I'm hunting for places to the south of WI where I can scratch that wilderness itch that might still be comfortable when northern MN, WI, MI are starting to get a bit chilly. I'm not opposed to colder camping, but my gf and many of my friends are, plus it would just be neat to have another option to the south for the sake of a different environment or for when I'm just not in the mood for chilly.

Ideally it would be something like 4-5 hours from Racine as that's about how long it takes me to get to many of my favorite quick weekend trip locations in northern WI, but I'd also like to hear about places within the 8-9 hour range since that's equivalent to a BWCA trip for me.

I know that to find somewhere warm in the middle of winter requires quite the trek, and that isn't what I'm looking for. I'm just lookin' for places to the south that might allow me to extend the window of warm season camping for my gf and friends. Paddling is appreciated of course, but it is far from mandatory.

This is a cool paddling lake, even has cypress trees. Lots of interesting places nearby also.

Link

SE Missouri, Mark Twain National Forest, Eleven Point, Jack's Fork and Current Rivers.
Eastern KY, Daniel Boone National Forest, rivers are a bit steeper.

Both have typical National Forest campgrounds and facilities. Lots of good day and overnight hiking. MO has more canoe camping opportunities, but dependent on water levels, however.

If you are not comfortable being out in the woods with hunting going on make sure you check out the season dates for the areas you will be visiting.

sedges: "SE Missouri, Mark Twain National Forest, Eleven Point, Jack's Fork and Current Rivers.
Eastern KY, Daniel Boone National Forest, rivers are a bit steeper.


Both have typical National Forest campgrounds and facilities. Lots of good day and overnight hiking. MO has more canoe camping opportunities, but dependent on water levels, however.


If you are not comfortable being out in the woods with hunting going on make sure you check out the season dates for the areas you will be visiting."

Great ideas. Current Rv and Jacks Fork Rv in SE Missouri are spring fed so have good water all year. Akers Ferry Canoe Rental can provide all outfitter services and is open year around.

The Driftless Area of northeast Iowa has several beautiful rivers to paddle.
The Upper Iowa River, Turkey River, and Yellow River have very little traffic in the shoulder season. The Maquoketa River and the North Fork of the Maquoketa also have some secluded sections.