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Central Wisconsin's outdoor recreation hub of Friendship features several well-established campgrounds surrounded by forests, lakes, and geological formations. Roche A Cri State Park Campground sits minutes from downtown Friendship, providing tent and RV sites nestled among old-growth pines adjacent to the park's namesake rock formation. Nearby, Castle Rock County Park offers year-round camping with electric hookups, showers, and water access to Castle Rock Lake. The area includes a mix of state park facilities, county parks, and private campgrounds accommodating everything from primitive tent camping to full-hookup RV sites and cabin rentals.
Most campgrounds in the region remain open from late spring through early fall, though several operate year-round. A camper described Roche A Cri as "not very large so it's quiet and the sites are well spaced and wooded," noting that "proximity to the Dells and other parks make this an ideal home base to explore what Central Wisconsin has to offer." Weather patterns typically include warm summers and cold winters, with mosquitoes becoming problematic during summer months. Reservations are recommended for weekend stays, especially at popular campgrounds like Buckhorn State Park, where waterfront sites fill quickly. Cell coverage varies throughout the region but remains reliable near developed areas.
Campers consistently highlight the natural features around Friendship as standout experiences. The combination of lakes, geological formations, and hiking trails creates diverse recreation opportunities within short driving distances. One reviewer noted Buckhorn State Park as "a little piece of paradise" with a "miniature private beach" and "phenomenal view of the sunset over Castle Rock Lake." Many campgrounds provide access to water recreation, with fishing, kayaking, and swimming opportunities across multiple lakes and the Wisconsin River. Hikers can explore trails leading to unique features like the 303-step stairway to Roche A Cri's summit lookout. The area's relative proximity to Wisconsin Dells (about 20 miles south) makes it popular for travelers seeking natural settings while remaining close to additional attractions.
"If you’re looking for a campsite that transports you away from the usual Midwest fare, this is the place to be! The site we stayed at was beyond perfect."
"Gorgeous campground in the middle of no where Wisconsin! Perfect place to camp if you like to climb at Necedah! There are a few lake entrances and at one of them we saw a couple large gorgeous cranes!"
from $24 - $90 / night
Check Availability"There is a tall tower to climb to a splendid overview of Friendship-Adams, many playgrounds, a paved path, hiking trails through the woods, streams, and fascinating hieroglyphs which put Roch-a-Cri in"
"Chill and relaxing camp ground in Roche A’ Cri Wisconsin State park. Sites surrounded by old growth pines and adjacent to park’s name sake, Roche A’ Cri mound."
from $20 - $37 / night
Check Availability"I have been going to this campground for years, walking around, going to the beaches, launching the family pontoon and fishing in Lake Petenwell. Everyone is always so friendly upon arrival."
"A nice camping option with a more peaceful, spread-out lake feel."
"A great spot for camping right on Castle Rock Lake. It has that easy, laid-back lake campground feel, with plenty to do without having to leave the park."
"Far drive to any nearby stores but a lot of bars and restaurants nearby. Carlson’s is the best! Had fun at the beach and down the road you can go tubing on the river nearby."
"Good place for 4 wheeling, plenty of trails. Home made pizza and Bloody Mary's"
"Some of the walk in campsites are a far walk from the parking. So, if you simply want car camping, make sure you pick an appropriate site!"
"Enjoyed the beach and the trails. Lots of poison ivy so stay in the center of the trails and be aware."
"We stayed at KOA in Wisconsin dells, which was about a mile away from everything. We called to RSVP. Which was a breeze."
"My family and I stayed at this Wisconsin Dells KOA location for two nights (site 61) as the first stop on a 3+ week trip, and it fully met our expectations"
"A great campground with out of this world lake views. Most sites come with amazing lake views. Great for watching the sun rise up over the lake. Great swimming, fishing and playing."
"Some sites with electric can be found with lake access. Plenty of space between sites. Very quiet campground with a play area, beaches and other nice features. "
from $17 - $23 / night
Check Availability"Definitely recommend for a seasonal home away from home"
"Clean and Friendly Next to a huge restaurant and bar that have the lowest prices for above average food. Definitely recommend. Overnight sites easy to get into and large sites."
"So I’m driving back from a camping adventure and the wind picks up. After fighting it for awhile we start looking for a spot to stop for the night."
