Wisconsin camping near Nekoosa centers around the large reservoirs of Castle Rock Lake and Petenwell Lake. The area sits at an elevation of around 900 feet with sandy soil typical of central Wisconsin's glacial outwash plains. Summer temperatures range from 75-85°F during peak camping season with frequent afternoon thunderstorms in July and August.
What to do
Hiking at Roche A Cri: Walk the trails at Roche A Cri State Park Campground which features prehistoric petroglyphs and a 303-step staircase to a scenic overlook. "This park is absolutely beautiful. Out has great trails, a viewing tower that will leave you breathless, prehistoric petroglyphs on a natural monolith, plenty of wildlife viewing," notes one visitor.
Fishing for walleye: Cast a line at the lakes around Necedah where visitors report consistent catches. "Good fishing in lake for walleye. Campground is clean and has showers," reports a camper about their experience at Wilderness Park.
Wildlife observation: Visit Sandhill State Wildlife Area near Petenwell Lake to spot sandhill cranes and other birds. Necedah National Wildlife Refuge is also nearby. As one camper suggests, "Take a Auto Tour at nearby Sandhill State Wildlife Area. Get out and explore nearby Necedah National Wildlife Refuge and its world class visitor center. Perhaps catch a glimpse of the rare and endangered whooping crane."
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Many campgrounds offer prime lakeside spots with direct water access. "We 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!" says a visitor to Petenwell Park.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept shower houses and restrooms. "Very clean facilities with a play area, beaches and other nice features," notes a camper about Wilderness Park, while another adds that "Bathrooms were EXCEPTIONALLY clean!" at Coloma Camperland.
Water recreation options: Between the lakes and waterparks, water activities abound. "Nice boat lunch," reports a Petenwell visitor, while a Lakeside Fire Campground & Waterpark guest mentions the "Ice cream Shop in hot Dog" available at their recreational facilities.
What you should know
Distance to supplies: The rural location means planning ahead for provisions. "Great area. Nice boat lunch. But bring what you need as the closest gas station is 15 mils away," advises a Petenwell Park visitor.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate from spring through fall, with some yurt camping options available year-round. Lakeside Fire Campground extends the glamping season with climate-controlled units.
Site selection matters: Water levels can affect campsite quality. "Make sure before you get there your campsite isn't underwater," warns a visitor to Pineland Camping Park. Site selection also impacts noise levels, with highway sounds audible at some parks.
Mosquitoes can be intense: Central Wisconsin's lakes and forests bring insects. "Lots of bugs," notes one Petenwell Park visitor, while another mentions that excessive rain "caused it to be unbearable with mosquitoes even with heavy layer of deep woods off."
Tips for camping with families
Yurt camping near Nekoosa: Wisconsin Dells KOA offers yurt accommodations with full-hookup options for families seeking alternative camping. "Nice pool, awesome aqua pad for the kids and game room. No child will be disappointed here!" shares a visitor to Wisconsin Dells KOA.
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds have dedicated children's areas. "The campground is extremely clean and well kept. They do have a 175' inflatable water slide that is fun," reports a family at Pineland Camping Park.
Separate play areas: Wilderness Park and Petenwell Park offer playgrounds and beach areas with swimming zones. "We reserved spot 16 knowing it had lake access (not all spots do)... 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. Kids are having a great adventure!" mentions a Petenwell Park visitor.
Quiet time considerations: Some campgrounds enforce strict quiet hours while others have a more social atmosphere. "Went to this campground and it was a pretty nice place. We parked out 36 foot RV in a wooded site," notes a visitor to Petenwell Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for RVs: Choose larger parks for better maneuverability. "Located Within 1.5 miles of I-39 with easy access on & off I-39. Diesel fuel & gas also available at the exit. Campground has 3 pull through sites, big rig friendly, sewer, water, electric, level with easy in & out," reports a visitor to Coloma Camperland.
Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited but available at select campgrounds. "Nice place, friendly staff. Everything is covered in gravel and stone which is great for parking the camper but not for puppy paws," notes a visitor about Wisconsin Dells KOA.
Seasonal site options: Some RVers prefer seasonal arrangements. "We got a seasonal site and love it! The campground is well maintained and the service is fabulous," shares a camper at Oasis Campground & Waterpark, which offers yurt camping options in the Nekoosa, Wisconsin area.
