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Best Campgrounds near Lake Geneva, WI

730 Reviews

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin provides established campgrounds ranging from family-friendly state parks to fairground camping areas. Big Foot Beach State Park, located within Lake Geneva city limits, serves as the primary public camping area with approximately 100 sites including 30 with electric hookups. Other nearby options include Richard Bong State Recreation Area with Sunrise and Sunset Campgrounds, as well as Elkhorn Campgrounds at the Walworth County Fairgrounds. Most facilities accommodate tents and RVs, while several also offer cabin rentals and glamping options. The camping landscape stretches from in-town convenience to more natural settings in the surrounding state parks.

Seasonal considerations affect camping availability throughout the region, with most state park campgrounds operating from April through October. Reservations are essential during summer months when Lake Geneva experiences peak tourism. "We live near Chicagoland so staying at Big Foot Beach State Park is an easy option for a short weekend get away," noted one visitor, highlighting the area's popularity with regional travelers. Facilities vary considerably, with newer bathroom and shower buildings at Big Foot Beach State Park receiving positive reviews. Weather patterns can change quickly in this part of Wisconsin, particularly in spring and fall, making October camping unpredictable according to visitor reports.

Campground experiences near Lake Geneva balance convenient access to town amenities with natural settings. Many campers appreciate the proximity to Lake Geneva's attractions, with sites at Big Foot Beach State Park located just a 40-minute walk or 11-minute bike ride from downtown. While some visitors value this accessibility, others note limitations in the natural experience. A reviewer observed that "this campground is convenient if you're visiting Lake Geneva but not the most scenic of parks." Site privacy varies significantly, with reviews indicating that some locations offer spacious, shaded sites while others lack separation from neighboring campers. For those seeking more seclusion, campers recommend sites further from bathrooms and choosing locations in the outer camping loops where available.

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Best Camping Sites Near Lake Geneva, Wisconsin (82)

    1. Big Foot Beach State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Lake Geneva, WI
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (262) 248-2528

    "Clean sites, Lake Geneva swimming , friendly staff not far from Lake Geneva and stores for food and supplies the fall is beautiful and less crowded"

    "Conveniently located next to Lake Geneva with a tiny roadside beach area. I recommend camping sites on the west side of the camping loop to cut down on sun. Not enough electric sites for campers."

    2. Sunset Campground — Richard Bong State Recreation Area

    23 Reviews
    Burlington, WI
    16 miles
    Website

    "I would recommend this for anyone for starting to step out of the comfort zone for the outdoors. very simple, many paths to walk, jog, or ride a bike. a small lake is near the further parking lot. dogs"

    "Had some cool amenities like the off road park and multiple fishing spots. Has a winery and cool dive bars all within 10 min. Only downside is all the noise from the road and the drag strip near by."

    3. Sunrise Campground — Richard Bong State Recreation Area

    21 Reviews
    Burlington, WI
    16 miles
    Website

    "Rocket launch (bring your own,) atv (no rentals-bring your own), water fowl hunting (during season), fishing, wildlife watching, swimming at the beach, playground for kids, and my favorite- nice trails"

    "the property is HUGE and most things are about a 10 to 15 min walk from the campsites. lots of hiking, boating, swimming fishing and more! a great place for anyone!"

    4. Honeysuckle Hollow — Chain O' Lakes State Park

    14 Reviews
    Spring Grove, IL
    15 miles
    +1 (847) 587-5512

    "*** reviewing as a baby/toddler camp family on the go :-) we chose the loop 11 was on because it was close to the path to the playgrounds and lakes plus bathrooms… avoid the first 2 sites from either end"

    "Campsite is nice, we're pretty close to our neighbors but not as bad as other places I've been. Walking distance to a fishing dock!"

    5. Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park

    13 Reviews
    Spring Grove, IL
    15 miles
    +1 (847) 587-5512

    "In the Turner loop, the pit toilets are next to the path to the fishing pier, while the showers and full restrooms are between Turner and Fox den, there is a short path between sites 60& 61."

    "You can hear whatever highway is nearby pretty clearly and constantly.

    But if you’re not looking for something super remote then it’s fine!"

    6. Fox Den Campground — Chain O' Lakes State Park

    12 Reviews
    Spring Grove, IL
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (847) 587-5512

    "It feels like you are in the middle of nowhere, but it is close to everything. "

    "However there is plenty of space around to find a spot on your own.

    The campsites are a nice size and have electric hookups. Water was at central locations and a dump is on the way out."

    7. Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    39 Reviews
    North Prairie, WI
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 594-6200

    "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."

    "Made my first visit to Ottawa Lake on a mid-March weekend. The facilities were still under their winter setup (only vault toilet, no shower available, pay in an envelope)."

    8. Elkhorn Campgrounds

    4 Reviews
    Elkhorn, WI
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 723-3228

    "Easy access to electric and/or water. If unsure, contact office. Site, restrooms, and showers were clean. There are a lot of sites but still felt like there was ample space."

    "Not many frills but quiet and within walking distance to downtown Elkhorn."

