Camping sites near Pittsville, Wisconsin lie within the Central Sands region, an area characterized by sandy soils and numerous lakes formed by glacial activity. Most campsites in this region sit between 1,000-1,200 feet elevation, creating moderate temperature variations between day and night even during summer months. Water features heavily influence campground selection, with waterfront sites typically reserved 3-4 months in advance for peak season.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Big Eau Pleine Park Campground, campers can fish for multiple species including walleye and bass. As one visitor noted, "Good fishing in lake for walleye. Campground is clean and has showers."
Water recreation: The beach area at Pigeon Creek Campground offers swimming in a distinctive setting. "The water is a fun shade of root beer, this is from the trees and mosses leaching into the water. The water is tested weekly to make sure that it is safe to swim in. A lot of people had stand up paddleboards and kayaks."
Trail exploration: Multiple parks offer hiking options ranging from beginner to intermediate difficulty. A camper at Pigeon Creek mentioned, "Nice 1.5 mile nature walk around lake and certain sites have nice privacy. Would come back."
Geocaching adventures: Several parks provide GPS units for geocaching. One visitor to Buckhorn State Park recalled, "When we arrived and checked in we grabbed one of their pre-loaded GPS units for Geocaching; It's something the park offers for free. They give you a bag, GPS and information book on all the Geocaching sites."
What campers like
Waterfront access: Many campers specifically seek lakefront sites. A visitor to Buckhorn State Park Campground shared, "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."
Privacy between sites: Despite being established campgrounds, many offer good separation. At Pigeon Creek, a reviewer noted, "Each one is private. Each one is nestled in the trees (with very few exceptions). Each has a fire pit, picnic table, very easy access for a car or trailer to pull in, and they all seemed fairly flat."
Sunsets and views: Scenic vistas rank high in camper satisfaction. At South Wood County Park, one camper shared, "We were lucky and snagged a lakefront site. There are some sites that are not well defined, with grass pads, and some paved pads."
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards receive positive mentions across multiple campgrounds. A visitor to Big Eau Pleine commented, "Pit type bathrooms were scattered around, and were very clean. About 2 toilets per little structure, and they all had hand sanitizer at the door."
What you should know
Insect considerations: Ticks and mosquitoes are frequently mentioned in reviews. A camper at Pigeon Creek warned, "LOTS OF TICKS be aware to check yourself and any pets you may bring. Site was nice, hike felt transformative and lake was incredible to jump in after."
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds experience seasonal algae issues. One visitor to Petenwell Park mentioned, "Not much in the line of modernization. Trees separate sites. People talk with one another. No big towns, so not a wide selection of groceries. Mostly swimming, boating, socializing, campfires. Lots of bugs."
Limited supplies: Remote locations mean planning ahead. A reviewer noted, "Great area, nice boat lunch. But bring what you need as the closest gas station is 15 miles away."
Shower timing: Some facilities have timed showers. At South Wood County Park, one camper advised, "Be ready for a timed shower - 7 minutes on, and 5 minutes off, which can be very frustrating."
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming areas ideal for children. At Wilderness Park, a camper noted, "Nice separation from other campers, Great Lake view, boating, swimming, picnic area, showers clean and well kept up!"
Playground access: Several parks feature play equipment. A Pigeon Creek visitor mentioned, "New jungle gym for the kids, great 1.5 mile nature walk around lake and certain sites have nice privacy."
Free fishing equipment: Some parks provide fishing gear for children. A Buckhorn visitor shared, "In the morning we took the girls fishing off the dock and then over to the kids pond; the park also offers free poles and tackle."
Accessibility options: Parks often offer sites designed for families with special needs. At Big Eau Pleine Park, a camper reported, "I stay on the handicapped site. It's big it's level near the bathroom which is a big plus LOL. The whole campgrounds very very nice. They have a place to ride horses play Frisbee swim fish I love this place and you will."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For larger rigs, research is essential. At Lakeside Fire Campground & Waterpark, one RVer noted, "Not our typical type of campground but absolutely no complaints. Very friendly atmosphere and more comfortable sized sites than we expected considering what we typically look for."
Hookup availability: Electric options vary between parks. A visitor to South Wood County Park detailed, "30-50 amp electrical. No sewer or water at sites but dump station and drinking water is available."
Season length: Many campgrounds have limited operating seasons. A Petenwell Park camper advised, "We went to petenwell park in just 2024. Very nice place and will be back again. Staff that we did talk to were friendly and helpful. If you want to bring a boat you can there is a landing in the park."
Pad surfaces: Site conditions affect leveling requirements. An RVer at South Wood County Park noted, "There are some sites that are not well defined, with grass pads, and some paved pads. Most have electric, and there's a dump station and water fill."
