The driftless region around Baraboo, Wisconsin features unique geological formations created when glaciers bypassed the area during the last ice age. These distinctive bluffs and valleys create ideal terrain for equestrian trails with elevation changes ranging from 800 to 1,300 feet. Winter camping remains available at several locations when temperatures drop to the 20s, though water services are typically winterized from November through April.
What to do
Kayaking the Kickapoo River: Located near Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground, this activity offers a relaxed float trip during summer months. "We took the opportunity to kayak down the Kickapoo and had a blast - make sure you do some exploring while you are here," notes Holly W., who found this recreation option during a camping visit.
Hiking scenic glacial trails: The driftless area provides unique terrain for hikers of all levels. "We did about 10mi of hiking. Buggy, but it's June in WI," reports a camper at Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground. The trails range from prairie walks to wooded paths with varying difficulty levels.
Geocaching adventures: Several parks maintain geocache locations as added recreation. "There are several geocaches in the park, which adds a little fun, but they are in the woods, and the mosquitos are oblivious to the bug spray," warns one visitor to Lake Kegonsa State Park about this technological treasure hunt.
What campers like
Secluded walk-in sites: Campers appreciate the privacy of walk-in camping options. "We stayed at a hike in site in May and had great hanging options for our hammocks, excellent privacy in the hike-in sites, and beautiful options for hiking, fishing, and photography," shares Kathy S. about her stay at Cox Hollow Campground.
Dark night skies: The rural setting provides excellent stargazing opportunities. "The sites were spaced apart far enough so you weren't on top of the other campers. Very beautiful scenery, especially from the lookout," notes David F. who appreciated the night sky at Wildcat Mountain State Park.
Clean facilities: "The shower house/ restroom was warm & clean. Would stay here again," reports Fred S. about his October experience at Twin Valley Campground. Many campgrounds in the region maintain facilities year-round, though some limit water services during winter months.
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons are commonly mentioned in reviews across several parks. "The raccoons here and insanely bold, we had one frequently visit our site and get VERY close to us and in the evening ended up ripping thru the roof of our tent," warns Sarah R. about her experience at Twin Valley Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Some facilities remain operational during colder months. "It was very pretty with and without snow. Lots of wood to burn. Nice and quite," reports Jill K. about winter camping at Governor Dodge State Park Equestrian Campground, where trails and campsites stay accessible during snow season.
Reservation requirements: "Peak season reservations are a definite (weeks to months in advance for weekends)," advises Jen L. based on her family's experience at Cox Hollow Campground. This applies especially to equestrian sites during summer and fall color seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Many parks include water recreation areas. "Great park for water activities and hiking! Also had nice shower facilities," notes Phillip J. about Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground, which maintains a designated swimming beach.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play equipment for children. "Perfect for a family get away - showers, flush toilets, lots of hiking (but trails aren't very challenging), swimming area and boat launch, playground," shares Jen L. about her stay at Cox Hollow Campground.
Group sites for larger gatherings: "We stayed in Group C," reports Todd M. about his experience at Wildcat Mountain State Park, noting that "the group camps are awesome." These sites typically accommodate 20-40 people and require advance reservations during peak summer months.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Some campgrounds have restrictions on larger vehicles. "Not all 'driveways' are level which, unfortunately, we discovered in site 33. We slept with our heads lower than our feet in our camper van," explains Lee D. about a design challenge at Cox Hollow Campground.
Navigational cautions: Low clearance hazards exist at some parks. "Major CAUTION for RVs: there is an oak tree near entry with low branches and it took the AC off our friend's fifth wheel. There is also a low hanging overpass," warns Kathy L. about a serious issue at White Mound County Campground.
Utility hookups: Electric sites are clearly designated at most parks. "The sites are deep, so you could pull in and nestle in the trees, even if you had a neighbor, and it was more private," explains Amy G. about White Mound County Campground, where electric sites are marked with an "E" beside the site number.
Traveler
