Cabin camping near Blanchardville, Wisconsin provides options across Iowa, Green, and Lafayette counties within a 40-mile radius. The region sits in the Driftless Area, characterized by steep forested ridges, limestone outcroppings, and river valleys that weren't flattened by glaciers during the last ice age. Most cabins in the area require advance reservations, with prime weekend dates filling 3-6 months ahead during summer season.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Blue Mound State Park Campground features diverse trail systems with varying difficulty levels. "Beautiful hiking trails everywhere for different levels of hiker," notes Mallory M. The park includes observation towers for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer water recreation beyond the typical lake or river. Blue Mound State Park Campground provides a swimming pool with splash pad for younger children. "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 an adult and $2 for child," explains Debra M.
River activities: Wisconsin's waterways provide recreation opportunities for cabin campers. At Wisconsin Riverside Resort, guests can rent equipment for river trips. "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," says Kim L. Trips range from quick 3-hour floats to full-day adventures.
What campers like
Year-round seasonal appeal: The region offers distinctive experiences each season. "Amazing for Fall camping. Beautiful campground with amazing views for Fall. The hike to the caves is about 3 miles with gorgeous landscapes/colors in October," reports Kaylyn C. about her stay at Blue Mound State Park.
Kid-focused amenities: Family cabins often include access to recreational facilities. Crazy Horse Campground provides numerous activities included in daily fees. "They have a Daily Activity bracelet that allows you to partake in all activities including pool, kayaking services, batting cages, miniature golf, peddle cars, and some others," explains Marc W.
Resort-style amenities: Some locations offer dining options beyond standard camp cooking. Wisconsin Riverside Resort features "an extensive camp shop and a huge restaurant with outdoor riverside seating. With live music and a full bar, this made for a really relaxing atmosphere if you're not up to campfire cooking," according to Kim L.
What you should know
Advance planning required: Many cabin rentals have limited availability. "This campground is very clean and both shower house and vault toilets are as well. Sites are well spaced and each have fire pit/grill and picnic table. Some are electric and map shows them as numbered E sites," reports Debra M. about Blue Mound State Park Campground.
Shower facilities vary: Campgrounds implement different systems for shower access. At Skillet Creek Campground, "Bathrooms are very clean. Hot showers are free, although they only have an on and off, no temperature control," according to Melissa K. Other facilities may charge small fees for shower use.
Cell service limitations: Network coverage varies significantly throughout the region. "Internet signal at the campgrounds was good. We have Verizon and could stream movies. We also have AT&T and could access the net but could not stream," reports Debra M. about Blue Mound State Park, while some campgrounds may have no service for certain carriers.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation planning: Evaluate activity options when selecting a cabin. Crazy Horse Campground offers "a large jumping pillow, mini putt. Small store. Were supposed to have a riverfront site but river was rising so they closed that part of campground," reports Kathie M.
Age-appropriate activities: Different campgrounds cater to specific age groups. Blue Mound State Park is "a beautiful park with tons of trees. Beautiful hiking trails everywhere for different levels of hiker. The pool is awesome, and the splash pad is absolutely incredible. This is a great place to camp with little kids," recommends Mallory M.
Safety considerations: Some natural features require supervision. Wisconsin Riverside Resort allows river activities but cautions about water conditions. "If you're not a strong swimmer don't attempt if the river if running fast," advises Juliana R. Many cabin locations provide safer alternatives like pools for younger children.
Tips from RVers
Campground layout: Cedar Hills Campground offers park model rentals in a gated adult environment. "Very clean grounds, clean rentals, rentals start at $125 to $200," reports James, noting the campground's position "up on top of Blackhawk mountain and they have full service."
Site selection strategies: Choose cabin sites based on location within the campground. At Fireside Campground, "Level sites. Full hook ups available. Friendly owners. Clean bathrooms and showers. Dog friendly," says Alison. For groups requiring multiple cabins, some campgrounds offer adjacent units for shared gathering spaces.
Off-season value: Consider shoulder season visits for better availability and rates. "We spent two nights in the campground at Blue Mound State Park. Overall, the park has well-maintained hiking and MTB biking trails, extraordinarily clean and well-kept vault toilets, and ample access to drinking water," shares Josh F., noting ideal camping between Thursday and Monday to avoid peak crowds.