For those who want to get away from civilization for a weekend, but still want the comforts of home, consider renting a cabin for your Hartford camping trip. The Dyrt can help you find the best cabin camping destinations for your next trip. You're sure to find the perfect cabin for your Wisconsin cabin camping excursion.
Ottawa Lake’s campground is located in the southern unit of Kettle Moraine State Forest, situated within half an hour’s drive from Milwaukee. Wisconsin campers of all ages love these grounds thanks to lakefront sites, modern facilities, and access to trails for hikers of every experience level. South Kettle Moraine is also home to over 160 miles of trails, including 87 miles open to horse use. Connect to the Ice Age Scenic Trail and various others within the John Muir and Emma Carlin trail systems.
Don’t forget to bring your rods when camping at Ottawa Lake! You’ll want to take full advantage of the boat dock and fishing pier where you can catch panfish, walleye, muskie, trout, bass, and northern pike – then you can grill them up at your campsite. Keep in mind, motorboats are not permitted on this small lake, which allows for peaceful wading and quieter camping all around.
Though Ottawa Lake is open year-round, it is recommended to check the weather in Dousman and Whitewater before planning trips in the colder months, as freezing temperatures and snow are common. Cold-weather campers who are willing to brave the Wisconsin winter will enjoy snowmobile trails, ice fishing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. No matter when you visit, Ottawa Lake will leave you satisfied.
When you’re relaxing on the warm, sandy beaches at Kohler–Andrae State Park, gazing across the watery expanse of Lake Michigan, you’re not likely contemplating the area’s nearly two-million-year history. This is when Ice Age glaciers carved out the lake basin and rising and falling water levels dramatically changed the landscape. Soon after, the first Paleo-Indians began inhabiting the area, who hunted mammoths and giant musk ox around the northeastern regions. Moving into the Christian Era, the Hopewell, Chippewa, Potowatomi, and Sauk took turns residing here. Then came European settlers in the 19th century, who had no interest in beachfront property, as it couldn’t be farmed. It wasn’t until the early 20th century that Americans started to value outdoor recreation as a form of relaxation and entertainment. Today, you can enjoy this 1000 acres of sandy beaches, rolling dunes and mixed woods, where you’re more likely to be contemplating the cool breeze what to barbecue for dinner.
For grilling up your tasty burgers, be they beef, beet, or anything in between, Kohler–Andrae State Park offers a large campground with fire rings and picnic tables in each site. There are more than 130 tent and RV sites to choose from, some with electrical hookups. There is also two group tent sites. The campground provides flush restrooms with showers, picnic areas and shelters, a playground, amphitheater, and laundry facilities; a dump station is located nearby. The campground is open year-round, but some amenities may not be available in winter months. Dogs are permitted in the campground and on some trails, but must remain leashed. Campers can access the beach through the picnic area or via a short nature trail. There is also an ADA accessible cabin available to rent. Campsite reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance; seasonal rates are $15–$40/night.
While soaking up the sun and splashing in the lake are the main draw to Kohler–Andrae State Park, there’s much to do. Visit the Sanderling Nature Center at the north end of the park where you can explore interactive exhibits about the area’s natural history, and native flora and fauna. Kids can become Wisconsin Explorers and earn a patch for completing activities. For some paddling fun, you can launch your kayak or paddleboard right from the beach, or for fishing, head over to the fishing pond on the Ancient Shores Trail. And speaking of trails, the park has 8.5 miles of nature paths and hiking trails to explore, many of which are barrier-free. A walk on the aforementioned Ancient Shores Trail reveals where the lakeshore existed more than 5,000 year ago; the Marsh Trail along the Black River is a good place for bird and wildlife watching; and the Dunes Cordwalk explores the park’s dunes, wetlands and white pine forest.
Harrington Beach State Park has more than a mile of beach along Lake Michigan. This 715-acre park also features a white cedar and hardwood swamp, old field grasslands with restored wetland ponds and a scenic limestone quarry lake. Camp, sunbathe, picnic, hike, bird watch, fish or practice astronomy at one of the observatory's monthly public viewings.
Harrington Beach State Park has a family campground, with five walk-in sites, a group campsite, an accessible cabin for people with disabilities and a kayak site.
The park has a 69-unit family campground, including 31 sites with electrical hookups. Each campsite has a campfire ring and a picnic table.
$28 / night
On our campground near Fond du Lac, WI we offer you a chance to get away from the city without driving a long distance! We have a beautiful pond, lots of activities for the kids, and options when it comes to how you want to camp! Located just a short distance from Milwaukee, Madison, and Green Bay. We invite your family and friends to our clean, quiet, safe, family-owned campground.
