New Glarus sits at approximately 1,000 feet above sea level in Wisconsin's Driftless Area, a unique region untouched by glaciers during the last ice age. The surrounding landscape features rolling hills with elevation changes of 200-300 feet, creating varied terrain for camping and hiking. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with humidity levels averaging 70-80% during peak camping season.
What to do
Hiking on established trails: Access the Sugar River Trail directly from New Glarus State Park Campground for miles of biking or walking with your dog. "It is a smaller state park camping wise. There is hiking and mountain bike trails available. 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," notes Phillip J.
Water activities on Lake Yellowstone: The 455-acre lake at Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground offers fishing, kayaking, and swimming options 30 minutes west of New Glarus. "Great park for water activities and hiking! Also had nice shower facilities," writes Phillip J. The lake features a designated swimming beach with "nice beach for kids and adults to relax at and lots of kayaks on the water," according to Ryan K.
Mountain biking: Blue Mound State Park offers dedicated mountain biking trails with varying difficulty levels through wooded areas. "There are a lot of trails for hiking and mountain biking. A swimming pool and picnic area," shares Tammy V. The park maintains several miles of trails specifically designed for mountain bikes with technical features for experienced riders.
What campers like
Proximity to brewery: Many campers appreciate the 1.5-mile distance between New Glarus Woods State Park and the New Glarus Brewing Company. "The park's proximity to the brewery and the restaurants, shops, and bars of New Glarus, can't be beat. Also on the Sugar River Trail so bring your bike!" writes Kate B.
Private wooded sites: Walk-in sites at Blue Mound State Park Campground offer greater seclusion and natural surroundings. "The campground in Blue Mound State Park has well-maintained bathrooms, water faucets nearby, car camping, plus a few hike/bike-in sites. Campsites are all pretty large with seclusion from the neighbors," reports Danielle A. The park maintains sites separated by natural vegetation for privacy.
Observation points: The elevated terrain in the region creates unique viewpoints. "Beautiful glacial area with rolling hills and wonderful views," writes Jeanne M. from Yellowstone Lake State Park. At Brigham Park, "The campground is situated on the smaller mound of bluemounds. A perfect place to star gaze or watch a storm roll in. You can see for miles and miles," notes Braelyn C.
What you should know
Highway noise: Be prepared for traffic sounds at certain campgrounds. "This site is right off a county highway. I was surprised how close it was to the road, and it's not just a road in the state park, it's a highway with thru traffic," notes Kaitlin B. about New Glarus Woods.
Bug preparation: Mosquitoes can be significant during summer months. "It had been raining prior to our visit the trails were not mud pits. Lots of the trails are uneven and larger vehicles may have issues getting level," says Jeanne M. about Yellowstone Lake State Park.
Limited facility hours: Some smaller campgrounds maintain irregular schedules for amenities. "If you haven't reserved a site, there are several sites for walk-ins but you have to be present to sign/obtain them. Check out time is three pm but weekend people often leave earlier in the day," explains Carol W. about William G. Lunney Lake Farm Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Governor Dodge State Park offers designated swimming areas. "Perfect for a family get away - showers, flush toilets, lots of hiking (but trails aren't very challenging), swimming area and boat launch, playground. Basically a little bit of everything that makes it family friendly," writes Jen L.
Playground facilities: Several dog friendly campgrounds near New Glarus feature play areas. "The playground was great. We spent the day exploring our Swiss heritage in New Glarus," shares Kay K. about New Glarus State Park.
Wildlife awareness: Many campers report raccoon activity. "Beware of raccoons at this campground they are BOLD!" warns Jen L. Store food properly in sealed containers, especially at night.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Crazy Horse Campground, carefully choose locations based on planned activities. "We stayed at full hookups site 803. Being right in front of the jumping pillow people didn't walk around. They would cut thru our site. It was really annoying especially with dogs," notes Juliana R., suggesting selecting sites away from high-traffic amenities.
Leveling challenges: Many campsites in the region require leveling equipment. "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," advises Jeanne M.
Low clearance warnings: Watch for height restrictions on approach roads. "Major CAUTION for RVs: 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," warns Kathy L. from Lake Kegonsa State Park.
Scout
