Governor Dodge State Park sits approximately 13 miles northeast of Mazomanie within the unglaciated Driftless Area, characterized by steep bluffs and valleys with elevations between 800-1,200 feet. The area experiences warm summers with highs in the 80s and cool spring/fall temperatures in the 50s-60s. Winter camping options exist but are limited, with most luxury camping accommodations closing by mid-October.
What to do
Lake activities at Mirror Lake State Park: The sandstone-lined lake offers protected paddling experiences with limited motorized traffic. "The lake is great for kayaking. Lots of sandstone cliffs. We only did 2 hiking trails but they were well maintained," notes a visitor at Sandstone Ridge Campground.
Wildlife viewing at Governor Dodge State Park: The park's extensive trail system and two lakes attract diverse wildlife including deer, waterfowl, and smaller mammals. "Perfect for a family get away - showers, flush toilets, lots of hiking (but trails aren't very challenging), swimming area and boat launch, playground. Basically a little bit of everything," shares one Governor Dodge camper.
Disc golf at Fox Hill RV Park: The park maintains a dedicated disc golf course through wooded areas. "This park has some nature trails, disc golf, and a good size dog run. It's well kept and maintained. All site are pretty level with gravel pad and logically positioned utilities," says a Fox Hill visitor.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds in the region maintain well-kept bathhouses and shower facilities. At Lake Kegonsa State Park, a camper noted, "Clean facilities, friendly staff, and great trails. No bugs!" This attention to cleanliness extends beyond the bathrooms to general grounds maintenance.
Water recreation options: The region's numerous lakes and the Wisconsin River provide natural swimming and boating opportunities. A Wisconsin Riverside Resort visitor commented, "We stayed here 4th of July. The river felt amazing on a 95 degree day. If you have a kayak we suggest bringing it to get to the sandbar to hang out."
Year-round accessibility: Several parks operate throughout the winter months. "This is a very clean and nice park. Nice fishing and great river," mentions a guest at Mirror Lake State Park. Many of the state parks remain open for winter camping, though with reduced services.
What you should know
Seasonal openings: Most luxury camping and glamping facilities in the Mazomanie area operate from April through October, with limited winter options. Wisconsin Riverside Resort operates from April 1 to November 1, while Merry Mac's Campground runs from mid-April to mid-October.
Reservation requirements: During peak season (June-August), advance bookings are essential. "Peak season reservations are a definite (weeks to months in advance for weekends)," advises a Governor Dodge visitor.
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons can be particularly bold in some campgrounds. At Crystal Lake Campground, a guest shared: "Love this campground! Great facilities and a dumping station. No hookups but the area cannot be beat. This is our favorite boondock spot. The lake is perfect for paddling and the trails are amazing."
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience road noise, particularly those near interstates. "Beautiful facility but the traffic noise was atrocious," reports a Mirror Lake State Park visitor. Sites further from main roads generally offer more tranquility.
Tips for camping with families
Water features for kids: Several campgrounds feature dedicated swimming areas with child-friendly attractions. A visitor to Merry Mac's Campground reported, "My family and I love the yurts and the giant pool/pond. The park model rentals are nice now that my grandma is getting older."
Playground access: Many campgrounds maintain playgrounds and open recreation areas. "Great little campground located near Devils Lake State Park. They have a fun swim hole with inflatables for the kids to play on," notes a visitor to Baraboo Hills Campground.
Family-friendly sites: Request sites near amenities when traveling with children. "We stayed at site #4 it was nice sized and quiet. We had full hook up, a picnic table & fire pit, our friends camped next to us in #5," mentions a Fox Hill RV Park camper. Grouping multiple sites together works well for family gatherings.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring additional equipment. "We stayed in site 33. We slept with our heads lower than our feet in our camper van. Except for the handicap accessible sites, all are non-electric," notes a visitor at Governor Dodge State Park.
Water and electric hookup locations: Pay attention to utility placement when reserving. "The electrical and water hook ups were conveniently located, and the site was easy to get into. There were a lot of big Class A motorhomes, so the sites are plenty big," reports a Wisconsin Riverside Resort camper.
Big rig accessibility: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs despite advertising as RV-friendly. "Great campground for everything but big 5th wheelers and motorhomes," advises a Governor Dodge State Park visitor. Specific site dimensions aren't always listed online, so calling ahead is recommended for vehicles over 30 feet.
