Tent camping options around Brownsville, Wisconsin provide access to the glacial terrain and oak savannas characteristic of southeastern Wisconsin. The region sits within the Eastern Ridges and Lowlands geographical province, with elevations ranging from 750 to 1,050 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds in this area operate seasonally from April through October, with varying access to water sources depending on location and time of year.
What to do
Bike the Glacial Drumlin Trail: Sandhill Station State Campground connects directly to the 52-mile Glacial Drumlin bike trail that runs between Cottage Grove and Waukesha. "Sandill Station is right outside Lake Mills, WI, right off the Glacial Drumlin bike trail. It features 15 campsites and 1 group campsite in an oak savanna, with varying degrees of shade," notes Jimmy P.
Explore nearby state parks: Waubedonia County Park provides river access and is located near several natural areas. "A nice little campgeound near the river in Fredonia, WI. The campsites are inexpensive and comfortable, though there aren't as many amenities that a larger campground would have," says Kevin S.
Wildlife viewing: The Lake Mills Wildlife Area surrounding Sandhill Station offers opportunities to observe sandhill cranes and other wildlife. According to a camper, "We walked over to Mud Lake (in the park), and only saw sandhill cranes flying, not standing in the water."
What campers like
Secluded backpacking sites: KMSF Shelter 1 Backpack Site offers remote tent camping with basic amenities. "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. There is a fire pit, but we found our own wood around the site," reports Erin Z.
Spacious group camping: Northern Unit Greenbush Group Camp provides large sites that accommodate multiple tents. "We had six tents, but the site could easily have accommodated more," says Hilary S., who appreciated the layout despite noting that "noise can carry between campsites."
Oak savanna environment: The unique ecosystem at Sandhill Station State Campground creates a distinctive camping environment. One camper describes it as "a nice choice if you want a private, quiet getaway into the oak savanna of southern Wisconsin. I wouldn't go in the middle of summer, due to the limited shade, but it was very nice in early fall."
What you should know
Water availability varies: Most backcountry sites require campers to bring their own water. At established campgrounds, access points may be limited. "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)," notes a camper at Greenbush Group Camp.
Carry-in camping requirements: Many tent sites require hauling gear from parking areas. "The parking lot is anywhere from 100-500 yards from the campsite, depending on which one you choose. There isn't anywhere to buy firewood, so buy from a local resident/gas station," advises Jimmy P. about Sandhill Station.
Seasonal considerations: Wild Goose City Park provides facilities that can be used when biking through the area. "It's a good place to stop and have a break. There's a playground and public bathroom, drinking fountain. Plenty of space to spread out for a picnic when you're biking through," mentions Kim L.
Insect conditions: Mosquito activity can be intense during summer months, particularly near wetlands. "The sites are really near some stagnant water, though, so WAY too many mosquitoes, even with the really intense bug spray," warns Tawnie T., who visited Sandhill Station during a June heat wave.
Tips for camping with families
Park amenities for children: Several campgrounds offer playgrounds and open areas for recreation. At Wild Goose City Park in Juneau, families will find "a playground and public bathroom, drinking fountain. Plenty of space to spread out for a picnic."
Historical attractions: Combine camping with educational opportunities at nearby historical sites. "Also nearby is Aztalan State Park and Aztalan museum. The state park is beautiful grassland and prairie, and the Crawfish River flows along side the park. There are hiking trails as well as guide tour booklets," shares Jimmy P.
Consider seasonal timing: Spring and fall offer more comfortable camping conditions for families with young children. "I wouldn't go in the middle of summer, due to the limited shade, but it was very nice in early fall," advises one camper about the oak savanna environment.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most tent camping areas near Brownsville offer few or no RV hookups. At Greenbush Group Campground, facilities are designed primarily for tent campers with "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 Amber R.
Access considerations: Many campgrounds in the area have limited access for larger vehicles. Most tent-specific sites are walk-in only, requiring campers to park in designated lots and carry gear to their sites.
