Tent camping near Merrimac, Wisconsin offers varied terrain from oak savanna to wooded bluffs with elevations between 800-1,200 feet. The area experiences moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months with higher humidity levels in wooded areas. Most tent camping locations require advance reservations through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources reservation system, with booking windows opening 11 months in advance.
What to do
Paddling water trails: Access the Wisconsin River directly from Avoca Lake Tent Camping Resort where you can launch canoes and kayaks for day trips. The river current moves at a moderate pace, making it suitable for beginners and intermediate paddlers.
Rock climbing: Numerous climbing opportunities exist at Devils Lake State Park Group Campground for all skill levels. A recent visitor noted, "Went with an outdoor adventure class, views were beautiful, climbing was great! Campgrounds were clean and had easy access to water."
Biking trail connections: The Wild Goose City Park connects directly to regional bike paths. One reviewer mentioned, "Wild Goose bike trail leads to this park in Juneau. It's a good place to stop and have a break. There's a playground and public bathroom, drinking fountain."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Walk-in tent sites at New Glarus State Park Campground offer good separation. One camper shared, "The walk-in sites are spaced out well and heavily wooded. Perfect for a quick escape from city life."
Dutch oven cooking: The fire rings at Devils Lake State Park Group Campground accommodate outdoor cooking. A scout leader reported, "Camp life was awesome, we ate very well since we brought two Dutch ovens. We are Cowboy Casserole, Mountain Man breakfast, peach cobbler, 7 can soup, hobo dinner and apple sausage casserole."
Fall camping comfort: Tent camping in autumn provides more comfortable conditions. For sites at Sandhill Station State Campground, a visitor advised, "I wouldn't go in the middle of summer, due to the limited shade, but it was very nice in early fall."
What you should know
Limited shade coverage: Several tent sites lack adequate shade protection during summer months. At Sandhill Station State Campground, one camper noted, "I wouldn't go in the middle of summer, due to the limited shade, but it was very nice in early fall."
Backpack site terrain: The backpacking tent sites at Governor Dodge State Park Backpack Campsites have variable ground conditions. A camper shared, "Great hike to spot, small spot on rough ground not to level for tents but still feasible."
Highway noise concerns: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise. At New Glarus State Park Campground, a reviewer warned, "These sites are right next to the highway and are subject to continuous, round the clock highway noise. The highway seems to be a regular truck route, with lots of semis driving by at all hours."
Insect activity: Mosquitoes can be problematic, especially in early summer. One camper at Sandhill Station State Campground reported, "The sites are really near some stagnant water, though, so WAY too many mosquitoes, even with the really intense bug spray."
Tips for camping with families
Budget-friendly group options: Family camping at Devils Lake State Park Group Campground offers economical options. A visitor explained, "Reserved the group camp for three families, cost was $40 a night for a secluded, spacious, clean group site."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Wild Goose City Park, a camper mentioned, "There's a playground and public bathroom, drinking fountain. Plenty of space to spread out for a picnic."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids can spot local birds and wildlife at several campgrounds. At Devils Lake State Park Group Campground, a camper observed, "The birds near the group camp are cool, but can also sound like a large pack of dinosaurs squawking at each other...very loud."
Tips from RVers
Distance from RV sites to facilities: At most campgrounds, RV sites have varying proximity to bathrooms and water sources. At New Glarus State Park Campground, a camper noted, "It is a smaller state park camping wise. There is hiking and mountain bike trails available. With direct access to the Sugar River Trail and the town of New Glarus."
Limited hookup options: Many campgrounds offer only partial hookups. RVers should check specific site amenities when booking. At Hickory Ridge Group Camp, one visitor noted, "Nice family campground. Has a lot of amenities including shower."
Parking challenges: Some tent-focused campgrounds have limited RV parking. A visitor to New Glarus observed, "The walk-in sites have a good amount of space between each site, however the sites on the east side of the bike trail get less level the further you get from the parking lot."
