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Best Tent Camping near Dousman, WI

631 Reviews

Tent campsites near Dousman, Wisconsin include several options for primitive camping experiences within a short drive. KMSF Shelter 1 Backpack Site offers a secluded tent camping experience with hike-in access, while Snug Harbor Inn Campground on Turtle Lake provides lakefront tent sites with more amenities. Sandhill Station State Campground in the Lake Mills Wildlife Area offers walk-in tent sites in an oak savanna setting approximately 25 miles from Dousman.

Most tent campgrounds in the area require campers to carry gear from parking areas to their sites, with distances ranging from 100 to 500 yards depending on the location. KMSF Shelter 1 features basic amenities including a fire pit, picnic table, and an outhouse, though visitors note the outhouse condition is poor. Sandhill Station provides pit toilets on-site, with showers and flush toilets available at the nearby Glacial Drumlin office in Lake Mills. Many sites permit campfires, with firewood sometimes available for purchase, though at KMSF Shelter 1, campers typically gather their own wood from the surrounding area. Water access varies significantly between locations, with some sites offering no drinking water.

The terrain at walk-in tent sites typically consists of natural surfaces with minimal development, providing a more authentic outdoor experience. Sandhill Station's tent sites are set in an oak savanna with varying degrees of shade, making spring and fall preferable to mid-summer camping. The remote nature of these sites offers privacy and quiet surroundings, particularly at KMSF Shelter 1. One camper described it as "a great backpack camp site with 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." Sites near water bodies like Mud Lake in the Lake Mills Wildlife Area provide opportunities for wildlife viewing, including sandhill cranes, though mosquitoes can be problematic during summer months near stagnant water.

Best Tent Sites Near Dousman, Wisconsin (12)

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Tent Camping Reviews near Dousman, WI

631 Reviews of 12 Dousman Campgrounds

  • Sara S.
    May. 27, 2019

    Mauthe Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit

    GREAT beach!

    The campground and campsites are pretty standard.  Nice amount of space and privacy. 101 Walk in site was quite nice. Level ground, nice tree cover so it didnt feel too open. 

    Loved being close to the beach and playground area! The kids really appreciated it :) The beach was very clean and even though it was a warm, busy day we didnt feel like it was too crowded.  The earlier you arrive the better chances you have of getting a picnic table in the shade ;)  

    Enjoyed the walk around the lake, some parts are still a bit muddy, but overall it was a nice walk and the kids actually made it without too many complaints ;)  Nice variety of scenery!  Even caught a couple frogs.

    Definitely a place to visit again! 

    *checked out some of the trails near by which were really great as well!

  • Art S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2022

    Mauthe Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit

    Kettle moraine trail access here

    Mauthe lake is in the Kettle Moraine Northern Unit. It feels remote but we drove through a bunch of rural houses on the way in. The rustic roads made for good cycling. We passed quite a few pedaling up and down the hills.

    The campground itself sprawls along one side of the lake. With the loops for each group peeling off, it is easy to lose your way. The signs mark the direction well so go slow. It helps to know your site number.

    There was nobody at the entrance office. I’m not sure if it’s just today but make online reservations. It seems to be the 2022 way.

    There is a shower house but we made use of the more convenient vault toilets. Water is available in different ways - even a drinking fountain. There seems to be only one garbage collection site on the way out. This was less convenient since we have dog droppings to deal with.

    There is a nature trail that goes around the lake. By the beach and picnic area it’s paved. The rest is gravel or dirt. With recent rains we found a few puddles to walk through and mud to avoid. Our dog loved having the trail so close. Most of the trail is in the sun so bring water on hot days.

    Swimming isn’t allowed due to a blue algae bloom. This left plenty of empty space for us to sit with our dog under the trees. Folks did make good use of the fishing pier and playground. We also saw kayaks and stand up paddle boards on the lake.

  • GoWhereYouAreDraw N.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 12, 2020

    Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park

    Well maintained and clean

    Very impressed with this state park! It was huge, almost 3 miles just to our site! The showers were clean. The spots were large and wooded with nice fire ring set ups. The staff was very helpful answering any questions and giving recommendations. We stayed on a primitive/wilderness site for $12 with no electric. They will allow anyone on these sites-we even saw huge RV'S and 5th wheels on primitive sites.

