I
Irene M.
Traveler
TravelerVel Terra
Not too far off the main highway, but you do have to travel down a dirt road.
A nice Little campground close to Elizabeth Illinois. The bathrooms are well capped, but the showers require quarters!
Camping near Monticello, WI
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Campgrounds around Monticello, Wisconsin stretch across the scenic rolling terrain of Green County and neighboring regions, with several established options within a 30-mile radius. Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground and New Glarus State Park Campground represent two popular choices for tent and RV camping, offering defined sites with varying levels of amenities. The area provides a mix of state park, county park, and private campgrounds accommodating different camping styles. Most established campgrounds feature electric hookups, drinking water, and fire rings, while a few locations like Crazy Horse Campground and Sweet Minnihaha Campground also offer cabins and glamping options for those seeking enhanced comfort.
Most campgrounds in the Monticello area operate seasonally, with peak availability from April through October. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for weekend stays during summer months when sites fill quickly. A visitor noted, "The campground is basically a mowed park field with some mature trees around it. No privacy from neighbors and the campground is on the roadside of the park instead of the lake side of the park." Road access is generally good throughout the region with paved routes to most established campgrounds, though some sites may require short walks from parking areas. Cellular coverage remains reliable at most locations, though may diminish in some forested areas. Temperatures can range widely, with summer highs reaching into the 80s and potential for cool nights even during peak season.
Campers consistently highlight the water features as significant draws to the region's campgrounds. The Wisconsin River and nearby lakes provide opportunities for fishing, paddling, and swimming at several locations. One camper remarked that "Devil's Lake State Park has well-maintained hiking and MTB biking trails, extraordinarily clean and well-kept vault toilets, and ample access to drinking water." Several campgrounds offer proximity to recreational trails, with the Ice Age National Scenic Trail passing through some areas. While sites closer to water tend to be more popular, those seeking quieter experiences can find more secluded options in wooded sections of parks like Blue Mound State Park, which features walk-in sites requiring a 10-15 minute hike from parking areas. Mixed-use campgrounds offering both RV hookups and tent sites are common throughout the region, providing flexibility for different camping styles.
Best Campgrounds near Monticello (102)
1. New Glarus State Park Campground
"New Glarus Woods is a small State Park tucked away in the Southern Wisconsin countryside. Drive-in sites come with nice amenities."
"The park itself isn't that interesting, but it is worth noting that it is located across the road from New Glarus Brewery. The brewery is an easy walk or bike ride from the walk-in campsites."
from $18 - $70 / night
Check Availability2. Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground
"It has a large lake with three boat launches, a main one with a motor ramp, a canoe launch near the marshy end, and a fishing pier."
"The hiking is amazing , particularly the Oakgrove trail, plenty to see with beautiful views. There is boating, canoeing, etc."
from $18 - $110 / night
Check Availability3. Crazy Horse Campground
"Being right in front of the jumping pillow people didn’t walk around. They would cut thru our site."
"We made this trip mid-May during the Covid social distancing. The camp ground was on point with their preparedness. Check in was simply pull into your site or a brief stop at registration."
4. Blue Mound State Park Campground
"Overall, the park has well-maintained hiking and MTB biking trails, extraordinarily clean and well-kept vault toilets, and ample access to drinking water."
"This is another Wisconsin gym sitting in Southern West Wisconsin."
from $18 - $50 / night
Check Availability5. Sweet Minnihaha Campground
"Such a lovely camp ...the sites are fairly close together but you can pick the site you want so you don’t have to be directly next to another tent ...on our visit we saw lots of wildlife from chickens"
"Easy access to on and off the river for tubing. Id say its more of an adult atmostphere."
from $8 - $35 / night
Check Availability6. Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground
"Just a quick 2 hour drive from our home in Chicago, with large wooded sites for privacy. Clean bathrooms."
"We didn’t have much time to explore the campground but we did have a nice walk around the outer loop of sites. This is near the main highway and a nice place to camp."
from $18 - $50 / night
Check Availability7. Blackhawk Memorial Park
"Pit toilets/shelter/playground near the entrance. Two boat launches.
Variable availability for firewood; the Cenex on the west end of Argyle reliably sells it if there isn't any at the park."
8. William G. Lunney Lake Farm Campground (Dane County Park)
"With the rain and the proliferation of mosquitoes, we were wandering around southern Wisconsin without a plan when we stumbled across this county park. 50 sites, many with electric and very reasonably"
"No water on sites but spigots located throughout the park. Dump station right at the entrance but there's plenty of room to maneuver around there. Could get congested if busy."
from $18 - $28 / night
Check Availability9. Green County Fairgrounds
from $15 - $25 / night
Check Availability10. Brigham Park
"It's up on a hill, so there's good views of the driftless area of Wisconsin. Plenty of open walk up camp sites, but it might be more full in the summer."
