Places to Camp near Janesville, WI

Camping near Janesville, Wisconsin

Camping near Janesville, Wisconsin, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a serene lakeside retreat, a family-friendly campground with plenty of activities, or a rustic spot to pitch your tent, the campgrounds around Janesville have something for everyone. From the scenic trails of Rock Cut State Park to the family-oriented amenities at Milton-Madison SE KOA, there's no shortage of options to explore.

In this guide, we'll cover what to do, what campers like, what you should know, tips for camping with families, and tips from RVers. We'll also include insights from fellow campers to give you a real feel for what to expect. So pack your gear and get ready to discover the best camping spots near Janesville!

What to do

The campgrounds near Janesville offer a range of activities to keep you entertained. Whether you're into hiking, fishing, or just relaxing by the campfire, there's plenty to do.

At Rock Cut State Park Campground, you can enjoy over 3,000 acres of wetlands, tall grasses, and protected forest preserves. The park features numerous trails, a swimming pond, and fishing opportunities. According to Kevin C., "Tons of trails, fishing, and even a swimming pond."

For a more structured camping experience, Milton-Madison SE KOA offers a variety of activities like a baseball backstop, sand volleyball, and a playground. Chris H. mentioned, "They have a ton of things to do for the family like a baseball backstop, sand volleyball, horse shoes, a playground, etc."

If you're looking for water activities, Crazy Horse Campground is a great choice. Erik O. shared, "Crazy horse is a very clean and well-maintained campground with a lot of things to do like river tubing, kayaking, and canoeing."

What campers like

Campers appreciate the variety of amenities and the natural beauty of the campgrounds near Janesville. Many campgrounds offer a mix of modern conveniences and rustic charm.

At Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground, campers enjoy the clean facilities and friendly atmosphere. Jennifer H. noted, "Everyone was super friendly and there was a little Oktoberfest celebration going on with some families a few sites down."

The Milton-Madison SE KOA is praised for its well-maintained sites and family-friendly activities. Justin R. said, "Plenty to do, awesome place. The RV sites are really nicely maintained."

Campers at Hickory Hills Campground appreciate the peaceful, wooded sites and excellent fishing opportunities. Michael T. shared, "Pros - nice wooded sites, excellent fishing, amenities are good, bathrooms (near the lodge) are nice."

What you should know

While camping near Janesville offers many perks, there are a few things you should be aware of to ensure a smooth experience.

At Rock Cut State Park Campground, Kevin C. pointed out, "The only negative is no drinkable water." Make sure to bring your own water supply.

Some campgrounds, like Crazy Horse Campground, have seen price increases. J H. mentioned, "The weekly rates increased by over $75 a week for the full hookup sites this season."

At Hickory Hills Campground, Michael T. noted that some amenities might not be available early in the season. "For Memorial Day weekend the pool wasn’t open, porta-potties near the lake and lodge were still padlocked/closed."

Tips for camping with families

Camping with families can be a rewarding experience, especially when you choose a campground with plenty of activities and amenities for kids.

Milton-Madison SE KOA is a top choice for families. Chris H. highlighted the family-friendly activities, saying, "The pool was great (from 3-4 it’s adult swim, so the kids had to get out)."

At Crazy Horse Campground, Erik O. mentioned, "They have a lot of amenities for the kids like mini golf, jump pad, playgrounds, and a pool."

For a quieter experience, Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground offers a peaceful setting with clean facilities. Kelly noted, "Nice campground very quiet and sites feel decently secluded from each other. Bathrooms were clean and the showers were warm."

Tips from RVers

RVers will find several campgrounds near Janesville that cater to their needs, offering full hookups and spacious sites.

At Milton-Madison SE KOA, Robert C. praised the amenities, saying, "Great pool, pristine restrooms, trees over sites, roomy sites and piles of things to keep busy."

Crazy Horse Campground also offers full hookups and a variety of activities. Lisa B. shared, "Clean campground with lots of things for the kids to do. Clean shower house with good water pressure!"

For a more rustic experience, Hickory Hills Campground offers a peaceful setting with wooded sites. Stuart K. noted, "The thickly wooded forest that encircles this campground creates a sense of peace and serenity that are unmatched."

Camping near Janesville, Wisconsin, offers a diverse range of experiences, from family-friendly campgrounds with plenty of activities to serene, wooded sites perfect for a quiet retreat. With insights from fellow campers, you'll be well-prepared to choose the perfect spot for your next outdoor adventure.

Best Camping Sites Near Janesville, WI (106)

    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Cut State Park Campground

    1.

