Willow River State Park Campground

- 020-1009-70-000, Hudson, WI 54016

For Wisconsin locals seeking a truly memorable and feature-rich outdoor experience, Willow River State Park Campground in Hudson stands out as a highly popular and stunning destination. Nestled in the picturesque St. Croix River Valley, this expansive state park offers a diverse landscape, from vast prairies and lush forests to a spectacular waterfall and a tranquil lake. If you're a Wisconsinite looking for a campground that combines spacious, private sites with access to impressive natural wonders and a wide array of recreational activities, Willow River State Park provides an exceptional setting for your next adventure.

While some campers note the cost and the single dump station as considerations, the overwhelming sentiment from visitors points to the park's undeniable beauty and the quality of its campsites. Reviews highlight "very large campsites with plenty of trees and shrubs for added privacy," ensuring a comfortable and secluded feel, even when the campground is busy. This emphasis on natural screening means "when all the leaves are in you won’t see your neighbors," fostering a sense of peace and immersion in nature. The "bath house was very nice," providing a clean and convenient option for showering, which is a significant plus for many campers.

The true star of Willow River State Park is its breathtaking natural features. The "spectacular" Willow Falls is a highlight, and visitors "highly recommend the blue trail from the 300 campground to the falls." The falls are described as "much more impressive than I anticipated and worth the walk," making them a must-see attraction within the park. Beyond the falls, the park boasts "great trails" and "walking paths wide and mostly shaded with beautiful scenery," perfect for exploring on foot or by bike. As a pet-friendly park, it allows the entire family, including furry companions, to enjoy the extensive trail network and the beauty of the Wisconsin outdoors. Willow River State Park Campground offers a comprehensive and deeply satisfying outdoor experience for locals, making it a top choice for those looking to explore the best of Wisconsin's natural heritage.

Willow River State Park Campground is officially located at 020-1009-70-000, Hudson, WI 54016, USA. This unique address is a parcel identification number, but the practical location is within the boundaries of Willow River State Park, just five miles northeast of the city of Hudson, Wisconsin. For Wisconsin locals, this location is exceptionally convenient, especially for those residing in western Wisconsin or the greater Twin Cities metropolitan area across the border in Minnesota, making it an ideal destination for weekend getaways or longer vacations.

Hudson itself is a vibrant city on the St. Croix River, offering a variety of amenities, including grocery stores, restaurants, and other services, ensuring that campers have easy access to supplies before and after their stay. The park is readily accessible via well-maintained state and county roads, making for a smooth journey for all types of vehicles, from cars to large RVs.

Within the park, the campground is situated on the southern shore of Little Falls Lake. The park's internal roads provide access to the various camping loops, such as the 100, 200, and 300 campgrounds. While signage to the single dump station has been noted as an area for improvement by visitors, the overall park access is excellent. Campers are advised to keep the park map provided upon entry to easily navigate the different areas and locate amenities.

The proximity to the St. Croix River and the park's numerous lakes and the Willow River itself contribute to its high accessibility for water-based recreation. Miles of well-maintained hiking and biking trails crisscross the park, allowing visitors to explore its diverse landscapes easily. This combination of straightforward road access, proximity to a full-service city, and extensive internal park accessibility makes Willow River State Park Campground a prime choice for Wisconsin locals seeking a comprehensive outdoor experience that's both convenient and deeply immersed in nature.

• Electric Campsites: The campground features 59 campsites with electric hookups (20/30/50 amps), accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs. Full hookups (water and sewer) are not available at individual sites.
• Spacious Campsites: Sites are generally "very large" with "plenty of trees and shrubs for added privacy."
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate for cooking.
• Flush Toilets and Showers: "Very nice" and clean bathhouses with flush toilets and showers are available, highly appreciated by campers.
• Vault Toilets: Additional vault toilets are located throughout the campground areas for convenience.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available at designated points within the campground.
• Dump Station: A seasonal dump station is provided for RVs. Campers should plan for potential wait times, especially during peak hours.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for sale at the park office during open hours, and from campground hosts in the 300 campground during the season (7 to 8 p.m.).
• Campground Host: A campground host is typically on-site to provide information and assistance to campers.
• Pet-Friendly: The park and campground are pet-friendly, allowing dogs on leash (8 feet or less) in most areas, including trails and campsites.
• Seasonal Operation: The campground takes reservations from mid-May through October. Winter camping is available on a first-come, first-served basis, with water systems turned off and buildings closed from October 1 through mid-May.

• Spectacular Willow Falls: The most famous feature, a powerful cascade in a 200-foot deep gorge, is a must-see and easily accessible via trails.
• Extensive Trail System: Over 13 miles of "great trails" for hiking, including shaded paths with beautiful scenery, and specific trails for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter. The "blue trail from the 300 campground to the falls" is highly recommended.
• Little Falls Lake: A shallow reservoir on the Willow River, perfect for boating, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. A swimming beach is available when not impacted by water levels.
• Diverse Landscape: The park boasts prairies, forests, and panoramic river scenery, home to wildlife such as deer, red fox, and bald eagles.
• Spacious and Private Sites: Campsites are notably large with natural screening, providing a sense of privacy.
• Clean Facilities: Bathhouses with showers are well-maintained and "very nice."
• Pet-Friendly Environment: Dogs are welcome on trails and at campsites, allowing families to bring their furry companions along.
• Recreational Opportunities: Besides hiking and boating, the park offers rock climbing (with specific regulations), fishing (Willow River is stocked with trout), picnicking, and a nature-based play trail for kids.
• Winter Activities: Features like sledding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing make it a year-round destination.
• Proximity to Hudson: Conveniently located near the city of Hudson for easy access to supplies and services.

