I
Irene M.
Guide
GuideVel 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 New Glarus, WI
102 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Search destinations
Add dates
SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Camping near New Glarus, Wisconsin encompasses several wooded state parks and county facilities within the rolling hills of southern Wisconsin. New Glarus Woods State Park serves as the primary local camping destination, offering both drive-in and walk-in sites within its small but accessible grounds. Yellowstone Lake State Park, located about 20 miles west, provides more extensive camping options with lake access. Both parks are part of the Wisconsin State Park system and feature varying levels of amenities for tent and RV campers. The area sits within the scenic Driftless Region, characterized by hills and valleys untouched by glaciers during the last ice age.
Most campgrounds in the New Glarus area operate seasonally, with peak availability from May through October. New Glarus Woods State Park remains open year-round, though camping facilities typically close during winter months. Summer brings humid conditions with temperatures regularly reaching the 80s, while spring and fall offer more moderate temperatures ideal for camping. Road noise can be a consideration at New Glarus Woods, as several campsites are positioned near highways. Vault toilets and basic water access are standard at most sites, with limited or no shower facilities at smaller parks. Reservations are recommended, especially during summer weekends and fall color season.
The camping experience varies significantly between parks in the region. According to reviews, New Glarus Woods offers a more rustic experience with its walk-in sites providing greater privacy despite some road noise. "The walk-in sites have a good amount of space between each site," noted one camper, though they mentioned highway sounds are audible throughout the park. The proximity to New Glarus Brewery and the Sugar River Trail makes this location popular for cyclists and beer enthusiasts. Yellowstone Lake State Park provides more recreational opportunities with fishing, swimming, and hiking trails. For those seeking more amenities, Blue Mound State Park, about 25 miles northwest, features extensive trail systems and observation areas with views stretching to the Wisconsin River Valley.
Best Campgrounds near New Glarus (102)
1. New Glarus State Park Campground
"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."
"New Glarus Woods is a small State Park tucked away in the Southern Wisconsin countryside. Drive-in sites come with nice amenities."
from $18 - $70 / night
Check Availability2. Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground
"Beautiful wooded campground with easy access to fishing & swimming. Lots of hiking trails and nature programs for all ages."
"This is a very large state park located halfway between Mineral Point and New Glarus, both nice visiting destinations in their own right."
from $18 - $110 / night
Check Availability3. 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 Availability4. 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."
5. 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."
6. 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 Availability7. 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 Availability8. 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 Availability9. 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."
10. Cox Hollow Campground — Governor Dodge State Park
"The sites on the "inside" of the loop are rather close to one another. 21 has a nice view of the lake, and you can walk back to the fence to look over the bluff 24 is quite private and very large 26,"
"Had to set our tent up right next to the fire ring, as that was the only spot that wasn’t muddy, so we couldn’t have a decent fire. During the rain the water was ankle deep under the picnic table."
from $25 - $40 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 32 min from Madison, WI
- 50 min from Janesville, WI
- 1 hr 8 min from Rockford, IL
- 1 hr 20 min from Dubuque, IA
Recent Camping Photos near New Glarus, WI
260 Photos of 102 New Glarus Campgrounds
Sapphire J.
New Glarus State Park Campground
Scott P.
Green County Fairgrounds
Brittany H.
Sweet Minnihaha Campground
Kay K.
Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground
Marc W.
Crazy Horse Campground
Catherine F.
Blue Mound State Park Campground
Lee D.
William G. Lunney Lake Farm Campground (Dane County Park)
Bob M.
Mendota County Park
marissa
Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground
Kevin M.
Twin Valley Campground — Governor Dodge State Park
Nick C.
Governor Dodge State Park Backpack Campsites — Governor Dodge State Park
Art S.
Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area
Recent Reviews near New Glarus, WI
749 Reviews of 102 New Glarus 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.Guide
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.
TravelerHickory 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 New Glarus
Camping near New Glarus, Wisconsin positions visitors within the unique Driftless Area where elevations range from 800-1200 feet with considerable temperature fluctuations between seasons. While summer camping temperatures can reach 90°F during the day, evening temperatures often drop into the 50s even in July and August. The region's rolling topography creates distinct microclimates where rainfall and morning fog conditions can vary significantly between campgrounds just miles apart.
What to do
Sugar River paddling: At Crazy Horse Campground, water activities are easily accessible. "They provide at no charge kayaks and a shuttle to a drop-off point which you can kayak back down to the campground which takes about an hour and a half they space out the shuttles very well so you are not running into the people from the last shuttle," notes David H. The Sugar River offers additional paddling opportunities with "the option to continue on down river another eight miles which is approximately six hours to the next point."
Waterfall exploration: Visit Stephens Falls in Dodgeville at Cox Hollow Campground, approximately 35 miles from New Glarus. "The Stevens Falls and Canyon Trails were the highlight of the trip- even in the rain! First you can explore the old spring house and read the informational signs about the family that used to farm there and other early settlers in the area," writes Siobhan R. The trail system offers varying difficulties with the 3-mile Canyon loop featuring "a slippery uneven staircase to go down, but there is a sturdy handrail."
Dog-friendly swimming: Several area campgrounds offer dedicated swimming areas for dogs. Sarah B. notes that at Cox Hollow Campground, "They had a dog beach for them to swim in which was a huge plus! Great hiking with some beautiful scenery." Most dog beaches require pets to remain leashed until they reach designated swim areas.
