Camping options near Highland, Wisconsin concentrate in the Driftless Area, a region characterized by steep forested ridges, deep valleys, and limestone outcroppings untouched by glaciation. The terrain varies significantly with elevations ranging from 900 to 1,300 feet above sea level, creating distinct microclimates throughout the area. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during the day, with overnight lows dropping to 55-65°F.
What to do
Waterfall hiking at Governor Dodge State Park: Access Stephens Falls via a short, family-friendly trail about a quarter-mile long. At Twin Valley Campground, you can experience diverse landscapes. "Lost Canyon was BEAUTIFUL and had so many interesting geographical features. The trails behind the hike-in campsites also lead to some cliffs with some really amazing views," notes Mary M., who appreciates the geological attractions.
Cave exploration nearby: Visit Cave of the Mounds, a National Natural Landmark about 30 minutes from Highland. "We stayed here to visit friends in rural Wisconsin. This is a wonderful location for just relaxing or doing things in Dubuque," notes Chris S. who stayed at Rustic Barn Campground while exploring regional attractions.
Dark sky stargazing: The area has minimal light pollution, making it excellent for astronomy. "Chose this campground for the low light pollution in order to watch a meteor shower," reports Larry E. about Blackhawk Lake Recreational Area, citing specific astronomical benefits.
What campers like
Scenic rural landscapes: The rolling farmland provides pastoral views throughout the region. "What a picturesque campground! With rolling hills of Wisconsin farmland surrounding you, you can't beat the view," writes Tina N. about Rustic Barn Campground, highlighting the agricultural setting.
Cleanliness of facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities rate highly across multiple rv parks in Highland, Wisconsin and surrounding areas. "The bathhouse was clean at night but not in the morning. No tokens needs for the shower," mentions Beverly M. about Nature's Touch Campground, providing specific timing insights about facility maintenance.
Recreation amenities: Many campgrounds offer on-site activities beyond camping. "The kids loved the blow ops in the pond. The pool was nice, but a bit colder than the pond. It's heated with a solar cover. There are well kept large outdoor games like chess, connect 4, and checkers," shares Joan about Fox Hill RV Park, detailing specific recreation options.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Many smaller campgrounds close during winter months, typically reopening in April or May. "Great sites, clean restrooms and showers, super owners. We will definitely be back. Only drawback was a little highway noise when the wind was out of the south," Thomas R. explains about Rustic Barn Campground, which operates from April 13 to October 31.
Campsite positioning: Site selection matters for leveling and shade. "Sites are spaced nicely so you don't feel like you're right on top of another RV. Good sized sites too," notes Jaime P. about Fox Hill RV Park, addressing site spacing specifically.
Elevation changes: Some campgrounds feature significant elevation differences between camping areas and water features. "The campground was higher up on the hill, it took a 5 minutes to hike down to the lake with lots of steep steps. Nice beach area," reports a visitor at Blackhawk Lake Recreational Area, describing the exact walking time to the lake.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Campgrounds with dedicated family programming offer structured entertainment. "This is a family campground really great for kids! There's a lot of activities for families and children to enjoy. It's also less than 20 minutes away from devils lake state park which we spent our Saturday exploring," shares Azizah T. about Baraboo RV Resort.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature both pools and natural swimming areas. "We stayed in the pond. Lots of amenities to keep away boredom; however, there was an extra charge for their use," notes Kelly M. about Baraboo RV Resort, mentioning cost considerations for activities.
Wildlife management: Take precautions with food storage to prevent wildlife encounters. "PSA keep your food and garbage locked up and away from your site. The raccoons here and insanely bold, we had one frequently visit our site and get VERY close to us and in the evening ended up ripping thru the roof of our tent," warns Sarah R. at Twin Valley Campground, describing specific wildlife behaviors.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many Highland, Wisconsin RV parks require leveling equipment. "Our site was very unlevel side to side. It took two 2x6 and a 1x6 under the camp side to be level. That made the first step into the coach, and last step out of the coach extremely high off the ground," explains Jeff G. about Fox Hill RV Park, providing exact dimensions of materials needed.
Utility arrangements: Pay attention to hookup layouts when selecting sites. "Full hookup sites are nice. Laundry room is good. Showers and bathrooms clean. Nice little store and excellent staff," comments Brenda A. about Fox Hill RV Park's utility options.
Year-round options: For camping outside peak seasons, target specific campgrounds. "Very quiet, all drive-thrus, reasonable rates, very close to the dells, clean bathhouse," notes Lon L. about Country Roads Motorhome & RV Park, highlighting the drive-through accessibility.