"The dense tree cover and near-constant slight breeze help to both keep this campground cool and the mosquitos at bay.
- Well-kept vault toilets.
- Close to a many points of interest."
Drive Time
- 38 min from Madison, WI
- 46 min from Janesville, WI
- 1 hr 3 min from Rockford, IL
- 1 hr 20 min from Dubuque, IA
Recent Camping Photos near Monticello, WI
265 Photos of 102 Monticello Campgrounds
juliana
New Glarus State Park Campground
Brittany H.
Sweet Minnihaha Campground
Scott P.
Green County Fairgrounds
Marc W.
Crazy Horse Campground
Michael S.
Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground
Lee D.
William G. Lunney Lake Farm Campground (Dane County Park)
Danielle A.
Blue Mound State Park Campground
Jen E.
Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground
Art S.
Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area
Ron L.
Sugar River Forest Preserve
Bob M.
Mendota County Park
Christie S.
Lena KOA
Recent Reviews near Monticello, WI
749 Reviews of 102 Monticello Campgrounds
Andrew R.
ScoutFireside Campground
Family, Pet, Motorcycle Friendly!
This is a fantastic Campground, especially for RVs and families. Large playground and outdoor games, small indoor rec area. During busy weekends with lots of kids and holidays, they have foam parties for the kids where they fill the basketball court with foam 3 ft High. Most sites are permanent sites, but have probably around 20 other 30 amp sites that can accommodate large RVs. There are only a few tent sites, but if tent is your only option and you still want to stay they will rent you an RV site for the tent. New owners are very friendly, and have adopted the same overwhelmingly hospitable nature as the previous owners. Fantastic people and very helpful. It will accommodate special needs or requests as long as it doesn't bother anybody or go against any insurance policies. I've had a permanent site here in the past, and recently started camping again and came to visit old friends. The new owners were still happy to accommodate semi truck parking for my job. I haul milk locally so I work more than I'm off, but the family can still camp and I can come when I'm done work. It is near the Wisconsin River, so it's fairly sand base although the Grass Grows plenty so you're not tracking sand everywhere. The benefits of this is when it rains heavily the sand absorbs the water rapidly. The only negative is the mosquitoes. Be prepared for mosquitoes with lots of bug spray. This is no fault of the campground, all low wetlands in Wisconsin are the same. The bathrooms are some of the best in any Campground I've seen. They are always clean, modernized, and Air condition. There are showers and bathroom stalls near the park. They try to keep families close to the park if possible for the bathrooms and the park access itself. They are really extremely accommodating for requests if it's in their power at all. The owners live at the campground and are always accessible by a simple phone call if after hours. There's a community vibe, with a community fire pit up front and often people are just hanging out outside of the main office. It embodies our Wisconsin way of life and you will find strangers waving at you every time you pass by. It's just our nature, don't be weirded out by the friendliness. The regular permanent campers are all so friendly and always willing to help a newbie or even someone struggling to figure out a problem or even carry things.
- IIrene M.Traveler
Fireside Campground
Cute campground with great hosts.
Found this campground by chance after the campground I had planned to stay at was a complete disaster. Luckily, they were able to get me a campsite for two nights where I could regroup do a little laundry and chill out also took a bike ride on the bike path.
Operation_Fun ..
GuideYogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Fort Atkinson
A midwest gem… I guess
Our friends have a permanent camper here so we joined them for the weekend. I’ve never experienced a place like this. It’s not what I would consider camping. It’s basically people’s second trailer park home. The frog pond that was turned into a swimming hole with ridiculous inflatables completely ruined the peaceful atmosphere in that area of the park. If you enjoy being surrounded by people, noise, and teens cruising in golf carts, you’ll love this place. We do have fun when we are with our friends here, but it is definitely not a typical peaceful camp.
Maria Mercedes M.
LegendRock Cut Equestrian Campground
A Peaceful Retreat for Horse-Loving Families
If your family's perfect camping trip includes saddling up and exploring miles of wooded trails together, the Equestrian Campground at Rock Cut State Park offers a wonderfully peaceful place to spend a few days. Tucked away from the park's busier camping loops, this rustic first-come, first-served campground provides spacious sites designed for campers traveling with horses, along with nearby potable water, restrooms and direct access to more than 14 miles of designated equestrian trails. While amenities are intentionally simple (erring on non-existent), the extra room to accommodate horse trailers and the quiet natural surroundings create exactly the kind of setting many riders are looking for. One of my favorite moments was watching families quietly prepare their horses in the early morning light before disappearing beneath the trees for a day on the trails, returning later with tired horses, dusty boots and smiles that needed no explanation. Arriving early is the best way to secure a site since camping is first-come, first-served and availability is limited. This campground is ideal for equestrian families given its spacious layout, direct trail access and peaceful atmosphere that allows both riders and horses to truly unwind.
