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Best Campgrounds near Janesville, WI

785 Reviews

The Rock Cut State Park campground sits 30 miles south of Janesville, Wisconsin, while Milton KOA and Blackhawk Camping Resort are located within 10 miles of the city. These campgrounds offer various accommodation types including tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals. Several family-oriented campgrounds like Hickory Hills and Lakeland Camping Resort feature amenities such as swimming pools, playgrounds, and access to lakes for fishing and boating activities. Mixed-use campgrounds supporting both tent and RV camping dominate the region.

Many campgrounds in the Janesville area operate seasonally, typically from April through October, with a few remaining open year-round. Reservations are highly recommended during summer months when facilities reach capacity. "Unless you knew of Hickory Hills Campground, you wouldn't happen across this site by luck or accident," noted one visitor about finding less-visible camping locations in the area. Road conditions are generally good, with most developed campgrounds accessible via paved roads. Weather conditions vary significantly between seasons, with humid summers and cold winters affecting camping comfort. Most campgrounds provide electric hookups, drinking water, and toilet facilities, though amenities vary widely between locations.

Campers frequently mention lake access as a primary attraction at several campgrounds. At Blackhawk Camping Resort, Clear Lake provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and boating, though swimming may be restricted in certain areas. Several visitors observed that campgrounds with lake views tend to fill first during peak season. While some campgrounds offer secluded, wooded sites providing privacy, others feature more open layouts with minimal separation between camping spots. A reviewer commented that "the campground was filled with plenty of people in the first camping loop" when describing site density at one location. Proximity to hiking trails, such as those at nearby state parks, adds recreational value to the camping experience in the region. Road noise can be an issue at campgrounds located near highways, with reviewers often noting this in their feedback about specific developed campgrounds.

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Best Camping Sites Near Janesville, Wisconsin (104)

    1. Rock Cut State Park - Staghorn Campground

    81 Reviews
    Machesney Park, IL
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 885-3311

    $12 - $50 / night

    "The hiking/biking trails are many miles long.  The fishing near t he dam is great and you can always find a spot near the edge of the lake.  Bring bug spray."

    "Rock cut is only about a 50 minute drive from the far burbs of Chicago. It’s situated a few miles outside of Rockford so if you’re into exploring old industrial river towns, this is a nice one."

    2. Milton-Madison SE KOA

    19 Reviews
    Edgerton, WI
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 868-4141

    "No enclosed dog park but plenty of area to walk your dog!"

    "Driving around, I really don't think there's a bad spot here.

    The staff is fantastic, friendly, and accommodating- as are the seasonal campers.

    We'll be back again...and again... and again!"

    3. Hickory Hills Campground

    12 Reviews
    Edgerton, WI
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 884-6327

    $42 / night

    "Our site was nicely wooded and a decent size, but everyone was pretty close to each other.

    When we were there, the women's shower was freezing and the men's was almost uncomfortably hot."

    "Hidden from site, the entire grounds are completely surrounded by a very thick wall of tall trees that barricades this place from most of civilization."

    4. Lakeland Camping Resort

    7 Reviews
    Milton, WI
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Set along Lake Koshkonong this place was bursting with energy and feels more like a summer resort than a traditional campground with over 270 full-hookup sites and cozy cabins for families who don’t have"

    "We came to this area to do some genealogical work and needed to be situated between Madison and Beloit. Good location for that."

    5. Blackhawk Camping Resort

    5 Reviews
    Milton, WI
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    6. Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground

    23 Reviews
    Stoughton, WI
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 873-9695

    "Just a quick 2 hour drive from our home in Chicago, with large wooded sites for privacy. Clean bathrooms."

    "We didn’t have much time to explore the campground but we did have a nice walk around the outer loop of sites. This is near the main highway and a nice place to camp."

    7. Crazy Horse Campground

    15 Reviews
    Evansville, WI
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 897-2207

    "Being right in front of the jumping pillow people didn’t walk around. They would cut thru our site."

    "We made this trip mid-May during the Covid social distancing. The camp ground was on point with their preparedness. Check in was simply pull into your site or a brief stop at registration."

    8. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Fort Atkinson

    7 Reviews
    Fort Atkinson, WI
    14 miles

    9. Sugar River Forest Preserve

    10 Reviews
    Durand, IL
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 877-6100

    "There are very tall trees around the entire campground giving you some respite from the sun and the heat.  The bath house is easily within walking distance from anywhere in the campground. "

    "Last time we camped in site 65, next to the path to the playground & walk-in site parking which was busy."

    10. Pettits Lakeview Campground & Bar

    3 Reviews
    Edgerton, WI
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 868-7800

    "While this isn’t the most amazing RV parking lot you’ll come across, it does have some of the absolute most amazing waterfront real estate with 850 feet of sweeping views of nearby Rock River (to the west"

    "I didn't stay here but I did walk through the place to get to know it. This is an RV campground, I did not see any places for tent camping. "

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Recent Camping Photos near Janesville, WI

288 Photos of 104 Janesville Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Janesville, WI

785 Reviews of 104 Janesville Campgrounds

  • Mark D.
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    We had such an enjoyable time at Ottawa Lake Campground.

