Tent campsites near Mineral Point, Wisconsin range from primitive backpacking sites to group camping facilities within 40 miles of town. The area sits within Wisconsin's Driftless Region, characterized by steep forested ridges and limestone outcroppings untouched by glaciers. Camping conditions vary seasonally, with summer highs reaching 80°F and occasional thunderstorms that can create muddy conditions on dirt tent pads.
What to do
Hiking trails: At Governor Dodge State Park Backpack Campsites, campers can access extensive trail networks directly from their sites. One visitor noted, "Great hike threw out the state park. 2 main lakes with great fishing is a plus. Lots to do for the whole family." The Lost Canyon Trail offers limestone formations and seasonal waterfalls.
Swimming options: Most swimming beaches near tent sites close by early October. The south shore beach at Devils Lake State Park Group Campground provides the best swimming experience according to visitors. "The south shore beach was best and we took the East Bluff trail to do some rock climbing with the kids," reports one camper.
Overnight trips: Many campers use tent sites as a base for longer regional adventures. From Blackhawk Memorial Park, visitors can paddle portions of the Pecatonica River when water levels permit. The park offers direct water access but one visitor cautions, "The lake water is like green paint and the river is now brackish, but moving."
What campers like
Natural isolation: Backpack sites at Governor Dodge provide woodland tranquility with minimal cell service. Sites require a half-mile to one-mile trek, making them less crowded. A camper who stayed at site 802 described, "Great hike to spot, small spot on rough ground not to level for tents but still feaseable."
Economic pricing: Blackhawk Memorial Park offers some of the most affordable camping in the region. According to a visitor, "I believe that current campsite costs are $5/weekday night and $10/weekend night." Sites include fire pits but minimal other amenities.
Proximity to attractions: Tent campers appreciate the easy access to regional features. New Glarus State Park Campground offers both walk-in and drive-up sites near the Sugar River Trail. "It's proximity to the brewery and the restaurants, shops, and bars of New Glarus, can't be beat. Also on the Sugar River Trail so bring your bike!" notes a camper.
What you should know
Highway noise: Many sites experience road noise despite their wooded settings. At New Glarus, one camper reported, "These sites are right next to the highway and (at least during the week) 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."
Water access varies: Not all tent camping areas provide reliable drinking water. At Hickory Ridge Group Camp, campers have access to drinking water and shower facilities not found at more primitive locations. The camp is noted for being "spacious" with "lots of availability to swim."
Site conditions: Many tent sites feature uneven ground that requires careful tent placement. The backpack sites at Governor Dodge State Park are described as having "rough ground not to level for tents but still feaseable," indicating campers should bring appropriate gear for uneven terrain.
Tips for camping with families
Group facilities: Several campgrounds offer designated group sites ideal for family gatherings. At Devils Lake, one family reported, "Reserved the group camp for three families, cost was $40 a night for a secluded, spacious, clean group site." These sites typically include room for multiple tents and larger cooking areas.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for nighttime wildlife visitors. A Devils Lake camper mentioned, "Got a visit from some local raccoons at night," while another noted the noisy birds: "The birds near the group camp are cool, but can also sound like a large pack of dinosaurs squawking at each other...very loud."
Food planning: Families camping at primitive sites should plan meals carefully. At Avoca Lake Tent Camping Resort, the limited facilities mean no access to food services. Dutch oven cooking works well at group sites, with one Scout leader noting, "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."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV services: Most tent campsites near Mineral Point offer minimal RV amenities. "Great little off grid camping for people that aren't afraid of bugs! No trailers with yapping ankle biters, Glammpers stay away!" noted one camper at Blackhawk Memorial Park, highlighting its primitive nature.
Site dimensions: RV sites at New Glarus are close to the road and provide limited privacy. "The drive-up sites are next to the road so you do hear cars all night/day and it is a tiny space so voices carry," warned one visitor, suggesting tent camping as the better option at this location.
