
Firewood and Reservations
Need to purchase firewood or a snack? Near the Wisconsin Ridge campground there is a concession stand where you can buy firewood, some grocery items, ice cream, and rent canoes and kayaks.
Reservations for camping can be made online at Wyalusing State Park Camping Reservations Or by calling the park toll free at (888) WI-PARKS
Things to do while camping at Wyalusing State Park
Hiking
Do you enjoy hiking? Wyalusing State Park has over 14 miles of hiking trails. Some are easy, family friendly trails and some are more challenging.
Biking
Wyalusing State park has two great mountain bike trails, the Mississippi Ridge Trail and the Whitetail Meadows Trail.
Bird watching
Wyalusing State park is a popular bird watching destination. There are over 90 species of birds that make the park their home including Red Tailed Hawks, Turkey Vultures, and Bald Eagles. Take some time to stroll along the trails and see what birds you can spot along the way!
Water activities
Do you enjoy boating? If so you will love spending some time on the water while camping at Wyalusing State Park. A boat ramp is available and if you don’t have your own boat, you can rent one from several businesses nearby. There is a 6 mile long canoe trail available and canoes, along with kayaks, are available for rent at the park concession stand.
What to bring
Camping gear
You’ll need basic camping gear such as a tent, sleeping bags, and cooking tools. A fire ring and picnic table are available at most sites.
Clothing
You’ll want to be comfortable while also prepared for spending long hours outside. Lightweight pants and long sleeved shirts that protect your skin from the sun and pests while still being comfortable to move in are ideal. If you’re planning on hiking you’ll also want a good pair of hiking boots.
Extras
To make the most out of the excellent bird watching available while you’re camping at Wyalusing State Park, bring a pair of binoculars. If you have a boat or kayak at home this is a great place to use it so you’ll want to bring that as well.
If you get there and realize you’ve forgotten something, basic essentials and some grocery items are available for purchase at the concession stand.
History
We couldn’t finish this guide without mentioning some of the amazing history at Wyalusing State Park. People began arriving in the area around 11,000 years ago and they have left evidence of their lives and cultures.
Indian burial Mounds
Throughout the park you can find 64 burial mounds that were left by the Woodland Native American Indians. The mounds are in different shapes including domes, cones, and there are even some bear and deer shaped mounds. Some of these mounds date back as far as 3,000 years ago. Take some time to visit the mounds and read the available signs to learn about the Native Americans who once lived in the area.
Fur Trading
Shortly after the French arrived in the area they began trading with the local Native American people. Because rivers were such an efficient mode of transportation, they were often used to transport goods. Millions of dollars worth of fur pelts passed through the area of the Wyalusing State Park. While you’re gazing out at the water, imagine what it must of been like for the fur traders who lived and worked here so long ago.
Conclusion
As you can see there are some great things to do and explore while you are camping at Wyalusing state park. Take this guide with you to help you remember everything you want to see and do while you’re there. Which activities will you do first?
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