Camping sites around Franklin, Wisconsin range from wooded county parks to full-service RV resorts within 25 miles of the city. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F, while spring and fall camping offers milder conditions with occasional rain. Most campgrounds in the area sit on relatively flat terrain between 600-800 feet elevation, making site access straightforward for most camping setups.
What to do
Beach activities: Swim in a spring-fed pond at Muskego Park by Waukesha County Parks, located about 20 minutes from Franklin. "The beach on the shores of Lake Nagawicka is well-groomed, clean, has a seasonal lifeguard and a playground within earshot," notes a visitor. The park also offers hiking trails that wind through diverse terrain.
Explore local trails: Access both Lake Country and Ice Age Trails from Naga-Waukee Park by Waukesha County Parks. "Nestled in the heart of lake country (Waukesha County) and accessible from the Lake Country Trail and Ice Age Trail, this county park is perfect for those just passing through or families looking for a quick and easy weekend camping adventure," explains one camper. The park offers 30 sites from April through November.
Water recreation: Fish or kayak on Lake Koshkonong near Lakeland Camping Resort in Milton. This larger resort campground features "2 swimming pools, a sandy beach, playgrounds, mini golf, sports courts, and even planned activities and themed weekends," according to a recent visitor. The resort provides full-hookup sites with a more developed camping experience for those wanting amenities beyond basic camping.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Room to spread out at Cliffside Park Campground in Caledonia. "Level sites with electric and water at each site. Well taken care of grounds. Nice bathrooms with clean showers," reports one camper. Sites accommodate rigs up to 45 feet with level, grassy pads providing ample space for both RVs and tents.
Pine forest camping: Unique woodland sites in specific areas of Muskego Park. "Sites 22 and 23, 24, 25 and 26 are very cool. The campsites are in the midst of a pine forest. It would be sweet to tent camp there and listen to the wind in those trees," shares a visitor. These distinctive sites provide a more immersive nature experience than typical open campgrounds.
Proximity to Milwaukee: Easy access to city attractions without the urban noise. "Well located to Milwaukee, nice clean facilities, but it is basically a large parking lot with a band of grass on the far right as you enter," notes a Wisconsin State Fair RV Park visitor about the electrical-only sites. These offer a more natural setting than the fully paved sections while still providing convenient city access.
What you should know
Limited privacy at some parks: County parks typically have open site layouts. "Plenty of sites but not very private. A few small trails. The water was rather gross when we were there, but the park ranger was really really friendly," mentions a reviewer about Muskego Park. Consider requesting sites near wooded edges for more seclusion.
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds operate April through October. Sunrise Campground at Richard Bong State Recreation Area closes during winter months but offers extended shoulder season options. "We stayed for a quick weekend getaway in the late spring. The campground area is nice and wooded. Provides ample privacy from other campers," notes a visitor describing the spring conditions.
Noise considerations: Some RV parks experience weekend activity fluctuations. "Quiet during week days with more folks coming in for weekend use. Assume it's very active in the summer," mentions a Lakeland Camping Resort visitor. Plan weekday stays for quieter experiences, especially during peak summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Choose campgrounds with diverse recreation for various ages. "The weekend we were here they had a free Kids fishing weekend and John the naturalist was amazing!! There is a ton to do at this park the nature center has activities all weekend long," shares a visitor about Sunrise Campground at Richard Bong Recreation Area, which offers both scheduled programs and self-directed activities.
Playground access: Select sites near play areas for easier supervision. Naga-Waukee Park provides "covered picnic areas, winding trails, a boat-ramp, and much more to do in the area - from hiking to boating to golfing," according to a reviewer, making it suitable for active families wanting multiple recreation options within walking distance.
Group camping areas: Request designated group sites when traveling with multiple families. "We did a group camp and had a great site. There were 3 families and had plenty of room," reports a Muskego Park visitor. Most county parks around Franklin offer dedicated group camping areas separate from individual sites.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Request specific site types when booking at River Bend RV Resort near Watertown. "There are several areas of great coverage, the dead spots just need some work. Starlink works in many areas, though the heavily wooded sites will need an elevated 'dishy' to make it work," notes a camper regarding connectivity options, which can be critical for working travelers.
Hookup variations: Different Franklin area RV campgrounds provide varying utility connections. "The dump station lanes need some attention, more than gravel would be great. And being honest, there needs to be a few longer term sites with sewer hookups or a reasonable pump out service option," shares a River Bend RV Resort visitor. Confirm specific hookup availability when booking as electric-only sites are common at county parks while private RV resorts typically offer full connections.
Extended stay considerations: Some rv campgrounds near Franklin, Wisconsin accommodate longer visits. "Riverbend has a lot for everyone. Nice swim pond, great pool, fishing…you name it, it's probably here. If you want to have fun, this is the place," explains a camper who enjoyed the resort amenities. Weekly and monthly rate options may be available at private campgrounds, particularly outside peak summer season.
