Campsites near Franksville, Wisconsin vary widely in size, amenities, and natural surroundings, with options from basic rustic sites to full-service campgrounds. The area sits within the Great Lakes region with a humid continental climate featuring warm summers and cold winters. Most campgrounds in the area are within a 25-mile radius of Franksville, giving campers convenient access to both Lake Michigan shorelines and inland forest experiences.
What to do
Hiking and wildlife viewing: Richard Bong State Recreation Area offers multiple trails where campers regularly spot local wildlife. "We saw a ton of rabbits in the recreation area and the campgrounds. I have seldom seen as many rabbits as we saw. There were relatively few campers during the week and just about every other campsite had at least a bunny or two," notes a visitor to Sunset Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple ponds and small lakes provide fishing options throughout the region. At Muskego Park, "The park was bounded by a lake with a nice beach. The small man made pond is stocked with fish and offers a very family friendly swimming area," according to a reviewer at Muskego Park.
Water recreation: Swimming beaches and paddling opportunities exist at several campgrounds. At Ottawa Lake Campground, one camper mentioned, "Nice little lake to swim or paddle on. 20 minute drive to the awesome Kettle Moraine biking trails."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded natural settings available at certain campgrounds. At Sunrise Campground, campers note, "Overall flat and private. Sites are super tight and wooded, so expect to be breakfast, lunch, and dinner for an army full mosquitos."
Clean facilities: Consistently mentioned across reviews is the quality of bathroom and shower facilities. At Cliffside Park Campground, a camper observed, "Bathrooms were super clean and showers are free. Very impressed and satisfied."
Convenient locations: Proximity to attractions and major cities is a significant benefit. Illinois Beach State Park receives praise for its accessibility: "We love camping here. It truly feels rural. Small shower house but water pressure is amazing. It's always quiet and the view is beautiful."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds have specific reservation systems and fees. At Cliffside Park, "The campground is a mix of those you can reserve or as walk-up sites. Sites 1-41 are available for first come if not previously reserved. The fee is $30/night plus $12 if you choose to reserve a site."
Seasonal variations: Weather conditions significantly affect the camping experience. "It's a wetland, mosquitoes are happening, but the trade off is just about worth it. If you enjoy bird watching or rabbit spotting, this is a great place to go," mentions one visitor about Richard Bong State Recreation Area.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience road noise due to their proximity to major roadways. A visitor to Sunrise Campground noted, "Close to some small towns and the interstate as well, but not close enough to hear traffic."
Varying site quality: Even within the same campground, site quality can differ considerably. "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," according to a Muskego Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: For families with children, campgrounds with swimming options provide excellent entertainment. "The pool and Bear Paw beach are both nice, the kids had a blast at both. Would definitely go back!" shares a visitor to Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer playground equipment and recreational areas. At Richard Bong State Recreation Area, "The weekend we were there they had live music, food trucks and a beer garden. This was well away from the campsite areas so if you are just there for nature it didn't impede on that."
Educational opportunities: Nature centers and guided activities enhance the experience for younger campers. "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," a Sunrise Campground visitor reported.
Tips from RVers
Site size and hookups: Pay attention to campsite dimensions when making reservations. A visitor to Ottawa Lake Campground shared, "Flat sites, some shade in the center sections. Outer sites backed to woods for most sites. We saw a lot of bigger rigs but so much space between sites it didn't feel like we were crowded."
Dump station access: For those without full hookups, planning for dump station use is important. "Since there's no full hookup, they needed someone to control the traffic that comes from two different directions going to the dual dump stations. There's no honor system, especially on a holiday weekend."
Electrical capacity: Verify electrical hookup strength when booking. "We didn't know it, but our site was 15 amp. On the same pole were two 30 amps. So we just use that because no one was there," notes a camper at Wisconsin State Fair RV Park.
