Governor Dodge State Park sits at about 850 feet above sea level, making it one of the higher elevation campgrounds in the Driftless Area near Barneveld, Wisconsin. The region features dramatic limestone bluffs and ravines carved by ancient glacial meltwater. Spring and fall seasons can bring temperature fluctuations of 40°F between day and night, so layered clothing is essential for comfort.
What to do
Kayaking on calm waters: At Mirror Lake State Park, the rock formations create exceptional paddling conditions. "The lake is great for kayaking. Lots of sandstone cliffs," notes Julia B., who appreciated the well-maintained hiking trails. The park offers boat rentals if you don't bring your own equipment.
Floating the Sugar River: Crazy Horse Campground provides river activities with shuttle service. "They will shuttle you as far up the river as you'd like to go, and you float or paddle back while enjoying all the sand bars along the way," explains Kim L. The average float trip takes about 90 minutes, but longer routes are available.
Exploring nature trails: Wisconsin state parks maintain extensive hiking systems. "We also took a hike on the bluff trail that goes past campsite 271 that everyone enjoyed—awesome moss everywhere!" reports Siobhan R. about Governor Dodge State Park. Many trails connect to key features like waterfalls, beaches, and scenic overlooks.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground receives praise for its layout and spacing. Matt N. mentions, "Good sized site with nice privacy. Good hiking around the lake and mostly dog friendly. Nice playground with horse shoe pits." Most campsites include a cleared tent pad, picnic table, and fire ring.
Natural swimming options: The region offers alternatives to crowded pools. "The river felt amazing on a 95 degree day. If you have a kayak we suggest bringing it to get to the sandbar to hang out," shares Juliana R. about Wisconsin Riverside Resort. The sandbars provide natural beaches with shallow swimming areas.
Dog-friendly amenities: Multiple parks accommodate four-legged campers. "My boyfriend and I brought our two dogs here to camp. They had a dog beach for them to swim in which was a huge plus!" reports Sarah B. from Governor Dodge State Park. Designated pet swimming areas keep pets separated from main beaches.
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons can be particularly bold at Fox Hill RV Park & Campground. Proper food storage is essential. "Beware of raccoons at this campground they are BOLD!" warns Jen L. about the local wildlife at Governor Dodge.
Train noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience periodic railroad disturbances. "The first train only blew its horn a few short times. The second train acted like someone was laying on the tracks and was a little excessive for 3 am!" notes Lisa S. about Lake Kegonsa State Park.
Height restrictions: RV campers should watch for low clearances. "There is also a low hanging overpass and it took the roofs off TWO fifth wheels while we were staying there. Major damage on roof and internally - the RV had to be totaled and replaced," cautions Kathy L. about a hazard at Lake Kegonsa State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Activity-focused campgrounds: Wisconsin Dells KOA offers numerous children's attractions. "Nice pool, awesome aqua pad for the kids and game room. No child will be disappointed here!" says Kelli D. Many sites also include movie nights and organized weekend activities.
Group camping options: For multi-family trips, certain sites accommodate larger parties. "We had 2 different group sites and both were awesome! A lot of space and not close to other group sites," Amanda J. explains about Governor Dodge State Park. Reserve group sites 3-6 months in advance during peak season.
Budget-friendly alternatives: While luxury glamping near Barneveld, Wisconsin gets attention, traditional camping options remain affordable. "The group camping site was down the road from regular camping and consisted of a big parking lot, toilet facilities, recreation areas, and a large open area for 2 groups to camp," describes Lisa S., noting the separate facilities prevent noise issues.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some campsites require additional equipment. "Our site was very unlevel side to side. It took two 2x6 and a 1x6 under the camp side to be level," notes Jeff G. about Fox Hill RV Park. Bringing extra leveling blocks is recommended.
Site selection for larger rigs: Merry Mac's Campground accommodates various RV sizes. "We chose a pull thru site. The staff is great, the pool is brand new! They have a huge pond with inflatables. It's located right by Devils lake. Firewood for sale, great wifi, clean bathhouses/rooms," shares Michael D. Call ahead to confirm turning radius for units over 35 feet.
Seasonal considerations: "Water spigots and pit toilets were spread out to make them convenient from almost any site," explains Lisa S. about the facilities at Lake Kegonsa State Park. Most campgrounds winterize water systems by mid-October, so late-season glamping near Barneveld typically requires self-contained units.
