Tent campsites near Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin occupy the hilly Driftless Area landscape, characterized by deep valleys, limestone outcroppings, and mixed hardwood forests. This region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months, while spring and fall bring cooler 50-65°F conditions. Many campsites in this region sit on land that wasn't flattened by glaciers, resulting in more rugged terrain than typical Midwest camping areas.
What to do
Hiking through limestone formations: At Devils Lake State Park Group Campground, you can access extensive trail networks with varying difficulty levels. One camper noted, "Spent a weekend here in one of the group sites (G3) in mid November 2021. Spent about 5 hours hiking the East Bluff, it was challenging for some of our younger hikers." The park offers stunning geological formations and viewpoints throughout its trail system.
Water recreation on multiple lakes: Governor Dodge State Park Backpack Campsites provides access to two main lakes for fishing, swimming and boating. According to a visitor, "2 main lakes with great fishing is a plus. Lots to do for the whole family." Rental equipment is often available during summer months for kayaking and paddle boating.
Brewery visits: Campers at New Glarus State Park Campground can easily access the renowned New Glarus Brewery. As one camper mentioned, "The park itself is neither very popular nor very interesting, but it is worth noting that it is located across the road from New Glarus Brewery. The brewery is an easy walk or bike ride from the walk-in campsites." Many visitors plan camping trips specifically around brewery tours.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between tent sites in the region. At New Glarus State Park Campground, "The walk-in sites have a good amount of space between each site," though some campers note "the sites on the east side of the bike trail get less level the further you get from the parking lot." This layout creates natural separation between neighboring campers.
Varied terrain for different camping styles: The backpacking sites at Governor Dodge State Park offer more seclusion for experienced campers. One reviewer stated, "Great backpack base camp! Great views, plenty of privacy and an easy hike. We stayed at 806." These sites require carrying gear between a half-mile to full mile from parking areas.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting provides chances to observe local wildlife. At Devils Lake, one camper mentioned, "The birds near the group camp are cool, but can also sound like a large pack of dinosaurs squawking at each other...very loud." Early morning and dusk offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities across most campgrounds.
What you should know
Variable site conditions: Tent pads and ground surfaces vary significantly between parks. At Blackhawk Memorial Park, "Sites have picnic tables (in season) and fire pits. Sites are generally well marked, but some can be difficult to find." Some sites have gravel pads while others are natural forest floor.
Water sources require planning: Most tent camping areas have central water sources rather than at-site spigots. At Devils Lake, campers should prepare to "collect water and haul it back to your site" from central pumps or facilities.
Traffic noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience road noise despite their natural settings. At New Glarus, "These sites are right next to the highway and (at least during the week) are subject to continuous, round the clock highway noise. The highway seems to be a regular truck route, with lots of semis driving by at all hours."
Seasonal insect activity: Bug activity intensifies during summer months. At Sandhill Station State Campground, one camper warned about sites "really near some stagnant water, though, so WAY too many mosquitoes, even with the really intense bug spray." Spring and fall camping typically provides relief from intense insect pressure.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer playground facilities for children. At Hickory Ridge Group Camp, families appreciate the "nice family campground. Has a lot of amenities including shower." Campground playgrounds provide convenient activity options when not hiking or swimming.
Water safety considerations: When camping with children near lakes, consider water conditions. At Blackhawk Memorial Park, one visitor noted, "The lake water is like green paint and the river is now brackish, but moving." Parents should assess water quality and depth before allowing swimming.
Trail difficulty planning: Match trail selections to children's abilities. At Devils Lake, the East Bluff trail "was challenging for some of our younger hikers," so families should research trail ratings before setting out with children. Many parks offer easier interpretive trails suitable for younger children.
Cart availability for gear transport: At walk-in sites, check whether transport carts are available. New Glarus provides "carts available for transporting your gear which means you can bring more gear than you would bring backpacking." This feature makes walk-in sites more accessible for families with young children and extra equipment.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most tent-focused campgrounds in the area have restricted RV amenities. While sites like Devils Lake State Park Group Campground accommodate RVs, hookups are limited. Larger rigs should research site dimensions before reserving.
Walk-in site proximity to parking: For RVers using tents, the distance to walk-in sites varies significantly between parks. At Sandhill Station, "The sites are all very remote; no onsite rangers or anything like that. Beautiful walk in sites, no carts to haul gear so pack light!" Sites range from 100 to 500 yards from parking areas.
Dump station planning: Not all campgrounds offer sanitary dump stations. Visitors should plan ahead for waste management, with Devils Lake and a few other larger parks providing dump stations that may require additional fees or specific operating hours.