As a Wisconsin State Park campground, Willow River State Park Campground operates under the standardized fee structure set by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Therefore, it typically does not offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the way a private campground might. The inherent value proposition and "promotion" for Wisconsin locals are tied to the state park system's accessible pricing and annual pass benefits.

Key financial considerations and inherent "offers" include:

• Wisconsin State Park Vehicle Admission Sticker: For Wisconsin residents, an annual vehicle admission pass costs $28 (or $13 for seniors aged 65+). This sticker provides unlimited entry to all Wisconsin State Parks, Forests, and Trails for the year, offering significant savings for frequent visitors. A daily pass costs $10 for residents.
• Consistent Camping Fees: The camping fee for an electric-only site is $33 per night (as mentioned in reviews). While some visitors perceive this as "pricey," especially compared to other states, it's a standard rate for a state park with its level of amenities and natural attractions.
• Value for Money: The "promotion" is the access you gain to a wide array of high-quality recreational activities and well-maintained natural features—including the spectacular Willow Falls, extensive trail systems, and Little Falls Lake—all for the combined cost of the vehicle sticker and nightly camping fee.
• First-Come, First-Served Winter Camping: During the off-season (October 1 through mid-May, when water systems are turned off), camping is available on a first-come, first-served basis, potentially offering a more spontaneous and quieter experience for those prepared for rustic conditions.

Wisconsin locals can maximize their value by purchasing an annual vehicle admission sticker if they plan to visit state parks multiple times throughout the year. For current rates and reservation details, it's always recommended to consult the official Wisconsin DNR website or the park's specific reservation portal. The true appeal of Willow River State Park is the excellent value offered for experiencing one of Wisconsin's most beautiful and activity-rich state parks.

For inquiries, reservations, or additional information regarding Willow River State Park Campground, Wisconsin locals should utilize the official channels for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

• Phone: (888) 947-2757 (This is a central reservation line for Wisconsin State Parks.)
• Mobile Phone: +1 888-947-2757 (Same central reservation line.)
• Address: 020-1009-70-000, Hudson, WI 54016, USA (This is the parcel ID; the park's physical location is near Hudson, WI).

To get detailed park-specific information or to speak with park staff, you might also find a direct phone number for Willow River State Park itself on the Wisconsin DNR website, usually listed under the park's specific page. Reservations for campsites are typically made online through the Wisconsin DNR's reservation system.

It is always advisable for campers to check the official Wisconsin DNR website for the most current information regarding park alerts, trail conditions, lake levels, dump station status, and any specific policies or advisories before planning their trip to Willow River State Park. This ensures a smooth and enjoyable camping experience.

Willow River State Park Campground is an ideal destination for Wisconsin locals, offering a comprehensive and highly rewarding outdoor experience that balances natural beauty with convenient amenities. Its suitability for residents stems from several key factors, making it a beloved gem in the Wisconsin State Park system.

Firstly, the campground boasts "very large campsites with plenty of trees and shrubs for added privacy." This design ensures that even during peak season, campers can enjoy a sense of seclusion and personal space, a highly valued attribute for those seeking a true escape from urban environments. The "very nice" bathhouses with showers add a significant layer of comfort, making rustic camping more enjoyable without sacrificing the essence of being outdoors.

Secondly, the park's natural features are simply spectacular. The "much more impressive than I anticipated" Willow Falls is a highlight that many locals will want to experience, offering breathtaking scenery and fantastic photo opportunities. The extensive network of "great trails" (over 13 miles, including the highly recommended "blue trail to the falls") provides endless opportunities for hiking and exploring the diverse landscapes, from shaded paths to open prairies. The ability to bring pets along on these trails further enhances its appeal for Wisconsin families.

Thirdly, the availability of electric-only sites caters well to RVs and trailers, while still offering spacious areas for tent campers. While the dump station can get busy, knowing this in advance allows for careful planning, a common practice for experienced local campers. The park's prime location near Hudson provides easy access to supplies and services, making logistics simple for short or long stays.

Finally, despite the need for a Wisconsin State Park vehicle sticker and camping fees, the overall value proposition is excellent. For Wisconsin residents who utilize their annual pass, the cost per visit becomes very reasonable, granting access to a wealth of recreational activities including boating on Little Falls Lake, fishing, rock climbing, and winter sports. Willow River State Park Campground truly offers a well-rounded, accessible, and naturally stunning experience, making it a perfect choice for Wisconsin locals looking to create lasting outdoor memories in their home state.

Willow River State Park Campground

020-1009-70-000, Hudson, WI 54016, USA