Best Campgrounds near Portage, WI

Campgrounds near Portage, Wisconsin provide a range of developed camping options within a short drive of the city. Several established campgrounds like Sky High Camping Resort and Indian Trails Campground offer year-round or seasonal access with amenities for tent and RV campers. The area features multiple state parks including Mirror Lake and Devils Lake with campgrounds like Quartzite, Northern Lights, and Ice Age that accommodate both tent and RV camping. Most developed sites in the region include standard amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restroom facilities, with many offering electrical hookups and some providing full water and sewer connections.

Access to campgrounds varies seasonally, with most facilities in the Portage area operating from April through October. Several campgrounds including Pride of America Camping Resort and Duck Creek Campground close during winter months due to Wisconsin's cold temperatures and snowfall. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer weekends and holidays when campgrounds frequently reach capacity. Many campgrounds in the region feature waterfront sites along lakes or ponds, though these premium locations typically fill first. Facilities at most developed campgrounds include showers, restrooms, and dump stations, with varying levels of hookups depending on the specific campground. As one camper noted, "Just about every site in the campground is desirable with amenities all around. Great place to stay for families with kids of all ages."

The camping experience around Portage combines recreational opportunities with convenient amenities. Family-oriented activities are prevalent at many campgrounds, with swimming pools, fishing ponds, playgrounds and organized weekend events. Several visitors mentioned the appeal of water-based recreation, with one camper sharing that "There's so much to do here you could stay for a week and never get bored! There's the newly renovated outdoor pool area, the swimming lake with an inflatable playground, a pond to fish, kayak/canoe/paddle boat on." Campgrounds in the region tend to be well-maintained with clean facilities. Sites vary from wooded and private to open and social, with multiple campgrounds offering cabin rentals and glamping options in addition to traditional tent and RV sites. The proximity to Wisconsin Dells (approximately 30 minutes away) makes Portage campgrounds popular bases for exploring regional attractions.

Best Camping Sites Near Portage, Wisconsin (167)

    1. Quartzite Campground — Devils Lake State Park

    46 Reviews
    Baraboo, WI
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 947-2757

    "There is something for everyone at Devils Lake State Park."

    "The new warden situation is interesting. Things have gotten a lot more strict in some areas (ex."

    2. Ice Age Campground — Devils Lake State Park

    43 Reviews
    Baraboo, WI
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 356-8301

    "Much to do at Devil's Lake and surrounding area. features multiple campgrounds and multiple areas for swimming. A beach at the North and South of the lake."

    "It is up and away from the rest of the park a bit and typically almost every site has full shade. This is important in the summer months."

    3. Northern Lights Campground — Devils Lake State Park

    34 Reviews
    Baraboo, WI
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 356-8301

    "Views like these are hard to beat in Wisconsin, or anywhere really. The cliffs on the side of the lake are phenomenal."

    "Aside from some of the windy paths, this place is really nice and peaceful to stay. You can go to Devils Lake and kayak or canoe and swim. Overall a beautiful place in Wisconsin!"

    4. Indian Trails Campground

    9 Reviews
    Pardeeville, WI
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 429-3244

    "I have been camping at Indian Trails for almost 30 years, since I was a lil tike!"

    "Camp surrounds a lake which you can find activities galore on one side of the camp and peace and quiet on the other side with plenty of campsites near the water."

    5. Duck Creek Campground

    9 Reviews
    Pardeeville, WI
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 429-2425

    $45 - $110 / night

    "Duck Creek, for my money, is the best place in SE Wisconsin. Staff is friendly, sites are big, food is awesome, and when it’s time for quiet, it’s quiet."

    "we are actually having a blast at this Campground campsites are located right next to the playground so we can watch the kids from the campsite"

    6. Wisconsin Dells KOA

    23 Reviews
    Wisconsin Dells, WI
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 254-4177

    "My family and I stayed at this Wisconsin Dells KOA location for two nights (site 61) as the first stop on a 3+ week trip, and it fully met our expectations"

    "We stayed at KOA in Wisconsin dells, which was about a mile away from everything.  We called to RSVP. Which was a breeze."

    7. Pride of America Camping Resort

    7 Reviews
    Pardeeville, WI
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 742-6395

    "A huge water fight between the whole campground and they even drive a fire truck through."

    "We go as a group usually around the 4th of July every year. Their activities are great, the poker run, and candy bingo are great!"

    8. Sandstone Ridge Campground — Mirror Lake State Park

    21 Reviews
    Lake Delton, WI
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 254-2333

    "The lake, when we went in late August/Early September had a lot of algae on it and wasn't really good to swim, but they do have boat rentals and fishing. It is generally a beautiful lake."

