Most People Don't Know You Can Go Camping On A Wisconsin Sandbar
Nicole
Author
The lower Wisconsin River offers nearly 100 miles of gorgeous, easy-paddling water between Prairie du Sac and Prairie du Chien. The river is undammed in this area, so there are no rapids, making this a great place for folks of all experience levels. Dotted all along this part of the river are sandbars, perfect for pausing to have a mid-day snack or spend the night. Wisconsin River sandbar camping is a fun free way to enjoy camping on the river. The sandbars create a unique opportunity to head out on the water and spend a day or three out in the wilds.
If you don’t already have a canoe or kayak, companies along this part of the river will rent you one and anything else you need, then you just load up the boat and head on down the river. You’ll park your car at the end and they’ll shuttle you back to the beginning. No waiting for the shuttle at the end of your ride – or missing it. Canoe at your leisure. It’s an awesome way to spend some time outdoors in Wisconsin.
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Let's go on a sandbar camping journey with Joe and Kari Adventures as they try canoeing down the Wisconsin River for the first time:
One of the best companies to gear you up and set you off right on a lower Wisconsin River sandbar camping adventure is Wisconsin Canoe Company. Located at E4440 US Hwy 14 in Spring Green, they’ve got years of know-how and tons of positive reviews behind them. They’ll make sure you have the best possible sandbar camping experience.
Wisconsin River sandbar camping is a blast. And it feels like you have the river all to yourself sometimes. Have you ever gone sandbar camping in Wisconsin? We want to hear about it! Let us know in the comments.
Looking for more unique camping in Wisconsin ideas? Check out this waterpark campground in Wisconsin that belongs at the top of your summer bucket list.
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More to Explore
More Wisconsin camping locations
Where can I primitive camp in Wisconsin?
Primitive camping is a whole new way of enjoying the outdoors. Aside from sandbar camping along the Wisconsin River, there are a number of state parks that have rustic camping spots. Here are a few places where you can primitive camp in Wisconsin:
- Chippewa Flowage
- Governor Knowles State Forest
- Black River State Forest
- Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area
- Brule River State Forest
How far from a river should you camp?
The distance you can camp from rivers and streams varies depending on what source you check with. The typical distance stated is at least 100 feet and sometimes up to 200 feet. This is to allow natural wildlife access to the water.
Where can you camp along the water in Wisconsin?
Camping by a lake, river, or stream can be a peaceful experience. The sound of water lapping or flowing is a delightful way to lull yourself to sleep after a long day of hiking. Here are a few places where you can camp along the water in Wisconsin:
- Brunet Island State Park: This island state park between the Chippewa and Fisher Rivers is the perfect spot to camp if you want to enjoy a spot close to the water.
- Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest: Camping near Bagley Rapids is a thrilling experience. This state park campground has 30 sites, about half of which are by water. These picturesque rapids on the Oconto River can be heard from your site as a campfire burns bright - it is the perfect soundtrack to your evening.
- Willow Flowage, Oneida County, WI: With 73 miles of shoreline and 30,000 acres of wilderness to explore, this area of Wisconsin is an outdoor adventure you don't want to miss. There are over 30 rustic campsites available on a first-come first-served basis just waiting for you to discover.