Tent campsites near Cleveland, Wisconsin occupy the distinctive glacial landscape of the Kettle Moraine region. This terrain features prominent hills and depressions formed by glacial deposits approximately 10,000 years ago. Most camping areas sit at elevations between 900-1,100 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season from June through August.
What to do
Hiking on Ice Age Trail segments: Tent camping locations near Greenbush Group Campground provide direct access to segments of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. This 1,200-mile footpath traverses Wisconsin's glacial landscapes with nearby sections featuring moderate terrain suitable for day hikes.
Fishing in Milwaukee River: Waubedonia County Park offers riverside tent camping with fishing opportunities. According to Kevin S., it's "A nice little campground near the river in Fredonia, WI" where anglers can target smallmouth bass and northern pike during the spring and summer months.
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: Northern Unit Greenbush Group Camp serves as a convenient base for accessing the New Fane Trail system. Hilary S. noted their group camping experience: "We booked this for a coronavirus-safe camping trip, and it did not disappoint," highlighting its proximity to multiple recreational opportunities within the forest.
What campers like
Spacious group sites: The tent campsites at Greenbush Group Campground accommodate large gatherings. Amber R. reports, "Large sites great for groups. Sites 2 and 9 are the largest. Those can each fit over 20 backpacking tents at the same time."
Natural hammock options: Many tent sites feature mature trees ideal for hammock camping. At Greenbush Group Campground, campers appreciate the "Grassy sites surrounded by trees (plenty for hammocks too)," according to Amber R., who also mentioned the "Short walk to pit toilets and drinking water."
Budget-friendly camping: The county park camping options provide economical alternatives to state forest campgrounds. Kevin S. describes Waubedonia County Park as having "campsites [that] are inexpensive and comfortable, though there aren't as many amenities that a larger campground would have."
What you should know
Water availability varies: Access to drinking water can change seasonally and during health emergencies. At Northern Unit Greenbush Group Camp, Hilary S. experienced: "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)."
Noise travels between sites: The tent camping areas have natural visual barriers but limited sound isolation. Hilary S. observed at Northern Unit Greenbush Group Camp: "The nine sites are visually separated, but not far enough away from each other to block louder noise - we could hear loud music from the site 4 late into the night."
Facility limitations: The tent campsites near Cleveland feature basic amenities without modern conveniences. Kevin S. notes that at Waubedonia County Park there "aren't as many amenities that a larger campground would have," which is consistent across most primitive tent camping options in this area.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple tent setups: The generous size of tent sites accommodates various sleeping arrangements. Hilary S. mentioned their Northern Unit Greenbush Group Camp experience included "six tents, but the site could easily have accommodated more," making these locations suitable for family reunions.
Pack extra water containers: With centralized water sources at many campgrounds, families should bring portable water jugs. The distance from campsites to water spigots can be substantial, as Hilary S. discovered with water "available near the parking lot at the entrance - a longer walk."
Bring noise-masking devices: Light sleepers in family groups may want white noise machines or earplugs. The proximity of campsites means "louder noise" carries between areas, as experienced at Northern Unit Greenbush Group Camp.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup limitations: Most tent-focused campgrounds have restricted electrical access. While some sites at Waubedonia County Park feature electric hookups, the majority of tent campsites near Cleveland lack power connections for vehicle charging or appliance use.
Access considerations: The forest roads leading to many tent campsites have clearance and width restrictions. Small campervans and truck campers can access most areas, but larger RVs should verify road conditions before attempting entry.
