Petenwell Lake serves as the primary attraction for glamping near Pittsville, Wisconsin, forming the second largest lake in the state at 23,040 acres. The surrounding area's sandy soil creates unique camping conditions, with many sites featuring a mix of grass and sand terrain that drains quickly after rain. Temperatures typically range between 45-80°F during the main May-October camping season, with occasional high humidity levels in mid-summer.
What to do
ATV trail access: Russell Memorial Park offers direct connections to extensive trail systems popular with off-road enthusiasts. "We stayed with a group for Memorial weekend. We have such a great time... Our site was a little hard to get into. We stayed at site 116 with a 40 ft 5th wheel," shares one visitor from Russell Memorial Park.
Rock climbing opportunities: The Petenwell Rock formation near Wilderness Park provides some of the best climbing spots in Wisconsin. "A great campground with out of this world lake views. Most sites come with amazing lake views. Great for watching the sun rise up over the lake," notes one camper. The formation offers routes suitable for climbers of varying experience levels.
Water recreation: Fishing remains a major draw in the region, particularly at East Arbutus Camp, where the lake supports multiple species. "There are a lot of camp sites packed in this place but there is a lot to do. Right on the lake so bring water toys. Nearby you can rent canoes and kayaks which will drop off and pick up right to your site," explains a visitor. Boat rentals typically cost $30-60 per day depending on type.
What campers like
Secluded lakefront sites: Many campers specifically praise the waterfront camping options. "This is a very nice campground for those that don't require resort like amenities. Some sites will come with electric though most are rustic. Some sites with electric can be found with lake access," explains a visitor to Wilderness Park. Most lakefront sites book 3-4 months in advance.
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower facilities receive consistent positive mentions. At Roche A Cri State Park Campground, visitors note: "The pit toilets were clean and well maintained." Another camper adds, "Loved this campground. Not very large so its quiet and the sites are well spaced and wooded."
Natural surroundings: The wooded areas and hiking opportunities appeal to nature enthusiasts. "We stayed in site number nine which is right on Lake. Good fishing in lake for walleye. Campground is clean and has showers," reports a Wilderness Park camper. Another notes: "Nice separation from other campers, Great Lake view, boating, swimming, picnic area, showers clean and well kept up!"
What you should know
Site selection matters: Many campgrounds have varied site conditions and sizes. At Petenwell Park, a visitor explains: "We reserved spot 16 knowing it had lake access (not all spots do)... the park is fairly crowded with lots of seasonal campers... but it's clean, the main bath house is nice and the playground is large."
Distance to supplies: Some campgrounds are remote with limited access to necessities. "Great area, nice boat lunch. But bring what you need as the closest gas station is 15 mils away," cautions a Russell Memorial visitor. Most campgrounds sell firewood on-site, but other supplies require preparation.
Weather considerations: The region experiences seasonal flooding and bug activity. At Pineland Camping Park, a camper notes: "Make sure before you get there your campsite isn't underwater." Another visitor explains: "Prior to our stay they had excessive rain which flooded a lot of parts of the campground and also caused it to be unbearable with mosquitoes even with heavy layer of deep woods off."
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: Several campgrounds feature child-friendly facilities. At Petenwell Park, a camper shares: "We reserved spot 16 knowing it had lake access (not all spots do)... the park is fairly crowded with lots of seasonal campers... but it's clean, the main bath house is nice and the playground is large. Kids are having a great adventure!"
Water activities for kids: Shallow swimming areas make for safe family recreation. A visitor at Pineland Camping Park observes: "Great Campground with younger children. A lot of the activities are designed for 12 and younger... The pool is clean but usually very cold during our week which temps where humid and in the mid to high 80's."
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer junior ranger programs and nature activities. A Roche A Cri visitor recalls: "We camped here once when I was growing up and i can honestly say it was one of my most memorable family camping trips. I remember checking out the petroglyphs and climbing what seemed like a million stairs to the top of the rock formation. Wisconsin state parks has a really great junior ranger type program for kids."
Tips from RVers
Site sizing considerations: Many campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. At Jellystone Park Warrens, one camper notes: "Has to be a top campground for amenities in the area. Our kids loved it. We will be adding this to our regular summer stops." However, another visitor cautions the park can feel "way over crowded compared to what it use to be."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited at most area campgrounds. At Russell Memorial Park, a visitor explains: "The back sites are ATV/UTV site. They have good access to the trails. They seem a bit bigger. I've seen a few toy haulers back there. There are a few full hookup in the center of the campground but not many."
Dump station logistics: Plan for Sunday checkout lines at parks without sewer hookups. "Loved our time at East Lake Arbutus. A warm shallow lake for swimming and boating, dog friendly, safe for kids. Lots of electric sites, but no sites with water or sewer so Sunday checkout there's a line of campers waiting to dump," notes one RVer.
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