$42 / night
Legend
Recently camped here while visiting some family in the Racine area. Was nice and close to them and was a nice place to stay!
Lost of campsites between the two campgrounds. Sunset offered electric or non-electric sites. Shower building, flush toilets, vault toilets, dump station, playground. Firewood sold at the visitor center via a vending machine, card only.
Traveler
I ended up here because I was going to a music festival in the area, and they turned me away because I have a service animal. I wasn't going to do all that work for nothing and just go home, so I decided to look up my nearest campground and it was KOA in Milton. they made me feel welcome. they understood my dilemma. it was a wonderful weekend. lots of amenities and I just absolutely can't wait to go back next year. I'm going to try to make it a couple times. so much fun, just me and my dog. And one last the thing, my fellow campers were more than hospitable and very nice and I appreciate that very much.
Traveler
Site was spacious but very close to your neighbors. Lots to do in the area. Bathrooms and showers were clean. The beach was not clean and very hard to walk on, very rocky. Electricity on site and water near by. Great trails close by.
Traveler
We stayed there in July alot of activities for everyone pool was so nice bathrooms very clean everyone so nice Amish came sat morning selling there goodies we will return definitely
Traveler
Great location. It was very quiet, with lots of greenery. The amenities were very clean and well taken care of. The level of seclusion and privacy varied depending on the camp sites.
GuideCampsites are kept up and quite clean. Some have a beautiful view of lake. Some water fountains did not work, however sinks were always working. So many little trails all throughout the campsite. Family friendly (parks, beach, pet friendly)
TravelerIt’s a family friendly and decent campground. Sites are not too secluded, but they’re clean and well taken care of, the facilities weren’t clean, they have volunteer hosts on site for any needs, the lake is beautiful during the sunset, sandy area and playground for kids, car noise is noticeable but not too loud (in the inner camp sites). Few trails around for hiking. They charge an extra $11 for each car’s entry at the gate but you can use the car pass for visiting all the state park’s trails around the area (you need permit for parking at the trailheads). It’s good for family with kids or beginner campers, but not if you’re looking for a relaxing or adventurous time.
Legend
Unless you knew of Hickory Hills Campground, you wouldn’t happen across this site by luck or accident. While technically within the small itty bitty town of Edgerton, Hickory Hills is located far enough north and east for one to scratch their head in a bit of abject confusion. Located due east of the major highway of 39/90, as you are barreling north or south in the south-central area of Wisconsin, you would have to exit off State Highway 73, where you see signs for the small hamlet of Albion, from which you’ll head north a smidge, until you catch State Highway 106 east until you run into an intersection with Hillside Road, where you’ll head north for about a few miles until you come across Hickory Hills Campground on your right.
Directions aside, this campground will immediately feel to you as though it is certainly dated as you’ll discover that the buildings and overall infrastructure are a bit dilapidated and definitely in needed of repair. That said, the thickly wooded forest that encircles this campground creates a sense of peace and serenity that are unmatched. Plus, you are so far away from the major highway you likely just got off of, in addition to being so far away from any signs of civilization, you’ll feel completely burrowed away from all the noise, traffic and distractions you were eagerly trying to leave in the first place.
As for the campground itself, this is an update from my previous post, where I wanted to share an update as well as some additional photos. For the most part, despite 2+ years passing since writing my initial review, not much has changed here apart from brand new management, where you’ll still enjoy a smattering of overnight accommodations, whether that’s a cottage, bunk hose, smartly outfitted cabins, substantial number of back-in and pull-through RV slots (complete with the standard electric, water and sewage hook-ups) as well as primitive tent camping spots. Other amenities include: campground store, 172 acre spring-fed lake with its own beachhead, oversized inflatables, mini-golf, shuffleboard, fully-stocked snack bar, swimming pool, rowboat & canoe rentals, athletic field, basketball courts, sand volleyball court, dedicated fishing spots, shower & restroom facilities, horseshoe pits, Gaga pit, playgrounds, space ball, water wars and a massive jumping pillow.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you’re looking to get your fishing on, what’s great about Hickory Hills Campground is that they provide you direct access to Rice Lake, where you’ll catch no shortage of blue gills, small and large mouthed bass, bullheads and crappie; (2) Once you grow tired of conjuring up that next meal from your roto-molded Cordova cooler or onboard RV mini-fridge, I’ll be honest, you might be challenged as you are clear out in the middle of nowhere, but that said, if you don’t mind a short drive, head east where you’ll find Outpost, which sits right on Lake Koshkonong and offers up a stunning log cabin wooden bar offering a sublime selection of local, domestic and import beers on tap, a well-stocked liquor bar and a typical Wisconsin food-shilling restaurant offering up bites like duck bacon wontons, ultimate grilled cheese, where you’ll want to splurge and get it with bacon and tomato, as well as some decently smoked brisket; (3) If you’d like a nice slice of old school Americana while you are in these parts, head on over to Little Amerricka Amusement Park that will keep your kiddos entertained and off the smart phones for at least 2-3 hours as they will enjoy this retro-1950s amusement theme park; and (4) Should you elect to learn a bit of local history, head on over to either Milton House Museum or Stoughton Historical Museum, both of which will make you more educated on the place you happen to be in than most of the folks here.
