Tent campsites near Barneveld, Wisconsin offer experiences ranging from oak savannas to riverside locations in the Driftless Area. This unglaciated region features distinct topography with elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet, creating varied camping microclimates. Spring and fall camping typically sees temperature ranges of 45-75°F, while summer nights rarely drop below 60°F.
What to do
Hiking to unique geological features: At Devils Lake State Park Group Campground, trails showcase dramatic rock formations. One camper notes, "Spent about 5 hours hiking the East Bluff, it was challenging for some of our younger hikers... Everyone was impressed by Devils Doorway." The park offers several difficulty levels of trails between 1-5 miles long.
Mountain biking access: New Glarus State Park Campground connects directly to regional bike paths. A visitor explains, "With direct access to the Sugar River Trail and the town of New Glarus, it is a great location as an overnight stop or home base to explore." Bikes can be rented in town or brought from home.
Fishing opportunities: Blackhawk Memorial Park provides waterfront access for anglers. While the water quality varies seasonally, campers can fish from shore or small boats. One camper observed, "The lake water is like green paint and the river is now brackish, but moving," suggesting better fishing in the moving water areas.
What campers like
Secluded backpack sites: Governor Dodge State Park Backpack Campsites offer more isolation than standard sites. A camper shares, "Great backpack base camp! Great views, plenty of privacy and an easy hike. We stayed at 806." These sites require carrying gear between half to one mile from parking.
Natural spring features: Some campsites at New Glarus State Park have unique natural elements. As one camper discovered, "There was a spring on our site! We hiked in a bit to a wooded quiet site." These natural water features create cooler microclimates during summer months.
Group camping layout: The spacious design of group sites allows larger gatherings while maintaining natural settings. At Hickory Ridge Group Camp, a visitor commented, "Spacious sites, lots of availability to swim and hike. Will definitely come back." Sites accommodate 5-8 tents with ample distance between camping parties.
What you should know
Seasonal insect conditions: Mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly in summer near water. A camper at Sandhill Station State Campground advised, "The sites are really near some stagnant water, though, so WAY too many mosquitoes, even with the really intense bug spray... I do believe these would be lovely sites in the fall or Spring."
Bathroom facilities vary widely: From primitive to modern facilities, expectations should match the site type. At Devils Lake, "The group sites are well spaced out from each other and offer pit toilets and full bathroom facilities with sinks, toilets and showers within walking distance from all sites."
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise despite wooded settings. At New Glarus, a camper warned, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play equipment for children. A New Glarus visitor noted, "The toilets were clean. The playground was great. We spent the day exploring our Swiss heritage in New Glarus." Most playgrounds are basic but provide entertainment for younger campers.
Shorter hiking options: Look for family-friendly trails under 2 miles. Governor Dodge State Park has options for all ages. One camper mentioned, "Back packing sites are 1/2- 1 mile hike from parking lot. Great hike threw out the state park. 2 main lakes with great fishing is a plus. Lots to do for the whole family."
Water activities: Multiple water options keep children engaged. At Blackhawk Memorial Park, basic water access requires minimal equipment. A visitor called it "Quiet, off the grid!" though noted visitors should be "not afraid of bugs!" Bring water toys and basic safety equipment.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup locations: Most tent campsites near Barneveld have minimal or no RV hookups. Devils Lake provides some electric sites, but one camper advised their stay was primarily about "Lovely hiking. Decent cell reception." Most tent-focused sites cannot accommodate larger vehicles.
Vault toilet availability: While showers may be limited, most areas provide vault toilets. At Governor Dodge State Park, a camper noted, "Huge park! This is a beautiful place to go camping, lots of things to do! Lots of access to pit toilets and water fountains from primary camping sites!" Check seasonal maintenance schedules before arrival.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require additional equipment for comfortable RV setup. At Governor Dodge, a visitor described site 802 as having "small spot on rough ground not to level... but still feaseable." Bring leveling blocks and stabilizers for most Driftless Area camping.
