Camping spots near Cottage Grove, Wisconsin provide access to the glacially formed drumlins and kettles that characterize this part of the state, creating diverse terrain ranging from wooded hills to marshy lowlands. The region sits at an elevation of approximately 850-900 feet above sea level in Wisconsin's Southern Savanna ecological zone. Most campgrounds in the area maintain operating seasons from April through October, though seasonal flooding can affect lake access at some locations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Blackhawk Camping Resort, campers enjoy access to Clear Lake for various angling pursuits. "Clear Lake, which is actually a combination of 3 different lakes: Mud Lake, Clear Lake and Duck Lake, which basically surrounds the entirety of Blackhawk Camping Resort and offers up endless fishing, kayaking and boating opportunities," notes one visitor to Blackhawk Camping Resort.
Golf access: Several camping locations offer easy access to nearby golf courses for those seeking to combine camping with recreation. At Creekview RV Park, "golfers can walk next door to a three-par course," according to a reviewer who appreciated this convenient amenity.
Beach and swimming: Many campgrounds feature swimming areas with both pools and natural water bodies. One camper at Hickory Hills Campground reported, "They have a boat launch but we did not take our kayaks with us on this trip... Love that they have a sparkling clean (but cold!) pool and a lake with a beach!"
Outdoor games: Family-friendly activities are abundant at campgrounds throughout the region. A visitor to River Bend RV Resort mentioned the variety: "Horseshoes, bags pavilion, craft areas, fantastic pool and water slides, outdoor bar and ice cream shop. Don't forget the lake and floating obstacle course. Dog park, baseball field, the list goes on."
What campers like
Proximity to towns: Campers appreciate how camping locations balance natural settings with access to nearby communities. A visitor at Country Roads Motorhome & RV Park noted, "We were so close to plenty of fun things to do and shopping! The park had inexpensive laundry, well maintained grounds, horseshoe pits, front porch rockers for the early risers and a good layout for walks."
Woodsy settings: Many campsites offer tree cover that enhances the camping experience. As one camper at Hickory Hills Campground observed, "The thickly wooded forest that encircles this campground creates a sense of peace and serenity that are unmatched."
Family activities: Organized events keep campers engaged throughout their stay. A visitor to River Bend RV Resort commented on the structured activities: "Golf cart parade, DJ, band, BINGO" - highlighting the social programming that supplements natural recreation options.
Friendly atmosphere: The social environment at many campgrounds enhances the experience. One camper at Hickory Hills Campground mentioned, "Very friendly seasonal owners. Great for social gatherings with random strangers."
What you should know
Site conditions vary considerably: Terrain and site quality differ significantly between and within campgrounds. At Fox Hill RV Park, one camper observed, "The spaces in the first loop are very tight and small, but have shade. The new area will be much nicer as the newly planted trees grow and fill out. Our site was very unlevel side to side."
Highway proximity: Some campgrounds experience road noise that can affect the camping experience. A visitor to Creekview RV Park noted, "The campground is very close to the freeway and there is a constant din of traffic noise that remind you how close you are to the highway."
WiFi reliability: Connectivity varies significantly across campgrounds and even within the same property. One camper at River Bend RV Resort reported, "WiFi was great in some areas, Non-existent in others. No cell carrier works well here at all, so non-functional WiFi areas can be a deal-breaker for connected campers."
Seasonal differences: Campground amenities may not be fully operational during shoulder seasons. A visitor to Hickory Hills Campground observed, "For Memorial Day weekend the pool wasn't open, porta-potties near the lake and lodge were still padlocked/closed, and non stop golf cart traffic."
Tips for camping with families
Look for water features: Campgrounds with multiple water recreation options keep children entertained. At Lakeland Camping Resort, one parent shared, "The kids had endless options to keep them busy from 2 swimming pools, a sandy beach, playgrounds, mini golf, sports courts, and even planned activities and themed weekends."
Consider site location: Strategic site selection enhances the family experience. A parent at Lakeland Camping Resort suggested, "Book a site away from the pools if you want peace and quiet, treat yourself to dinner at Fredrick's Supper Club, sneak out early for a serene paddle on the lake."
Pack for weather variability: Wisconsin's weather can change rapidly, requiring preparation. A tent camper at Fox Hill RV Park reported, "We had rain all of our first day, and our site didn't flood just a few puddles here and there and the ground was mushy for about another day and a half."
Check activity schedules: Many campgrounds offer organized programming that can enhance family stays. A visitor to Fox Hill RV Park mentioned, "They had an activity director driving around (at a safe speed on a golf cart...) handing out craft bags for all the kids since activities were cancelled due to covid."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Prepare for potentially uneven rv sites near Cottage Grove, Wisconsin. A visitor to Country Roads Motorhome & RV Park cautioned, "If you are looking for FHU sites are level enough. But, if you are needing just water and electric you should look elsewhere. Sites are very unlevel."
Utility placement: The arrangement of hookups affects site usability. At Fox Hill RV Park, a camper noted, "Most sites are pretty level with gravel pad and logically positioned utilities," highlighting the importance of well-designed campsites for motorhome camping around Cottage Grove.
Water availability: Water service can be inconsistent at some locations. A visitor to Hickory Hills Campground reported challenges: "don't come here if you want reliable water service. Our water keeps being shut off. There are many excuses as to why, but no resolution."
Dump station access: RVers should plan for dump station conditions. A reviewer at River Bend RV Resort advised, "The dump station lanes need some attention, more than gravel would be great," suggesting potential challenges with this essential RV service near Cottage Grove.
