Babcock County Park, located near Madison, Wisconsin, features flat terrain with open spaces and scattered trees. Temperatures range from 20°F in winter to 80°F in summer, offering varied camping experiences throughout the year. Nearby attractions include Lake Waubesa and the University of Wisconsin Arboretum, providing opportunities for water activities and nature exploration.

Babcock County Park is named after Stephen Babcock, Wisconsin dairy scientist, known internationally for discovering the method for determining the percentage of butterfat found in milk. 

Babcock County Park is located on the east side of Lake Waubesa at the outflow of the Yahara River near the Village of McFarland on U.S. Highway 51. The boat launch offers a fish cleaning facility and accessible fishing pier. The Park also has a 25-unit campground with electricity supplied to all sites, a fully accessible bathroom and shower, and a sanitary dump station.

  

Reserve a campsite online here: https://web2.myvscloud.com/wbwsc/widanectywt.wsc/splash.html 

  

Check opening and closing dates here: https://www.danecountyparks.com/about/Parks-Opening-Closing-Schedule 

  

See campground rules here: https://www.danecountyparks.com/about/rules

Babcock County Park (Dane County Parks)

It might be surprising so close to the city, but near Madison, WI, are some of the best camping opportunities in the area. Enjoy walks in the Wisconsin woods and picnics at campsites with tables, outdoor grills, and plenty of space for a small or large family cookout. RV drivers also have options with all of the necessary amenities and hookups. Campers can also stay in a cabin or pitch a tent. Explore the trails during the day and watch the stars at night. Fishing and boating enthusiasts can find campgrounds in the Capital Springs Recreation Area which is nearly 2,500 acres.

Madison

The Best Camping Near Madison, Wisconsin

We stayed overnight on our way to the Badlands from New York. Easy access from the freeway, electric hookups, showers and flush toilets in the bathhouse. Next to a road and canal,  easy walking distance to Palenque Mexican restaurant in the strip mall, which is recommended (get the molcajete). There is road noise and the canal is green and stagnant,  but it was 88 degrees the day of our stay.

Overnight Stay on Longer Road Trip

Needed a last minute spot for a weekend in the Madison area and this "campground" had a spot available. The highway traffic and lights are something to deal with. There is a small playground and short walking path which is nice. Luke's Cafe across the street is a must. 

Convenient location

Clean restrooms, great showers  , clean little campground. 

Photos of Babcock County Park (Dane County Parks)

Real photos from real campers