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Best Tent Camping near Newton, WI

531 Reviews

Tent campsites near Newton, Wisconsin include both established campgrounds and dispersed options within state forests. Campers looking for primitive tent setups can explore R.J.D. Memorial Hardwood State Forest, where the Reno Horse Campground area offers hike-in tent sites with natural surroundings. Yellow River State Forest's Camp Glen Wendel, located in neighboring Iowa, provides backpacking opportunities with multiple backcountry tent sites along hiking trails.

Most tent-only areas feature basic fire rings and pit sites on natural terrain with minimal development. Sites at Sparta Campground along the Elroy-Sparta State Trail are described as "basic, with water, pit toilets, tables and fire rings." While some locations like Houston Nature Center offer drinking water and shower facilities, many primitive tent areas require campers to pack in all necessary supplies. Interstate noise can impact some sites, particularly at Sparta Campground, where one camper noted that "highway noise was indeed bad, all weekend long." During peak seasons, backcountry sites in popular areas fill quickly.

Areas farther from developed campgrounds offer deeper forest immersion with fewer amenities but greater solitude. The tent-only backcountry sites at Yellow River State Forest provide scenic camping with good trail access. According to one visitor, "The sanctioned campsites are beautiful and you will feel like you missed out if you skip them." Tent campers frequently use these areas as bases for multi-day backpacking loops, with many sites situated in lush forested terrain. Backpackers should note that some trails in Yellow River State Forest are shared with equestrian users. Summer brings dense greenery and occasional wildlife encounters, while fall offers colorful foliage with fewer insects and crowds at most primitive tent locations.

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Best Tent Sites Near Newton, Wisconsin (15)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Newton, WI

14 Photos of 15 Newton Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Newton, WI

531 Reviews of 15 Newton Campgrounds

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 26, 2022

    Camp John Schultz — Yellow River State Forest

    Nice back country state forest site

    Hiked into this Camp that includes 5 primitive sites: fire rings and benches. Lush dense forest with intermediate hiking including typical summer insects. Leave No Trace ethics include: minimizes fire impacts by gathering only dead, down, wood. Sounded by nature atop of hill hike near Fire tower ( only fire tower in Iowa), cell reception is found up here.

  • Jen L.
    Aug. 23, 2018

    Wyalusing State Park Campground

    Fantastic get away

    Located on the far western edge of Wisconsin this state park offers a little of everything - hiking trails connected to the camp grounds, boat access to the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers, overlook of where the Wisconsin River meets the Mississippi River, showers and flush toilets, playground/basketball/tennis courts, etc. Depending on what part of the park you are in (and the season) you can be away from it all or have almost all the comforts of home. There are 2 campgrounds within the park - Homestead (back in the woods and a little more rustic with vault toilets and no showers) and Ridge (on the bluff). Also both an indoor group site and outdoor group site. Campsites are mix of RV (+/- electric) and tent. Ridge Campground sites- located on the bluff they stay dry even when the rivers are at flood level. Some sites have views of the river right from the tent/RV. During peak season you will definitely need a reservation (likely months in advance), but there are a few same day spots held in reserve. Also during peak season there is a concession stand near the campground and boat rental (canoe/kayak) near the boat launch (neither were open when I camped there but were on a separate day trip)

    A short drive from the state park is Effigy Mounds National Monument with additional trails and a reverse of the scenic view (looking south and east instead of west/northwest). Definitely worth a look since its FREE and so close by. Also in the area is Villa Louis (historical homestead) which can be toured for a modest fee (good rainy day activity). If coming from Madison area be sure to check out some of the small wineries along the drive either to or from the park.

  • Mary S.
    Aug. 19, 2018

    Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest

    Small campground has nearby hiking and fishing

    This review is for Yellow River State Forest's Big Paint Campground which consists of sites 35 through 61. Big Paint is a couple miles from Little Paint, a larger campground with 70+ sites. There are two equestrian campgrounds (Creekside and Little Frontier with sites numbered 1 through 34) as well as hike in campgrounds for backpackers. A photo of an area map is included.

    Why did we choose Big Paint instead of Little Paint?

    It's smaller and that's just our personal preference. There were only 4 sites occupied early Friday afternoon and a few more were reserved. We liked site 35, the first site on the left as you enter. This site is like being in a garden with trees and flowers surrounding the site. It had rained and more rain was coming, so the gravel parking pad on #35 was appealing. Most of the sites are completely on the grass.

    Activities

    Stocked trout streams are an attraction for fishermen; see photo of stocking calendar. We enjoyed hiking despite the mosquitoes and humidity in August and were able to make a 5+ mile loop leaving from the campground. You can also hike from Little Paint, and there are equestrian trails. This would also be a good area for X-country skiing and snowmobiling. A photo of the trail map is included. Caution: hunting is allowed in the non-campground area of the state forest.

    Amenities

    Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. Other than that, you can dispose of your trash and use a vault toilet. There's water at the information center (and a camp host site) outside the campground about 100 yards to the left.

    Cost

    You're not getting much (and that's not a bad thing) so the $9 fee seems fair. Pay up front at the entrance station, or make a reservation online at last 2 days ahead of time (and pay a reservation fee). There are 7 non-reservable sites at Big Paint. I doubt that Big Paint fills up; just check the reservation site to see if they get crowded.

    https://iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com/camping/yellow-river-state-forest/r/campsiteSearch.do?search=site&page=siteresult&contractCode=IA&parkId=610130

  • GoWhereYouAreDraw N.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 23, 2019

    Prairie Island City Campground

    Great introductory campground

    Prairie Island has all of you basic amenities without being too far from town. This campground isn’t for everybody -- if you’re looking for extreme adventure and wilderness, this is not the place for you. If you’re interested in getting into camping and not investing the money into all the gear or having direct river access, this is the place for you! They seriously rent it all. Paddleboards, kayaks, canoes, tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and dutch ovens. The camp store sells all of the basics and fishing supplies. The shower house has flush toilets and pit toilets are located throughout the campground.

