Cabin accommodations near Camp Douglas are situated in Wisconsin's Central Sand Plains, characterized by glacial deposits and sandy soils that create a unique landscape with varied terrain. The region experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging 80°F during peak camping months and cold winters that limit some cabin availability. Water features include the nearby Castle Rock Lake which forms the fourth largest inland body of water in Wisconsin.
What to do
Kayaking on Castle Rock Lake: Buckhorn State Park Campground offers direct water access from many cabin and tent sites. "We had a little slice of beach and it was very beautiful during sunset. Bugs were really bad at this time of year. A family of raccoons passed our tent during the night and sounded like they were playing in the water which was cute," shares one visitor at Buckhorn State Park Campground.
Mini golf and recreation: Arrowhead RV Campground maintains on-site activities for cabin guests. According to a camper, "There were outdoor movies, put-put, corn hole, two pools, huge trampoline, volleyball nets, disc golf, and a Christmas in July festival all happening when we were there." The recreation area is typically open from 9 AM to 9 PM during summer months.
Hiking trails: Mirror Lake State Park features several well-maintained trails through wooded areas and around sandstone formations. "The lake is great for kayaking. Lots of sandstone cliffs. We only did 2 hiking trails but they were well maintained," notes one Sandstone Ridge Campground visitor. Most trails range from 1-3 miles in length with minimal elevation gain.
What campers like
Private beach access: Several cabin sites at Buckhorn State Park feature personal water frontage. "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," explains a visitor who enjoyed the secluded setting.
Clean facilities: Pine View Campground at Fort McCoy maintains high standards for their shower houses and cabins. A guest reports, "First time out with the new RV. We called to made the reservation by phone and was taken care of very nicely. We were told to go straight to our site and setup and they will check on us later. The beach was clean nicely set up, the office was very helpful."
Family-oriented activities: Tunnel Trail Campground caters to families with various recreation options. "The pool opened the day we got there and my kids enjoyed it although it was definitely too cold for me. Frogs pulled us to sleep the first night but disappeared the second. Our site was pretty level and located near a creek which runs though the middle of the campground. My kids enjoyed playing in that," shares a Tunnel Trail Campground visitor.
What you should know
Highway noise considerations: Some cabin locations experience traffic sounds. At Oakdale KOA, a visitor notes, "The 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 and the full hookups mean running the RV air conditioner at night somewhat blocks the traffic sounds."
Insect preparation essential: Bug activity can be intense during summer months. One Buckhorn camper shares, "The 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." Pack appropriate repellent and consider screened eating areas.
Military installation proximity: Oakdale KOA and Pine View Campground are near Fort McCoy military base. A camper notes, "The sites were paved and level. Nicely wooded and made it easy to setup a hammock as well. The site had full hook ups. We did have an alarm every morning with the sound of bugle three or fore time throughout the day and evening."
Tips for camping with families
Geocaching opportunities: Buckhorn State Park offers complimentary GPS units for geocaching adventures. "My husband and I picked this park because of its friendliness towards kids. We took our 2 9-year-old nieces on their first tent camping adventure. When we arrived and checked in 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."
Kid-friendly watercraft: Many properties provide rental equipment sized for younger campers. "The beach area has showers and a great area to have a picnic. 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," reports a Buckhorn visitor.
Shallow swimming areas: Chapparal Campground features safe water play zones. "We stayed here over Memorial weekend, we had a nice site with grass and trees. They had a parade of first responders, firefighters, EMTs and etc come through the campground on Saturday, golf cart parade Sunday, fun things for the children and they have an amazing pond. We didn't use it but they have a LOT of inflatables all surrounded by a sandy beach!"
Tips from RVers
Electrical connection planning: Some cabin and RV sites have unusual utility placements. A visitor to Arrowhead notes, "Friendly and helpful front desk. Pool is very nice. Perfect water temperature in June. Clean facilities. Camping spots are a little rough terrain, but TT is level without levelers, but bring them just in case. Make sure you bring 50 ft of electrical cord and water hose. They do offer to barrow their extension cords."
Accessibility options: Pine View Campground offers accommodations for guests with mobility needs. "The shower area was well maintained and is also accessible for anyone with disabilities," shares one visitor, noting that several cabin units feature ramped entries and modified interior layouts.
Off-season advantages: Wisconsin Dells campgrounds become significantly less crowded between Labor Day and Memorial Day. A camper shares, "Large campground. Very friendly staff and escort, at site daily trash pickup which is nice. Lots of kids, large playground and pool. Busy on weekends quiet and peaceful during the week."
