Cabin camping near Cross Plains, Wisconsin offers diverse options within the rolling hills of the Driftless Area, a unique region untouched by glaciation that features dramatic ridges and valleys. Most campgrounds open from April through October, with July and August temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F during the day. Winter cabin options remain available at select locations with varying amenities during the colder months when temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to Do
Hiking at Devil's Lake: Blue Mound State Park Campground provides access to numerous trails and observation points. "Great hiking/biking & Cool Mounds (kind of like smaller bluffs). We got the last site available and am so happy we chose this place. Gorgeous hiking with really unique trails. Awesome mountain hiking options," notes Kristina K.
Water activities: Mirror Lake State Park features calm waters suitable for paddling. "The kayaking is great on the lake. Lots of sandstone cliffs. We only did 2 hiking trails but they were well maintained," mentions Julia B. at Sandstone Ridge Campground.
Disc golf: Fox Hill RV Park & Campground offers on-site activities beyond standard camping. "This park has some nature trails, disc golf, and a good size dog run. It's well kept and maintained," states a camper who visited during COVID-19 restrictions.
Observe wildlife: The International Crane Foundation near Baraboo showcases conservation efforts. "We went to the crane foundation that was nice, beautiful birds they are," notes a visitor who stayed at Fox Hill RV Park & Campground.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Skillet Creek Campground offers varied site layouts and vegetation. "Management is very vigilant, and very strict with the rules. They've been known to kick out loud groups no shame," explains Kari L., highlighting the quiet atmosphere maintained at the campground.
Clean facilities: Consistently mentioned across reviews, bathroom cleanliness stands out at many campgrounds. "Despite the very crowded campground, the bathrooms were immaculate. Even the Men's room was super clean," reports a camper at Fox Hill RV Park & Campground.
Access to amenities: Wisconsin Riverside Resort combines camping with additional comforts. "The Resort also has an extensive camp shop and a huge restaurant with outdoor riverside seating. With live music and a full bar, this made for a really relaxing atmosphere if you're not up to campfire cooking," shares one camper.
Swimming options: Many campgrounds offer water features for cooling off during summer months. "The kids loved the blow ups in the pond. The pool was nice, but a bit colder than the pond," notes Joan about Fox Hill RV Park & Campground.
What You Should Know
Seasonal operating dates: Most cabin rentals in the area operate within specific timeframes. "Wisconsin Riverside Resort has cabin rentals with river access, operating from April through November," while Cedar Hills Campground runs "April 15 to October 15," according to their listing information.
Adults-only options: Cedar Hills Campground offers a unique experience. "Adults only, gated community with firewood, propane and ice! They have RVs for rent also or seasonal sites available," states James, mentioning it's a "clothing optional campground."
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds may experience traffic sounds. "Beautiful facility but the traffic noise was atrocious," notes Kelly B. about Mirror Lake State Park's Sandstone Ridge Campground.
Service limitations: Cell phone coverage varies by location and provider. "No AT&T service," mentions a reviewer about Skillet Creek Campground, while another notes, "We had 5th wheel 40 feet it felt tight to get into... My husband's only complaint was Data reception. We really didn't get good cell service."
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities: Merry Mac's Campground caters specifically to families. "Super fun campground with so much to do! Lots of games for all up by lodge. DJ dance party on the deck at night. Lake full of all kinds of floats the kids can climb and jump on," describes Tracy C.
Consider scheduled activities: Some campgrounds organize regular events. "They had a nice playground for the kids to play at. There was a large grassy field where the kids played ball," notes Melissa K. about Skillet Creek Campground, while another mentions "They also had some fun activities for the kids."
Pool options for hot days: When temperatures climb, water features become essential. At Blue Mound State Park Campground, a visitor points out, "The pool is very nice and very clean. There is a pool section and a splash section. There are chairs and lounges around both and shade awnings."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Bluewater Bay Campground at Mirror Lake State Park offers varied site configurations. "Sites are pretty level sandy fine gravel. We are in site 37 and didn't need to level at all. They range in size good for tents and a couple cars to larger rv. We are 50 feet with truck and camper and still have a good 15-20 feet to the road," reports Jennifer K.
Hookup variations: Fox Hill RV Park & Campground provides different site options. "There are 2 main sections of the campground: the new part that is all full hook-up RV sites and the older part which is a mix of W/E and S/W/E," explains a repeat visitor who prefers the older section for its shade.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some sites. "Our site was very unlevel side to side. It took two 2x6 and a 1x6 under the camp side to be level," notes a camper at Fox Hill RV Park & Campground.