    There are amazing trails through park for people to hike, bike, or ride horse on.

    Spring Grove is a tiny town nearby with a little corner bar called “The Grove”. They serve amazing food with great service. Very clean! I recommend checking it out if you’re looking for some good food.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 1, 2026

    Harrington Beach State Park - Group Campground

    A Spacious Setting Near Lake Michigan

    The Group Campground at Harrington Beach State Park brings a completely different energy, offering an expansive, open setting that feels made for large family reunions, scout troops, family birthday party overnighters and lively gatherings that stretch long into the evening. Unlike the more intimate family sites, this area is designed for scale, with wide communal spaces, larger fire rings and plenty of room for picnic tables, shared meals and kid-filled games of tag and flag football. We passed through and couldn’t help but smile watching a group roast marshmallows together while another set of kids played flashlight hide-and-seek across the open field. While it is less private and more bustling, this locale creates a joyful sense of togetherness that feels perfect for celebrations and group bonding. While the restroom and shower facilities were mediocre (at best), they were functional and clean. But the real star here is the close proximity to Lake Michigan. I’d recommend this Group Campground for larger parties who want space to spread out, EZ beach access and the freedom to make memories together in a beautiful lakeside setting.

  • Josh F.
    Dec. 3, 2020

    Hebron Campground

    Small, Tidy with Lots of Waterworks

    This is a relatively small, private campground mostly for RVs though there are some very nice sites that would be lovely for tents. There are a dozen tent sites that back up to a very charming river, each one has a picnic table and fire pit. The view of the river from these sites is lovely. Adding to the waterworks, there is a cute pond with a charming fountain in the center of the RV sites, and a nice horseshoes pit. There are a number of RV sites with full hookups. 

    I spoke with the owner and they did not have tent camping in 2020. They were worried about people in too close proximity in the restroom. In 2020 they only allowed RVs that had their own restroom facilities. The owner told me that maybe there will be tent camping in 2021.

  • Denise N.
    Jun. 28, 2018

    Long Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit

    Long Lake Fun

    We've camped at Long Lake twice - both times with kids, and thoroughly enjoyed. The sites are spacious and clean. Each site comes with a fire pit, grate and picnic table. We have camped in the 800s but hope to get back for more variety in the future.

    Long Lake has two separate beaches and we much prefer the South Shore beach. North Shore is a little less populated, but the hike/stairs down into the beach area can be annoying with kids, toys, camp chairs, and a cooler full of food and beer. South Shore has a boat launch, clean restrooms and a picnic cabana that can be reserved. Both beaches are large and ample. We spread out with a pop-up canopy and did not feel crowded in or like we were imposing on others.

    Long Lake is big, so motorcraft are allowed. It's fun to sunbathe and watch waterskiiers and tubers fly by off in the distance.

  • Renee R.
    May. 9, 2025

    Ledge County Park

    Great park, decent camping

    The park is very pretty.  Walking along the trails, you can see where it gets its name!  Lots of cool ledges and rock outcrops.  We saw a moderate amount of birds and heard a bunch of critters (owls, a fox (?!)) one night.

    We camped at non-electric site J.  It was nice and big.  We originally were to be at site G but it was way too small to fit our cars, tents, etc.

    Pros:

    - Quiet and decently spaced sites.

    - Clean vault toilets.  Did not use the shower house/other facilities.  

    - The firepits are flush with the ground and have cooking grates.

    - Easy access to trails.

    Cons:

    - I'm not a trailer camper, but if I were I would not appreciate the vibes of the electric sites.  The sites are very close together and walking through it felt like going through a festival or circus more than a campground.

    - The firewood was a bit pricey compared to other parks.

  • Meg
    Jun. 12, 2022

    Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park

    Good For families, a few downsides

    *** reviewing as a baby/toddler camp family on the go :-) we chose the loop 11 was on because it was close to the path to the playgrounds and lakes plus bathrooms… avoid the first 2 sites from either end as the ones closest to the main loop aren’t very deep. Closer to the center of this row is best.

