Montello, Wisconsin sits in the central part of the state surrounded by glacial lakes, wetlands, and forests with elevations ranging from 750-800 feet above sea level. The camping season runs from mid-April through October with summer temperatures typically reaching 75-85°F. Mosquitoes can be abundant near water features, particularly in June and July when evening temperatures remain above 60°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Buffalo Lake Camping Resort provides access to Buffalo Lake, where campers can fish for species like walleye, northern pike, and panfish. "We stayed in later April, so it was a limited experience. But the staff was very friendly and the campground is across from a lake. Boats are allowed for easy access at the public boat launch," notes one visitor.
Water recreation activities: Wilderness Campground offers multiple water features including swimming ponds with inflatable play structures. "Lots to do- swim in ponds with floatables, heated pool, jumping pillow, playground, great organized activities!" reports a camper who enjoyed the water activities.
Local Amish community: Visit the Amish community near Buffalo Lake Camping Resort for handcrafted goods and fresh produce. "A lot of Amish in the area with greenhouses, we got all of our summer flowers from them. A few bakeries-go early! Wood working stores, buggy shops and etc. Search Amish greenhouses on the web, you can print a map of all Amish in the area," suggests a regular visitor.
What campers like
Family-oriented activities: Indian Trails Campground maintains a full schedule of weekend events. "There's so much to do here for small children. Fishing, swimming in outdoor & indoor pools, mini golf, playgrounds, arcade games. They have themed weekends, local Amish baked goods," explains one camper with children.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. "The bathhouses were clean. Friendly neighbors. Mini golf, swimming pool, canoes, kayaking, and paddle boats available," notes a visitor to Indian Trails regarding site 97.
Water access: Lake Arrowhead Campground provides direct access to water recreation. "Plenty of amenities! Enjoyed a week there. They even have a general store and events almost every day and night to keep you engaged," mentions a satisfied camper who spent time at this location.
What you should know
Site sizes and layouts: Many campgrounds offer varying site dimensions with differing privacy levels. "Site 97. Shade in the afternoon over looking the water. Bath houses were clean," notes a camper at Indian Trails Campground, highlighting the importance of selecting specific sites for the best experience.
Seasonal timing considerations: Grand Valley Campground in nearby Dalton operates from April 1 to December 1, offering a longer season than many area campgrounds. "We stayed there in July alot of activities for everyone pool was so nice bathrooms very clean everyone so nice Amish came sat morning selling there goodies," shares a summer visitor.
Campground layouts: Some campgrounds separate quiet areas from activity centers. "Camp surrounds a lake which you can find activities galore on one side of the camp and peace and quiet on the other side with plenty of campsites near the water," explains a camper at Indian Trails, noting the design allows for both lively and peaceful camping experiences.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with kid-specific amenities: Lake of the Woods Campground offers numerous family-friendly facilities. "Nice shady sites, very family oriented a lot of stuff for kids to do, planned events every weekend. Bar has great food. Pool and kiddie pool were clean and the beach/pond was so nice," reports a visitor with children.
Consider themed weekend events: Many campgrounds schedule special activities on weekends. "I have been camping at Indian Trails for almost 30 years, since I was a lil tike! There's so much to do here you could stay for a week and never get bored!" explains a longtime visitor.
Check group camping options: For family reunions or multi-family trips, designated group sites offer advantages. "The group campsite it's phenomenal... tons of space for each family and a great community area for your group," notes a visitor to Lake of the Woods Campground who traveled with a larger group.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions and leveling: Grand Valley Campground offers full-hookup RV sites but space can be limited. "The sites are very small, you almost feel too close to your neighbors. I have a 33 ft travel trailer and it takes up quite a bit of the camp site. Fire pits are dug into the ground so it's a process to get the fire started," explains an RV camper.
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer electric service, but amperage varies. At Buffalo Lake Camping Resort, "There are 2 sets of bathrooms, two playgrounds, and rental for fun bikes for the kids. Does have water and a dump for RVs," notes a visitor who appreciated the facilities.
Park location considerations: For those with larger RVs, the distance from main attractions can be important. "If you're in the back get a golf cart because the walk to the front where everything is is far," advises a visitor to Lake of the Woods Campground, highlighting the extensive layout some campgrounds have.
