Tent camping opportunities near Richfield, Wisconsin extend beyond established campgrounds into walk-in and hike-in sites throughout the region's diverse terrain. The area features oak savannas, grasslands, and waterways with seasonal camping availability that varies widely between locations. Most tent sites in the region require campers to be self-sufficient with limited amenities, particularly at more remote locations.
What to do
Biking excursions: The Wild Goose City Park in Juneau connects to a popular bike trail system making it an ideal basecamp for cycling enthusiasts. "Wild Goose bike trail leads to this park in Juneau. It's a good place to stop and have a break. There's a playground and public bathroom, drinking fountain. Plenty of space to spread out for a picnic when you're biking through," notes Kim L.
Water activities: Cappie's Landing offers boat-in tent camping access, allowing campers to explore local waterways. The location features toilet facilities but requires campers to bring their own drinking water and supplies. Most water-accessible sites in the area are primitive with minimal facilities.
Trail exploration: Sandhill Station State Campground connects to the Glacial Drumlin bike trail and provides hiking access to nearby Mud Lake. A camper reports, "We walked over to Mud Lake (in the park), and only saw sandhill cranes flying, not standing in the water. Also nearby is Aztalan State Park and Aztalan museum."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: The carry-in tent sites at Sandhill Station create a more remote camping experience despite being close to Lake Mills. "The campsite we were on was spacious, private, and beautiful. We had two large oak trees on either side of our site, giving us a good amount of mixed shade," shares Jimmy P.
Group camping options: Greenbush Group Campground in Kettle Moraine State Forest offers spacious sites for larger gatherings. "Large sites great for groups. Sites 2 and 9 are the largest. Those can each fit over 20 backpacking tents at the same time. Grassy sites surrounded by trees (plenty for hammocks too)," according to Amber R.
Budget-friendly options: Waubedonia County Park in Fredonia offers affordable tent camping with riverside access. "The campsites are inexpensive and comfortable, though there aren't as many amenities that a larger campground would have. Overall, a nice little getaway," notes Kevin S.
What you should know
Water access limitations: Many camping areas have minimal drinking water facilities, with some completely lacking water sources. At Northern Unit Greenbush Group Camp, one camper noted, "Water is usually available, but more limited during the pandemic (spigot turned off by our campsite, but available near the parking lot at the entrance - a longer walk)."
Insect considerations: Seasonal fluctuations in insect activity can impact camping comfort, particularly near water sources. A Sandhill Station camper warns, "The sites are really near some stagnant water, though, so WAY too many mosquitoes, even with the really intense bug spray. We were there in mid-June on one of the hottest weekends of the year and we were massacred."
Noise levels: At Northern Unit Greenbush Group Camp, the campsite layout affects sound travel. "The nine sites are visually separated, but not far enough away from each other to block louder noise - we could hear loud music from the site 4 late into the night," according to Hilary S.
Tips for camping with families
Pack light for walk-in sites: Sandhill Station's carry-in requirements demand strategic packing. "The parking lot is anywhere from 100-500 yards from the campsite, depending on which one you choose. There isn't anywhere to buy firewood, so buy from a local resident/gas station," advises Jimmy P.
Consider seasonal timing: Weather patterns affect comfort at different locations. "I wouldn't go in the middle of summer, due to the limited shade, but it was very nice in early fall," recommends a Sandhill Station camper regarding the oak savanna environment.
Plan for limited facilities: Purplehaze Acres offers tent camping with drinking water and toilets but requires campers to be self-sufficient with most supplies. The 9 available sites feature picnic tables and allow fires, but families should prepare for minimal amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Most tent camping areas near Richfield have limited RV accessibility with narrow access roads and minimal parking. Campgrounds like Little Turtle Lake accommodate only 5 sites total and aren't designed for larger vehicles.
Water and electric options: For RVers requiring hookups, options are severely limited near Richfield. Waubedonia Park offers some electric hookups and water access points, making it one of the few viable options for smaller RVs in the immediate vicinity.