"There's a shelter area and some nice little hiking trails. Just outside of New Lisbon if you need anything."
from $15 / night
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TravelerNot a place for camping. We booked 2 nights site red 12. Streets were very narrow getting to site. The site was literally a dirt island. We had to drive over a curb. The site was so small. There were campers everywhere. We ended up leaving right away and booked a different campground
ScoutA very nice campground with a scenic water view. Clean bathrooms and well maintained. $30 per night with water and electric. No sewer hook ups but has dump station.
ScoutBeautiful ponds nice play area Catch and release
ScoutThe camp hosts are kind and friendly. The whole vibe of this llace is peace and quiet. The sites are huge with enough space and trees to be private. Deer came into our site both days. We liked it so nice, we stayed twice. Treat yourself.
ScoutRelaxation at its finest. Nice small size campground. Clean spots, play equipment, showers. Beach, fishing, grills, bathroom a short walk away.
TravelerStayed hear on a very hot 90+degree day during a road trip, easy to reach from I90/94. Midweek, we were the only overnight guests. -Occasional loud noise from the road and train tracks. -At first was wary of paying for no showers and pit toilets for the price, but pit toilets were actually clean with no odor. -Spring fed swimming pond was good for a dip once you found a cool spot, but there are spots that felt like a hot tub. Beach is very nice sand, and there’s a playground for the kids. -Definitely check out the short hike up to Mill Bluff if you can tolerate steep rocky stairs, the view is beautiful. -Tried to check out the other trail near Camel Bluff but it was too overgrown to continue. -Electrical box is in the middle of the campsite near the picnic table, so power cables will need to be at least 30 feet long to comfortably reach your rig. -National Parks Pass is accepted for vehicle admission (separate from camping fee in WI) as this is part of the Ice Age National Scientific Reserve! -Sites 20/21 are great for proximity to swimming pond and toilets
TravelerWe loved how well spaced out the sites were and traveled on a busy June weekend. Our kids loved taking their scooters on the campground road and to the lake swimming. The kids loved the playground and path, beach. We had one person that was blaring their music and there was no ranger around. Finally someone must have called the police and they shut off their music
GuideNorth Wood County Park is a hidden gem. Many of the sites have a view of water and several even have water access right from your site. There are several loops that range from paved with electric to rustic and non-electric. We stayed at site 59 which stretched down to a paved trail and then one of the lakes. We were close to the suspension bridge, which is a fun attraction. There is also a low roadway that goes over the water that is absolutely beautiful and sometimes floods. There are several dams and it makes for a great kayak or fishing spot. Most of the campground is paved, which is awesome if you have an ebike or e scooter. They sell wood at a decent price ($7), but nothing else. You also have to book your site online with a $10 fee for using the online booking. It does make arrival super easy, you just pull in and set up camp. Overall I would highly recommend spending a few nights here.
GuideVery quiet layed back place, lots to explore and see.
Camping in Friendship, Wisconsin places visitors amid the central Wisconsin sand plains region, with elevations averaging 950-1,100 feet above sea level. The area's glacial history created a landscape of natural seepage lakes, pine barrens, and unique sandstone formations. Most Friendship-area campgrounds sit within 20 miles of town, with seasonal variations in water levels affecting lake access at certain times.
Water recreation on Castle Rock Lake: Castle Rock County Park provides direct access to Wisconsin's fourth largest lake. "We had site A11, and just loved the location. The A loop is overlooking the lake and close to the beach. Big pine trees so your campsite is really flexible," notes Kim L. at Castle Rock County Park.
Geocaching adventures: Buckhorn State Park offers free GPS units for geocaching. "When we arrived and checked in we grabbed one of their pre-loaded GPS units for Geocaching; It's something the park offers for free. They give you a bag, GPS and information book on all the Geocaching sites," explains Liz M. from Buckhorn State Park Campground.
Rock climbing opportunities: The Petenwell Rock formation near Wilderness Park provides technical climbing routes. "Into rock climbing, nearby Petenwell Rock provides some of the best climbing in the state," mentions Thomas F., who stayed at Wilderness Park.
