Cabins near Portage, Wisconsin range from simple units to fully-equipped accommodations at family-friendly campgrounds. The area sits at approximately 800 feet elevation with relatively flat terrain between the Wisconsin and Fox Rivers. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, while spring and fall often see temperature swings of 30+ degrees in a single day.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The fishing pond at Indian Trails Campground offers license-free angling for families. "I have been camping at Indian Trails for almost 30 years... There's the newly renovated outdoor pool area, the swimming lake with an inflatable playground, a pond to fish, kayak/canoe/paddle boat on, basketball courts, mini golf, a video game barn, several hiking trails and playgrounds all over the campground."
Kayaking and canoeing: Duck Creek Campground provides creek access for paddling adventures. "Fish in the pond with little ones or walk to Duck Creek with the bigger ones, fishing is pretty good." The calm waters are suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
Nature exploration: Sandstone Ridge Campground at Mirror Lake State Park features extensive trail systems through wooded areas. "Beautiful facility with boat rentals. Lake has boat rentals. Plenty of hiking trails, a lake, newer shower/ bathrooms." Several trails connect directly to campground loops, making day hikes convenient without driving.
What campers like
Swimming options: Pride of America Camping Resort provides multiple water recreation features. "This campground has golf cart rentals, two pools, volley ball courts, laser tag, DJ dances, karaoke in the bar, awesome tasting food, and a nice swimming lake with inflatables."
Special events: Many Portage-area campgrounds host themed weekends throughout camping season. "We have come for the countless event weekends. Halloween, chocolate craziness, wet n wild, pirates weekend, poker run! Our personal favorite, wet n wild. A huge water fight between the whole campground and they even drive a fire truck through."
Cabin variety: Fox Hill RV Park & Campground offers different cabin styles to suit various needs. "Been going to this campground for 10 years. It's under new management and they are making many improvements mostly for the RV sites, new swimming pond and expansion. Nice cabin options and some wooded tent spots."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book cabins 3-6 months in advance for peak season weekends. Sites with electric hookups and cabin rentals fill first, especially at popular campgrounds like Wisconsin Dells KOA.
Cabin pricing: Rates for cabins near Portage typically range from $65-$125 per night depending on amenities, with two-night minimum stays common on weekends. Most require damage deposits of $50-100.
Noise levels: Some campgrounds are quieter than others. "Very quiet in the campground. K9 camps needed poo pick up as some pet owners don't do it. Grounds were clean and relatively well maintained." Consider Skillet Creek Campground for a more peaceful stay: "Management is very vigilant, and very strict with the rules. They've been known to kick out loud groups no shame."
Tips for camping with families
Look for water features: Children particularly enjoy campgrounds with swimming options. "The kids loved the blow ups in the pond. The pool was nice, but a bit colder than the pond. It's heated with a solar cover. There are well kept large outdoor games like chess, connect 4, and checkers."
Rental cabin options: Bluewater Bay Campground at Mirror Lake State Park offers cabin accommodations in a natural setting. "The park was beautiful and quiet. The campsites were very large. We came in a group with multiple cars and tents, but the sites easily accommodated us. The pine trees were gorgeous!"
Playground proximity: Some campgrounds position cabin rentals strategically near play areas. "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."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When booking cabin rentals with RV parking, consider space requirements carefully. "We were in the new part of the campground, the site was level and the full hookups were well placed. Plenty of room and a concrete patio & nice picnic table."
Power considerations: Cabin amenities vary significantly among properties. "Most sites in the back (800s) have amenities and the staff is great." Many cabins have 30-amp service, but kitchen appliances may require careful power management.
Seasonal specials: Off-season cabin rental rates can be 30-40% lower. "We stayed here the last weekend open in 2020. Felt very welcome from check-in to check-out. Owners obviously care about maintenance and upgrades and it shows."