    "Mirror lake is quickly becoming one of our favorite campgrounds in Wisconsin. The sites are decent size and spaced for privacy. Some loops have group sites where you book 2 sites that are connected."

    9. Bluewater Bay Campground — Mirror Lake State Park

    20 Reviews
    Lake Delton, WI
    17 miles
    Website

    $15 / night

    "Echo Rock trail is a great hike around rock formation. I was disappointed when I realized how far away the shower/toilets are away from ever loop in the campground."

    "One group of younger people next to us that were pretty respectful with noise level. There is a dump and potable water fill for rvs between the entrance and this campground."

    10. Sky High Camping Resort

    6 Reviews
    Portage, WI
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 742-2572

    "Close to the dells."

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Recent Reviews near Portage, WI

814 Reviews of 167 Portage Campgrounds


  • Amy G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 19, 2025

    Kennedy County Park

    Great price for a little campground

    Not the most elaborate campground or the best I stayed at, but the price was right for what you get. The sites are large. You could add a tent or RV to any of them, but some are tighter to get into than others because of the road and how it turns.

    There's a little playground and lots of open space. Each site has a fire pit, but I don't believe there's firewood available for purchase. There are some vault toilets here.

    Cost is only $15 cash and it's first come first serve. No reservations.

    I believe that they raised the rate on April 1st. It's now $15, but in this day and age of price gouging that's actually a bargain for a campsite. It's primitive, but it's nicely kept.

    A little train noise from the distance, but if you like the sound of a train horn, it's very soothing.

  • Operation_Fun ..
    Sep. 18, 2025

    Camp Shin-Go-Beek

    A lovely place to relax - Lower Bluff

    This campsite was great! Incredibly peaceful with a ton of beautiful birds singing throughout the day, relatively private (even with fellow campers in the area), and a short walk to the private beach at the lake. It’s a semi-primitive with pit toilets and a potable water spigot. Ian was a great host and even checked on us to offer shelter in the admin building before a storm rolled through. We loved this spot so much, we went back the following summer, and it was just as relaxing. Being able to swim and float in the lake is an added bonus.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Fon du Lac County Waupun Park

    Oak/hickory forest

    The campground is in a beautiful oak/hickory forest with many birds, chipmunks and skeeters(pack protection). We stayed on site 22 which was a nine minute walk from the toilet and had a street light. There are water spigots throughout. Site 21 or 23 would be better. The sites are large and the ones on the outside of the loop are very private. The campground was quiet, especially after dark! There is a train horn occasionally, but it’s distant. The showers were hot and clean. The playground was fun. There is a pickle ball court, so bring paddles. There is also a walking trail.

  • Julia B.
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Buckhorn State Park Campground

    West shore sites

    We usually stay at the east shore sites but tried the west shore this time. The shore was not as level as the east side sites but still sandy and shallow for swimming. We could hear the bar blaring music across the lake until 10 or 11pm . There are more trees now than the website pictures show so there is some privacy between sites. Mosquitos were the worst i have ever experienced. The second we got out of the car they were all over us. We used the heaviest deet possible nonstop.

  • Julia B.
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Sandstone Ridge Campground — Mirror Lake State Park

    Beautiful lake

    The lake is great for kayaking. Lots of sandstone cliffs. We only did 2 hiking trails but they were well maintained. The site was good. The 202 area has a parking lot for 4 sites and a very short walk to the sites. Fire pit and picnic table were in good shape. The highway noise is loud and some military jets kept flying overhead. The raccoons were brutal. They broke into our crates twice. Smart enough to figure out the clip mechanism. Overall good site but a little noisy.

  • J
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Fon du Lac County Waupun Park

    Peaceful wooded camping

    Quiet level throughout. Spots for a couple tents and a camper at each site. Disc golf and a small fishing area. Golf course right next-door so close you could walk to. Most of the sites were in a wooded area, which gives you some privacy. Only downfall for us was distance to the restroom as there’s only one so if you’re in the back of the campground, you gotta walk all the way upfront.

  • alicianlv The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Waupun Park Campground

    Waupun County Park WI - Campground

    Family friendly campground, playgrounds, pickle ball court, showers, clean bathrooms, fire rings, shared water spigots & power at camp site. There is an outdoor pavilion for groups, firewood for sale at host. Lamp posts light camp road but not overwhelming. Nice shaded sites with mature white oak trees. Enjoyed and recommend if looking for full service campsite.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Wisconsin Riverside Resort

    THIS PLACE HAS IT ALL!!

    This campground was fabulous! Great pool, restaurant, live music, and Pickle Ball! Well kept facility. It has a security gate, which I really appreciated.

  • Kathy L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground

    Pros, cons, and Caution!

    PROS: large private sites with good space between them in a lovely wooded setting. Very nice hiking trails right from campground. Lake & pet swim area.

