Tent camping near Highland, Wisconsin offers multiple secluded options in densely wooded areas with elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet above sea level. The driftless region terrain features numerous creek and river valleys cutting through limestone bluffs, creating sheltered camping areas in otherwise exposed ridgelines. Winter temperatures can drop below 0°F while summer camping typically experiences 75-85°F daytime highs.
What to do
Hiking with water views: The backpacking trails at Yellow River State Forest connect to several small ponds and streams. "Yellow River has great backpacking sites. Park near ranger station and hike in or grab a map and find a smaller parking location near the trail you want to explore. Great scenery," notes J.T.
Fishing opportunities: Smaller lakes and ponds near Highland provide accessible fishing. At Blackhawk Memorial Park, campers report mixed water conditions. "The lake water is like green paint and the river is now brackish, but moving," shares Larry E., suggesting river fishing may be more productive than lake fishing.
Brewery visits: The camping area near Highland connects to several breweries via trails or short drives. At New Glarus State Park Campground, campers note: "This park is a favorite stop of ours when we want to go visit new glarus brewery for a few beers. It's about a mile and half away."
What campers like
Private backpacking sites: Tent campers seeking true seclusion praise the isolated sites at Yellow River State Forest. "Been coming to yellow river for years but have always wanted to go backpacking... beautiful hike and nice area to set up camp, also had service!" reports Shyla G., noting the unexpected cell coverage that many backcountry sites lack.
Short-notice availability: Unlike more crowded state parks, some campgrounds near Highland often have last-minute openings. According to Sarah W., "This is our go-to campground when we decide we want to go camping with short notice. The park itself is neither very popular nor very interesting, so there are usually still sites available for reservation only a few days before your intended camping trip."
Access to trail networks: Many tent sites connect directly to hiking and biking paths. "It is a smaller state park camping wise. There is hiking and mountain bike trails available. With direct access to the Sugar River Trail and the town of New Glarus, it is a great location as an overnight stop or home base to explore," explains Phillip J.
What you should know
Site conditions vary significantly: Tent pads range from well-maintained to extremely primitive. One camper at Camp John Schultz explains their site included "fire rings and benches. Lush dense forest with intermediate hiking including typical summer insects." Surface conditions often include exposed roots and uneven ground.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects several campgrounds in the region. Katie K. warns about New Glarus: "These sites are right next to the highway and (at least during the week) are subject to continuous, round the clock highway noise. The highway seems to be a regular truck route, with lots of semis driving by at all hours."
Bathroom facilities: Expect mostly vault toilets at smaller campgrounds. At New Glarus, a camper notes: "The only thing I cant get over is the vault toilets. I would have thought they updated these by now. Creaky wood doors, BRIGHT lights, and always buggy. And of course the gross smell when it really heats up."
Tips for camping with families
Group camping options: Devils Lake State Park Group Campground accommodates multiple family units. Jon D. shares: "Reserved the group camp for three families, cost was $40 a night for a secluded, spacious, clean group site. We had a great time and will definitely return."
Kid-friendly tent sites: Some Highland area campgrounds feature terrain better suited for children. At Hickory Ridge Group Camp, campers note it's a "nice family campground. Has a lot of amenities including shower," making it more comfortable for younger campers.
Wildlife encounters: Children often enjoy (and should be prepared for) local wildlife. Jon D. mentions, "The birds near the group camp are cool, but can also sound like a large pack of dinosaurs squawking at each other...very loud," which can be either entertaining or startling for kids.
Tips for RVers
Limited hookup options: RV sites near Highland generally offer minimal services. Xaq notes about Blackhawk Memorial Park: "You won't see a lot of supervision here, but the park is well-maintained. There's not a lot of official information available (like many county parks)."
Group sites for multiple rigs: When traveling with other RVs, Devils Lake's group sites accommodate multiple units. According to Charles M., "Camp life was awesome, we ate very well since we brought two Dutch ovens," demonstrating the cooking possibilities with proper equipment.
Site navigation challenges: Many Highland area campgrounds have narrow access roads. At New Glarus, Kaitlin B. advises: "If I return I would be interested in checking out the walk in or group campsites," suggesting the standard sites might be difficult for larger rigs to access.
