Camping near Black Earth, Wisconsin features options within Wisconsin's driftless region, an unglaciated landscape characterized by steep ridges, deep valleys, and exposed bedrock formations. The area sits at elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Fall nights can drop to near freezing, requiring campers to pack appropriate seasonal gear even during warmer months.
What to do
Hiking through varied terrain: Blue Mound State Park Campground offers unique hiking experiences with observation areas. According to Kristina K., they found "Gorgeous hiking with really unique trails. Awesome mountain hiking options." Another visitor noted the park has "good views from a fire tower which sits atop the mound, and a few miles of hiking trails in the parks."
Water recreation access: Devils Lake State Park provides multiple water activities beyond swimming. Mark J. shared, "This a more modern campground with many amenities; bath houses, camp stores, swimming, fishing, and hiking. Beautiful bluffs surround Devils Lake that allow campers to hike up and see greats views of the lake." The park prohibits motorized watercraft, maintaining a quieter lake experience.
Sandbar camping: Lower Wisconsin Riverway offers a distinctive boat-in camping experience spanning 92 miles. "Paddle trip in early June 2023. From Prairie du Sac to Spring Green, about 21 miles? Went mid week, saw one Boy Scout troop but generally nobody else," reports Joel K. River enthusiasts should monitor water levels and weather conditions closely.
What campers like
Seasonal swimming amenities: Blue Mound State Park Campground features a swimming pool and splash pad rarely found at state parks. Debra M. explains, "The pool is very nice and very clean. There is a pool section and a splash section. There are chairs and lounges around both and shade awnings. The cost is $3 for and adult and $2 for child."
Fall foliage viewing: Governor Dodge State Park transforms during autumn. Fred S. noted, "Stayed at the Twin Valley campground. Beautiful. Some nice Fall colors." The park's elevation changes create ideal conditions for viewing colorful foliage from late September through mid-October.
Weather protection features: Brigham Park offers natural cooling benefits through its elevation and tree cover. Renee R. explains, "The dense tree cover and near-constant slight breeze help to both keep this campground cool and the mosquitos at bay." This feature makes it more comfortable during hot summer days when temperatures can reach into the 90s.
What you should know
Campsite selection factors: At Governor Dodge State Park, site topography varies significantly. Sarah R. warns about site 269: "Genuinely a perfect distance from the road with a reserved parking spot big enough for potentially 2 cars, nice trees for hammock hanging, decently level ground." However, she notes raccoons are "insanely bold" and damaged their tent.
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer and holiday weekends. Nicole T. advises for Devils Lake State Park: "The sites here are large but get reserved quickly! You need to book the 11 months in advance, especially for holiday weekends."
Electrical limitations: Brigham Park offers limited electrical options. Bob M. notes, "A few sites have 30 amp power. No dump station." Campers requiring consistent electricity should verify availability when making reservations.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly facilities: Mendota County Park provides multiple recreational options for families. John M. describes, "They have very clean bathrooms with showers. Volleyball net, swings, and spots for boats." The park's proximity to residential areas makes it accessible for families new to camping.
Cave exploration options: Blue Mound State Park offers family-friendly cave tours nearby. Kaylyn C. shared, "The caves are incredibly well maintained and organized with fun themed tours. Our theme was Halloween so we could purchase 'Trick or Treat' bags and collected cool rocks in the caves handed out by employees along the tour."
Shaded play areas: Devil's Lake camping areas provide natural shade protection for children. According to Siobhan R., "Nice playground right next to the shower so the kids could play while we showered." Parents should consider site location relative to these facilities when booking.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: At Twin Valley Campground, RV site levelness varies. Brian O. advises, "Twin Valley campground is split into upper and lower. Lower being better for larger RVs while upper has more shaded, cozier sites better for smaller rigs and tents."
Extension cord requirements: Mendota County Park requires additional electrical preparations. Debe K. warns, "Nice little campground right on Lake Mendota. 29 sites available with electric, but bring extension cords!! Some sites electric is close by, others not so much!"
Campground size limitations: Cedar Hills Campground accommodates larger vehicles with spacious sites. James notes, "We have extra large sites, with views, plant a garden or flowers if you like, make it your own?" The campground offers seasonal sites starting at $2,995 to $3,500 per year with off-season storage included.