    9. Rock Cut State Park - Staghorn Campground

    81 Reviews
    Machesney Park, IL
    32 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."

    10. Prairie View — Chain O' Lakes State Park

    8 Reviews
    Spring Grove, IL
    15 miles
    +1 (847) 587-5512

    "Prairie View campground is in the Chain O Lakes State Park series. This is the no services campground. We could walk to fill up with water but no electric on site. Checking in was interesting."

    "You could barely see the neighbors because of how overgrown the edges of the site were. We felt like we were in our own little bubble."

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Recent Camping Photos near Lake Geneva, WI

254 Photos of 82 Lake Geneva Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Lake Geneva, WI

730 Reviews of 82 Lake Geneva Campgrounds

  • Operation_Fun ..
    Sep. 19, 2025

    Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park

    Could be better

    This seemed like it could be a really great campground, but it's not taken care of very well and felt a bit unsafe. 

    It's a huge park, yet the sites aren't very private. The mosquitoes and ticks are the worst I've experienced thus far, and the abandoned buildings by the beach feel like crack dens.

    We brought chairs and relaxed by the beach for a while, which was very peaceful and really made the trip.

    It's worth checking out if you're interested. I now understand why there are always sites available here when it seems every other campground is fully booked.

  • 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.

Guide to Lake Geneva

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

What to do:

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground mentioned, "Bathrooms were clean and the showers were warm."
  • Secluded Sites: Many enjoy the privacy offered by the campsites. A visitor at Pinewoods Campground said, "There was plenty of greenery between sites giving privacy."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Blackwell Family Campground are great for families. One reviewer stated, "The ranger offers evening entertainment for the kiddos."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially on weekends. A camper at Big Foot Beach State Park Campground noted, "Lots of noise. Lots of kids."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive amenities. A visitor at Sunset Campground mentioned, "The campsite itself was nice and peaceful, but there aren't many electrical hookups."
  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A reviewer at Ottawa Lake Campground advised, "This place fills up, so I would definitely recommend calling ahead."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. One camper at Blackwell Family Campground said, "The ranger did stop by around 5 or 6ish with some activities for the kids to do."
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring games and outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. A visitor at Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park mentioned, "Great environment for undisturbed relaxation."
  • Plan for Meals: Consider easy meal options or nearby dining. A camper at Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area enjoyed local dining, saying, "We had breakfast at Shabbona Cafe in town, and we received a great portion."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Electrical Hookups: Make sure your site has the right electrical hookups. A reviewer at Kettle Moraine State Forest - Ottawa Lake noted, "Electricity on site and water nearby."
  • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger RVs. A visitor at Pinewoods Campground mentioned, "Tight getting into the spot for Class As but spots are spaced nicely."
  • Plan for Dump Stations: Know where the nearest dump station is located. A camper at Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground appreciated the convenience of having one nearby.

Camping near Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, it's a great spot for your next outdoor adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds near Lake Geneva, WI?

Big Foot Beach State Park Campground is the premier option, located within Lake Geneva's town limits and offering convenient access to the lake. It features clean sites, hiking trails, and proximity to downtown shops and restaurants. For those willing to venture a bit further, Elkhorn Campgrounds provides well-maintained sites with good management and is a short drive from Lake Geneva. Both options offer different experiences - Big Foot Beach provides the authentic Lake Geneva experience while Elkhorn offers a quieter setting with easy access to the area's attractions.

What amenities are available at Lake Geneva campgrounds?

Pinewoods Campground in nearby Kettle Moraine State Forest offers spacious campsites, hiking trails, and basic amenities including fire pits and picnic tables. Sugar River Forest Preserve features pull-through sites, tall shade trees, and well-maintained facilities that exceed expectations for a county-run campground. Most Lake Geneva area campgrounds provide fire rings, picnic tables, and access to restrooms. More developed campgrounds offer shower facilities, while some have camp stores for basic supplies. Amenities vary by location, with state parks typically providing access to recreational trails and water activities.

Are there RV camping options at Lake Geneva?

Hickory Hills Campground offers accommodating RV sites with necessary hookups for comfortable stays near Lake Geneva. While Big Foot Beach State Park does have some RV sites, they are limited in number and not all include electric hookups. Some sites may be challenging for larger rigs. Most campgrounds in the area require reservations well in advance, especially during peak summer season. When booking, specify your RV length and hookup requirements. Some private campgrounds offer full hookups (water, electric, sewer), while state parks typically provide more basic accommodations with electric-only sites. Call ahead to confirm site dimensions and availability.

What are the costs for camping at Lake Geneva?

Camping costs around Lake Geneva vary by location and amenities. At Ottawa Lake Campground in Kettle Moraine State Forest, expect to pay $15-30 per night for standard sites, with additional fees for electric hookups. Camp Reinberg offers competitive rates for its well-maintained facilities with access to numerous trails. State parks like Big Foot Beach typically charge entrance fees ($8-15 for Wisconsin residents, slightly higher for non-residents) in addition to camping fees. Private campgrounds generally range from $30-60 per night depending on amenities and seasonality. Many campgrounds offer discounts for weekday stays or longer-term reservations, especially during off-peak seasons.

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