    CONS: no water, mosquitos. And… major CAUTION for RVs: there is an oak tree near entry with low branches and it took the AC off our friend’s fifth wheel. There is also a low hanging overpass and it took the roofs off TWO fifth wheels while we were staying there. Major damage on roof and internally - the RV had to be totaled and replaced. Terrible signage in park does not indicate height of bridge or warn about the oak tree. Our friends reported that the camp host said the park knows about these hazards but hasn’t taken care of them so she will “remind them” for their task list in November.


Guide to Portage

Camping near Portage, Wisconsin, offers a mix of beautiful parks and campgrounds that cater to different camping styles. Whether you prefer tent camping or RVing, there’s something for everyone in this scenic area.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Devils Lake State Park. One camper mentioned, “The hikes were the nicest I’ve seen in the surrounding areas,” making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Swimming: Enjoy the refreshing waters at the beach in Quartzite Campground — Devils Lake State Park. A reviewer noted, “The best beach around, crystal clear, shallow water was perfect for our young kids to play in.”
  • Fishing: Cast a line at Buckhorn State Park Campground. One visitor shared, “There was an eagle fishing in the bay with us,” highlighting the area's natural beauty.

What campers like:

  • Privacy: Campers appreciate the spacious sites at Northern Lights Campground — Devils Lake State Park. A happy camper said, “Sites are large and open, clean bathrooms and so much to do at Devils Lake.”
  • Clean Facilities: Many visitors rave about the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A reviewer from Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground mentioned, “Bathrooms were clean and the showers were warm.”
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Wisconsin Dells KOA are noted for being kid-friendly. One parent said, “The campground is kid-friendly, with a playground and a pool.”

What you should know:

  • Busy During Peak Season: Campgrounds can get crowded, especially on weekends. A visitor at Ice Age Campground — Devils Lake State Park noted, “Saturday got a bit too crowded, but otherwise it was a great stay.”
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A camper at Governor Dodge State Park mentioned, “The vibe here wasn’t for us. Various sites had music playing loud enough for us to hear.”
  • Check Site Conditions: Before booking, check the specific site conditions. A reviewer at Northern Lights Campground warned, “Some sites have quite a bit of slant but it’s workable.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the Right Campground: Look for family-friendly options like Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground. A parent shared, “Great beach, lots of space with picnic tables.”
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have activities planned. A camper at Hartman Creek State Park Campground said, “Lots of trails and beach access. Great for bikes and kayaks.”
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring along items to keep everyone comfortable. A visitor at Buckhorn State Park Campground noted, “The site had a picnic table and fire ring that we used a lot.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Wisconsin Dells KOA mentioned, “Tight spots and narrow roads but convenient location.”
  • Use Local Resources: Stock up on supplies nearby. A visitor at Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground said, “There is also a cute little general store just outside of the park that is well-stocked with necessities.”
  • Plan for Noise: Be prepared for some noise, especially near popular campgrounds. A reviewer at Governor Dodge State Park noted, “The campsites here are deep with lots of greenery, but it can get loud.”

Camping around Portage, Wisconsin, has its perks and quirks. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a memorable outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there RV parks or RV rental services in Portage, Wisconsin?

Fox Hill RV Park & Campground is a well-maintained RV park near Portage with full hookup sites. The park offers amenities including a swimming pool, a blue-dyed swimming pond, and convenient firewood and ice delivery service directly to your site. The first loop has tight but shaded spaces, while the newer area offers more room. For another option, The Playful Goose Campground provides spacious lots that back up to forested areas, creating a peaceful setting where you might spot deer daily. For RV rentals, check with these parks directly as many have partnerships with local rental companies.

What campgrounds are available in Portage, Wisconsin?

Portage offers several camping options for outdoor enthusiasts. Sky High Camping Resort is located near Portage and features reservable sites with water, toilets, and is big-rig friendly with drive-in access. Another nearby option is Buckhorn State Park Campground, which offers a unique camping experience with secluded sites completely separated by trees, providing excellent privacy. The park features beautiful landscapes that stand out from typical Midwest camping areas. Several other campgrounds are within a short drive, including those at Mirror Lake State Park and Wisconsin Dells.

What camping options are available near Portage County, Wisconsin?

The Portage County area offers diverse camping experiences. Rocky Arbor State Park Campground provides a quiet retreat close to Wisconsin Dells attractions while maintaining distance from traffic and noise. For water activities, Cliffwood Campground — Mirror Lake State Park features excellent facilities including a beach, boat ramp, and a lake that's perfect for canoeing and kayaking. The park contains several camping areas to choose from. Families might enjoy William G. Lunney Lake Farm Campground, a reasonably priced county park with generous spaces, many featuring electric hookups and senior discounts.