Tent campsites near Mount Horeb, Wisconsin are scattered across the rolling hills of the Driftless Area, with elevations ranging from 900 to 1,700 feet. This unique geological region features numerous camping options within a 30-mile radius of Mount Horeb. Winter temperatures can drop below 0°F while summer nights typically range from 55-65°F, requiring appropriate seasonal gear.
What to do
Mountain biking on established trails: At Governor Dodge State Park Backpack Campsites, campers can access extensive trail systems. "Great backpack base camp! Great views, plenty of privacy and an easy hike. We stayed at 806," notes camper Erin Z. The park maintains over 25 miles of mixed-use trails suitable for hiking and biking.
Fishing in local lakes: Nearby camping areas provide good access to fishing. "Back packing sites are 1/2-1 mile hike from parking lot. Great hike threw out the state park. 2 main lakes with great fishing is a plus. Lots to do for the whole family," reports Nick C. about Governor Dodge State Park. Most lakes allow fishing with a valid Wisconsin fishing license.
Swiss heritage exploration: The area surrounding New Glarus State Park Campground features strong Swiss cultural influences. "We spent the day exploring our Swiss heritage in New Glarus," shares Kay K. The small town of New Glarus, just 1.5 miles from the campground, hosts several Swiss-themed festivals throughout summer months.
What campers like
Access to breweries: Campers appreciate the proximity to New Glarus Brewery from tent sites. "This is a small, rustic campground with water and vault toilets... It's proximity to the brewery and the restaurants, shops, and bars of New Glarus, can't be beat," writes Kate B. The brewery is approximately 1.5 miles from the campground and offers self-guided tours.
Connected trail systems: The Sugar River Trail connectivity is valued by cyclists. "With direct access to the Sugar River Trail and the town of New Glarus, it is a great location as an overnight stop or home base to explore," says Phillip J. This crushed limestone trail stretches 24 miles through the countryside.
Rock climbing opportunities: Devils Lake State Park Group Campground offers natural climbing features. "Went with an outdoor adventure class, views were beautiful, climbing was great! Campgrounds were clean and had easy access to water," mentions AC S. The park features over 1,600 climbing routes with difficulty ratings from 5.1 to 5.13.
What you should know
Highway noise levels: Road noise can be a significant issue at certain campsites. "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," warns Katie K. about New Glarus sites.
Toilet facilities vary widely: Bathroom options range from vault toilets to full facilities. "The outhouses are in need of some TLC or just a once through with a leaf blower," notes Kate B. Most primitive sites offer vault toilets located centrally among campsites.
Site terrain considerations: Sandhill Station State Campground features varied terrain. "The campsite we were on was spacious, private, and beautiful. We had two large oak trees on either side of our site, giving us a good amount of mixed shade," describes Jimmy P. Some tent sites require clearing small sticks or rocks before setup.
Tips for camping with families
Scout-friendly group sites: Devils Lake offers organized group camping. "Spent a weekend here in one of the group sites (G3) in mid November 2021. It was in the 30s at night but got up to the high 40s during the day, great camping weather! Spent about 5 hours hiking the East Bluff, it was challenging for some of our younger hikers," shares Charles M.
Playground access: Some campgrounds include play areas for children. "The playground was great," notes Kay K. about New Glarus. Most playground equipment is designed for children ages 5-12, with limited options for toddlers.
Insect considerations: Bugs can affect family camping comfort. "The sites are really near some stagnant water, though, so WAY too many mosquitoes, even with the really intense bug spray," cautions Tawnie T. about Sandhill Station. Mid-June through August typically sees peak mosquito activity in the region.
Tips from RVers
Limited amenities at walk-in sites: Blackhawk Memorial Park offers more primitive camping. "Great little off grid camping for people that aren't afraid of bugs! No trailers with yapping ankle biters, Glammpers stay away! I loved it," states Dave S. Most sites lack RV hookups and have limited vehicle access.
Site reservation strategy: County parks often have different reservation systems. "You won't see a lot of supervision here, but the park is well-maintained. There's not a lot of official information available (like many county parks)... Site availability is first-come, first served (no reservations)," explains xaq about Blackhawk Memorial Park.
Site selection for privacy: Campsites offer varying levels of seclusion. "The group sites are well spaced out from each other and offer pit toilets and full bathroom facilities with sinks, toilets and showers within walking distance from all sites," explains Sarah F. RVs are typically restricted to designated areas at most campgrounds.