    Escape the everyday and immerse yourself in nature at Ottawa Lake Campground. Nestled in the heart of the Kettle Moraine State Forest, this welcoming retreat offers lakeside fun, scenic hiking trails, the quiet beauty of a true Northwoods experience, all without a long drive.

    We have visited the Campground 5 times this year already, we love hiking all the trails in the Kettle Moraine Southern Unit.

    https://youtu.be/xl4uAtNWclM

  • Maria Mercedes M.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Pettits Lakeview Campground & Bar

    Family Friendly Lakeside Campground

    Pettit’s Lakeview Campground & Bar is the kind of place where family camping meets lakeside fun with a lively twist, sitting right on Lake Koshkonong with beautiful sunset views and easy boat access. My kids loved the playground while the adults enjoyed Friday fish fries, live music and the laid-back bar that doubles as a social hub, creating a strong community vibe with theme weekends and plenty of laughter. That said, it’s definitely more “festival” than “quiet forest” with sites being closing together, weekends can get noisy with karaoke and bar traffic, and shade is limited, so if you’re looking for peace and birdwatching, this isn’t it, but for families who don’t mind a little bustle, it’s a fun and memorable spot.

  • Maria Mercedes M.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Pilgrims Campground

    Simple Campground

    With a small family to mind, while out enjoying a short weekend of camping, I appreciated Pilgrim’s Campground in Wisconsin for its quiet, family-oriented atmosphere that made our stay both relaxing and memorable. The sites were clean, level and easy to settle into, with plenty of shade and enough space for the kids to play safely nearby. While the campground doesn’t have the flashy resort-style amenities of some bigger parks, it makes up for it with well-kept facilities, a friendly, welcoming staff, and a slower pace that let us truly enjoy time together outdoors. My kids loved riding their bikes around the loops, roasting marshmallows at night and spotting wildlife along the nature trails, while I valued the sense of safety and the community feel among fellow campers. Conveniently located near local attractions yet peaceful enough to feel tucked away, Pilgrim’s offered the perfect balance of simplicity, comfort, and wholesome family camping.

  • Maria Mercedes M.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Milton-Madison SE KOA

    KOA Close to Lake Koshkonong

    With 2 kids to mind, I found the Milton-Madison SE KOA to be one of the most family-friendly campgrounds we’ve visited, with something for everyone to enjoy. With over 200 sites, the campground is clearly geared toward RVs and fifth wheels, but it also offers a few cabins and tent sites, giving families different ways to stay. The kids were thrilled with the heated pool that even has a waterfall, the playgrounds, gaga ball, arcade, and weekend rides like the barrel train and hayrack.  In short, there was always something to keep them entertained while I could actually relax. I appreciated the practical touches like clean restrooms and showers, laundry facilities, a well-stocked market and a clubhouse with plenty of space to gather. My husband loved that Lake Koshkonong was right nearby for fishing and paddling, and we all enjoyed exploring Milton’s small-town restaurants with Mary’s Café for biscuits and gravy that was a huge hit and Frederick’s Supper Club, both of which made for a special night out. The Riggio family, who run the campground, were some of the kindest hosts we’ve met, which made the whole experience feel extra welcoming. While I do think the tent sites and cabins are a bit pricey for what you get, the number of activities, amenities, and nearby conveniences made it worth it for the memories we created together. For families looking for a lively, activity-packed camping trip, this KOA is a great choice.

  • Maria Mercedes M.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Lakeland Camping Resort

    Lakefront Fun

    As a mom, I found Lakeland RV Campground in Milton to be the kind of place where the whole family can truly unwind and have fun together. Set along Lake Koshkonong this place was bursting with energy and feels more like a summer resort than a traditional campground with over 270 full-hookup sites and cozy cabins for families who don’t have an RV. The kids had endless options to keep them busy from 2 swimming pools, a sandy beach, playgrounds, mini golf, sports courts, and even planned activities and themed weekends and I loved the convenience of the camp store, laundry, fitness center and clean facilities. In the evenings, we enjoyed gathering around the campfire under the stars, and during the day we ventured onto the lake for kayaking and fishing, which felt like a little adventure just steps from our site. It was also nice knowing that if we wanted a change of pace, Milton and Janesville offered small-town charm and great dining and Madison wasn’t far for a day trip. My mom tips? Book a site away from the pools if you want peace and quiet, treat yourself to dinner at Fredrick’s Supper Club, sneak out early for a serene paddle on the lake, and don’t worry if you forgot gear as nearby shops have you covered. Lakeland made it easy for me to relax while my kids had a blast, and that combination is what makes it such a special family getaway.

