Tent camping near Ridgeway, Wisconsin provides secluded opportunities in the driftless area, characterized by unglaciated terrain with steep hillsides and valleys. The region sits at elevations between 900-1,200 feet, creating natural drainage patterns that support clear streams and small lakes. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with higher humidity levels from June through August.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Blackhawk Memorial Park, campers can access both river and lake fishing. One visitor noted, "The lake water is like green paint and the river is now brackish, but moving," indicating that river fishing might yield better results during summer months.
Rock climbing excursions: The bluffs at Devils Lake State Park Group Campground offer multiple climbing routes suitable for various skill levels. "We took the East Bluff trail to do some rock climbing with the kids," reports one camper, showing the activity's family-friendly potential.
Mountain biking access: New Glarus State Park provides direct connections to regional bike trails. A camper mentioned, "With direct access to the Sugar River Trail and the town of New Glarus, it is a great location as an overnight stop or home base to explore."
Brewery visits: Several campgrounds serve as convenient bases for brewery tours. About New Glarus, a visitor shared, "It's proximity to the brewery and the restaurants, shops, and bars of New Glarus, can't be beat. Also on the Sugar River Trail so bring your bike!"
What campers like
Site privacy: The walk-in tent sites at New Glarus State Park Campground receive positive reviews for seclusion. "The walk-in sites have a good amount of space between each site," notes one camper, though they caution that eastern sites become less level the further from parking.
Natural features: Some campsites offer unique natural elements that enhance the experience. One camper at New Glarus was pleased to discover "There was a spring on our site! We hiked in a bit to a wooded quiet site."
Backpacking base camps: Governor Dodge State Park Backpack Campsites provides strategic camping for longer hikes. A visitor described their experience: "Great backpack base camp! Great views, plenty of privacy and an easy hike. We stayed at 806."
Group accommodations: Devils Lake group sites provide ample space for larger gatherings. A Scout leader recounted, "Spent a weekend here in one of the group sites (G3) in mid November 2021... Camp life was awesome, we ate very well since we brought two Dutch ovens."
What you should know
Highway noise concerns: Some campgrounds experience significant road noise. At New Glarus, a visitor warned, "These sites are right next to the highway and are subject to continuous, round the clock highway noise... Since the campground is in a hill, you get to hear the trucks revving up for a climb, then engine-breaking on the way down."
Site terrain variations: Tent pads and site leveling can vary significantly between locations. At Hickory Ridge Group Camp, visitors find "Spacious sites, lots of availability to swim and hike."
Bathroom facilities: Facilities range from modern to rustic. At Devils Lake, "Clean shower house" was mentioned, while at New Glarus, a visitor noted "The smell of the vault toilets was almost unbearable, I would avoid campsite next to/directly across from the toilets."
Water access planning: Many sites require bringing water from central locations. At Blackhawk Memorial Park, limited facilities mean "You won't see a lot of supervision here, but the park is well-maintained. There's not a lot of official information available."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some parks offer recreational facilities specifically for children. At New Glarus, a family mentioned "The toilets were clean. The playground was great. We spent the day exploring our Swiss heritage in New Glarus."
Trail difficulty considerations: When hiking with children, trail selection matters. A Devils Lake visitor explained, "Spent about 5 hours hiking the East Bluff, it was challenging for some of our younger hikers."
Wildlife awareness: Campground wildlife can be both entertaining and problematic. At Devils Lake, one group mentioned they "got a visit from some local raccoons at night," while another noted "The birds near the group camp are cool, but can also sound like a large pack of dinosaurs squawking at each other...very loud."
Multiple family options: When camping with several families, group sites offer particular advantages. One visitor to Devils Lake shared, "Reserved the group camp for three families, cost was $40 a night for a secluded, spacious, clean group site."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer electric sites for RVs, though availability may be limited. At New Glarus, proximity to town attractions must be balanced against site quality and road noise.
Primitive camping expectations: Blackhawk Memorial Park offers a more rustic experience for RVers seeking solitude. A visitor described it as "Great little off grid camping for people that aren't afraid of bugs! No trailers with yapping ankle biters, Glammpers stay away!"
Site selection strategies: At Governor Dodge State Park, campers recommend reserving early for the best sites. The park offers water and electrical hookups at some sites, with both main lakes providing good fishing access.