    Rock Cut State Park Campground

    75 Reviews
    228 Photos
    238 Saves
    Machesney Park, Illinois

    Located 10 miles northeast of Rockford, Rock Cut State Park is a 3,100-acre recreation area that encompasses two natural grasslands, a natural creek area, a nature preserve and 162-acre Pierce Lake. The area was designated a state park in 1957 as a way of preserving a local polititian’s favorite fishing hole. Prior to this, the park and wider area has a long history of Native American residence, including the Mascouten, the Winnegabo, and the Chippewa. With abundant water and preserved natural areas, the park now supports a thriving habitat for local birds, fish and wildlife. And with year-round camping and outdoor activities, you can experience the many seasonal sides the park has to offer.

    The campground at Rock Cut provides 270 sites that can accommodate tent campers, as well as RV and trailer campers up to 40 feet. Back-in sites are mostly grassy and equipped with picnic tables, cooking grills and electrical hookups. The campground provides water faucets, restrooms, showers, and a dump station; the water and dump station are not available November through April. One of the park’s multiuse trails runs right through the campground, and provides access to the larger trail network. Most of the campground’s facilities are ADA accessible. Dogs are permitted in the park, but must remain leashed; alcohol is not permitted.

    For recreating in temperate seasons, more than 40 miles of hiking, cycling and equestrian trails allow you to explore the park’s woodlands and prairies. These are ideal ways to observe some of the local birds, animals, and wildflowers. For fun on the water, paddle around in a canoe or kayak, take a dip at Olsen Beach, or go fishing for some of the lake’s largemouth bass, bluegill, sunfish, pike and walleye. Several picnic areas throughout the park are ideal for group or family gatherings. In the snowy season, many of the park’s trails are open to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with gear rentals available. For more family fun in the area, check out the nearby Volcano Falls Adventure Park.

    For those who want to include an overnight stay in their visit to Rock Cut, the campgrounds provide electricity at the site, water hydrants at the beginning of each camping loop, sanitary dump stations, showers, toilets, a boat launch and playground equipment. There are 210 Class A Premium sites and 60 Class B/S Premium sites. There is also a primitive cabin (it has electricity, but does not have water or plumbing facilities).

    From November - April, only electricity is available; there is no access to water or dump station.

    Equestrian camping is restricted to a site on Hart Road, is only available on a first-come, first-served basis and the Ranger will collect the fee at your site in the evening.

    Rock Cut is an alcohol-free park and campground, and this rule is strictly enforced.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $12 - $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Milton-Madison SE KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Milton-Madison SE KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Milton-Madison SE KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Milton-Madison SE KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Milton-Madison SE KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Milton-Madison SE KOA

    2.

    Milton-Madison SE KOA

    15 Reviews
    22 Photos
    47 Saves
    Edgerton, Wisconsin

    Welcome to Milton-Madison SE KOA, a fantastic spot for a family getaway. This campground is a hit with visitors, offering a range of activities and amenities that keep everyone entertained. The sites are clean and spacious, with plenty of shade from the surrounding trees. It's a great place to unwind and enjoy nature.

    One of the standout features here is the pool, which has a designated adult swim time from 3-4 PM. Kids will love the playgrounds, sand volleyball, and baseball backstop. There's also a market on-site for any essentials you might need, and you can even rent a golf cart to explore the grounds.

    The staff at Milton-Madison SE KOA are known for being friendly and accommodating, making your stay even more enjoyable. The campground is pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. Plus, it's just a short drive from Milwaukee, making it convenient for a quick escape from the city.

    Whether you're in an RV, tent, or cabin, you'll find the accommodations comfortable and well-maintained. The campground also offers electric and sewer hookups, showers, and a sanitary dump station. With so much to do and such a welcoming atmosphere, it's no wonder visitors keep coming back to Milton-Madison SE KOA.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    3.

    Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    34 Reviews
    117 Photos
    205 Saves
    North Prairie, Wisconsin

    Ottawa Lake’s campground is located in the southern unit of Kettle Moraine State Forest, situated within half an hour’s drive from Milwaukee. Wisconsin campers of all ages love these grounds thanks to lakefront sites, modern facilities, and access to trails for hikers of every experience level. South Kettle Moraine is also home to over 160 miles of trails, including 87 miles open to horse use. Connect to the Ice Age Scenic Trail and various others within the John Muir and Emma Carlin trail systems.