What campers like
Secluded walk-in sites: Many campers prefer the walk-in sites at New Glarus Woods State Park for privacy despite their distance from parking. Sarah W. shares: "The walk-in sites have a good amount of space between each site, however the sites on the east side of the bike trail get less level the further you get from the parking lot. All sites are shaded and have fire pits and picnic tables." She recommends site #19: "It is the closest site to the parking lot on the east side of the trail, but you have to take a short foot-path off the main trail... This makes it very quiet and private."
Natural cooling: The elevated terrain at Brigham Park creates natural cooling effects. Renee R. notes, "The dense tree cover and near-constant slight breeze help to both keep this campground cool and the mosquitos at bay." Braelyn C. adds, "The cool breeze rolls up over the mound at night, keeps you cool in your tent."
Water recreation: Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground offers excellent water activities approximately 20 miles from New Glarus. "What really makes this campground is the lake. There's a nice beach for kids and adults to relax at and lots of kayaks on the water," reports Ryan K. The park provides both swimming and fishing opportunities, with "beautiful wooded campground with easy access to fishing & swimming," according to Jeanne M.
What you should know
Highway noise: Road noise is a common issue at several campgrounds near New Glarus. Katie K. reports about New Glarus Woods: "These sites are right next to the highway and 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. Since the campground is in a hill, you get to hear the trucks revving up for a climb, then engine-breaking on the way down."
Trains: Some campgrounds experience train noise at night. Lisa S. mentions at Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground: "The first train only blew its horn a few short times. The second train acted like someone was laying on the tracks and was a little excessive for 3 am! Luckily we did not hear trains Friday night and we only heard 1 on Saturday night."
Toilet facilities vary: Bathrooms differ widely between campgrounds. At Sweet Minihaha Campground, Brittany H. advises: "My only issue was taking a shower at night...if you aren't fast bring a lantern because the auto lights will turn off on you." At Blue Mound State Park, facilities receive higher marks with "extraordinarily clean and well-kept vault toilets, and ample access to drinking water," according to Josh F.
Tips for camping with families
Splash pad access: Families with children should consider Blue Mound State Park Campground, which offers water features uncommon at other area campgrounds. "The pool is very nice and very clean. There is a pool section and a splash section. There are chairs and lounges around both and shade awnings. The cost is $3 for and adult and $2 for child," reports Debra M.
Playground proximity: When selecting campsites with children, consider proximity to play areas. At Lake Kegonsa, Lisa S. notes, "Adjacent to the shower house was a nice wooded picnic area with playground equipment for the kids." Most area playgrounds are centrally located rather than near specific campsites.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer educational programs. Siobhan R. describes historical exhibits at Cox Hollow: "First you can explore the old spring house and read the informational signs about the family that used to farm there and other early settlers in the area." Nature programs are typically scheduled on weekend mornings during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven sites. At Yellowstone Lake State Park, Jeanne M. advises: "If camping with a trailer or RV check to make sure you will get a campsite that is level enough for your vehicle. Lots of the campsites are uneven and larger vehicles may have issues getting level."
Low clearance warnings: Watch for low-hanging branches and structures. Kathy L. reports a serious issue at Lake Kegonsa: "There is an oak tree near entry with low branches and it took the AC off our friend's fifth wheel. There is also a low hanging overpass and it took the roofs off TWO fifth wheels while we were staying there. Major damage on roof and internally - the RV had to be totaled and replaced."
Limited full hookup options: Most state parks offer electric only, while private campgrounds provide more hookup options. David H. describes 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."
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities does New Glarus Woods State Park offer for campers?
What amenities does New Glarus Woods State Park offer for campers?
New Glarus Woods State Park Campground offers a rustic camping experience with basic amenities. The park features both drive-in and walk-in sites, providing options for different camping preferences. Amenities include water pumps, vault toilets (no showers), and fire rings at each site. The campground provides direct access to hiking and mountain bike trails, as well as connections to the Sugar River Trail. The park has a playground for children and offers wooded sites that provide good privacy between neighbors. While the facilities are simple, the park's location makes it an excellent base for exploring the town of New Glarus and surrounding attractions.
What campgrounds are available in New Glarus, Wisconsin?
What campgrounds are available in New Glarus, Wisconsin?
The primary camping option in New Glarus is New Glarus Woods State Park Campground, a small state park tucked into the southern Wisconsin countryside. For additional options near New Glarus, consider Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground, which offers wooded sites with access to fishing and swimming. Other nearby options include Sweet Minnihaha Campground and Crazy Horse Campground in Brodhead. The New Glarus area is particularly known for its Swiss heritage, making it a charming destination for campers who want to explore local culture while enjoying the outdoors.
Are there RV camping options near New Glarus?
Are there RV camping options near New Glarus?
RV camping options near New Glarus are limited but available. At New Glarus Woods State Park Campground, only a few sites can accommodate campers or RVs, with most being tent-only. For better RV accommodation, consider Wisconsin Riverside Resort in nearby Spring Green. If you're willing to drive a bit further, Crazy Horse Campground near Brodhead offers RV-friendly sites with water and toilets. When using New Glarus Woods, be aware that most sites are not level, which can be challenging for larger vehicles. The campground is primitive with no electrical hookups, so RVers should come prepared for dry camping.
Keep Exploring