- ccurtis B.Guide
Blackhawk Memorial Park
Hidden gem!
Best kept secret in the area. Very low rates (5 dollars a night Sunday through Thursday .
- DDarwin A.Scout
Twin Valley Campground — Governor Dodge State Park
Beautiful campgrounds everything else not so much.
First of all I have never paid so much for a state campground. By the time they were done tacking on fees it $72 a night, $15 extra for being out of state. There is only one dump station for over 320 sites. There was no water available in the campground, they were all torn up. Fortunately, the weather was fairly cool so we didn't need to run our air. Every time we tried to run more than 2 things at a time it tripped the 30 amp breaker. Very dissapointed for the price paid.
Jay W.LegendBlue Mound State Park Campground
Beautiful Blue
Welcome to Blue Mound State Park! This is another Wisconsin gym sitting in Southern West Wisconsin. It isn't too far from the city of Madison, but the closest town of Barneveld and Town of Mount Horeb are closer and offer a place to pick up any necessities you may need.
The park offers excellent hiking trails and 112 campsites with approximately 31 of those being electric. The park offers modern flush toilets and shower buildings.
The park also offers a rustic accessible cabin for people with disabilities. Also with an accessible flush toilet and shower building about 200 ft from this campsite. You can have a maximum of six people to occupy this rustic cabin.
One of the greatest things is this park offers a pool and splash pad for kids and this is a relatively good size swimming area! And also near a couple to her destinations, the most famous being Cave of the Mounds! I recommend checking this out if you have the chance!
- MMichael Z.Traveler
Hickory Hills Campground
Best of both worlds
This is my second time camping here (June / July). This campground is the best of both worlds. By that, I mean there’s is peace and solitude, while also family fun activities for kids and adults. You can rent kayaks and canoes, for the lake. Fishing pier, nice size beach with the inflatable obstacle course. On the weekend they have activity’s on the beach such as sand castle building competitions, obstacle races and then they have beach bubbles. It’s is fun to watch all the little kids running around like little marshmallows.
The golf carts are all newer with long lasting batteries. The campsites have lots of tree shade. On our arrival, our site appears to be cleaned. Even our fire ring was cleaned out. Golf cart was there waiting for us fully charged. They bring firewood out to you when you buy it from the store. The store has a nice array of items such as food, ice cream, clothing, little toys an such. The mini golf course is new and some obstacles are made from an artist with recycled tires that are painted.
There is lots or grass at our campsite (mud too if you’re here when it rains). The roads are a VERY hard packed gravel that electrical scooters can ride on. So yes, electric scooters appear to be permitted here. Be careful tho as there are quite a few pot holes and dips.
There is a heated pool that goes to 9ft. A balloon launching area, jumping pillow and I’m sure others that I’m missing. By the store, they have picnic tables in shade with activities on each one with little blocks. Karaoke on the weekends. And if you like to socialize, you might run into the “booze cruise”. This is a group of seasonal people that ride their golf carts around playing music trying to get more people to join the ride. They’re entertaining to watch as they stop and start dancing like they’re 12yrs lol.
Great place to camp. Quiet when you want it, fun when you need it, great free WiFi, activities, shade, well maintained campground with staff that will literally help anyway they can if it’s within their power. Hope all this helps someone make their next camping trip as well as ours have been!
Guide to Monticello
Camping sites near Monticello, Wisconsin offer varied terrain across the rolling hills of Green County, with elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet. The area's karst topography creates unique drainage patterns, and summer camping temperatures typically range from 55-85°F with humidity levels averaging 65-75%. Most campgrounds in the region sit within 30 miles of Monticello, providing access to multiple waterways and woodland areas.
What to do
Kayaking on Sugar River: Several campgrounds near Monticello provide direct river access for paddling adventures. At Sweet Minnihaha Campground, "There are bands playing on the weekends. Easy access to on and off the river for tubing. Id say its more of an adult atmosphere," notes one camper. The river offers a leisurely 1-2 hour float depending on water levels.
