Tent campsites near New Berlin, Wisconsin are predominantly located in oak savanna and woodland settings characteristic of southeastern Wisconsin's glacial landscape. The camping terrain features gentle hills and mixed hardwood forests with elevation changes of 50-200 feet across most sites. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F with evening cooling to 55-65°F, while spring and fall bring 45-65°F days with frequent rainfall.
What to do
Trail exploration at Sandhill Station: Located in the Lake Mills Wildlife Area, campers can access the 52-mile Glacial Drumlin bike trail directly from the campground. A camper noted, "Sandhill Station is right outside Lake Mills, WI, right off the Glacial Drumlin bike trail." The nearby Aztalan State Park offers additional hiking trails with interpretive guide booklets.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Snug Harbor Inn Campground on Turtle Lake provides excellent bird watching from terraced campsites overlooking the water. "Beautiful views overlooking Turtle Lake. Friendly and helpful staff," reported one camper. Morning hours offer the best wildlife spotting conditions.
Water activities at Turtle Lake: Campers at Snug Harbor can rent boats directly from the campground for fishing or paddling. According to a visitor, "The campground sells ice, firewood and rents boats." The lake supports bass and panfish populations for recreational anglers.
What campers like
Private camping experiences: The walk-in sites at Sandhill Station State Campground require carrying gear 100-500 yards from the parking area, creating a more secluded experience. One camper appreciated that "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."
Accessibility to cultural sites: Campers value the proximity to historic locations. A visitor mentioned, "Also nearby is Aztalan State Park and Aztalan museum. The state park is beautiful grassland and prairie, and the Crawfish River flows along side the park." The museum features Native American artifacts for a modest entrance fee.
Convenience options: Wild Goose City Park provides amenities for cyclists and travelers along the Wild Goose bike trail. A reviewer stated, "Wild Goose bike trail leads to this park in Juneau. It's a good place to stop and have a break. There's a playground and public bathroom, drinking fountain. Plenty of space to spread out for a picnic when you're biking through."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Mosquitoes can be problematic at some sites, particularly during summer months. A Sandhill Station camper warned, "The sites are really near some stagnant water, though, so WAY too many mosquitoes, even with the really intense bug spray. We were there in mid-June on one of the hottest weekends of the year and we were massacred the second we walked into the site."
Facility limitations: Most tent sites offer basic amenities but lack extensive facilities. Waubedonia County Park provides simple accommodations as noted by a visitor: "The campsites are inexpensive and comfortable, though there aren't as many amenities that a larger campground would have."
Shower access: Shower facilities vary significantly between locations. Some campgrounds like Snug Harbor have on-site showers, while others require trips to nearby facilities. A Sandhill Station camper mentioned, "There are showers/flush toilets at the nearby Glacial Drumlin office in Lake Mills, but none on site, only pit toilets."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with playground access: Snug Harbor Inn Campground offers family-friendly amenities including playground equipment. "Wanted someplace close to home. Familiar with the Delavan area so was excited to find Snug Harbor. Staff was great, helped me back in. Nice Bar/Restaurant on site," shared one family camper.
Consider carry distance for walk-in sites: Families with young children should evaluate the carrying distance required at walk-in sites. For Sandhill Station, a camper advised, "No carts to haul gear so pack light! The sites are all very remote, no onsite rangers or anything like that."
Plan for shoulder season visits: Spring and fall offer more comfortable camping conditions with fewer insects. A visitor recommended, "Overall, the campground is a nice choice if you want a private, quiet getaway into the oak savanna of southern Wisconsin. I wouldn't go in the middle of summer, due to the limited shade, but it was very nice in early fall."
Tips from RVers
Three-tiered camping layout: Snug Harbor Inn Campground features a unique terraced design that accommodates different camping styles. A reviewer described the layout: "Great three tiered camping spot. Full hookup, and great views. Has a pub/restaurant with good food. Lots to do!" Another visitor explained, "The property is basically terraced along a slope down to the lake, with the RV and mobile home sites closer to the lake."
Small campground navigation: Most campgrounds near New Berlin have limited space for large rigs. One camper at Snug Harbor noted, "This is primarily an RV/mobile home campground, but there are some nicely tucked away tent camp sites. Gravel roads connect the three loops and the landscaping is well kept and maintained."
