Necedah, Wisconsin sits at an elevation of 928 feet with sandy soils and pine forests that create ideal camping terrain. The area experiences warm summers with average July temperatures of 82°F and cold winters that drop to 7°F in January. Campsites throughout the region typically offer 30-foot separations between sites, with most facilities maintaining restrooms within 300 yards of camping areas.
What to do
Hiking at Roche-A-Cri State Park: Climb the 303 steps to the observation deck for panoramic views across Central Wisconsin's landscapes. "The 303 stairs to the top lookout is a workout and worth the trip for the view. We hiked almost 5.5 miles through this beautiful state park," notes Lisa S. from Roche A Cri State Park Campground.
Fishing at Castle Rock Lake: Fish for walleye in Wisconsin's fourth-largest inland lake with 16,640 acres of water. "Good fishing in lake for walleye. Campground is clean and has showers," reports Doug N., who stayed at Wilderness Park (Juneau County).
Nighttime activities: Participate in guided stargazing sessions during summer months. "Stayed at sites right on the lake and they were hands down the most beautiful sites I've personally ever camped at! We didn't need to leave our site," explains Ginny B., describing lakeside camping at Petenwell County Park.
ATV trail access: Follow designated routes through pine forests near camping areas. "Good place for 4 wheeling, plenty of trails. Home made pizza and Bloody Mary's," writes Walter M. about his experience at Pineland Camping Park.
What campers like
Beach and swimming areas: Cool off in designated swimming zones with roped-off sections for children. "We were at the new part of the campground, kids are having a great adventure! The park is fairly crowded with lots of seasonal campers... but it's clean, the main bath house is nice and the playground is large," shares Laura B. from Petenwell County Park.
Historical petroglyphs: View prehistoric rock carvings on natural stone formations. "This park has great trails, a viewing tower that will leave you breathless, prehistoric petroglyphs on a natural monolith, plenty of wildlife viewing," explains Stephen T. about Roche-A-Cri State Park Campground.
Privacy between sites: Enjoy natural separation through pine trees and vegetation. "Sites are well spaced and wooded. Firewood and ice were available in the camp station which was run by very friendly staff," notes a camper at Wilderness Park.
Yurt accommodations: Book climate-controlled yurt camping near Necedah, Wisconsin for year-round options. "Nicely wooded. We had a quiet week and on the weekend, the traffic picked up, but it was still quiet at night," reports Megan P. about Arrowhead RV Campground, which features alternative accommodations.
What you should know
Limited services: Plan ahead as stores and services require driving. "Great area, nice boat launch but bring what you need as the closest gas station is 15 miles away," advises Jay about Petenwell County Park.
Water conditions: Monitor lake conditions that change throughout summer. "Depending on the winds the algae gets bad on one side or the other... very clean facilities... clean park... peaceful vibes," mentions Laura B. who visited Petenwell Park by boat.
Seasonal variations: Expect different experiences throughout the camping season. "Not much in the line of modernization. Trees separate sites. People talk with one another. No big towns, so not a wide selection of groceries. Mostly swimming, boating, socializing, campfires. Lots of bugs," writes Kim T. about summer conditions at Petenwell County Park.
Road and rail noise: Be prepared for occasional ambient sounds. "You will hear cars on the highway at night in the distance. The sky is amazing with no light pollution," warns Stephen T. about Roche A Cri State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Pack bug protection: Bring quality insect repellent for comfortable outdoor time. "We stayed here and stayed here a few times they have many campsites for all types. They have put in new bathrooms and shower houses around their campground," suggests Zachary N. from Petenwell County Park.
Choose waterfront sites strategically: Request lake-view sites when making reservations. "We stayed at sites right on the lake and they were hands down the most beautiful sites I've personally ever camped at! Firewood and ice were available in the camp station which was run by very friendly staff," shares Ginny B. about her Petenwell County Park experience.
Playground access: Position tents or RVs near recreation areas for convenient child supervision. "The site was clean but only had rustic restrooms. The small towns nearby are fun for a quick visit," notes Jeff H. from Mill Bluff State Park Campground.
Activity planning: Schedule outdoor activities for mornings to avoid peak heat. "We were disappointed that for $3 per person for mini golf that the course was so dirty. We did what we could to remove rocks, sticks, pine needles, etc from the holes in order to have a better family tournament," mentions Megan P. about Arrowhead RV Campground.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord necessities: Pack additional electrical cords for site setup. "Friendly and helpful front desk. Camping spots are a little rough terrain, but TT is level without levelers, but bring them just in case. Make sure you bring 50 ft of electrical cord and water hose," advises Travis I. from Arrowhead RV Campground.
Water filtration: Use external water filters to avoid mineral deposits. "Make sure to use a water filter outside your camper. The water left an orange residue in our dog bowls, sinks and pipes," warns Whistle P. from Ho-Chunk RV Resort & Campground.
Site selection for larger rigs: Request specific areas that accommodate bigger vehicles. "We parked out 36 foot RV in a wooded site. They have water from sites also. We will be back and next time we will be doing the water site," shares Wayne O., who stayed at Petenwell County Park.
Dump station timing: Use sanitation facilities early to avoid morning departure lines. "Sites are situated with the terrain which can make them interesting to get into. They're gravel and mostly level. Full hook ups and friendly staff," reports Dave P. about his experience at Arrowhead RV Campground.
