Best Campgrounds near Middleton, WI
Campgrounds near Middleton, Wisconsin range from county parks to state-managed properties, with most facilities offering a mix of tent and RV sites with electric hookups. Mendota County Park, located directly in Middleton, provides 29 sites along Lake Mendota with 30-amp electric service but no water hookups at individual sites. William G. Lunney Lake Farm Campground, situated about 10 miles southeast in Madison, offers additional camping options with both 30-amp and 50-amp electrical service. Both locations maintain shower facilities, restrooms, and picnic tables, though site spacing tends to be relatively close with limited privacy between campers.
Reservations are highly recommended during summer months when campgrounds in the Madison area frequently reach capacity, especially on weekends. A visitor commented, "Great location on the lake and short drive to downtown Madison. Bring your kayak and fishing poles." Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with many closing between October and April. Token Creek County Park, for instance, operates only from May 1 to September 1, while Cedar Hills Campground runs from mid-April through mid-October. County parks typically charge between $28-38 per night including reservation fees. Road access is generally straightforward with paved entrances suitable for all vehicle types, though larger RVs may find some sites challenging due to tight spacing and limited maneuverability.
The lakefront location of several developed campgrounds represents a significant draw for visitors to the Middleton area. Lake Mendota and nearby waterways provide swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities directly accessible from camping areas. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, "This is a lovely little campground with just 30 sites, though it feels like half that because it is so quiet." Mixed-use campgrounds throughout the region connect to extensive trail networks, with the Capital City Trail linking Lake Farm Campground directly to downtown Madison via paved bike paths. Wildlife viewing opportunities include sandhill cranes and waterfowl in wetland areas near the camping zones. Most campgrounds feature fire rings and picnic tables, though some tent sites at certain parks have restrictions on ground fires, requiring visitors to check fire regulations before setting up camp.