    Don’t forget to bring your rods when camping at Ottawa Lake! You’ll want to take full advantage of the boat dock and fishing pier where you can catch panfish, walleye, muskie, trout, bass, and northern pike – then you can grill them up at your campsite. Keep in mind, motorboats are not permitted on this small lake, which allows for peaceful wading and quieter camping all around.

    Though Ottawa Lake is open year-round, it is recommended to check the weather in Dousman and Whitewater before planning trips in the colder months, as freezing temperatures and snow are common. Cold-weather campers who are willing to brave the Wisconsin winter will enjoy snowmobile trails, ice fishing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. No matter when you visit, Ottawa Lake will leave you satisfied.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground

    4.

    Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    105 Photos
    64 Saves
    Stoughton, Wisconsin

    Welcome to Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground, nestled near Stoughton, WI. This spot is a gem for those who enjoy a mix of nature and convenience. The campground is open all year, so you can enjoy its beauty in any season.

    The sites here are pretty well spread out, giving you a good sense of privacy thanks to the natural vegetation. You’ll find amenities like drinking water, electric hookups, and clean restrooms with showers. There’s also a sanitary dump station for RVs. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along.

    One of the highlights is the lake access, perfect for kayaking or just enjoying the serene waters. The park also has some nice walking trails, a volleyball net, and a playground for the kids. If you’re into group camping, there are sites that can accommodate up to 20 people, making it a great spot for family gatherings or trips with friends.

    Visitors have mentioned that the campground is easy to navigate, even if you arrive late. The reservation process is straightforward, and the staff is friendly and helpful. Some campers have enjoyed events like Oktoberfest celebrations, adding a fun twist to their stay.

    Overall, Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground offers a pleasant mix of seclusion and community, with plenty of amenities to make your stay comfortable. Whether you’re here for a quick overnight stop or a longer stay, you’ll find it a welcoming place to set up camp.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Crazy Horse Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crazy Horse Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crazy Horse Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crazy Horse Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crazy Horse Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crazy Horse Campground

    5.

    Crazy Horse Campground

    15 Reviews
    35 Photos
    75 Saves
    Evansville, Wisconsin

    Crazy Horse Campground is a family campground located along the banks of the beautiful Sugar River in Brodhead, Wisconsin. You can enjoy tubing, canoeing, kayaking (we have rentals and shuttles), or fishing on the river. Our heated pool, mini-golf, jumping pillow and skate park give you several fun options, as well as weekly activities that are planned all season long for your family’s holiday recreation.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Hills Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Hills Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Hills Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Hills Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Hills Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Hills Campground

    6.

    Hickory Hills Campground

    12 Reviews
    30 Photos
    38 Saves
    Edgerton, Wisconsin

    Welcome to Hickory Hills Campground, tucked away near Edgerton, Wisconsin. This place is a hidden gem, surrounded by thick woods that give you that peaceful, off-the-grid vibe. If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle, you've come to the right spot.

    The campground offers a mix of accommodations, from tent sites to RV slots, and even some cozy cabins. One of the standout features here is the 172-acre spring-fed lake, complete with a beachhead. It's perfect for fishing, swimming, or just lounging by the water. You can rent rowboats and canoes, or take a dip in the swimming pool if you prefer.

    For families, there's no shortage of activities. Kids will love the oversized inflatables, mini-golf, shuffleboard, and the massive jumping pillow. There's also a playground, basketball courts, and sand volleyball. If you're into fishing, Rice Lake is right there, teeming with bluegills, bass, bullheads, and crappie.

    The campground store is well-stocked with essentials, and there's even a snack bar for when you don't feel like cooking. If you're up for a short drive, head over to the Outpost on Lake Koshkonong for some great food and drinks. And for a slice of Americana, Little Amerricka Amusement Park is a fun nearby attraction.

    So, whether you're here for the fishing, the family activities, or just to unwind in nature, Hickory Hills Campground has got you covered. Enjoy your stay!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $42 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Big Foot Beach State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Foot Beach State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Foot Beach State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Foot Beach State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Foot Beach State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Foot Beach State Park Campground

    7.

    Big Foot Beach State Park Campground

    22 Reviews
    27 Photos
    138 Saves
    Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

    Welcome to Big Foot Beach State Park Campground, nestled near the charming town of Lake Geneva, WI. This spot is a favorite for many, offering a mix of tent, RV, glamping, and even yurt accommodations. The campground operates from April to October, making it a perfect seasonal getaway.

    One of the standout features here is the pet-friendly policy, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. The campground is also big rig friendly, and you'll find electric hookups available, though they can be in high demand. The sanitary dump and water hookups make it convenient for RV campers.

