Cross Plains sits within Wisconsin's Driftless Area at elevations ranging from 860-1,260 feet, characterized by unglaciated terrain with steep valleys and sandstone bluffs. The camping season typically runs April through October, with July temperatures averaging 82°F and nighttime lows around 62°F. Winter camping is available at select locations, but facilities may be limited.
What to do
Hiking diverse terrain: Blue Mound State Park Campground features extensive trail networks with various difficulty levels. "There are a lot of trails for hiking and mountain biking. A swimming pool and picnic area" and "gorgeous hiking with really unique trails. Awesome mountain hiking options," according to visitors who appreciated the varied terrain.
Rock climbing: Quartzite Campground at Devils Lake State Park offers climbing opportunities on quartzite formations. "Devils lake state park is a busy place. Over 2 million visitors a year! Climbing is popular and there are people to help teach you," notes one camper, highlighting the accessibility for beginners and experienced climbers alike.
Water activities: Cox Hollow Campground at Governor Dodge State Park provides multiple water recreation options. "Two good lakes for kayaking/canoeing/fishing/swimming. Lots of good hiking trails," writes one visitor. Lakes throughout the region maintain no-wake zones in designated areas to protect wildlife habitats and provide peaceful paddling experiences.
Stargazing: Brigham Park offers exceptional night sky viewing due to its elevation. "A perfect place to star gaze or watch a storm roll in. You can see for miles and miles. The cool breeze rolls up over the mound at night, keeps you cool on your tent," shares one camper who appreciated the astronomical opportunities.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Ice Age Campground at Devils Lake State Park receives praise for its well-designed layout. "Quiet, pet friendly spot with nice bathrooms and plenty of tree lined spots for some privacy. Great spot to spend a weekend," explains one visitor who appreciated the natural buffers between campsites.
Clean facilities: Northern Lights Campground maintains well-kept restrooms and shower buildings. "This campground is very clean and both shower house and vault toilets are as well. Sites are well spaced and each have fire pit/grill and picnic table," notes a camper who visited during a July holiday weekend.
Cooling water features: Swimming areas are valued during summer months. "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," describes one camper at Blue Mound State Park, detailing the amenities available for $3 per adult and $2 per child.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer nature observation opportunities. "We've seen bunnies and chipmunks. There are a lot of mature trees on site, which provided abundant shade in the mid 80's," shares a visitor at Token Creek County Park, noting the natural elements that enhanced their camping experience.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak season. "You need to book the 11 months in advance, especially for holiday weekends," advises one camper about Devils Lake State Park, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead for prime camping dates.
Site selection: Mendota County Park requires careful research when booking. "All sites were level and generous in size. Camper pads were somewhat gravel but not well-defined. Long enough to accommodate the largest RV or additional cars," explains a visitor who appreciated the space but noted other considerations for choosing the right site.
Weather preparedness: Storms can develop quickly in the area. "It did storm hard while we were there and the shore store had everyone in the store for the storm. The storm came in really fast too," reports one camper at Devils Lake, highlighting the need for weather awareness and appropriate shelter options.
Variable cell service: Connectivity differs between campgrounds. "Strong cell signal on T-Mobile and you're quite close to Madison, University of Wisconsin, etc., so location could work well for lots of folks," notes a camper at Mendota County Park, while more remote locations may have limited reception.
Tips for camping with families
Pool and splash pad access: William G. Lunney Lake Farm Campground offers recreation for children near Madison. "My husband and I stayed here and had a great time! The camp grounds were clean and ready to stay at. There are clean showers and bathrooms, a playground, and a place to swim," explains one visitor who enjoyed the family-friendly amenities.
Playgrounds proximity: Select sites near play areas for convenience with small children. "Nice playground right next to the shower so the kids could play while we showered," reports a visitor to Northern Lights Campground, highlighting the practical arrangement for families.
Kid-friendly hiking options: Several parks offer trails suitable for various ages. "It is a beautiful park with tons of trees. Beautiful hiking trails everywhere for different levels of hiker. The pool is awesome, and the splash pad is absolutely incredible. This is a great place to camp with little kids," shares a visitor to Blue Mound State Park.
Wildlife awareness: Certain campgrounds have active nocturnal visitors. "The raccoons are a bit gutsier than most, though," warns one camper about Blue Mound State Park, while another noted, "Beware of raccoons at this campground they are BOLD!" regarding Governor Dodge State Park, suggesting proper food storage is essential.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord needs: Many electrical sites require additional equipment. "Bring an extension cord! Some sites electric is close by, others not so much!" advises a camper at Mendota County Park, highlighting a practical consideration for those with electric-dependent setups.
Site leveling challenges: Terrain varies significantly between campgrounds. "Not all 'driveways' are level which, unfortunately, we discovered in site 33. We slept with our heads lower than our feet in our camper van," shares one visitor to Governor Dodge State Park, suggesting research or leveling blocks be part of preparation.
Dump station considerations: Facilities vary in quality and convenience. "The potable water spigot is way too close to the dump station for comfort," notes a visitor to Mendota County Park, while another camper at Token Creek explains, "Potable water, dump station, and non-potable water at the dump station are convenient. Have a bit of your own hoses to reach."
Size restrictions: Some campgrounds better accommodate smaller RVs. "Great campground for everything but big 5th wheelers and motorhomes," explains a camper about Governor Dodge State Park, while another notes, "You drive through much of the park. Signs showed the way and it was easy to follow along," regarding navigation to specific sites.