The Wisconsin River creates a natural recreation corridor through Prairie du Sac, offering camping sites within 300 to 1,200 feet above sea level. The region experiences warm summers with average July temperatures around 82°F and winter lows reaching 10°F. Most campgrounds in this area remain open from mid-April through October, with some private facilities extending their season through late fall.
What to do
Water activities beyond swimming: Devils Lake State Park features multiple water recreation options beyond basic swimming. "Being as big as it is though, it can get crowded and loud at times. They don't allow motor boats and have rentals for canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards," notes Melissa K. about Ice Age Campground.
Summit the observation towers: Blue Mound State Park offers unique elevation views. "Climb up into the firetower if you get a chance too!" recommends Grace M. about Blue Mound State Park Campground. The park features wooden observation towers that provide panoramic views across the Wisconsin countryside.
Explore limestone formations: Hiking trails around Devils Lake feature distinctive geological sites. "We did an evening hike up the bluffs to watch the fireworks from Baraboo," reports Nick H. about his experience at Northern Lights Campground. The trails range from beginner-friendly paths to more challenging routes with significant elevation changes.
What campers like
Spacious primitive sites: While Devils Lake gets crowded, alternative parks offer more seclusion. "We found the site to be exceptionally wooded, and very private. It was a little difficult to find a level spot for our 10X10 tent, and all options were directly under the trees," notes Celina M. about her stay at Northern Lights Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The Wisconsin River corridor provides habitat for diverse wildlife. "Eagles everywhere. Great fishing," writes Adam about the Lower Wisconsin Riverway. The free sandbar camping along the riverway creates opportunities for bird watching in a remote setting.
Modern amenities in natural settings: Many campgrounds maintain quality facilities despite rural locations. "Very clean grounds, clean rentals, rentals start at $125 to $200," notes James about Cedar Hills Campground. Multiple parks in the region offer shower houses with hot water and electrical hookups for those seeking conveniences.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Devil's Lake campgrounds require significant advance planning. "Reservations are a must. This is a busy park as it has lots to offer in the way of outdoor activities," explains Jessica H. from her Ice Age Campground experience. Peak season sites should be booked 11 months in advance, especially for holiday weekends.
Traffic noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience road noise despite natural settings. At Bluewater Bay Campground, Hannah O. notes: "Campsite was great, the only downside was its proximity to the freeway, meaning that you could hear traffic at almost all times." Sites farther from main roads typically provide quieter experiences.
Campsite privacy variability: Site seclusion varies significantly within each campground. "If you want privacy, some spots are better than others. There are a lot of wide open sites with no trees or vegetation, so it's like staying on someone's yard with a bunch of strangers," warns Siobhan R. about Mirror Lake State Park. Research site maps before booking for maximum privacy.
Tips for camping with families
Pool and splash pad access: Mirror Lake and other parks offer swimming alternatives to the often-crowded Devil's Lake beaches. "The pool is very nice and very clean. There is a pool section and a splash section. There are chairs and lounges around both and shade awnings. The cost is $3 for and adult and $2 for child," shares Debra M. about Blue Mound State Park Campground.
Kid-friendly activities: Many campgrounds organize special events for children. "Super fun campground with so much to do! Lots of games for all up by lodge. DJ dance party on the deck at night. Lake full of all kinds of floats the kids can climb and jump on," reports Tracy C. about Merry Mac's Campground.
Wildlife awareness: Local wildlife may visit campsites. "When we showed up there was a fallen tree taking up half of the road and for our entire stay it was never removed. My neighbors left out garbage and so i was up all night with racoons trashing their site," notes Rebecca B. about her experience at Mirror Lake. Secure food items and maintain a clean site to minimize unwanted animal encounters.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: RV sites vary significantly in accommodation capacity. "We are 50 feet with truck and camper and still have a good 15-20 feet to the road. Slightly tight backing in but not too much trouble the road is narrow and one way only," shares Jennifer K. about Skillet Creek Campground.
Hookup availability: Electric service is not universal at all sites. "For RVs, be sure to select a bigger site than you think you need. Sometime's it's tricky to maneuver your camper so big rigs may want to stay elsewhere. Our 30 ft. travel trailer fit fine, with some skilled driving," advises Kim L. about Blue Mound State Park Campground.
Dump station locations: Several campgrounds offer dump stations for RV waste disposal. "There is a dump and potable water fill for rvs between the entrance and this campground," notes Jennifer K. about Bluewater Bay Campground at Mirror Lake State Park. Some parks charge additional fees for dump station use.
