Highland Ridge
4.58146 reviewsHighland Ridge Campground, N2100 Dugan Road, Spring Valley, WI 54767
Highland Ridge
$24.00 - $280.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$28.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$24.00
Group Site Fee$280.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $24 for walk-in tent sites to $280 for group electric sites. The fees vary by site type and amenities.
About this campground
Perched high above the shimmering waters of Eau Galle Reservoir, Highland Ridge Campground offers an enchanting escape into western Wisconsin's natural beauty. This hidden gem features 46 thoughtfully designed sites, from secluded walk-in tent spots perfect for those seeking solitude to specialized equestrian facilities for riders exploring the scenic trails. Whether you're casting a line into the reservoir's peaceful waters, traversing wooded paths on foot or horseback, or simply unwinding beneath the canopy of mature trees, Highland Ridge provides the perfect basecamp for your outdoor adventures.
Highland Ridge Campground offers diverse camping options, including tent camping, RV sites, equestrian sites, and group camping.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full splendor of Wisconsin's changing seasons at Highland Ridge, where spring arrives with dramatic thunderstorms that give way to lush greenery, and autumn paints the hillsides in brilliant golds and crimsons. Summer days bring warm sunshine and gentle breezes that sweep across the ridge, creating an unexpectedly mosquito-free environment that lets you enjoy long evenings around the campfire without the usual buzzing interruptions. The elevated position catches cooling winds that make even the warmest days comfortable for outdoor activities.
ElevationThe campground's strategic position atop a scenic ridge creates a natural paradise where constant breezes sweep through the sites, keeping pesky mosquitoes at bay and providing refreshing relief during warm summer days. This elevated vantage point not only offers stunning views but also creates a uniquely comfortable camping environment rarely found in Wisconsin's woodlands.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where towering hardwoods create a living cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The campground nestles within this verdant sanctuary, surrounded by dramatic hills and ancient bluffs that shelter diverse wildlife and native wildflowers. Each site offers its own window into this thriving ecosystem, where morning mist rises from the valleys below and evening brings a chorus of woodland creatures.
Geological RegionHighland Ridge Campground crowns one of western Wisconsin's most picturesque landscapes, where ancient geological forces carved steep hills and majestic bluffs from the earth. This elevated sanctuary overlooks the sparkling Eau Galle Reservoir, its waters reflecting the dense forests that blanket the surrounding terrain. The region's rich soils and abundant rainfall have created a lush woodland ecosystem that transforms with each season, offering campers an ever-changing tableau of natural beauty.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible flush toilets, vault toilets, and campsites are available. Bathrooms are noted for being handicap-friendly.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious, with enough room for RVs, trailers, and additional camping equipment.
Sites PrivacySites are well-spaced and surrounded by trees, providing privacy. Some sites are described as secluded.
Total Campsites46 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites higher on the ridge for better cell service. Avoid site 14 due to uneven terrain.
Best CampsitesSite 21 is frequently mentioned as spacious and shaded. Other favorites include sites 15, 17, and 19 for privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Up to 14 nights per visit and within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum 6 occupants at individual campsites.
Groups
Group sites are available in equestrian loops and tent-only areas. Group sizes vary based on site type.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into standard and equestrian loops with spacious, wooded sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 15 to November 15. Closure dates vary depending on weather conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or through their mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites available for walk-up reservations if not pre-booked; availability varies.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations may forfeit the first night's recreation fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Highland Ridge Campground offers a broad range of recreational activities suitable for families, individual campers, and equestrian enthusiasts. Activities include hiking, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, horseback riding, swimming, and wildlife observation. Seasonal interpretive programs conducted by rangers further enrich the camping experience.