  • Maria Mercedes M.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Fort Atkinson

    Nostalgic Campground

    As a mom, I can honestly say that Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Fort Atkinson is one of those rare campgrounds where the kids are entertained from morning till night and parents can actually relax a little too. The whole place feels designed with families in mind: colorful playgrounds, themed weekends, wagon rides, character visits from Yogi and Boo Boo, and a pool with splash zones that keep little ones happy for hours. Our campsite was clean and level, with options for full hookups or cozy cabins if you’d rather skip the RV, and the bathhouses were spotless, which is something I always look for. What I appreciated most was the balance: the kids could run from the jumping pillow to the mini golf course to the craft barn without ever getting bored, while my husband and I enjoyed sitting by the campfire or joining in on family activities like outdoor 'movies under the stars.' The campground store was well-stocked with snacks, s’mores supplies, and those 'oops, we forgot it' supplies, which saved us more than once. And while there’s plenty to do onsite, being near Lake Koshkonong and Fort Atkinson means you can easily slip away for a day of fishing, boating, or exploring. For me, the best part was watching my kids’ faces light up during the evening hayride, sticky with marshmallow, waving at Yogi like he was a celebrity that felt like the kind of wholesome, memory-making trip I hope they’ll look back on for years.

  • Maria Mercedes M.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Milton-Madison SE KOA

    Solid KOA Experience

    The Milton-Madison KOA is one of the larger campgrounds in the KOA network, offering over 200 sites with a mix of full hookups and water/electric-only hookups, along with a selection of pull-through and back-in options, gravel or concrete pads, and some upgraded patio sites. While primarily catering to RVs and fifth wheels, the campground also has about a dozen tent sites and half a dozen cabins. Amenities are extensive, ranging from an in-ground heated pool with a waterfall and two-story patio deck, hot tub, clubhouse, market store, snack shack, arcade, meeting and TV rooms, multiple restroom and shower facilities, laundromat and Wi-Fi, to a wide variety of recreation such as basketball, volleyball, shuffleboard, horseshoes, baseball, disc golf, playgrounds, gaga ball, hayrack rides, barrel rides, train rides, and nature trails. Guests will also find a Kamp K9 dog area, golf cart and bike rentals, propane refill station, firewood, and plenty of seating throughout the grounds. Just minutes away, Lake Koshkonong offers excellent kayaking, canoeing and fishing. For dining, nearby Milton serves up hearty Midwestern fare, from Mary’s Café’s biscuits and gravy to Paul Revere’s homemade pies and the upscale Frederick’s Supper Club, known for its prime rib bites and Diablo pasta. Insider tips include enjoying the warm hospitality of the Riggio family hosts, taking a short drive to Madison for big-city attractions, noting that tent sites - though equipped with water and electric - feel basic and pricey, and being aware that cabin rentals also run higher than average. Thankfully, Milton’s local shops, grocery stores, and hardware options make resupplying convenient, rounding out a destination that’s both activity-packed and well-situated for Wisconsin adventures.  Overall, my family and I really enjoyed this place and would definitely come back!

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    Close to "home" beautiful sites

    We've been full time RVers for 4 years and this is a beautiful campground close to "home". We stay here a couple of times each year for doctor and dentist appointments, visiting family and friends, and general relaxation.

  • K
    Aug. 28, 2025

    Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort

    Not communicable, fraud administration

    I reserved 5 nights, paid in full. After just one night, management cancelled my stay because my service dogs(Maltese) supposedly barked. I was fully cooperative, kept them quiet, and even documented this in emails. There was a stray cat near my RV that caused the issue, but instead of solving it, they forced me to leave. No refund for 4 nights. This is unfair, discriminatory, and against ADA law.

Guide to Janesville

Camping near Janesville, Wisconsin, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially during weekends. A visitor at Cox Hollow Campground noted, "The vibe here wasn’t for us. Various sites had music playing loud enough for us to hear."
  • Limited Water Access: Not all campgrounds have drinking water readily available. A camper at Rock Cut State Park Campground mentioned, "The only negative is no drinkable water."
  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A visitor at Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground advised, "The way to get a site is through their website or calling."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Ottawa Lake Campground, which has parks and beaches. One reviewer said, "Family friendly (parks, beach, pet friendly)."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor activities to keep kids entertained. A camper at Big Foot Beach State Park Campground mentioned, "Nice playground for kids."
  • Stay Close to Amenities: Select sites near bathrooms and showers for convenience. A visitor at White Pines Forest State Park Campground noted, "Perfect for camping with small children because the bathrooms are always close by."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Electrical Hookups: Make sure your site has the right electrical hookups. A camper at Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground said, "We booked an RV site but decided to camp."
  • Be Prepared for Slopes: Some sites may be sloped, making it tricky for RVs. A review for Blue Mound State Park Campground warned, "Many sites drop off steeply."
  • Plan for Waste Disposal: Know where the dump stations are located. A visitor at Cox Hollow Campground mentioned, "Water, garbage and recycling are available as well as a dump station."

Camping around Janesville, Wisconsin, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy the great outdoors and make lasting memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Janesville, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Janesville, WI is Rock Cut State Park - Staghorn Campground with a 4-star rating from 81 reviews.

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