Camping opportunities near Clinton, Wisconsin range across several counties with sites generally situated 300 to 900 feet above sea level. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer daytime temperatures typically reaching 75-85°F, making May through September the primary camping season. Winter camping is limited to a few year-round facilities that provide heated accommodation options.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: At Thomas Woods Campground, visitors can explore multiple interconnected paths. "There are plenty of hiking trails. They aren't the longest but we were able to vary the route up to keep it fresh for our dog to sniff out her adventure. Some of grass and others were dirt," notes camper Art S.
Water recreation access: Milton-Madison SE KOA provides convenient access to Lake Koshkonong for water activities. "My husband loved that Lake Koshkonong was right nearby for fishing and paddling, and we all enjoyed exploring Milton's small-town restaurants," reports Maria Mercedes M.
Seasonal activities: Crazy Horse Campground offers complimentary equipment and transportation for river activities. "During the summer they provide at no charge kayaks and a shuttle to a drop-off point which you can kayak back down to the campground which takes about an hour and a half," explains David H.
Family-friendly amenities: Local campgrounds offer structured activities during peak season. "We made this trip mid-May during the Covid social distancing. The camp ground was on point with their preparedness. All activities were down as expected and was reflected in the price," mentions Marc W. about his stay at Crazy Horse Campground.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Snug Harbor Inn Campground features a tiered design allowing better views. "Great three tiered camping site. Full hookup, and great views. Has a pub/restaurant with good food. Lots to do!" writes Alix M.
Clean facilities: Ottawa Lake Campground maintains well-kept grounds and amenities. "The site was spacious and clean, complete with the basics (fire ring, flushing toilets, showers, drinking water). Shower house #2 was clean although a bit older," mentions Linda N.
Privacy options: Thomas Woods Campground offers secluded sites for those seeking quiet. "We chose the latter and felt like we had the place to ourselves. There are basic toilets (hole in ground style), a spigot for water, great trails," explains Hallie B.
Onsite dining: Several glamping sites feature food options. "Nice Bar/Restaurant on site. Met 2 nice couples which helped with any questions. The view was nice overlooking Turtle lake. Like the design of 3 levels so everyone gets a view," notes James W. about Snug Harbor.
What you should know
Weather impacts: Low-lying areas may experience seasonal flooding. "Half of camping sites closed due to flooding. Big sites, not a lot of bugs or critters, electric available," reports Annabelle G. regarding Lakeland Camping Resort.
Site selection considerations: Big Foot Beach State Park has varying site qualities. "Spaces are not consistent, some very large and shaded and some smaller and crowded. Short trails in the park to hike," mentions Debra M.
Noise levels: Road proximity affects some locations. "The road noise is absolutely noticeable. It was incredibly loud when we drove through the loop closest to the highway and was significantly better even just one section over," shares Linda N. about Ottawa Lake Campground.
Pet restrictions: Limitations exist at certain parks. "So this place is much less dog friendly than is advertised. Dogs aren't allowed in large swaths of the park nor on the (tiny tiny, bordered by loud highway) beach," cautions Alexandria P.
Tips for camping with families
Activity packages: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers family entertainment options. "There were many activities for all ages both for a small fee and free. Our kids used the pools quite a lot and were a bit disappointed with the skatepark. They enjoyed all the airfilled bouncy activities," shares Tricia E.
Kid-friendly sites: Milton-Madison SE KOA caters to families with dedicated facilities. "With 2 kids to mind, I found the Milton-Madison SE KOA to be one of the most family-friendly campgrounds we've visited, with something for everyone to enjoy," remarks Maria Mercedes M.
Water play areas: Multiple glamping sites offer structured water activities. "My son had fun in the water and on all the water toys," mentions Melissa B. about her experience at Scenic Ridge Campground.
Budget considerations: Several campgrounds charge extra for amenities. "They have increased their amenities price. The jumping stuff, while fun, is often too hot for the kids to play on and isn't always open when it is supposed to be," notes Maeg H.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Terrain varies significantly between locations. "Our site was downhill so that presented quite the challenge to level out," explains Steven P. about Scenic Ridge Campground.
Hookup availability: Elkhorn Campgrounds provides essential services. "Simple camp ground. It's good for Rv and not much to do. Large space for RVs," notes Abdul Basith Asim M.
Long-term options: Many area campgrounds serve seasonal campers. "This campground had a lot of seasonal campers. Fairly large sites..." explains one visitor about the local camping scene.
Reservation timing: Popular glamping sites fill quickly during peak season. "They get very busy on weekends and holidays you have to book in advance," advises Marc W. about seasonal patterns at area campgrounds.