    Pros- easy pull in sites and lots of walk-in availability. Sites are almost all flat thankfully, so no weird slopes to sleep on and easy for babies/toddlers to stay safe. Also seemed pretty respectful in the evenings with people toning down the noise.

    Lots of electric sites, deep enough for 2 tents, 2 cars (although close to neighbors and no trees between sites), picnic table and fire pit.

    Bathroom shower houses were decent (we usually just have toddler use her travel potty, but this one was fine).

    Multiple playgrounds, access to launch sites for kayaks, little store to buy ice cream or snacks.

    Cons - SO many ticks. With a baby crawling that needed to be set free, we were constantly doing checks. Luckily our screen house pop up on a tarp that was sprayed ahead for tick repellent plus a blanket on top of that did the trick, but they literally fall out of the trees into people! Plan for toddlers and babies to have a contained covered screen house and have them wear hats or a wagon shade on walks so nothing lands in their hair.

    Also - the raccoons at night here are no joke. The second it’s dusky, they come scavenging for absolutely anything food has touched. So basically, eat dinner and do s’mores early, then everything must be packed into cars for the night and all surfaces wiped down.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2023

    Pilgrims Campground

    Hillside Tent Camping & RV Bliss

    Conveniently located next to absolutely nothing just due northwest of Fort Atkinson, you’ll love Pilgrim’s Campground for its successful delivery of (capital letters) P&Q! What I love most about this location is how they keep all the RV campers penned in up against the slight diagonal embankment, which actually provides some pretty phenomenal views of the surrounding areas (if not your next door neighbors) as well as excellent drainage and subsequently separated from the primitive TV campsites. These latter sites are placed just due southwest of the grounds and are pitched perfectly in a tree-lined meadow, encircled by freshly cut corn fields, where you’ll find no shortage of amazing animals coming to graze throughout the day (and night) from deer, raccoons, opossums and endless tag teams of squirrels. 

    Because there isn’t so much around, be prepared to bring everything with you (save ice and wood, which is sold on-site). While the bathroom / shower facilities are just passable, what you are giving up in terms of creature comforts is more than made up for in the sheer proximity to all of nature. During the warm summer months, there’s a small in-ground pool on-site, which sits right in front of the main office. All of the standard camping surround-sound elements are here from fire rings and picnic tables to water, electrical (50 / 30 / 20 / 15 amp) and sewer hook-ups. In all, there’s about 100 sites here at Pilgrims Campground, with the lion’s share of this pet-friendly property dedicated to overnight and seasonal RV / 5th Wheelers offering both back-in and pull-through sites. 

    Insider’s Tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you don’t mind some rough hiking, there’s fantastic ‘spazierengehen’ to be had just wandering around the countryside in the bountiful corn and bean fields or head over to nearby Dorothy Carnes County Park for some decent trails to explore; (2) In the event that you don’t like being awaken too early from all of the nearby roosters, then bring some ear plugs; (3) When you grow tired of having to forage through either your on-board RV mini-fridge or bear-proof Cordova roto-molded cooler, then look no further than ‘What’s the Point’ (no, seriously, that's the name of the restaurant!) for traditional Midwestern comfort food like corned beef & cabbage, fried fish, BBQ ribs and prime rib; (4) Should you come bearing watercraft and looking for a decent spot to dip your kayak or canoe at, then check out Rose Lake State Natural Area, which BTW is quite small, but very convenient, or try out much larger Red Cedar Lake or Lake Ripley; and (5) Cell coverage and WiFi is pretty horrific in these parts, so bring a booster or plan to leave civilization behind you. 

    Happy Camping!

Guide to Dousman

Tent campsites near Dousman, Wisconsin range from natural lakefront settings to secluded oak savannas within a short drive. The area sits at approximately 900 feet above sea level within the Kettle Moraine region, characterized by hilly terrain formed by glacial deposits. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s, while spring and fall bring cooler conditions, generally preferred by campers due to fewer insects and more comfortable hiking weather.