Happy Camping!
Legend
With almost 500 sites with which to choose from, Blackhawk RV Campground is not only one of the larger RV communities you will come across here in the great Badger State, but since my initial review back in 2021, this camping outpost has made a number of enhancements and modifications. Starting with the name change from Blackhawk RV Campground to simply Blackhawk Camping Resort along with a management change are two big changes, and from what I have gathered, for the better.
Additional remodeling projects that have been completed are the brand new, in-ground heated pool, along with small kiddy pool and adjoining pool house complete with restroom and showers. A new basketball court has been refurbished with new netted hoops as well as new kid’s playgrounds that have been installed on sand lots, which the kiddos are sure to love. Top-of-the-line pioneer cottages have been constructed that feel more like modular homes, but come with all of the amenities you would expect like a complete kitchen with full-sized refrigerator, microwave and stovetop range as well as living room.
The biggest attraction here though hasn’t changed, which is the quick and EZ access to Clear Lake, which is actually a combination of 3 different lakes: Mud Lake, Clear Lake and Duck Lake, which basically surrounds the entirety of Blackhawk Camping Resort and offers up endless fishing, kayaking and boating opportunities. That said, there’s still plenty of ‘no swimming’ signs out for some reason that nobody was able to explain to me, so if a refreshing splash in the water is important to you, I would suggest calling ahead of time and asking management about this impediment.
As far as amenities go, beyond what I have already described above, you’ll also find standard back-in and pull-through site options that offer up waterfront views along with the typical hook-ups being 30 / 50 electric, fire pit and water. You will absolutely want to note that not every site offers up sewage, which is a bummer, and further, some sites offer more premium amenities like concrete patios and picnic tables. Sites also come in either grass or gravel, so be sure to ask when booking. Additional amenities include: horseshoe pits, boat slips, laundr-O-mat, activity center, boat ramp, designated dumpsters, on-site store, fishing dock, dance pavilion and volleyball court.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) Once you grow weary of digging through your roto-molded Cordova cooler or on-board mini-fridge, then head on into the nearby hamlet of Milton for some good Midwestern comfort food, where you can find made-from-scratch biscuits & gravy over at Mary’s Café, fresh, hot homemade pies at Paul Revere’s Pizza or for something a bit more upscale, the proper, white tablecloth Frederick’s Supper Club of which I recommend the bacon-wrapped Prime Rib bites followed by the Diablo pasta;(2) If you are looking for a nice, different distraction that you wouldn’t expect in these parts, let alone Wisconsin writ large, head on over to Timber Hill Winery, which is a family-run local vineyard featuring a fairly amazing tasting room offering up some not-so-typical varietals like Red, White & Berry, Cherry Bomb and my favorite, PB&J Back to School; (3) Should you need to stock up on anything while staying at Blackhawk Camping Resort, you’ll also find just about everything you need in nearby Milton where you’ll have Beverage Mart, Dollar General, The Meat Market, Piggly Wiggly as well as Ace Hardware to help keep you supplied up while enjoying the outdoors; and (4) If you’re one of those families that like to track down the oversized and obscure while traversing across this great country, then head just a bit down south of where you are at to Janesville where you can meet Bessie the Cow, which stands 16 feet tall and 20 feet wide – you can easily park at the nearby Arby’s at no cost and just walk over to meet her.
Happy Camping!
LegendAnother beautiful Wisconsin State Park. We’ve stayed in several of these now, and have found them to be consistently well maintained, clean, free showers (this one has a handle where you can actually adjust the temperature), with dumpsters, recycling, and a dump station and water fill.
We paid $40/night for an electric (30amp) site because we needed to run the a/c, but otherwise that’s far too expensive and we’d much rather pay $25 for a non-power site. There’s also the $13/day or $38 annual state park fee (residents pay a few dollars less), which we’re seeing more and more of at state parks now.
