Tent camping near Delavan, Wisconsin offers a mix of primitive and improved sites within a one-hour radius. The region sits at approximately 900 feet above sea level, creating varied terrain from wooded ridges to marshy lowlands. Most sites become operational from April through October, with non-reservable locations frequently filling on summer weekends.
What to do
Cycling the Glacial Drumlin Trail: Sandhill Station State Campground provides direct access to the 52-mile Glacial Drumlin bike trail. "Sandill Station is right outside Lake Mills, WI, right off the Glacial Drumlin bike trail," notes camper Jimmy P., who recommends exploring the nearby Aztalan State Park with its "beautiful grassland and prairie" along the Crawfish River.
Fishing at lakeside sites: Snug Harbor Inn Campground on Turtle Lake offers water recreation opportunities. "Beautiful views overlooking Turtle Lake. Friendly and helpful staff," reports Carole X., who enjoyed her stay despite some rain. The campground features boat rentals for fishing and recreation.
River exploration: For water-based activities, consider camping at sites with river access. "Some fellow campers were doing a diy tubing right to the campground. About a 2 hr lazy river tube from Kingston or 5hrs from Genoa on the slow moving S. Branch of the Kishwaukee River," explains a camper about MacQueen Forest Preserve.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded nature of tent sites in the region. "There are eight primitive campsites here, and they're spread out at least 50 yards apart. That's right, at least 50 yards. You can't see the campsite next to you," explains Amy G. about the spacious layout at MacQueen Forest Preserve.
Affordable primitive camping: Budget-conscious campers enjoy the low fees at several preserves. Marcus D. notes that MacQueen Forest Preserve charges "only $5/night" for primitive tent sites, making it an affordable option for weekend getaways.
Multi-tiered campground views: Snug Harbor Inn Campground features a unique terraced design. "Great three tiered camping spot. Full hookup, and great views," explains Alix M., who appreciated this design feature that allows more campers to enjoy lake views.
What you should know
Pack-in sites require proper equipment: Many tent sites require carrying gear from parking areas. At KMSF Shelter 1 Backpack Site, Erin Z. reports: "Great backpack camp site. Decent walk and terrain to get to the site. There is an open shelter to put your tent if you prefer to outside... It's very secluded for privacy."
Train noise affects sleep: Several campgrounds experience railway noise at night. "If you cannot sleep to the sound of trains at night, this is not the campground for you... there were probably three of them that went by in the middle of the night rather close to the campground," warns Amy G. about MacQueen Forest Preserve.
Seasonal insect considerations: Plan according to mosquito activity, which peaks in summer. "The sites are really near some stagnant water, though, so WAY too many mosquitoes, even with the really intense bug spray," notes Tawnie T. about Sandhill Station State Campground, recommending fall or spring visits instead.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: For family camping, sites with basic facilities make trips more comfortable. Darshon J. recommends MacQueen Forest Preserve, noting: "Well maintained bathrooms, great secluded sites. Super easy no registration its first come first serve. I will be going again with my family."
Consider access difficulty: Families with young children should evaluate carry-in distances. At Sandhill Station, Jimmy P. observes: "All 15 standard sites are carry-in only. The parking lot is anywhere from 100-500 yards from the campsite, depending on which one you choose."
Group-friendly areas: MacQueen Forest Preserve offers spaces suitable for multiple families. "About half of the campsites are in a meadow at the back end of the campground... There's also a giant fire pit with benches. The perfect area for a small group camp," notes Amy G.
Tips from RVers
Terraced sites provide optimal views: At Snug Harbor, the design benefits both tent and RV campers. James W. notes: "The view was nice overlooking Turtle lake. Like the design of 3 levels so everyone gets a view. Nice place in the country but close enough to town to grab all those things we forgot."
Quiet atmosphere despite full capacity: Even at busy times, certain campgrounds maintain peaceful environments. "Full weekend but very quiet and relaxing. Staff very nice," reports Jeffery S. about his Labor Day weekend at Snug Harbor Inn Campground.
Consider site-specific amenities: Josh F. provides detailed observations about Snug Harbor: "There is a very clean bathroom and bathhouse, freshwater for campers, and some electric tent campsites. The property is basically terraced along a slope down to the lake, with the RV and mobile home sites closer to the lake."
