Nestled in the central Wisconsin region, Montello sits amidst glacial lakes and wooded terrain with sandy soil at an elevation of around 800 feet above sea level. The camping season typically runs from mid-April through mid-October with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during the day. Thunderstorms can develop quickly in summer months, requiring campers to secure equipment properly.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Buffalo Lake Camping Resort provides access to fishing on Buffalo Lake where campers can catch a variety of fish. "Boats are allowed for easy access at the public boat launch," notes reviewer Kim L.
Visit local Amish communities: Local Amish businesses offer unique shopping experiences within short driving distance. "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," shares Tammi J.
River adventures: Indian Trails Campground offers kayak and canoe trips down the Fox River. "They do kayaking or canoeing down the fox river. They will drop you off and pick you up," explains Mikala D., highlighting their shuttle service.
Mini-golf and arcade games: Several campgrounds provide onsite entertainment options beyond swimming. Indian Trails has "plenty of activities for kids and adults galore" according to Lynn N., including mini-golf and arcade options that provide entertainment during inclement weather.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Wilderness Campground maintains high standards for bathrooms and common areas. "Lots to do- swim in ponds with floatables, heated pool, jumping pillow, playground, great organized activities! Strict with rules, as a good thing," explains Gayle S.
Swimming options: Glacier Valley Campground features an impressive swimming area. "Swimming pond is huge with toys for everyone. You can bring your own pool toys," notes Annette I., with Heather H. adding it has "a huge fresh water pool with inflatables!"
Seasonal activities: Campgrounds in the Montello area host themed weekends and special events. Indian Trails provides "fun outdoor movies for the kids" according to Mikala D., while another visitor mentions their Halloween weekends are particularly popular.
Pet-friendly amenities: Dog owners appreciate the pet-accommodating facilities. Glacier Valley offers "a couple trails around for walks with dogs & a dog park," according to Annette I., making it a standout among dog friendly campgrounds near Montello.
What you should know
Campsite selection matters: Choose sites based on your needs for shade, size, and privacy. At Lake Arrowhead Campground, Kevin C. recommends getting "a corner site close to showers and bathrooms" for convenience with families.
Quiet hours: Most pet-friendly campgrounds in the Montello area enforce quiet times from 11pm-8am. Annette I. notes that Glacier Valley has a "lively campground during the day but nice & quiet at night with quiet hours being 11pm-8am."
Seasonal campers vs. weekend visitors: Several campgrounds have a mix of permanent seasonal residents and short-term visitors. Buffalo Lake earns praise as "the friendliest park I have ever been in" according to Doug W., who notes "the seasonal campers are also very friendly."
Reservation timing: Popular weekends book quickly at many campgrounds. Most accept reservations starting in January for the following camping season, with holiday weekends filling months in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Grand Valley Campground provides numerous water-based activities. "There's a store, arcade, miniature golf, a pool...a lot to do," explains Steven P., making it ideal for active children.
Family-sized sites: Look for campsites with adequate space for family equipment. Armand R. found Grand Valley to be a "nice campground" with clean facilities and sufficient room for family camping setups.
Entertainment options: Campgrounds near Montello offer varied recreation opportunities. Kim J. enjoyed Grand Valley where there are "a lot of activities for everyone" and "the pool was so nice."
Local treats: Sunday morning donut sales are popular at several campgrounds. At Indian Trails, they have "amazing homemade donuts Sunday mornings" and "a cute little penny candy shop" according to Mikala D., providing special treats for families.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Most pet-friendly campgrounds near Montello can accommodate mid-sized RVs, though site sizes vary. At Wisconsin Dells KOA, Jeff G. notes it's a "small clean park" with "super tight sites" but they're well-maintained.
Hookup access: Check hookup locations when booking to ensure compatibility with your RV setup. "For a family with a camper, there are full hookups or water and electricity with flat gravel pads," explains Kim L. about Buffalo Lake Camping Resort.
Leveling considerations: Many sites require minimal leveling. "The sites are very small, but overall paved and level so you will have a quick set up," notes Kim L. about the Wisconsin Dells KOA, which is convenient for RVers wanting an efficient setup process.
Access roads: Some campgrounds have narrow access roads. Consider your RV size when booking at smaller, wooded campgrounds to ensure you can navigate turns and site approaches.