Tent campsites near North Freedom, Wisconsin exist primarily within state parks and county forests in the area. Winter access is limited at most sites with seasonal closures from November through April. During summer months, temperatures average 78-82°F with higher humidity levels necessitating proper ventilation for tent camping comfort.
What to do
Bike trail access: The New Glarus State Park Campground connects directly to the Sugar River Trail, providing cyclists with paved routes suitable for casual riding. "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.
Rock climbing: Devils Lake State Park Group Campground offers climbing opportunities on quartzite formations. "Went with an outdoor adventure class, views were beautiful, climbing was great! Campgrounds were clean and had easy access to water, got a visit from some local raccoons at night, overall experience was great!" reports AC S.
Fishing options: Multiple lakes at Governor Dodge State Park provide fishing opportunities for tent campers. "Back packing sites are 1/2-1 mile hike from parking lot. Great hike threw out the state park. 2 main lakes with great fishing is a plus. Lots to do for the whole family," writes Nick C.
What campers like
Site spacing: Many campers appreciate the site layouts at Hickory Ridge Group Camp for gatherings. "Spacious sites, lots of availability to swim and hike. Will definitely come back," notes Matthew O.
Easy backpacking: Governor Dodge State Park Backpack Campsites offer accessible backcountry experiences. "Great backpack base camp! Great views, plenty of privacy and an easy hike. We stayed at 806," writes Erin Z.
Walk-in seclusion: Many tent campers prefer walk-in sites for additional privacy. "Although the park is tiny and you can't really escape the sound of the road, the walk-in sites are spaced out well and heavily wooded. Perfect for a quick escape from city life," mentions Shelagh R. about New Glarus Woods.
What you should know
Toilet facilities: Vault toilets serve most primitive camping areas and vary in cleanliness. "This is a small, rustic campground with water and vault toilets. The outhouses are in need of some TLC or just a once through with a leaf blower," notes Kate B. about New Glarus.
Wildlife encounters: Expect wildlife interactions at established campgrounds. "The birds near the group camp are cool, but can also sound like a large pack of dinosaurs squawking at each other...very loud," reports Jon D.
Water access: Devils Lake State Park Group Campground provides centralized water collection points. "Next to the bathrooms is a water pump where you can collect water and haul it back to your site. The sites are heavily wooded which protects from rain but also means they are dirt with a ton of leaves," mentions Sarah F.
Tips for camping with families
Family-friendly terrain: The level ground in certain areas makes setup easier with children. "There was a spring on our site! We hiked in a bit to a wooded quiet site. The toilets were clean. The playground was great. We spent the day exploring our Swiss heritage in New Glarus," reports Kay K.
Moderate hiking options: New Glarus State Park Campground offers less strenuous trail options suitable for younger hikers. "Small area with lovely prairie trails" that are manageable for families, according to Danielle A.
Group site considerations: Family groups benefit from dedicated areas. "We went during the week and it kept the crowds to a minimum. The south shore beach was best and we took the East Bluff trail to do some rock climbing with the kids. Reserved the group camp for three families, cost was $40 a night for a secluded, spacious, clean group site," shares Jon D.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For tent campers sharing campgrounds with RVs, choosing sites away from main roads improves the experience. "I would have thought they updated these by now. Creaky wood doors, BRIGHT lights, and always buggy. And of course the gross smell when it really heats up. But, at least there's a toilet," notes Dana B. about vault toilet facilities that affect both RV and tent campers.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects sound levels at certain campgrounds. "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," cautions Katie K., highlighting the importance of site selection for tent campers near North Freedom.