    Visitors often rave about the cleanliness of the facilities. The bathrooms and showers are well-maintained, and the staff is diligent about keeping the sites tidy. If you’re into picnicking, you’ll appreciate the numerous picnic tables and grills scattered around.

    For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, the trails are a hit. They offer a great way to explore the park and get some exercise. If you’re camping with kids, the playground and volleyball nets provide plenty of entertainment.

    The campground's proximity to Lake Geneva is a major plus. You can enjoy a stroll along the lake, check out the fishing lagoon, or even visit the nearby dog-friendly restaurant. The Boat House Bar & Grill is a local favorite, just a short walk from the campground, offering good food and a welcoming atmosphere.

    While the campground can get crowded, especially on weekends, it tends to quiet down by Sunday. If you prefer a bit more privacy, consider booking a site further back in the loop. Sites like 50, 69, and 74 are often recommended for their balance of shade and sun.

    Whether you're here for the trails, the lake, or just a relaxing weekend, Big Foot Beach State Park Campground has something to offer. Enjoy your stay!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from William G. Lunney Lake Farm Campground (Dane County Park)
    Camper-submitted photo from William G. Lunney Lake Farm Campground (Dane County Park)
    Camper-submitted photo from William G. Lunney Lake Farm Campground (Dane County Park)
    Camper-submitted photo from William G. Lunney Lake Farm Campground (Dane County Park)
    Camper-submitted photo from William G. Lunney Lake Farm Campground (Dane County Park)
    Camper-submitted photo from William G. Lunney Lake Farm Campground (Dane County Park)

    8.

    William G. Lunney Lake Farm Campground (Dane County Park)

    16 Reviews
    63 Photos
    37 Saves
    Madison, Wisconsin

    The 328-acre park is a unit of the Capital Springs Recreation Area and has a campground, three shelter facilities, play equipment, barrier-free boat launch(with a fish cleaning facility), group camping area, wildlife pond, observation tower, hiking and cross-country ski trails.

    The campground has 54 reservable sites(two fully accessible), including 39 electrical hook ups for RVs(50 amp), bathroom and shower facilities, wi-fi, and a sanitary dump station.  Only 5 sites are pull through, all others are back in.

    The campground opens in April and closes in October. You can check specific dates here: https://www.danecountyparks.com/about/Parks-Opening-Closing-Schedule

    Reserve your site online here: https://web2.myvscloud.com/wbwsc/widanectywt.wsc/splash.html?InterfaceParameter=WebTrac

    See campground rules here: https://www.danecountyparks.com/about/rules

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $18 - $28 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Sugar River Forest Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Sugar River Forest Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Sugar River Forest Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Sugar River Forest Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Sugar River Forest Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Sugar River Forest Preserve

    9.

    Sugar River Forest Preserve

    8 Reviews
    51 Photos
    58 Saves
    Durand, Illinois
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    10.

    Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    20 Reviews
    83 Photos
    146 Saves
    North Prairie, Wisconsin

    Welcome to Pinewoods Campground in the Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit, near Dousman, WI. This place is a solid choice if you're looking to camp from May to October. The campground is known for its peaceful atmosphere and well-maintained facilities.

    One of the standout features here is the easy access to hiking trails. The Scuppernong Trailhead and the Ice Age Trail are right at your doorstep, making it a hiker's paradise. Some campers have even mentioned that their sites were directly connected to these trails, which is a huge plus if you love to hit the trails first thing in the morning.

    The campground itself is pretty accommodating. You can bring your pets, but just a heads-up, Loop 1 is a quiet zone with no pets or loud noises allowed. This loop is perfect if you're looking for some tranquility. The sites are spacious and offer a good amount of privacy thanks to the greenery between them. Most sites are shaded, and many have trees suitable for hammocks.

    Amenities include clean showers with hot water, drinking water, and firewood available for purchase from the camp hosts. Speaking of the hosts, they’re known for being friendly and keeping the place in top shape. There are also picnic tables and fire pits at each site, and you can even find a playground for the kids.

    While the campground is generally quiet, you might hear some road noise, but nothing too disruptive. If you're into mountain biking, the nearby Emma Carlin and John Muir trails offer some excellent terrain.

    Overall, Pinewoods Campground offers a great mix of convenience, natural beauty, and outdoor activities. Whether you're here for the hiking, the peace and quiet, or just a weekend getaway, this place has got you covered.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $18 - $30 / night

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Janesville, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Janesville, WI is Rock Cut State Park Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 75 reviews.

What parks are near Janesville, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Janesville, WI that allow camping, notably Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and Indiana Dunes National Park.