    Personally, this campground is not the type that I like to stay at but it is really great for the type that wants to get into camping or the camper trailer type. Unfortunately, not enough activities to do besides boating on the river.

  • Kim The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2020

    Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground

    Wonderful cart in sites

    The cart in sites are fantastic at Wildcat Mountain! Each site is spacious with most heavily treed for shade. Each site has a nice large flat pad for a tent or two, fire ring, bench and picnic table. Proximity to potable water, vault or modern toilets and designated parking are all within 400 yards of all sites. 

    The park is located in the Kickapoo valley area where the driftless area is amazing to hike. You can kayak or tube down the river that is flanked by high limestone bluffs. The hiking trails are well maintained. There is also extensive horse trails, a beautiful outdoor ampitheater for viewing sunsets and access to the river right in the park. 

    The campers were respectful and quiet. Our campsite was fairly clean when we arrived. Contactless registration due to covid 19. That made getting set up quick and easy!  The cart provided was fairly big for less trips. I would happily camp here again!

  • ERolf P.
    Aug. 29, 2016

    Perrot State Park Campground

    Group Camping, Hiking, and Water Sports

    Wonderful time in Perrot State Park. Camped in the group campground, site A. Plenty of room for many tents, and nice level ground to pitch tents on. Huge fire ring for large group fires, and both a large grill on the fire ring, and freestanding charcoal grill. Lots of options for hiking and walking in the park with more than 13 miles of trails. We did a 5 mile hike up and over two of the more popular bluffs. We also did a two-three hour canoe/kayak trip and had a blast.

    There is not a swimming beach at the park, so if you're into that, you'll have to leave the park, but there is more than enough to do at Perrot State Park.

  • Erin Z.
    Jul. 21, 2024

    Mill Bluff State Park Campground

    Secluded, but noisy.

    We were at site #9, great spot for tent. There were only trees behind us and our neighbors were far enough way we had privacy. There was no electricity, but we charged our phones and my son’s iPad at the ranger station. There was no running water so bring sanitizer. The swimming pond was great and not rocky. The hikes were good but lots of mosquitoes which made it hard to enjoy. Wish there was more to do in the area. No showers and no electricity in the bathroom near our site.

  • Lisa M.
    Jun. 13, 2019

    Pikes Peak State Park Campground

    Beautiful Views

    Some of the spots are a little uneven. Bring some leveling devices. This a very peaceful campground. Fire rings are on cement. Can find fire starters everywhere. No bugs in the 1st of June when we were there. Will plan on going back for sure. Reserve your spots cuz they go fast. If you love a great view and the smell of the outdoors this is your place!

  • GoWhereYouAreDraw N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2018

    Houston Nature Center

    Great location!

    The Nature Center campsite is located at the trail head for the Root River State Bike Trail. Trail Head Park is a nice tent only campground with walk-in sites. A majority of the sites have picnic tables and fire pits. The Nature Center has clean bathrooms and free showers. They recommend donations for the use of the showers.

    $20 per night camping fee. You can pay inside the Nature Center or at the slot between the restroom mirrors. The sites are first come, first serve. Local firewood is available near the restrooms as well; take what you need and leave the center a donation.

    Trail Head Park has a 1 acre natural playground near the campsite. When I visited during the week, I only saw a small group of people using the playground. The playground has a zip line, tree house, small rock wall, and more. Inside the Nature Center, they have interactive and interesting displays. The highlight of this campground is the Root River State Bike Trail and the Owl Center in the town of Houston.

    I'd give the campsite 4/5 review. The location, the bluffs, the bike trail, and center get 5/5 review.

Guide to Newton

Tent camping near Newton, Wisconsin offers a variety of scenic spots where nature lovers can unwind and enjoy the great outdoors. With options ranging from rustic settings to more developed facilities, there's something for everyone.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • At Shady Rest Acres, campers can enjoy clean facilities, including showers and toilets, along with the option to have campfires.
  • Justin Trails Resort provides a charming atmosphere with access to drinking water, picnic tables, and firewood for a cozy camping experience.
  • Houston Nature Center features well-kept showers and bathrooms, making it a convenient choice for tent campers.

Some prices for tent camping range from $10 to $30

  • Camping at Houston Nature Center costs around $10 per night, offering great value for a well-maintained site.
  • Shady Rest Acres provides a unique experience with a price that reflects its charming amenities and beautiful surroundings.
  • For a more rustic experience, Camp Glen Wendel offers primitive camping at no cost, perfect for those looking to escape into nature.

Local attractions to explore while camping

  • While staying at Reno Horse Campground, visitors can hike scenic trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding forest and Mississippi River.
  • Bryes Bad Axe Glamping is near a beautiful stream, providing opportunities for fishing and hiking in a serene environment.
  • The Elroy-Sparta State Trail is easily accessible from the Sparta Campground, making it ideal for biking and exploring the local landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Newton, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Newton, WI is Reno Horse Campground — R.J.D. Memorial Hardwood State Forest with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Newton, WI?

TheDyrt.com has all 15 tent camping locations near Newton, WI, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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