Tent campsites near Friendship, Wisconsin typically receive less rainfall in summer months, with July averaging 3.4 inches of precipitation. Central Wisconsin camping terrain consists primarily of sandy soil with scattered pine forests. Sites throughout the region vary in their remoteness and accessibility depending on season and recent rainfall conditions.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Several campgrounds connect directly to hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. At Devils Lake State Park Group Campground, visitors access numerous trails with elevation changes suitable for different skill levels. "Spent about 5 hours hiking the East Bluff, it was challenging for some of our younger hikers," notes one camper. "Everyone was impressed by Devils Doorway."
Water recreation: During summer months, campers can rent various watercraft at several locations. "There is a beach and camp store/concession stand a short drive or longer walk away. At this area you can rent paddle boards, canoes, kayaks and paddle boats," reports a visitor to Devils Lake. Water access points often become congested during holiday weekends.
Biking the rail trails: The Sparta Campground provides direct access to the Elroy-Sparta Trail, allowing for extended cycling trips. One reviewer notes it is "right on the Elroy-Sparta trail and only a 10 minute bike ride into the town of Sparta." The trail surface consists primarily of crushed limestone with gradual elevation changes.
What campers like
Spacious group sites: Devils Lake offers group camping areas with sufficient space for multiple families. "Reserved the group camp for three families, cost was $40 a night for a secluded, spacious, clean group site," shares one visitor. These sites accommodate larger gatherings with space for communal cooking areas.
Trail connectivity: Campers appreciate sites with direct trail access. One reviewer of Sparta Campground mentioned after "biking 47 miles was a welcome respite on our first day of biking the Elroy-Sparta State Trail." The trail connects multiple towns, providing opportunities for supply stops.
Wildlife observation: Camp Wilderness and surrounding areas feature diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. The area near Devils Lake includes notable bird populations, though one camper warns "The birds near the group camp are cool, but can also sound like a large pack of dinosaurs squawking at each other...very loud." Animal activity increases during dawn and dusk hours.
What you should know
Highway noise levels: Several campgrounds experience significant road noise due to proximity to major highways. At Sparta Campground, one camper reported "The most disappointing factor for me was the highway noise. I had to wear noise-cancelling headphones to drown out the noise in order to sleep." Sites further from Interstate 90 generally provide quieter conditions.
Mosquito pressure: Depending on season and recent rainfall, insect populations can significantly impact camping comfort. One camper at Sparta Campground reported "Going when we did we were met with swarms of mosquitoes." Sites with consistent breezes typically experience reduced insect activity.
Non-resident fees: Wisconsin state parks and some county facilities charge differential rates. One visitor noted, "Sites are basic with water, pit toilets, tables and fire rings. I originally planned to stay here but came across the non-resident charges (my state does not do this)." Fees typically range from $15-30 per night depending on residency status.
Tips for camping with families
Youth-oriented facilities: Merlin Lambert Park and similar venues provide facilities designed for younger campers. Camp Wilderness specifically caters to families with children, as one visitor notes it's "a great place to be. The camp is primarily used for a program similar to Boy Scouts called Royal Rangers."
Beach access considerations: When camping with children, proximity to swimming areas becomes important. Devils Lake offers swimming access, though one camper cautions "The beaches have hard pebbles and rocks." Water shoes are recommended for comfort and safety.
Group accommodations: Family groups often prefer sites allowing multiple tents. Sparta Campground sites are "large, so if traveling with a group would have room for 3-4 tents in one site." This allows extended families to camp together while maintaining proximity.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most tent campsites near Friendship, Wisconsin provide minimal RV accommodations. Devils Lake offers some sites with electric hookups but limited water and sewer connections. Campers should prepare for primarily boondocking conditions with occasional access to water fill stations.
Walk-in site logistics: For smaller rigs considering walk-in areas, distance becomes a significant factor. One Sparta Campground visitor specifies sites are "about a 600 yard hike in from the parking lot, down a trail that can get quite muddy, especially during rain." Plan equipment transportation accordingly when trail conditions deteriorate.
