Cabin camping near Friendship, Wisconsin offers secluded options within driving distance of Wisconsin Dells attractions. The area sits within the Central Sand Plains ecological region with sandy soil and numerous lakes and wetlands. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing while summer highs average in the mid-80s with moderate humidity.
What to do
Water recreation opportunities: Buckhorn State Park Campground features access to Castle Rock Lake with sandy beaches perfect for swimming. "We had a little slice of beach and it was very beautiful during sunset. A family of raccoons passed our tent during the night and sounded like they were playing in the water which was cute," notes one visitor who particularly enjoyed the waterfront experience.
Geocaching adventures: Buckhorn State Park Campground 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 a camper who took their nieces on their first camping trip.
ATV trails exploration: Located just outside Wisconsin Dells, Pineland Camping Park provides excellent access to regional ATV trails. "Good place for 4 wheeling, plenty of trails," reports one reviewer who appreciated the outdoor recreation options beyond the campsite.
What campers like
Waterfront cabin sites: Mirror Lake State Park's Bluewater Bay Campground offers cabin sites near the water. "The pine trees were gorgeous! The park was quiet at night, and there was great hiking and paddle boarding in the park itself. It was an incredible Basecamp for our devil's lake trip!" explains one visitor who found the location ideal for exploring regional attractions.
Rustic seclusion: The Rock Camping Resort provides river-adjacent cabin options with natural ambiance. "Beautiful sites on the Wisconsin River. This was my 2nd time staying here. The hosts are awesome and the sites/bathrooms are clean! We did the kayak trip with their sister campground," notes a return visitor.
Playground amenities: Arrowhead RV Campground offers family-friendly cabin environments with multiple recreational facilities. "Great campground for families with kids and teens. Tons of activities all around the campground. There were outdoor movies, put-put, corn hole, two pools, huge trampoline, volleyball nets, disc golf, and a Christmas in July festival all happening when we were there," reports one reviewer.
What you should know
Insect preparation required: Summer brings substantial mosquito and tick populations to the Friendship area. "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 a visitor to Buckhorn State Park Campground.
Electricity access challenges: Some campgrounds have unusual electrical outlet placement. "Good size sites but bring extension cords for electrical hook ups.... Odd outlet placement," advises a camper at Arrowhead RV Campground who found the utilities less convenient than expected.
Flooding potential: Seasonal weather can affect site conditions. "Make sure before you get there your campsite isn't underwater," cautions a visitor at Pineland Camping Park who experienced weather-related issues during their stay.
Tips for camping with families
Fall color viewing: Ho-Chunk RV Resort & Campground offers cabin options ideal for seasonal viewing. "We stayed here for 1 week and enjoyed the fall colors. The showers were clean and nice. Laundry was less expensive than most laundromats we've used this year," shares a visitor who found the facilities suitable for longer stays.
Toad spotting hikes: Mirror Lake State Park provides nature-rich trails for children. "We came across lots of fun nature (toads, snakes, bunnies!). The trails are well maintained and a nice woodland area," reports a visitor who enjoyed the wildlife encounters.
Inflatable water attractions: Holiday Shores Campground features additional water entertainment beyond swimming. "Big Campground with lots of tent sites, watersports store with boat rentals, great pool, campground activities on weekends, awesome donuts and ice cream," explains a reviewer highlighting the range of amenities particularly enjoyed by children.
Tips from RVers
Water quality considerations: RV campers should prepare for mineral-rich water at some campgrounds. "Make sure to use a water filter outside your camper. The water left an orange residue in our dog bowls, sinks and pipes," warns a visitor to Holiday Shores Campground who discovered this issue after departure.
Site selection for privacy: Wisconsin Dells KOA offers cabin and RV sites with varying levels of seclusion. "Small clean park. Super tight sites. Nice little pool and splash pad. Camp store and polite staff. They actually vacuum out the fire pits after each camper. Nearly no privacy, but you're probably not here for the nature," notes a visitor who found the maintenance excellent despite the close quarters.
