Tent camping near Baraboo, Wisconsin centers on forested landscapes within the Driftless Area, characterized by ancient sandstone bluffs and rolling hills unaffected by glacial flattening. Average summer temperatures range between 60-85°F, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms common in July. Fall camping season extends through October with temperatures dropping to 40-60°F, requiring additional insulation for overnight stays.
What to do
Hiking with elevation gains: The hiking trails at Governor Dodge State Park Backpack Campsites offer significant terrain variation with scenic payoffs. "Great hike threw out the state park. 2 main lakes with great fishing is a plus. Lots to do for the whole family," notes camper Nick C., who also recommends the "lost canyon trail which is just stunning with bluffs, small water fall."
Winter camping options: Unlike many Wisconsin parks that close for winter, New Glarus State Park Campground remains open year-round for cold-weather tent camping enthusiasts. The winter months provide solitude on trails normally busy during summer. Sites require advanced preparation with insulated tents and proper cold-weather sleeping gear.
Swiss heritage exploration: Camp near historic settlements and explore the region's Swiss cultural heritage. New Glarus is within biking distance from several campgrounds. "We spent the day exploring our Swiss heritage in New Glarus," mentions Kay K., who appreciated the ability to combine outdoor recreation with cultural exploration.
What campers like
Secluded walk-in sites: Walk-in tent sites at New Glarus State Park Campground provide a genuine woodland experience with minimal effort. "The walk-in sites are spaced out well and heavily wooded. Perfect for a quick escape from city life," reports Shelagh R. Most walk-in sites require carrying gear between 0.25-0.5 miles from parking areas.
Proximity to water recreation: Multiple lakes within short walking distance of campsites provide fishing and swimming opportunities. "Spacious sites, lots of availability to swim and hike," notes Matthew O. about Hickory Ridge Group Camp, highlighting the water recreation options that complement hiking trails.
Multi-day backpacking options: For tent campers seeking more isolation, backpacking sites provide extended trail access. "Great backpack base camp! Great views, plenty of privacy and an easy hike. We stayed at 806," shares Erin Z. about her experience at Governor Dodge State Park Backpack Campsites, which offers sites approximately 0.5-1 mile from parking areas.
What you should know
Highway noise impacts: Some campgrounds experience significant road noise despite wooded settings. "These sites are right next to the highway and are subject to continuous, round the clock highway noise. The highway seems to be a regular truck route, with lots of semis driving by at all hours," warns Katie K. about New Glarus. Consider interior sites farther from main roads when making reservations.
Water access logistics: Many tent sites require carrying water from central pumps or spigots located along main trails. At Devils Lake State Park Group Campground, "there is a water pump where you can collect water and haul it back to your site," explains Sarah F., noting the need for water containers for transport.
Terrain challenges: Tent pads vary significantly in quality across the region. "Small spot on rough ground not too level for tents but still feasible," reports Nick C. about site 802 at Governor Dodge. Tent campers should bring additional padding for comfort and extra tent stakes for securing tents in challenging soil conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for active wildlife, particularly in group camping areas. "We had a great time and will definitely return. The birds near the group camp are cool, but can also sound like a large pack of dinosaurs squawking at each other...very loud," mentions Jon D. about his family stay at Devils Lake, highlighting the need for wildlife-secure food storage.
Playground accessibility: Scheidegger Forest and several other Dane County park facilities offer playground equipment within walking distance of tent sites. "The playground was great," notes Kay K., appreciating the built-in entertainment option for children when taking breaks from hiking activities.
Dutch oven cooking options: The tent sites throughout the region accommodate traditional campfire cooking. "Camp life was awesome, we ate very well since we brought two Dutch ovens. We are Cowboy Casserole, Mountain Man breakfast, peach cobbler, 7 can soup, hobo dinner and apple sausage casserole," shares Charles M., demonstrating how camp cooking enhances the family experience.
Tips from RVers
Water and electric logistics: At Avoca Lake Tent Camping Resort, electric hookups are available at select tent sites for those using equipment requiring power. Sites feature 15-amp connections suitable for smaller equipment rather than full RV setups, allowing tent campers with CPAP machines or similar needs to maintain power access.
Overflow parking coordination: During peak summer weekends, parking near popular tent sites fills quickly. Arrive before 2 PM on Fridays to secure convenient parking, especially when using sites requiring gear transportation. Overflow parking may require additional walking with equipment.
Seasonal shower availability: Shower facilities typically operate from May through mid-October, depending on overnight temperatures. After mid-October, many parks winterize shower buildings while maintaining vault toilet access, affecting cleanup options for extended stays.