Mountain biking: The area features several trail systems for cyclists of varying abilities. At Blue Mound State Park Campground, "An awesome place to hike especially, but good camping too. Climb up into the firetower if you get a chance too!" shares one visitor. The park maintains approximately 15 miles of dedicated mountain biking trails.
Cultural exploration: The region's Swiss heritage is accessible from several camping locations. Near New Glarus Woods State Park, "We spent the day exploring our Swiss heritage in New Glarus," one camper mentioned about their experience. Most historical sites and museums operate Tuesday through Sunday, 10am-4pm with admission fees typically $5-10 per adult.
What campers like
Spacious wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer good tree cover and separation between sites. At Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground, "We camped in a 'walk in' spot about 200 feet from where you can park the car. It is very secluded and tree cover allows you to be hidden from all others," reports one visitor. Walk-in sites typically require 5-15 minutes of carrying gear from parking areas.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The rural setting provides chances to observe local fauna. "There are lots of wildlife to enjoy at Yellowstone. A beautiful park and tons of hiking and nice lake," one camper noted. Early morning and dusk offer the best viewing times for deer, turkeys, and various bird species.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain above-average sanitation standards. "Clean bathrooms with showers. Good sized site with nice privacy. Good hiking around the lake and mostly dog friendly," noted a visitor to Lake Kegonsa State Park. Most state park shower facilities offer hot water with push-button controls timed for 20-30 seconds per press.
What you should know
Road noise varies by campground: Some camping areas experience traffic sounds despite rural settings. At New Glarus State Park Campground, "The sites are all located along the bike trail, and carts are available for transporting your gear... You can hear some road noise in all of the walk-in sites due to the highway being near by, but it's buffered a bit by the woods so it is more of a white noise." Sites further from main roads typically offer better sound insulation.
Limited cellular coverage in valleys: Signal strength can diminish in low-lying areas. At Blackhawk Memorial Park, "Quiet, off the grid! Very pleasant!" notes one camper, highlighting the disconnected nature of some locations. Verizon typically provides the most consistent coverage throughout the region.
Seasonal crowding patterns: Weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day see the highest occupancy rates. "This is our go-to campground when we decide we want to go camping with short notice. The park itself is neither very popular nor very interesting, so there are usually still sites available for reservation only a few days before your intended camping trip," explains one visitor about New Glarus Woods. Mid-week camping during summer months often allows for last-minute reservations.
Tips for camping with families
Splash pads and swimming areas: Several parks offer water features for children. At Brigham Park, "The cool breeze rolls up over the mound at night, keeps you cool on your tent," notes a camper, making it comfortable for families even during warm summer nights. Most swimming beaches in the area are unsupervised, so parental oversight is necessary.
Playground accessibility: Check campground maps for proximity to play areas. "Cute little campground with a breathtaking view. The campground is situated on the smaller mound of bluemounds. A perfect place to star gaze or watch a storm roll in," reports a Brigham Park visitor. Playgrounds are typically located near central bathroom facilities or picnic areas.
Nature programs: Several parks offer scheduled activities for children. "The park has well-maintained hiking and MTB biking trails, extraordinarily clean and well-kept vault toilets, and ample access to drinking water," notes one visitor to Blue Mound State Park. Programs typically run weekend afternoons from late May through August and last 30-60 minutes.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring careful setup. At Crazy Horse Campground, "The campsite we stay at is Water and Electric and it's right along the river when you pull in to set up camp you'll be facing the water which is nice you're not staring at neighbors campers," explains one visitor. Bringing leveling blocks is recommended as many sites have slopes of 3-5 degrees.
Electric options: Power availability varies significantly by location. "There are 50 sites, many with electric and very reasonably priced ($25 for electric/$18 non which includes a $2 senior discount). Spaces are generous in size although no privacy between them," notes a camper at William G. Lunney Lake Farm Campground. Most electric sites provide 30-amp service, with 50-amp options limited to newer facilities.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds provide on-site waste disposal. "We got the last site available and am so happy we chose this place. Gorgeous hiking with really unique trails. Awesome mountain hiking options," shares a visitor about Blue Mound State Park, where RVers need to plan for off-site dumping. The nearest public dump stations are typically located at larger state parks or travel centers along highways 18 and 39.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Monticello, WI?
What camping is available near Monticello, WI?
According to TheDyrt.com, Monticello, WI offers a wide range of camping options, with 102 campgrounds and RV parks near Monticello, WI and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Monticello, WI?
Which is the most popular campground near Monticello, WI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Monticello, WI is New Glarus State Park Campground with a 3.7-star rating from 19 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Monticello, WI?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Monticello, WI?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Monticello, WI.
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