Tent camping opportunities near Beaver Dam, Wisconsin include sites ranging from walk-in primitive locations to drive-in campgrounds with basic amenities. The region's oak savanna landscapes and proximity to waterways create diverse camping environments across Dodge County and surrounding areas. Most tent sites in the region operate seasonally from April through October, with fall offering cooler temperatures and reduced insect activity compared to peak summer months.
What to do
Hike the Glacial Drumlin Trail: Sandhill Station State Campground provides direct access to the Glacial Drumlin bike trail. One camper noted, "Sandill Station is right outside Lake Mills, WI, right off the Glacial Drumlin bike trail." The 52-mile crushed limestone path connects Cottage Grove to Waukesha, with multiple access points within 30 minutes of Beaver Dam.
Water activities: Devils Lake State Park Group Campground offers multiple water recreation options during summer months. "There is a beach and camp store/concession stand (south) a short drive or longer walk away. At this area you can rent paddle boards, Canoes, kayaks and paddle boats," reports one visitor.
Rock climbing: The East Bluff at Devils Lake provides beginner to intermediate climbing routes. A camper mentioned, "We took the East Bluff trail to do some rock climbing with the kids." The park offers over 1,600 climbing routes with heights ranging from 20-90 feet, suitable for various skill levels.
Wildlife viewing: Visit nearby Mud Lake for bird watching opportunities. Several campers report seeing sandhill cranes and other bird species. The wetland areas around campsites provide habitat for diverse wildlife, particularly during spring and fall migrations.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Greenbush Group Campground receives praise for its secluded group sites. "Large sites great for groups. Sites 2 and 9 are the largest. Those can each fit over 20 backpacking tents at the same time," according to one camper. The grassy sites surrounded by trees provide natural buffers between camping areas.
Natural settings: KMSF Shelter 1 Backpack Site offers a truly remote experience. As one visitor described, "Great backpack camp site. Decent walk and terrain to get to the site. There is an open shelter to put your tent if you prefer to outside. It's very secluded for privacy."
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities despite their rustic nature. At Northern Unit Greenbush Group Camp, water is typically available near campsites, and restrooms with pit toilets are distributed around the camping loop. The basic facilities remain functional throughout the camping season.
Affordable rates: Waubedonia County Park provides economical camping options close to Beaver Dam. One camper observed, "The campsites are inexpensive and comfortable, though there aren't as many amenities that a larger campground would have." County parks typically charge $15-25 per night compared to $30-40 at state parks.
What you should know
Limited shade at some locations: Site exposure varies significantly between campgrounds. Northern Unit Greenbush features a mix of open and shaded sites, with hammock opportunities among the trees. Campers should prepare for direct sun at more exposed locations, particularly during midday hours.
Carrying distance for gear: Most tent-specific sites require some walking from parking areas. The distance varies by location, with Sandhill Station State Campground requiring more significant effort. One camper advised, "The sites are all very remote; no onsite rangers or anything like that. Beautiful walk in sites, no carts to haul gear so pack light!"
Seasonal insect conditions: Mosquitoes can be problematic at certain times of year, particularly near standing water. A Sandhill Station visitor warned, "The sites are really near some stagnant water, though, so WAY too many mosquitoes, even with the really intense bug spray."
Water availability changes: During drought conditions or facility maintenance, water access may be limited. One Northern Unit Greenbush camper noted, "Water is usually available, but more limited during the pandemic (spigot turned off by our campsite, but available near the parking lot at the entrance - a longer walk)."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: For families with young children, look for campgrounds with shorter carrying distances. Waubedonia County Park offers drive-up sites that eliminate long walks with gear. One visitor described it as "a nice little campground near the river in Fredonia, WI," making it suitable for families seeking convenience.
Plan for variable weather: The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations, even in summer. Devils Lake campers report comfortable conditions even in cooler months: "Spent a weekend here in one of the group sites (G3) in mid November 2021. It was in the 30s at night but got up to the high 40s during the day, great camping weather!"
Consider shower availability: Most tent-specific campgrounds near Beaver Dam lack shower facilities. Plan accordingly for longer stays, especially with children. Wild Goose City Park provides access to showers, making it suitable for extended family camping trips when basic hygiene facilities are needed.
Schedule during weekdays: Devils Lake experiences heavy weekend traffic. One camper advised, "We went during the week and it kept the crowds to a minimum. The south shore beach was best." Weekday visits from Monday through Thursday typically see 30-50% lower occupancy rates at most campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most of the best tent camping near Beaver Dam, Wisconsin offers few amenities for larger recreational vehicles. Devils Lake State Park Group Campground provides some RV sites but primarily caters to tent campers. One visitor noted the "adequate size site with a tent pad, shade and privacy," characteristics more suitable for tent camping than RV use.
Electric hookups: While electric hookups exist at some campgrounds, including Devils Lake and Waubedonia Park, availability is limited. Reservations should be made 3-6 months in advance for sites with electric hookups, as these are typically the first to fill, especially during peak summer season from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Water access considerations: Campgrounds with water hookups often restrict their use during drought conditions. Bring additional water containers as backup, particularly when visiting during late summer when local water restrictions may be in effect due to conservation measures.