Rangers and hosts are super friendly and helpful as well. There are nice trails around the campground, and some of them even allow dogs. Only a portion of the beach allows dogs, so watch for that. Sites vary in levelness and amount of privacy from your neighbor.
There’s also laundry here, such a nice perk for full timers like us! Laundry day at the laundromat is such an unpleasant chore.
ATT had good service and Verizon had weak service.
Legend
Conveniently located next to absolutely nothing just due northwest of Fort Atkinson, you’ll love Pilgrim’s Campground for its successful delivery of (capital letters) P&Q! What I love most about this location is how they keep all the RV campers penned in up against the slight diagonal embankment, which actually provides some pretty phenomenal views of the surrounding areas (if not your next door neighbors) as well as excellent drainage and subsequently separated from the primitive TV campsites. These latter sites are placed just due southwest of the grounds and are pitched perfectly in a tree-lined meadow, encircled by freshly cut corn fields, where you’ll find no shortage of amazing animals coming to graze throughout the day (and night) from deer, raccoons, opossums and endless tag teams of squirrels.
Because there isn’t so much around, be prepared to bring everything with you (save ice and wood, which is sold on-site). While the bathroom / shower facilities are just passable, what you are giving up in terms of creature comforts is more than made up for in the sheer proximity to all of nature. During the warm summer months, there’s a small in-ground pool on-site, which sits right in front of the main office. All of the standard camping surround-sound elements are here from fire rings and picnic tables to water, electrical (50 / 30 / 20 / 15 amp) and sewer hook-ups. In all, there’s about 100 sites here at Pilgrims Campground, with the lion’s share of this pet-friendly property dedicated to overnight and seasonal RV / 5th Wheelers offering both back-in and pull-through sites.
Insider’s Tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you don’t mind some rough hiking, there’s fantastic ‘spazierengehen’ to be had just wandering around the countryside in the bountiful corn and bean fields or head over to nearby Dorothy Carnes County Park for some decent trails to explore; (2) In the event that you don’t like being awaken too early from all of the nearby roosters, then bring some ear plugs; (3) When you grow tired of having to forage through either your on-board RV mini-fridge or bear-proof Cordova roto-molded cooler, then look no further than ‘What’s the Point’ (no, seriously, that's the name of the restaurant!) for traditional Midwestern comfort food like corned beef & cabbage, fried fish, BBQ ribs and prime rib; (4) Should you come bearing watercraft and looking for a decent spot to dip your kayak or canoe at, then check out Rose Lake State Natural Area, which BTW is quite small, but very convenient, or try out much larger Red Cedar Lake or Lake Ripley; and (5) Cell coverage and WiFi is pretty horrific in these parts, so bring a booster or plan to leave civilization behind you.
Happy Camping!
Legend
Remember Yogi Bear? Yeah, my kids don't either. Well, for those of us that do, that’s just about how old (and outdated) this place is – and it’s obvious from the wear and tear of this campground, that it is in desperate need of a major refurbishment. From the weathered signs and fading mini golf course to the 70’s era bathroom amenities, you’ll find peeling paint, cracked sidewalks amidst this jungle-like maze chock full of RV’s (many of which look like they’ve enjoyed the cartoon fun so much that they’re digging in for the much anticipated sequels to show up someday soon!).
Apart from the dilapidated conditions of the place, if you’re a parent, have young kids and want some quick, easy and cheap fun for the family, then this isn’t such a bad spot to check out. True to the Yogi Bear campground theme, you’ll find a bunch of kid-friendly activities and distractions, including two really good sized heated in-ground pools, water slides, splash pools, foam parties, aforementioned mini-golf, jumping pillow, fishing, dunk tank, ceramics & craft-making, wagon rides, skate park and all of the various cartoon character meet & greets along with 3 different playgrounds. Of course, each week has a theme and there are particular over-the-top celebrations planned for the more notable holiday weekends (4th of July, Labor Day, Memorial Day, etc.). Sites come equipped with all of the typical 30 / 50 electrical amp, water and sewage lines, fire rings and you’ll find plenty of campfire pits and picnic tables.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) There’s a super cool, very well-maintained covered bridge that you can access on a long hike just do east of the Yogi Bear campgrounds – so after eating all the camp-side hot dogs and beans for the evening, head for a healthy 3 mile hike to this spot. You’ll be richly rewarded for encountering some real life entertainment in case the cartoons get too much for you; (2) When you get tired of foraging for your next meal out of the depths of your on-board mini-fridge or Cordova roto-molded cooler, then head on over to Stagecoach Inn where they offer up some not so fresh, but still very delectable crab leg and lobster and some great grilled steaks; (3) Should you come towing a canoe or kayak behind you and looking to make a splash, then look no further than Lake Koshkonong, which is simply fantastic and large, where you’ll have no shortage of great deltas and peninsulas to explore; and (4) If you are looking to get on the links and looking for a good place to smash some golf balls, then head on over to Koshkonong Mounds Country Club, which is near this cartoon-infested campground.
