Camping cabins near Ripon, Wisconsin provide convenient access to the central Wisconsin landscape characterized by glacial lakes and mixed hardwood forests. The area sits at elevations between 800-900 feet with summer temperatures typically ranging from 60-85°F. Winter weather often brings significant snow accumulation with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing, making seasonal availability an important consideration for cabin rentals in the region.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Green Lake Campground maintains a stocked pond where even novice anglers can catch fish. "Fishing was weak but we will try again tomorrow. 4 swimming pools. didn't use them though. adult pool, kids sports pool and splash pad, and family pool. 2 ponds," notes one camper.
Hiking trails: High Cliff State Park Campground features multiple trail options along the Niagara Escarpment with significant elevation changes. "Lime kiln trail is difficult but so worth it," explains a visitor who camped there in October.
Golfing: Green Lake Campground maintains a 9-hole, par-3 golf course on-site, making it convenient for campers to enjoy a round without leaving the grounds. A reviewer mentioned they "took full advantage of the golf course" during their stay, while another noted it as "pretty awesome" for golf fans.
Wildlife viewing: Hickory Oaks Campground provides opportunities to observe various woodland creatures. As one camper reported, "We saw so much wildlife! Chipmunks, ducks, a great horned owl, and countless birds to name a few."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Glacier Valley Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance standards. "It was well maintained, and the pond was clean and had fun giant inflatables!" according to a family who visited.
Water recreation: Many campgrounds feature water activities beyond swimming. Lake Arrowhead Campground provides structured water recreation. "Plenty of amenities! Enjoyed a week there. They even have a general store and events almost every day and night to keep you engaged," a reviewer shared after spending time there.
Fall camping season: The autumn months offer special appeal at area campgrounds. A visitor to High Cliff State Park noted, "Beautiful fall colors! The campsite was large and relatively private. We enjoyed hiking on the trails."
Quiet weekday stays: Several reviewers mention the difference between weekend and weekday occupancy. At Green Lake Campground, a camper observed: "Like most campgrounds on the weekends it's full during the weekdays pretty well emptied out... we had the adult pool to ourselves which is great."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Spring water accessibility varies by location. At High Cliff State Park, "Only gripe is the uncertain schedule they have for turning on water for the season. First week or two of May is a safe bet, but no promises. They have pit toilets open year round whatever the case."
Site drainage: The clay soil common in central Wisconsin can affect campsite conditions after rain. At Sleepy Hollow Farms, a camper reported: "The roads were all dirt and with the rain, became very muddy along with the campsites as well. When leaving the next day, we had some challenges backing out of our site with the amount of mud."
Wildlife interactions: Some campgrounds have resident animals that may approach campers. High Cliff State Park visitors warn: "Raccoons can be a pest and beg for food!"
Site privacy: Area campgrounds vary significantly in site spacing. At Green Lake Campground, a visitor noted: "Great campground if you don't mind being right next to others."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Breezy Hill Campground provides structured activities for children. "Family friendly campground. Plenty for the kids to do. Theres a fishing pond (catch and release) arcade, jumping pillow etc.," explains a visitor who camped with children.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds in the Ripon area feature playground equipment. Hickory Oaks provides a swimming area suitable for young children, with a camper mentioning: "Small beach entertaining for kids but not very useable for adults."
Off-peak timing: Family camping can be more enjoyable during less crowded periods. A Green Lake Campground visitor suggested: "Our site was S10 which has its pros and cons it is a full hook-up site this section of the campground is fairly new so there is a few in mature trees so there is not much for shade."
Activity variety: For families seeking structured recreation, several options exist. At Glacier Valley, a parent shared: "This is an amazing property dog friendly and very kid orientated! So many fun things to do a huge fresh water pool with inflatables! Mini golf and a lot of events!"
Tips from RVers
Site access: Hickory Oaks Campground has specific parking policies RVers should know about. "You can't park at your site unless you have have a site with a gravel pad. Even if you have a woven mesh mat outside your camper they don't like you to have it out," explains a long-time visitor.
Electrical service quality: Power access varies between campgrounds. Hickory Oaks has improved their infrastructure, with a camper noting: "They did improve the electric service a couple years ago. Generally pretty quiet."
Winter operations: Few area campgrounds remain open year-round. High Cliff State Park operates in winter, with a November visitor reporting: "November 7th-8th. Site 91. 25-30 degrees. Near cliff above Lake Winnebago. Windy as expected. Beautiful site. Clean primitive toilet."
Site leveling considerations: Some campgrounds require additional equipment for comfortable RV setup. At Glacier Valley, a visitor noted: "Sites are decently spacious and decently level with some gravel and some grass."
