Campgrounds near Mineral Point, Wisconsin spread across the driftless region, an area untouched by glaciation resulting in unique ridges and valleys. Elevation changes create distinct microclimates within campgrounds, with higher sites at Blue Mound State Park sitting at over 1,700 feet. Most campgrounds in the area operate with reduced services from November through April, though Brigham Park remains open year-round.
What to do
Swimming and water activities: Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground features a lake that's popular for swimming and boating. "What really makes this campground is the lake. There's a nice beach for kids and adults to relax at and lots of kayaks on the water," shares Ryan K. Rental options are available nearby for those without their own watercraft.
Stargazing opportunities: Brigham Park offers exceptional night sky viewing from its high elevation. "Cute little campground with a breathtaking view. A perfect place to star gaze or watch a storm roll in. You can see for miles and miles," notes Braelyn C. The park's location on a mound creates natural cooling as "the cool breeze rolls up over the mound at night."
Fall foliage viewing: Blue Mound State Park becomes especially popular in autumn when leaf colors peak. "An awesome place to hike especially, but good camping too. Climb up into the firetower if you get a chance too!" suggests Grace M. The elevated position provides panoramic views of the changing forest colors across the surrounding valleys.
What campers like
Private walk-in sites: Twin Valley Campground offers secluded walk-in sites that provide a more remote feeling. "While the walk-in site I stayed at with my son (263) really isn't all that far from where you park, it still leaves you surrounded by trees, and secluded from (seeing) other campers," explains Paul N. Some sites feature unique topography with "a gorgeous view as it butts up to a valley with a steep drop off."
Clean facilities: Blackhawk Lake Recreational Area maintains well-kept grounds and facilities. "Well manicured and laid out," writes Larry E., though he notes "it cost $7 per day extra for the vehicle I used to tow my camper to the campsite." The area features "a nice beach" and attracts families during peak season.
Geological features: Governor Dodge State Park Backpack Campsites allow hikers to access more remote areas. "Great hike to spot, small spot on rough ground not to level for tents but still feaseable. Great hiking. We did the lost canyon trail which is just stunning with bluffs, small water fall," describes Nick C. These backpack sites typically require a 1/2 to 1-mile hike from parking areas.
What you should know
Limited site levelness: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain. At Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground, Jeanne M. advises: "If camping with a trailer or RV check to make sure you will get a campsite that is level enough for your vehicle. Lots of the campsites are uneven and larger vehicles may have issues getting level."
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons are notably bold in several area campgrounds. "Beware of raccoons at this campground they are BOLD!" warns Jen L. about Governor Dodge State Park. Sarah R. experienced problems with raccoons at Twin Valley: "The raccoons here are insanely bold, we had one frequently visit our site and get VERY close to us and in the evening ended up ripping thru the roof of our tent."
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds reduce services during colder months. At Brigham Park, which remains open year-round, campers should note that "Token Creek will allow tents, all others (Babcock, Mendota and W. G. Lunney Lake Farm County Parks) will be RV only with self-contained restroom facilities and no tents allowed!" according to Josh F.
Tips for camping with families
Pool and splash pad access: Blue Mound State Park Campground offers unique swimming facilities not found at most state parks. "The pool is very nice and very clean. There is a pool section and a splash section. There are chairs and lounges around both and shade awnings. The cost is $3 for and adult and $2 for child," explains Debra M.
Beach options for children: Yellowstone Lake State Park provides an accessible beach area that works well for families. Jeremy S. notes: "nice beach for the kids. Overall was a good weekend." The beach area tends to get crowded during summer weekends, so weekday visits may offer more space.
Group campsite advantages: Hickory Ridge Group Camp at Governor Dodge State Park accommodates larger family gatherings. "Spacious sites, lots of availability to swim and hike. Will definitely come back," mentions Matthew O. These sites require advance reservation and provide a contained area for multiple families to camp together.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Cox Hollow Campground, Paul C. advises: "Two good lakes for kayaking/canoeing/fishing/swimming. Lots of good hiking trails and they are working on a big improvement to the equestrian campground. Lots of activities in the area and close to shopping in the town of Dodgeville." He cautions that the campground isn't ideal for "big 5th wheelers and motorhomes."
Hookup availability: Toms Campground offers full hookup options that are uncommon at state parks in the region. "Great, friendly, affordable, convenient," reports Alex A., who "needed a place after visiting the House on the Rock and couldn't find anything with hookups nearby." The privately-operated campground accepts only cash or check payment.
RV access challenges: Many campsites near Mineral Point require careful navigation for larger vehicles. Kim L. recommends at Blue Mound State Park: "For RVs, be sure to select a bigger site than you think you need. Sometimes it's tricky to maneuver your camper so big rigs may want to stay elsewhere. Our 30 ft. travel trailer fit fine, with some skilled driving."
