Camp Douglas, Wisconsin sits in the unglaciated Driftless Area at an elevation around 900 feet. The region features numerous sandstone bluffs and rock formations that create unique camping environments. Camping sites near Camp Douglas typically open from May through September with limited winter options at certain locations, and mosquitoes can be particularly troublesome during July and August.
What to do
Geocaching adventures: Buckhorn State Park Campground offers free GPS units loaded with geocaching locations. "My husband and I picked this park because of it's friendliness towards kids. We took our 2 9 year old nieces on their first tent camping adventure... We grabbed one of their pre-loaded GPS units for Geocaching; It's something the park offers for free. They give you a bag, GPS and information book on all the Geocaching sites," explains Liz M.
Biking historical trails: At Tunnel Trail Campground, campers can access the Elroy-Sparta Bike Trail directly from their sites. "The Elroy Sparta Bike Trail, North America's first rails-to-trails project, runs through the Tunnel Trail Campground. The campground is very nice, especially for tents and smaller campers and caters to bicyclists," notes Cindy B. The trail features three historic tunnels, with one just 1.5 miles south of the campground.
Fishing opportunities: Local lakes and rivers provide excellent fishing conditions for multiple species. "The fishing is fantastic with Striped, Largemouth, and Smallmouth Bass, Walleye, Northern Pike, Musky, and all kinds of panfish," reports Stephen T. about Buckhorn State Park. Some campgrounds like Petenwell Park even provide shoreline access directly from waterfront campsites.
What campers like
Walk-in lakefront sites: Petenwell Park offers unique shoreline camping spots with direct water access. "We stayed at sites right on the lake and they were hands down the most beautiful sites I've personally ever camped at! We didn't need to leave our site," shares Ginny B. Several campers mention the sunset views as a highlight of these waterfront locations.
Secluded nature spots: Many campers appreciate the relative privacy at certain sites. "We usually stay at the east shore sites but tried the west shore this time. The shore was not as level as the east side sites but still sandy and shallow for swimming... There are more trees now than the website pictures show so there is some privacy between sites," reports Julia B. about Buckhorn State Park.
Swimming areas: Most campgrounds in the region maintain swimming areas. "The swim spot is refreshing and not rocky," notes Guy R. about Mill Bluff State Park Campground. At Buckhorn State Park, some walk-in sites include private beach access: "We got one of the spots that you needed to hike out to but it wasn't far at all. There were 2 other campsites beside us but they weren't reserved so we were all by ourselves. We had a little slice of beach and it was very beautiful during sunset," shares Stephanie S.
What you should know
Insect conditions: Bug activity, especially mosquitoes and ticks, can be intense during summer months. "I may be biased- because I really hate mosquitos and ticks but wow! The ticks here are so tiny they're very easy to miss so look out for those. Also the mosquitos never let up- even in the rain," warns Kalene H. at Buckhorn State Park. Another camper added: "Mosquitos were the worst I have ever experienced. The second we got out of the car they were all over us. We used the heaviest deet possible nonstop."
Ambient noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience some level of noise pollution. Oakdale KOA sits adjacent to I-90, creating highway noise. "This campground is super easy to get to as it is adjacent to I-90 which means you'll also deal with highway noise. The noise becomes just background after a while," explains Bob R. Mill Bluff State Park also has trains: "The highway is there and the night train schedule was 22:45 03:10 and 03:15."
Distance to supplies: Some campgrounds are relatively remote. "Great area, nice boat lunch, but bring what you need as the closest gas station is 15 miles away," advises Jay about Petenwell Park. Planning ahead with necessary supplies is important for extended stays.
Tips for camping with families
Free kids activities: Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground provides spacious sites with access to diverse hiking trails. "Very nice park. Great views. We were hoping for some more rock faces and challenging/longer distance hiking. We'd love to come back and see the ice cave when it's cold enough for ice," notes Kristina K. The park's varied terrain makes it suitable for families seeking outdoor adventures.
Child-friendly fishing spots: Buckhorn State Park offers specialized areas for young anglers. "The evening presented itself with an amazing sunset from our beach and lots of crickets chirping. In the morning we took the girls fishing off the dock and then over to the kids pond; the park also offers free poles and tackle," shares Liz M. These dedicated fishing ponds can make fishing more accessible and enjoyable for children.
Playground accessibility: Multiple campgrounds feature playground equipment. "The park is fairly crowded with lots of seasonal campers... but it's clean, the main bath house is nice and the playground is large. Kids are having a great adventure!" reports Laura B. about Petenwell Park. Tunnel Trail Campground also offers additional recreation: "There's a mini golf course which may have seen better days but is still playable and an older wooden play set."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RV campers should carefully select sites based on size requirements. "We had difficulty getting to our site as tight corners for rigs 38 feet or more," warns Becky M. about Tunnel Trail Campground. At The Reel Inn RV Campground, the experience differs: "Great Place; Central to many key places with very low rates. Clean and Friendly... Overnight sites easy to get into and large sites," shares Michele B.
Electrical hookup variations: Hookup options vary across campgrounds. "I had thought from the website that I was going to be in a pull through- I should have said something when I checked in- site was long and I normally don't care about backing in but it was dark. Then I realized that the site ONLY had a 30amp plug," reports Joie V. at Woods Edge Campground, highlighting the importance of confirming electrical compatibility before arrival.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups, making dump station locations important. Riverside Park in New Lisbon provides a convenient option: "Campground is a small community campground with nice sites. Nice bathroom with individual shower rooms. Electric and water hookups. Dump station on property," notes Pam L. Planning RV routes around these facilities can improve longer stays.
