Cabin accommodations near Dodgeville, Wisconsin span from rustic shelters to fully-equipped units within a heavily wooded region of southwestern Wisconsin. The area sits within the Driftless Region at elevations between 900-1,700 feet, characterized by rolling hills and river valleys untouched by glaciation. Campgrounds typically open from April through October, with mid-summer temperatures averaging in the upper 70s and frequent evening thunderstorms during peak season.
What to do
Hiking trails: 3+ miles with seasonal features at Blue Mound State Park Campground. The park offers varied hiking options for different skill levels with unique geological features. "The hike to the caves is about 3 miles with gorgeous landscapes/colors in October. The caves are incredibly well maintained and organized with fun themed tours," notes Kaylyn C.
Kayaking calm waters: Explore sandstone formations near Sandstone Ridge Campground. The lake provides protected paddling environments away from motorized watercraft. Steven U. explains, "For us this trip was about the time on the water, and the lake was calm and beautiful. The steep cliffs and rock formations make for some great views while paddling."
Winter cave camping: Unique underground experience at Eagle Cave Resort. This unusual camping opportunity allows visitors to sleep inside natural cave formations during winter months. Charles M. shares, "We only spent a night at the resort (actually slept in the cave). One thing to know for sure, bring a tarp or tent to cover yourself. We went in March, so with all the runoff from the snow it was a very wet experience."
What campers like
Secluded woodland sites: Privacy between campsites at Skillet Creek Campground. Heavily wooded sites create natural separation between camping areas. Melissa K. describes, "It is well shaded in many places and some of the tent sites are amazing. They spray for weeds several times a week and mow regularly. It's just a couple miles from Devil's Lake State Park."
Family-friendly activities: Scheduled weekend events at Wisconsin Riverside Resort. The campground runs regular activities for children throughout the summer season. Juliana R. reports, "We stayed here 4th of July. The river felt amazing on a 95 degree day. If you have a kayak we suggest bringing it to get to the sandbar to hang out. We brought a tub and swam to the other side."
Stargazing: Low light pollution spots at Blackhawk Lake Recreational Area. The elevated position of the campground creates ideal conditions for night sky viewing. Larry E. confirms, "Chose this campground for the low light pollution in order to watch a meteor shower. Very nice recreation area with a nice beach."
What you should know
Cash-only policies: Several smaller campgrounds near Dodgeville only accept cash or check payment. Toms Campground requires this payment method for all services. One visitor notes, "Camping sites reasonably priced, only take cash or a check. Would have no problems staying there again."
Site terrain variations: Many campsites feature sloped or uneven ground requiring careful tent placement. According to a Bluewater Bay Campground visitor, "First off, I hate seeing reviews of parks and not stating which site someone stayed at. Because as tent campers, it's hard to see how the site is and if it will fit a tent... Our tent is quite large, and it actually fit. The tent was slightly on the gravel but that's better than having no grassy area."
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise from nearby roadways. A visitor to Bluewater Bay Campground reports, "Campsite was great, the only downside was its proximity to the freeway, meaning that you could hear traffic at almost all times."
Wildlife interactions: Raccoons are particularly active at area campgrounds. One visitor to Blue Mound State Park reports, "It is a beautiful park with tons of trees. Beautiful hiking trails everywhere for different levels of hiker. The raccoons are a bit gutsier than most, though."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Both natural and developed pools available. Blue Mound State Park offers supervised swimming facilities with reasonable fees. Debra M. describes, "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. The cost is $3 for an adult and $2 for child."
Playground accessibility: Multiple options within walking distance of cabins. Fireside Campground includes play areas near cabin accommodations. Troy S. shares, "This campground is like your ma and pa place. Staff was super friendly and so was the other campers staying there, kids and adults waved to us. A few activities every weekend and really enjoyed the charity bingo, it brought everyone together."
Educational cave tours: Kid-friendly exploration opportunities. The nearby cave systems often feature special programming for young visitors. Kaylyn C. notes about Blue Mound, "Our theme was Halloween so we could purchase 'Trick or Treat' bags and collected cool rocks in the caves handed out by employees along the tour."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Request larger spots for bigger rigs. Wisconsin campsites vary significantly in size and access. Kim L. advises at Wisconsin Riverside Resort, "As an RV campground, the sites were level and grassy with at least one tree per lot. In the sites closer to the pool and lagoon, they offer little privacy but are great for multi-family groups."
Electric hookups: Check for proper installation. Some sites have uncommon placement of electrical hookups. One camper at Fireside notes, "The 30 Amp outlet didn't work on our site but thankfully we had our 20 Amp adapter with us. Our site was also kind of small for our trailer."
Weight restrictions: Bridge access limitations at some campgrounds. Certain access roads include narrow bridges with weight restrictions. A visitor to Skillet Creek Campground mentions, "The bridge just past the gate though can be a little unnerving to drive over, as it is a very narrow concrete slab over a creek (no railings)."
