Lake Koshkonong and the surrounding area near Marshall, Wisconsin offers camping options at elevations between 780-850 feet above sea level in the glacially-formed Kettle Moraine region. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, while spring and fall camping can see overnight lows in the 40s. The area's mix of prairie, woodland, and lakefront terrain creates diverse camping conditions within a 30-mile radius of Marshall.
What to do
Water activities at Lake Koshkonong: Just minutes from Lakeland Camping Resort, visitors can enjoy boating and fishing on the 10,460-acre lake. "We came to this area to do some genealogical work and needed to be situated between Madison and Beloit. Good location for that," notes one camper who appreciated the lake access.
Hiking the Ice Age Trail sections: The Scuppernong section of the trail near Ottawa Lake Campground provides scenic woodland hiking. A recent visitor shared: "The campground was close to our intended hiking trail — the Scuppernong section of the Ice Age Trail. It's absolutely gorgeous and will be why we come back again."
Visit freshwater springs: Natural springs near Ottawa Lake offer a unique geological feature worth exploring. One camper recounted their experience: "Beautiful campground (Ottawa Lake campsites) Great Lake, hiking to see the natural springs which is the coolest!! Drank fresh spring water!"
Seasonal events at campgrounds: Themed weekend activities offer entertainment without leaving camp. At Indian Trails Camping Grounds, "Nearly every weekend is themed and will often include activities for kids and adults," according to a regular visitor.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Campers consistently mention the generous spacing between campsites. One reviewer of Pilgrim's Campground noted, "The sites were clean, level and easy to settle into, with plenty of shade and enough space for the kids to play safely nearby."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower houses are frequently praised. At Lake Kegonsa State Park, a camper observed: "My site was right next to camp hosts, and very near showers which were clean and lots of hot water. Site was clean and nice."
Swimming options: The variety of swimming areas from lakes to pools receives positive feedback. A visitor to Duck Creek Campground shared: "The kids loved the swim area. Caught some fish on the creek. We will definitely be back."
Year-round accessibility: Some campgrounds in the region remain open during winter. One winter camper at Ottawa Lake reported: "No showers in winter but awesome," making the area a viable option for yurt camping near Marshall, Wisconsin during colder months.
What you should know
Road noise can be an issue: Some campgrounds are situated near highways. A Lake Kegonsa visitor warned: "The campground is somewhat close to the interstate and rural highway roads so there is some traffic noise but relatively quiet by night time."
Seasonal mosquito concerns: Bug activity can be intense during summer months. "Bring bug spray," advises a straight-talking review of Ottawa Lake Campground, where the wooded setting can harbor more insects.
Train noise at certain campgrounds: Some locations experience railroad disruptions. One candid Lake Kegonsa reviewer reported: "What was NOT quiet on Thursday night was the freight train that came through around midnight and then again at 2 am...The second train acted like someone was laying on the tracks and was a little excessive for 3 am!"
Electrical issues at older campgrounds: At Pilgrim's Campground, one camper encountered challenges: "We started to get surges. Our EMS protected the rig but ultimately we couldn't use the power. Even with only running the fridge it continued to trip."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity matters: Select sites with visual access to play areas. At Duck Creek Campground, a parent shared: "We are actually having a blast at this Campground campsites are located right next to the playground so we can watch the kids from the campsite."
Yurt and cabin options for first-timers: Alternative accommodations provide an entry point for new campers. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, "My husband and I plus our 3 kids stayed in a rustic cabin. The cabin was exactly how it was described and thankfully so! Since it had air-conditioning we all slept great."
Look for campgrounds with structured activities: Scheduled events keep children engaged. A parent at Milton-Madison SE KOA reported: "Great place to bring our three boys. There are 2 playgrounds, a nice pool, games and activities for the kids over weekends, and the rv sites are well spaced."
Swimming options vary by age: Facilities cater to different swimming abilities and preferences. At Smokey Hollow Campground, "Man-made pond with inflatable structures, a jumpy blob for the kids to jump on & lots of other activities! We go every year!"
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging navigation. One RVer noted about Lake Kegonsa: "Major CAUTION for RVs: there is an oak tree near entry with low branches and it took the AC off our friend's fifth wheel. There is also a low hanging overpass and it took the roofs off TWO fifth wheels while we were staying there."
Hookup variations: Electrical service differs between campgrounds. At Milton KOA, an RVer observed: "I'm not 100% sure, but it looks like all the sites are full hook up. We had a back in site which was easy to navigate into and was mostly level."
Seasonal RV options: Many campgrounds offer long-term stays. A visitor to Indian Trails mentioned: "There's the newly renovated outdoor pool area, the swimming lake with an inflatable playground, a pond to fish, kayak/canoe/paddle boat on," making it attractive for extended stays in a travel trailer or for yurt camping near Marshall, Wisconsin.
