Cabins near Ontario, Wisconsin provide outdoor access to the Driftless Region, an unglaciated landscape characterized by steep ridges, deep valleys, and cold water streams. Elevation variations throughout the area create diverse environments for camping, with many sites situated along creeks and rivers. Winter cabin availability exists at several campgrounds with seasonal amenities adjusting accordingly.
What to do
Bike the Elroy-Sparta Trail: Access one of North America's first rails-to-trails projects directly from Tunnel Trail Campground where campers can ride through historic tunnels. "The Elroy Sparta Bike Trail runs through the Tunnel Trail Campground. The campground is very nice, especially for tents and smaller campers and caters to bicyclists," notes Cindy B., who adds, "We rode from Norcross to Rockland with a stop in Sparta at the Market Tavern. We enjoyed the hot ham and cheese sandwich, fried mushrooms, and excellent brown ale."
Trout fishing: Cast a line in one of the region's cold water streams at Westfork Sports Club & Campground. The campground sits on the banks of the West Fork of the Kickapoo River, known for its trout populations. Westfork Sports Club member explains, "The club raises trout and does conservation work locally helping the environment. Onsite showers and flush toilets."
Water recreation: Swim, paddle, or fish at multiple water access points within short drives. Buckhorn State Park Campground offers multi-use water access on Castle Rock Lake. Camper Julia B. shares, "The shore was not as level as the east side sites but still sandy and shallow for swimming." The park provides equipment for visitors: "The park also offers free poles and tackle," according to Liz M.
What campers like
Peaceful settings: Campers consistently mention the quiet environment at locations like Chaparral Campground And Resort. Lindsay L. describes it as "quiet, clean, fun" and adds that it's "perfect for families with young children that don't like the chaos of other campgrounds."
Military connection: Pine View Campground at Fort McCoy offers a unique experience with daily military traditions. Dan K. explains, "Reveille, call to mess, retreat, tattoo and taps daily. If you were in the military and haven't heard bugle calls for a while, this is the place." The campground maintains excellent facilities as Jesse M. notes: "The sites were paved and level. Nicely wooded and made it easy to setup a hammock as well."
Varied accommodation options: From rustic to modern cabins, the area offers multiple price points and comfort levels. At Whiskey Creek Family RV Park, campers find "clean bathrooms! Some of the nicest I have seen with free showers," according to a reviewer. The park balances natural settings with amenities: "Enjoyed the nature trails and fly fishing for trout on the riverbank. Very peaceful and relaxing."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules, typically April through October. Oakdale KOA runs from April 18 to October 19 and offers different services during shoulder seasons. Cynthia K. shares practical details: "We didn't feel like tackling Illinois at the end of the day, so we planned a stop here. Check in was pleasant. We were in the back by the bathroom, which was my request. Lots of shady trees."
Highway noise: Several campgrounds sit close to major highways for convenience but create noise issues. Bob R. explains about Oakdale KOA: "The campground is super easy to get to as it is adjacent to I-90 which means you'll also deal with highway noise. The noise becomes just background after a while and the full hookups mean running the RV air conditioner at night somewhat blocks the traffic sounds."
Insect concerns: Bug activity varies by location and season but can be significant. At Buckhorn State Park, Kalene H. warns, "The ticks here are so tiny they're very easy to miss so look out for those. Also the mosquitos never let up - even in the rain." Another camper notes, "Mosquitos were the worst I have ever experienced. The second we got out of the car they were all over us."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Look for sites with shallow water swimming. At Buckhorn State Park, campers appreciate the child-friendly waterfront. "Our campsite was secluded and was right next to the water. There were steps leading straight into the water and it was fairly shallow with a lot of sand- perfect if you have kids," explains Brandon C.
Activity variety: Select campgrounds with multiple recreation options. Chaparral combines several family activities as one visitor describes: "They have a pool for a cooling dip in the summer heat. Run across the road and they have a pond for fishing or for the kids a huge floating play ground!"
Bikes welcome: Many campgrounds have bike-friendly roads or connect to trails. Alexander V. notes about Tunnel Trail Campground: "There's a mini golf course which may have seen better days but is still playable and an older wooden play set. My kids enjoyed playing in [the creek] that runs through the middle of the campground."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RV sites vary in size and privacy throughout the region. At Pine View Campground - Fort McCoy, Dan K. mentions "large sites" as a positive feature, while at Tunnel Trail Campground, Becky M. cautions, "We had difficulty getting to our site as tight corners for rigs 38 feet or more."
Hookup availability: Most cabin areas share facilities with RV sections. Oakdale KOA offers full hookups with electricity, water and sewer connections. Joe B. notes practical laundry details: "No change machine for the laundry, but when the store is open, you can purchase a $10 bag of quarters!"
Proximity to services: Consider distance to essential supplies when booking. Bob R. points out Oakdale KOA's convenient location: "Lots to do in the area with the Wisconsin Dells less than 30 minutes away and Tomah is less than 10 minutes the other direction... Bonus: A convenience store/fuel station including truck diesel lanes is just outside the entrance to the campground for easy fill ups before you hit the road."
