Are you the owner for this park? Make it a featured listing and be seen in the top search results!
Wildcat Mountain
Overview
Perched high on a steep ridge overlooking the scenic Kickapoo River Valley, Wildcat Mountain State Park offers some of the most dramatic landscapes in Wisconsin. Located in the heart of the Driftless Area, this park is defined by its rugged terrain that escaped the flattening effects of prehistoric glaciers. RV travelers will find a tranquil retreat where the focus is firmly on the natural beauty of the winding river and the lush, green canopy of the surrounding hillsides.
Location & Surroundings
Situated just outside the village of Ontario, WI, the park provides a commanding view of the Kickapoo River as it snakes through the valley below. The surrounding region is characterized by rolling hills, hidden valleys, and a significant Amish community, offering a peaceful rural backdrop. Driving to the park involves navigating winding roads that climb the ridge, rewarding visitors with a sense of elevation and isolation that is rare in the Midwest.
Amenities & Park Features
The park features a well-maintained campground with electric hookups available at select sites, making it accessible for many modern RVers. Essential facilities include:
- A sanitary dump station and fresh drinking water access.
- Seasonal flush toilets and showers located conveniently within the campground loops.
- Spacious sites equipped with fire rings and picnic tables.
Several observation decks are located near the camping areas, providing breathtaking sunset views over the valley without needing to hike far from your rig.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor recreation is the primary draw here, specifically canoeing and kayaking on the gentle Kickapoo River. Local outfitters in Ontario provide rentals and shuttle services for easy river access. Hikers can explore over 20 miles of trails, including the popular Old Settler’s Trail. Just a short drive away, the Kickapoo Valley Reserve offers further exploration, while the nearby town of Ontario is famous for its traditional Amish bakeries and handcrafted goods.
Who This Park Is Best For
Wildcat Mountain is an ideal destination for nature photographers and outdoor enthusiasts who prefer a quiet, scenic atmosphere over a resort-style experience. It is best suited for small to mid-sized RVs and trailers, as the ridge-top roads and site dimensions can be tight for the largest motorhomes. If you enjoy falling asleep to the sounds of the forest and waking up to mist-filled valleys, this park will perfectly fit your travel style.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Ryan Panning
Nice hiking trails with scenic views, would be spectacular during fall colors. Just to note for those towing campers, the entrance is tight and quite the incline/decline, makes you stop and think "what am I getting into" but it works out in the end. 😅
Xris Deegan
Lovely views across the Driftless on the Old Settlers trail - lucky to experience almost no mosquitoes this June, either! 😆 Ice Cave trail is super-short but surprisingly neat. It's worth the short detour to see the really interesting erosion formation. The walk-in tent sites are really sweet & relatively secluded. Such a nice camping option.
Corinne Korslin
We spent the weekend hiking the horse trails to all the lookout points, some were overgrown but the ones that weren’t were beautiful. The hikes are not for the weak and have some steep inclines. Beautiful views in and around the park.
Sonja Berg
Best place to camp EVER! Cart in site are stunning. Vault toilets are clean. Trails are amazing. Just found out we can kayak and canoe on the Kickapoo river. Next time for sure! Be ready to hike hills.
Jackie Gatien
This place was beautiful.We checked the overlook and then took the two point five mile hike to Old settlers trail to Taylor's Hollow overlook. We chose to go left at the fork I would suggest go right if it's hard for you to climb up steps. We made but our first hike of the Year.