I've hunted some public land in Lacrosse county (two counties south of Buffalo and right on the Mississippi River). The "Coulee Experimental Forest" seemed to have very few deer, I actually know a guy that owns some land adjacent to there and he will back me up on that one. I spent much more time at the "Van Loon Wildlife Area" and that is a much better place to find deer. It's about 6000 acres, the access is very limited and no motorized vehicles are allowed so you can get several miles in from the parking areas to get away from the crowds. During gun season you'll see lots of hunters but not very many deer hunters during bow season, but you will see squirrel & duck hunters.
For themoney though you'd be much better off going to an outfitter. Save yourself the frustration and worry so you can just enjoy the hunting!