Baraboo, Wisconsin sits at approximately 880 feet above sea level, nestled at the edge of the Baraboo Range—a billion-year-old quartzite formation. The region's microclimate creates distinct seasonal camping conditions with summer highs averaging 80-85°F and cool evenings around 55-60°F. Local campgrounds typically operate from mid-April through mid-October, with most closing before winter due to the region's cold temperatures and snowfall.
What to do
Kayaking on Mirror Lake: Mirror Lake State Park offers exceptionally calm waters perfect for paddlers of all skill levels. "The lake is great for kayaking. Lots of sandstone cliffs. We only did 2 hiking trails but they were well maintained," notes Julia B. from Sandstone Ridge Campground.
Hiking nature trails: Most campgrounds maintain walking paths through wooded areas. "You can rent kayaks and canoes! Plenty of hiking trails and geocaches! Campsites aren't very close together but it depends which campground you stay," explains Denise L. at Sandstone Ridge Campground.
Frisbee golf courses: Several campgrounds feature disc golf courses on property. "Frisbee golf, mini golf, a 'mining' site, go carts, game room, showers, laundry," lists Annie C. about the activities available at Sky High Camping Resort.
Evening hay rides: Traditional wagon rides remain popular seasonal activities. "My fav thing as an adult is the 'Hey ride!' They pile people onto a trailer turned wagon and drive around the park and yell 'HEEEEEYYYYYYYYY' to every person they see!!! (Don't forget to say 'Hey!' back and wave!)," shares Kelli V. about her experience at Yogi Bear Camp-Resort.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Riverside camping spots offer scenic views and direct water access. "Site 1 is very private with path leading to water. It didn't even seem like the same campground! We rented a pontoon and enjoyed the water and scenery," reports Carolyn M. about Holiday Shores Campground.
Yurt camping options: Several Baraboo area campgrounds offer yurt accommodations with varying amenities. "My family and I love the yurts and the giant pool/pond. The park model rentals are nice now that my grandma is getting older. 4 stars simply because everything has a price and it's not included in the total," explains Cherie J. about Merry Mac's Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower houses are frequently praised. "The bathrooms were nice for what I saw of them. I just wish the bathrooms were warmer as they were not much warmer than outside," notes Emily F. from Sandstone Ridge Campground.
Swimming options: Multiple water recreation areas allow for varied swimming experiences. "Holiday Shores is a large campground. Wonderful customer service. We stayed in a waterfront lot and had Beautiful views. Clean facilities. There is a lot to explore and have fun in the campground," writes Brian Y.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring additional preparation. "Our site was very unlevel side to side. It took two 2x6 and a 1x6 under the camp side to be level. That made the first step into the coach, and last step out of the coach extremely high off the ground," reports Jeff G. about his stay at Fox Hill RV Park.
Utility hookup placement: Electric and water connections may require longer cords and hoses than standard. "Good sized sites but bring extension cords for electrical hook ups.... Odd outlet placement," advises Tim R. about Arrowhead RV Campground.
Seasonal operating schedules: Most campgrounds open mid-April through mid-October with limited shoulder season amenities. "We went when it was very hot. And raining. There was a small general store that had food and ice cream. And a small game room. They even have a pool," notes Michael L.
Ambient noise sources: Traffic and nearby attractions may create background noise at certain campgrounds. "Beautiful facility but the traffic noise was atrocious," warns kelly B. about Sandstone Ridge Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Water features for kids: Swimming ponds with inflatable structures provide family entertainment. "The kids loved the blow ups in the pond. The pool was nice, but a bit colder than the pond. It's heated with a solar cover," mentions Joan about Fox Hill RV Park.
Theme weekends: Many campgrounds run special activities during summer weekends. "We stayed during water wars and the kids had a blast!! Will definitely be returning!" exclaims Tracy C. about Merry Mac's Campground.
Wildlife awareness: Some campgrounds have active wildlife that requires secure food storage. "The raccoons were brutal. They broke into our crates twice. Smart enough to figure out the clip mechanism," warns Julia B. from Sandstone Ridge Campground.
Evening entertainment options: Family-friendly nighttime activities are scheduled regularly. "They also do Yogi Bear Cartoons each night which is neat!" shares Kelli V. about Yogi Bear Camp-Resort.
Tips from RVers
Early reservations essential: Popular yurt camping near Baraboo, Wisconsin books quickly, especially for holiday weekends. "This campground fills up fast due to how close it is to the Dells so plan ahead. Also, the spots seem to be mostly seasonal spots so that makes it harder to get in as well," advises Amber C. about Holiday Shores Campground.
Site selection strategies: Choose sites based on specific needs for shade, privacy or amenities. "We chose to get a smaller campsite with just W/E because there are trees and shade, and it just feels a little more like camping. Also have spots for hanging hammocks, and some sites are positioned well for groups," suggests Kim L. about Fox Hill RV Park.
Campground navigation challenges: Some layouts can be difficult to navigate with larger rigs. "Really frustrating to navigate, but all the good more private spots are in the back. Some of the full timers were annoying/drunk/rude as we made our way to our site, but otherwise not so bad," notes Andrew G. about Wisconsin Dells KOA.