Beach access at campsites: Many campers appreciate having private beach areas directly from their sites. "We had a little slice of beach and it was very beautiful during sunset," shares Stephanie S. about her experience at Petenwell Park, where lakefront sites are especially popular.
Spacious, wooded sites: The camping areas around Friendship typically offer good site separation. "Rated this 5-stars for price, availability, cleanliness and ambiance. Most sites are fairly level and on short grass," notes Ron about Kennedy County Park, highlighting the natural setting many visitors appreciate.
Affordable options: For budget-conscious campers, Kennedy County Park offers basic amenities at low rates. "For $5 a night, this is a very nice place. Kennedy Park has a lot of nice features. It's also pretty close to some local attractions like the circus or Baraboo or many other activities," mentions Art S., describing one of the best value camping options near Friendship, Wisconsin.
Insect preparation essential: Mosquitoes and ticks can be abundant, especially in early summer. "I may be biased- because I really hate mosquitos and ticks but wow! The ticks here are so tiny they're very easy to miss so look out for those. Also the mosquitos never let up- even in the rain," warns Kalene H. about her experience at Buckhorn State Park Campground.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. "This park is absolutely beautiful. My only gripe is one that can't be helped. Adams County is rather flat and sound carries. You will hear cars on the highway at night in the distance," mentions Stephen T. about Roche A Cri State Park.
Limited services: Many campgrounds in the area have minimal shopping options nearby. "Great area, nice boat lunch, but bring what you need as the closest gas station is 15 miles away," advises Jay about Wilderness Park, suggesting campers arrive prepared.
Kid-friendly programming: Pineland Camping Park offers numerous family activities. "A lot of the activities are designed for 12 and younger. The campground is extremely clean and well kept," shares Jeremy W. from Pineland Camping Park.
Protected swimming areas: Castle Rock County Park provides designated swimming zones. "There's a big beach area roped off, and a swim platform for the big kids," describes Kim L., making it suitable for families with children of various ages.
Free fishing equipment: Buckhorn State Park loans fishing gear to visitors. "The park also offers free poles and tackle. We ventured into the campground area for fresh water," mentions Liz M., highlighting an activity that requires no additional equipment cost for families.
Site selection for larger rigs: Wisconsin Dells KOA, about 25 miles south of Friendship, accommodates larger vehicles. "The lots are very small, but overall paved and level so you will have a quick set up. If you have a camper (travel trailer, motorhome, pop-up) you should have everything you need for an in-town stay at the Dells," explains Kim L. about Wisconsin Dells KOA.
Water and electric options: Castle Rock County Park offers year-round camping with hookups. "We rode our boat across the lake from the east side so the kiddos could play in the water (depending on the winds the algae gets bad on one side or the other)... very clean facilities... clean park... peaceful vibes," shares Laura B. about Wilderness Park.
Easy access campgrounds: For those traveling with RVs, some locations offer simplified arrival. "Great Place; Central to many key places with very low rates. Clean and Friendly. Overnight sites easy to get into and large sites," notes Michele B. from The Reel Inn RV Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Friendship, Wisconsin from Wisconsin Dells attractions?
Friendship, Wisconsin is approximately 30-35 minutes (about 25 miles) from Wisconsin Dells attractions. Rocky Arbor State Park Campground offers a quiet camping experience close to Wisconsin Dells parks while being far enough away from the traffic and noise. Wisconsin Dells KOA provides convenient access to the Dells' waterparks and attractions, though it can get crowded during peak summer season. For those wanting to enjoy both Friendship and Wisconsin Dells, the short drive makes it easy to visit attractions while staying in the more peaceful Friendship area.
Where is Friendship Campground located in Wisconsin?
Friendship is located in Adams County, Wisconsin. While there isn't a specific campground called "Friendship Campground," the area offers several excellent camping options. Roche A Cri State Park Campground is situated in the Friendship-Adams area and features spacious sites surrounded by old growth pines adjacent to the park's namesake rock formation. Castle Rock County Park is another nearby camping option in the Friendship vicinity, offering water access and reservable sites.
What camping is available near Friendship, WI?
According to TheDyrt.com, Friendship, WI offers a wide range of camping options, with 179 campgrounds and RV parks near Friendship, WI and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Friendship, WI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Friendship, WI is Buckhorn State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 28 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Friendship, WI?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Friendship, WI.
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