What to do

Trail biking access: The Glacial Drumlin bike trail connects to Sandhill Station State Campground, making it ideal for cyclists. "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, and the Crawfish River flows along side the park."

Wildlife viewing: Several campsites offer opportunities to spot local fauna. At Wild Goose City Park, campers appreciate the open spaces. Reviewer Kim L. mentions, "It's a good place to stop and have a break. There's a playground and public bathroom, drinking fountain. Plenty of space to spread out for a picnic when you're biking through."

Fishing opportunities: Lakes near Dousman provide fishing access at several campgrounds. At Waubedonia County Park, the river location offers good fishing spots. Camper Kevin S. describes it as "a nice little campground near the river in Fredonia, WI" where "the campsites are inexpensive and comfortable."

What campers like

Privacy and seclusion: Walk-in tent sites provide isolation from other campers. At KMSF Shelter 1 Backpack Site, camper Erin Z. notes, "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. There is a fire pit, but we found our own wood around the site. (Bring a small axe)."

Lake views: Some campgrounds offer waterfront sites with scenic views. At Snug Harbor Inn Campground on Turtle Lake, James W. appreciates that "the view was nice overlooking Turtle lake. Like the design of 3 levels so everyone gets a view." Another camper, Alix M., confirms, "Great three tiered camping spot. Full hookup, and great views."

Oak savanna setting: The natural landscape provides a distinctive camping environment. Jimmy P. describes Sandhill Station State Campground as offering "15 campsites and 1 group campsite in an oak savanna, with varying degrees of shade" where "the campsite we were on was spacious, private, and beautiful. We had two large oak trees on either side of our site, giving us a good amount of mixed shade."

What you should know

Site access challenges: Many tent sites require carrying gear from parking areas. At Purplehaze Acres, tent campsites are walk-in only with distances varying between sites. Sandhill Station campsites are "carry-in only. The parking lot is anywhere from 100-500 yards from the campsite, depending on which one you choose," according to Jimmy P.

Seasonal considerations: Weather significantly impacts camping comfort in the area. Tawnie T. warns about Sandhill Station: "We were there in mid-June on one of the hottest weekends of the year and we were massacred the second we walked into the site. I do believe these would be lovely sites in the fall or Spring, though."

Bathroom facilities: Restroom quality varies widely between locations. Jimmy P. notes, "There are showers/flush toilets at the nearby Glacial Drumlin office in Lake Mills, but none on site, only pit toilets" at Sandhill Station. At KMSF Shelter 1, Erin Z. cautions, "There is an outhouse, but I wouldn't recommend using it."

Tips for camping with families

Select campsites based on amenities: For families, prioritize campgrounds with necessary facilities. Snug Harbor Inn offers more family-friendly amenities. Jeffery S. notes it can be "Full weekend but very quiet and relaxing. Staff very nice."

Mosquito preparation: Insect protection is essential, especially near water. Tawnie T. advises about Sandhill Station: "The sites are really near some stagnant water, though, so WAY too many mosquitoes, even with the really intense bug spray."

Check firewood availability: Policies vary regarding collection versus purchase. Jimmy P. points out for Sandhill Station, "There isn't anywhere to buy firewood, so buy from a local resident/gas station."

Tips for RVers

Check site accessibility: Most tent-focused campgrounds have limited RV options. At Waubedonia County Park, Kevin S. notes, "there aren't as many amenities that a larger campground would have" though they do offer some electric hookups suitable for smaller RVs.

Consider seasonal campgrounds: Some locations primarily serve seasonal campers. Josh F. observed at Snug Harbor Inn: "This is primarily an RV/mobile home campground" with "lots of electrical sites for campers and RVs, most of which look like they are quite permanently in place."

Limited big-rig access: Most campgrounds near Dousman cannot accommodate large RVs. Josh F. adds that at Snug Harbor, "Gravel roads connect the three loops," which may be challenging for larger vehicles to navigate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Dousman, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Dousman, WI is Backpack Sites — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Dousman, WI?

TheDyrt.com has all 12 tent camping locations near Dousman, WI, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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