Wisconsin Dells area campgrounds near Merrimac sit at approximately 900 feet above sea level in a region characterized by sandstone bluffs and glacier-carved landscapes. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F with higher humidity, while spring and fall camping offer cooler conditions between 50-70°F. Most rv sites near Merrimac, Wisconsin remain open from mid-April through mid-October with varying availability during peak summer weekends.
What to do
Hiking at Devil's Lake: Devil's Lake State Park offers trails ranging from easy lakeside paths to challenging bluff climbs with 500-foot elevation changes. "We went to Devils lake for a day & hiked around the grotto it was beautiful. There is a spot Big Blue herons nest in the tall pines they make a lot of noise. They had babies in their nests," noted a camper from Fox Hill RV Park & Campground.
Water recreation: Swimming ponds and pools provide on-site alternatives to Wisconsin Dells waterparks. At Arrowhead RV Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "Great campground for families with kids and teens. Tons of activities all around the campground. There were outdoor movies, put-put, corn hole, two pools, huge trampoline, volleyball nets, disc golf, and a Christmas in July festival all happening when we were there."
Wildlife viewing: The International Crane Foundation near Baraboo showcases conservation efforts. "We went to the crane foundation that was nice, beautiful birds they are," reported a Fox Hill camper who combined this experience with hiking at Devil's Lake during their stay.
What campers like
Family-oriented activities: Campgrounds frequently offer scheduled weekend programming. At Yukon Trails Camping Resort, "Hosts provide plenty of activities like a DJ, breakfast, and lunch and donuts! Rentals for golf carts are available and a store on site. Arcade for the kids. Public showers were also free if needed."
Swimming options: Many campers appreciate having both pool and natural swimming areas. "The pool was nice, but a bit colder than the pond. It's heated with a solar cover. There are well kept large outdoor games like chess, connect 4, and checkers," noted a reviewer at Fox Hill RV Park & Campground.
Nature trails: Wooded walking paths provide exercise opportunities without leaving the campground. At Ho-Chunk RV Resort & Campground, "We also enjoyed the trails around, but had to pick a ton of ticks off our dogs!" This natural setting is particularly attractive during autumn: "We stayed here for 1 week and enjoyed the fall colors."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate from mid-April through mid-October with varying amenities early and late in the season. A visitor to Fox Hill noted, "Pool wasn't open yet this early in season. We enjoyed our peaceful stay and even booked for Memorial Day weekend as other campgrounds are closed and cancelling reservations."
Site terrain variations: Campground layouts and site conditions vary significantly across the region. At Lake of the Woods Campground, "Nice shady sites, very family oriented a lot of stuff for kids to do, planned events every weekend. If your in the back get a golf cart because the walk to the front where everything is is far."
Weekend vs. weekday experiences: Noise levels and activity availability differ throughout the week. A Ho-Chunk RV Resort camper shared, "Quiet during week days with more folks coming in for weekend use. Assume it's very active in the summer."
Special event impacts: Local events can affect campground atmosphere. "There is a dirt track with racing just adjacent to the campground, so our poor guy was pretty nervous the whole time. The race ended at 11 and we had no problem sleeping, but it is something to keep in mind," advised an Arrowhead RV Campground visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Group camping options: Some campgrounds offer dedicated areas for multiple families. At Nature's Touch Campground, visitors appreciate "Several retro games plus billiards in the game room. Quarter operated." Another campground with excellent group facilities is Lake of the Woods, where "The group campsite it's phenomenal... tons of space for each family and a great community area for your group."
Swimming area considerations: Not all water features are equal - check depth and supervision. "We enjoyed the playground, swimming pool, and Friday Fish Fry. They delivered our dinner, ice, and wood to our site at no extra charge," noted a visitor to Yukon Trails who appreciated the convenience.
Age-appropriate activities: Different campgrounds cater to different age groups. Arrowhead RV Campground offers "Great campground for families with kids and teens. Tons of activities all around the campground." For families with small children, a different visitor warned, "One of the maintenance men started using fire to burn all the pine needles out of the rocks which was just feet from us. Great idea but not when my twin two-year-olds are running around."
Tips from RVers
Extension cords required: Electrical hookup placement varies between campgrounds. At Arrowhead RV Campground, "Friendly and helpful front desk. Make sure you bring 50 ft of electrical cord and water hose. They do offer to barrow their extension cords."
Site leveling challenges: Many rv sites near Merrimac, Wisconsin require additional leveling equipment. "Our site was very unlevel side to side. It took two 2x6 and a 1x6 under the camp side to be level. That made the first step into the coach, and last step out of the coach extremely high off the ground," reported a Fox Hill visitor.
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds have mineral-heavy water. A Ho-Chunk RV Resort camper advised, "Make sure to use a water filter outside your camper. The water left an orange residue in our dog bowls, sinks and pipes."