Hiking
The campground has 7 miles of hiking trails with overlook seating areas. Trails are well-marked and suitable for all skill levels. Rustic trails and scenic overlooks are popular among visitors.Fishing
Fishing is available year-round, including on the Eau Galle Reservoir. Kayaking and canoeing are popular among fishers. Species include turtles, geese, and eagles.Swimming
Swimming is available at a designated beach area, although the beach is not within walking distance of the campground and requires a short drive.Biking
Bike trails are nearby, and reviews highlight their accessibility and beauty.Boating
Electric motor boating, kayaking, and canoeing are common. Some trails provide multi-use access for horses and people to reach fishing and boating areas.Wildlife viewing
Campers frequently report wildlife sightings, including deer, squirrels, turtles, geese, and eagles. Black squirrels are noted in spring.Beach activities
Beach activities are popular, although the beach is accessible only by car. Activities include picnicking and swimming.Cultural and Educational Programs
Weekly interpretive programs are presented on Saturday evenings during the summer by park rangers. Topics vary based on season and interest.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are recommended by campers.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted but must be contained within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include uneven roads and campsite terrains, wildlife encounters, and muddy trails during rainy periods.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 48%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services include Spring Valley Fire Department (5 miles), and Red Cedar Medical Center in Menomonie (approximately 25 miles).
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 15 to November 15.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling stations are available throughout the campground. Park staff frequently clear public areas using blowers.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is opposite the dam on the north side of Eau Galle Reservoir. Visitors must drive several miles to access the beach and fishing areas.
Common complaintsNegative reviews cite uneven campsites, lack of water views, and issues with the dump station.
HostCampground hosts are described as friendly and helpful in multiple reviews. Long-time hosts are available to resolve issues.
Campground Map
Highland Ridge Campground, N2100 Dugan Road, Spring Valley, WI 54767
Driving directionsInterstate 94 east from Minneapolis/St. Paul to Exit 24. Take County Road B at Exit 24 south approximately 2 miles. Follow highway signs east on County Road N for another 2 miles until it intersects County Road NN. Go south on NN for 2 miles until campground entrance sign, turn right onto Dugan Road.
The campground is accessible from Interstate 94 via well-marked county roads. However, some reviews noted narrow and uneven roads within the campground itself, which may pose challenges for large RVs.Nearby places
Spring Valley (5 miles), Minneapolis/St. Paul (approximately 60 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and essentials are available in Spring Valley, 5 miles away. Specialty items like local cheese can be obtained at Cady Cheese Factory nearby.
Camper Reviews
4.6
146 reviews
Highland Ridge is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Highland Ridge Campground are predominantly positive, highlighting the spacious, shaded campsites, clean facilities, and peaceful surroundings. Common themes include appreciation for privacy, site cleanliness, and the quality of recreational activities. Negative comments focus on system inconsistencies, uneven sites, and challenges with beach accessibility.
Review Summaries
Based on 146 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects mentioned by campers include spacious and shaded sites, clean and well-maintained bathrooms and showers, friendly staff, and abundant recreational activities. Many campers praised...
Based on 146 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include uneven sites making RV leveling difficult, poor cell service in some areas, challenges with beach access requiring a drive, outdated facilities, and the need for system...
Based on 146 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend booking well in advance to secure preferred sites, bringing pest-free firewood, and exploring nearby attractions. Early arrival is suggested to optimize setup and access to...
Based on 146 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews highlight stunning fall foliage during autumn and pleasant shade during summer. Spring provides clear water views before foliage obscures them. Challenges like hot and humid conditions in...
Based on 146 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "The heavily wooded separation between sites also extends behind the sites and keeps the lake from being viewed from your campground site as well." - Dustin P
2. "Bathrooms and showers were clean...
Based on 146 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 14: Extremely uneven, causing RV instability.
Site 12: Spacious and handicap-friendly.
Site 17: Peaceful, shared trails with horses, and electric-only.
Site 21: Well-spaced, shady, and on the...
Based on 146 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible flush toilets and vault toilets are noted as handicap-friendly. Accessible sites ensure convenience for all campers.
Based on 146 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is pet-friendly, accommodating dogs, though restrictions apply at the beach. Equestrian sites allow horses, but concerns exist over manure cleanup on trails.
Based on 146 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025