Tent campsites near Montello, Wisconsin offer diverse terrain options beyond the established campgrounds. The area sits within the Central Sand Plains ecological landscape with elevations ranging from 750 to 875 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically average 70-85°F during camping season, with cooler nights that can drop to the mid-50s even in July.
What to do
Hiking adventures: At Devils Lake State Park Group Campground, extensive trail networks provide challenging terrain for all skill levels. As one camper notes, "Spent about 5 hours hiking the East Bluff, it was challenging for some of our younger hikers... Everyone was impressed by Devils Doorway. Would love to go back and hike the Western Bluff."
Water recreation: Many tent sites provide easy lake access for swimming and paddling during summer months. A visitor to Camp Shin-Go-Beek shared, "Being able to swim and float in the lake is an added bonus."
Outdoor skills practice: Several campgrounds function as learning centers for outdoor skills. Local campsites feature obstacle courses and structured activity areas where visitors can practice wilderness skills in controlled environments.
Bike trail access: Several camping areas connect to regional bike trails. One camper at Wild Goose City Park mentioned, "Wild Goose bike trail leads to this park in Juneau. It's a good place to stop and have a break... Plenty of space to spread out for a picnic when you're biking through."
What campers like
Bird watching opportunities: The diverse ecosystem attracts numerous bird species. One Devils Lake camper observed, "The birds near the group camp are cool, but can also sound like a large pack of dinosaurs squawking at each other...very loud."
Group camping setup: Spacious group sites accommodate multiple families with sufficient privacy. A Devils Lake reviewer shared, "Reserved the group camp for three families, cost was $40 a night for a secluded, spacious, clean group site."
Peaceful atmosphere: Some less-visited sites offer exceptional quiet for those seeking solitude. A Camp Wilderness visitor explained, "There's primarily tent sites with trails, a lake, an obstacle course and more right nearby."
Natural weather protection: The wooded settings of many sites provide natural shelter. Camp Shin-Go-Beek campers appreciated the "Incredibly peaceful with a ton of beautiful birds singing throughout the day, relatively private (even with fellow campers in the area), and a short walk to the private beach at the lake."
What you should know
Weather preparation: Sudden storms can develop quickly in the area. A Camp Shin-Go-Beek visitor noted, "Ian was a great host and even checked on us to offer shelter in the admin building before a storm rolled through."
Facility variations: Bathroom and shower facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. While some offer full facilities, others provide only primitive options. As one camper mentioned, "It's a semi-primitive with pit toilets and a potable water spigot."
Weekend crowds: Popular sites fill quickly during peak season. A Devils Lake camper observed, "Weekends are pack with campers. The beaches have hard pebbles and rocks."
Site surfaces: Ground conditions can affect tent setup. One Devils Lake camper noted, "Adequate size site with a tent pad, shade and privacy. Trees for a hammock."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly adventure sites: Several campgrounds specifically cater to children with planned activities. At Camp Shin-Go-Beek, families enjoy "Incredibly peaceful with a ton of beautiful birds singing throughout the day, relatively private (even with fellow campers in the area), and a short walk to the private beach at the lake."
Group camping economics: Sharing group sites reduces individual costs. One Devils Lake camper explained, "Reserved the group camp for three families, cost was $40 a night for a secluded, spacious, clean group site."
Midweek timing: School-age families benefit from less crowded weekday camping. A Devils Lake visitor shared, "We went during the week and it kept the crowds to a minimum."
Camp cooking options: Some sites accommodate advanced cooking methods. A Devils Lake camper described, "Camp life was awesome, 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 options: Most campgrounds near Montello primarily support tent camping with few RV-specific amenities. Many lack sewer hookups, dump stations, or dedicated RV pads.
Access considerations: Several campgrounds feature narrow access roads that prove challenging for larger vehicles. Walk-in and hike-in sites dominate at many locations.
Winter availability: Only select campgrounds remain open year-round near Montello. RV camping during winter months requires advanced planning for water and power needs as most campgrounds winterize facilities.
