The Kickapoo Valley Reserve is located in western Wisconsin between Ontario (WI) and LaFarge. It is a multi-use area with hiking and horse trails, camping, and canoeing. There is only primitive camping at a fee of $10.00/night/site.

The Kickapoo River runs through it. It is known as the crooked river in the world, because of its meandering. Still, it takes only about 10 hours to paddle from Ontario to La Farge, so it really is only suitable for an overnight trip.

One thing to be aware of is that on hot summer Saturdays, the portion of the river from Ontario to Wildcat Mountain State Park is popular with the college-aged party crowd. A lot of "celebration" takes place. If you go on a Saturday it is wise to go early to beat the crowd. The Partyers take out at Wildcat, so once beyond that you’re safe.

It is a beautiful paddle, although there are some gravel bars and some strainers. Occasionally there may be a logjam that requires you to exit the canoe. From Ontario to Wildcat there are many rock faces similar to those on the Upper Iowa River or Wisconsin Dells Only smaller – very scenic. Below Wildcat the banks are wooded.

Campsites are marked with signs, although there may be times when the signage has washed away. Maps are available at outfitters and tourism places. The sites are very simple, just an open space along the bank. No amenities except for maybe a stone fire ring.

The water certainly is not drinkable. I suppose you could filter it, but with all the sediment the filter would soon clog. Bringing water is best.

Lots of fauna. I’ve seen muskrats, eagles, deer, owls, great blue herons, geese, ducks, rabbits, squirrels, all manner of birds, ... I seldom see other people, and even fewer people canoeing.

Shuttles can be arranged with local outfitters.

Other sections of the Kickapoo can be done, but the banks are private property, so there is no camping along the banks. There are, however, campgrounds in or near the small communities.

For me it is a nice, quick get away.

Is it Spring yet?

Nojobro... didn't you camp here last summer? How was it (assuming my memory is correct)?

Yes, I did, in September. I did not canoe, however. I hiked into a campsite. The only amenity was a fire ring. It's gorgeous there. Highly recommend. I did a trip report.