Happy Camping!
Scout
1st time at a nudist camp. People were friendly staff was very good and informative. Was a cool day out though
Guide
Loved our site right next to the water!
Traveler
This campground is HUGE! well maintained & beautiful. Bathrooms are extremely clean
LegendThis place was the best on our trip so far. We were here for a couple nights. The pool was great (from 3-4 it’s adult swim, so the kids had to get out). The sites were very clean and it’s only about 40 minutes from Milwaukee. They have a ton of things to do for the family like a baseball backstop, sand volleyball, horse shoes, a playground etc.
ScoutExcelent
Scout
Some of the people I met here say "it's going downhill" but they said that because the breakfast donuts used to be free and so was the ice cream socials. However if I remember correctly the donuts were $1.50 and the ice cream was $3.50. so far from expensive. There are bicycles for rent but they are broken however I've never seen bicycles for rent at a campground before anyways.
As for the campground. It's fine it has nice level pull through sites with clean water and full hook ups. My campsite was missing a bench but I asked for one and was promptly given one. This is what I would consider a value campground so it's in a different category than like a Jellystone or a high end campground. There's a small beach with some floats that have seen better days but are still working just fine. There's a dunk tank free of charge, a bouncr pillow and trampoline. The staff is top notch with great customer service.
It's a small campground but if you have younger children they will love it plus it's connected to the little amerrika amusement park which makes it so much more worth it.
All in all I would come back if I wanted a value friendly quite campground with things for the kids to do and friendly staff.
For a note there was a burn ban from the city issued to the campground while I was there. It was a bummer but definitely not the campgrounds fault and it didn't effect my review.
GuideNice, clean, well maintained campground with something for everyone. Swimming pond is huge with toys for everyone. You can bring your own pool toys. Sites are decently spacious and decently level with some gravel and some grass. Bathhouse is nice & clean. Office/store has some logo goodies as well as any necessities you may need. They had a beer tasting going on, live music at the pavilion- both on a Saturday during our stay. A couple trails around for walks with dogs & a dog park. Lively campground during the day but nice & quiet at night with quiet hours being 11pm-8am.
Scout
The owner will pinch every cent out of you that he can
Legend
Hiking trails are easy but limited, the views are exquisite with clear blue turquoise water. The attraction is Quarry Lake, no swimming in the quarry but swimming at the beach. Great for families, older folks, excellent hike and camp combo. Recommended.
LegendPlaying nude volleyball was on my bucket list. We came here for a volleyball game and ended up staying the night. No photos, excellent time.
Legend
A local favorite to hike during the weekend, relax and get back in touch with nature. All seasons have their own beauty and especially here. If you enjoy ooing and ahhing over fall color leaves, mushrooms, native plants and the wonders of nature, hiking here won’t disappoint.
RangerThe campsite itself was nice and peaceful. There is a lot of nature and the recreation area itself is massive. Definitely a nice getaway. The only issue was that generators aren't allowed, so we were kind of suffering in the oppressive heat with no reprieve of the AC in our camper. There aren't many electrical hookups so it's hard to get one of those spots. Apparently no state park in Wisconsin allows generators at any time unless you have a medical need. Kind of a bummer.
TravelerBreathtaking
ScoutThis campground had a lot of seasonal campers. Fairly large sites, problem is getting into them. Our site was downhill so that presented quite the challenge to level out. Aside from the steady flow a golf carts, everything was decent. I feel sorry for the people who use the public showers and restrooms. I felt like I was in a spider exhibit with them being everywhere.
ScoutVery clean and fun oriented campground. The sites are very small, you almost feel too close to your neighbors. I have a 33 ft travel trailer and it takes up quite a bit of the camp site. Fire pits are dug into the ground so it’s a process to get the fire started. There’s a store, arcade, miniature golf, a pool….a lot to do.
Cabin camping near Hartford, Wisconsin offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the comforts of home. With a variety of campgrounds featuring cabins, you can find the perfect spot for your next getaway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular cabin campsite near Hartford, WI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular cabin campground near Hartford, WI is Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit with a 4.3-star rating from 35 reviews.
What is the best site to find cabin camping near Hartford, WI?
TheDyrt.com has all 32 cabin camping locations near Hartford, WI, with real photos and reviews from campers.
