The Sturtevant, Wisconsin camping area sits in southeastern Wisconsin, about 25 miles south of Milwaukee. This region features a mix of prairie landscapes and woodland areas with elevations ranging between 600-700 feet above sea level. Winter camping options are limited with most facilities closing between mid-October and mid-April due to Wisconsin's cold winters that typically bring temperatures below 20°F.
What to do
Kayaking on connected lakes: Chain O' Lakes State Park offers multiple interconnected waterways for paddling. "I love to kayak through here because I don't need to paddle through the river unless I'm feeling competitive. I enjoy this route for the wildlife and nature scenery. I've seen beavers, minks, ferrets, and sand cranes on my two trips so far," notes one visitor at Turner Lake South Campground.
Hiking through diverse terrain: Richard Bong State Recreation Area features numerous trails through different ecosystems. "There is a great winery just down the road if you want to take a field trip and have something to sip by the fire at night. There are lots of activities at the nature center and you can bring your own toys ie: ATV's, rockets, bikes to enjoy the vast amount of acreage," shares a camper at Sunrise Campground.
Off-season activities: Some campgrounds offer special seasonal activities outside summer. "We go at least once a year to see the Christmas lights. A great little after work trip on a Friday to cure the kiddos cabin fever a bit," mentions a visitor about Jellystone Park in Caledonia during winter months.
What campers like
Uncrowded weekday camping: The area offers more solitude midweek compared to busy weekends. "We camped here in early September during the week so it was not crowded and we didn't have a problem getting a walk-up site," notes a visitor to Cliffside Park Campground, adding "The campground is a mix of those you can reserve or as walk-up sites."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The wetland areas attract diverse wildlife. "We enjoy all the wildlife we see but I will stick with hiking over camping here. It sucks having to worry that when you are laughing loudly at great camp stories security may come give you a warning," shares a camper at Sunset Campground.
Affordability for budget campers: Some nearby campgrounds offer low-cost options. "These campsites are as low as $12/night!! One of my favorite spots to test new gear. Family friendly. There's some small trails around as well that are beginner. There was electricity, however those sites are $25/night," reports a camper from Turner Lake South.
What you should know
Bug preparation essential: The wetland areas can have significant insect activity. "It's a wetland, mosquitoes are happening, but the trade off is just about worth it. If you enjoy bird watching or rabbit spotting, this is a great place to go," states a camper at Sunset Campground, who adds "I have seldom been around so many all at once. Thankfully we had a pop-up screened gazebo that made sitting outside our tent much more enjoyable."
Wildlife protection measures: Wildlife can be active around campsites. "The raccoons at night here are no joke. The second it's dusky, they come scavenging for absolutely anything food has touched. So basically, eat dinner and do s'mores early, then everything must be packed into cars for the night and all surfaces wiped down," advises a camper at Honeysuckle Hollow.
Shower facilities vary: Bathroom and shower conditions can differ between campgrounds. "Bathrooms were super clean and showers are free. Very impressed and satisfied," reports a Cliffside Park visitor, while others note varying conditions at other campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Choose sites strategically for families with children. "We chose the loop 11 was on because it was close to the path to the playgrounds and lakes plus bathrooms... avoid the first 2 sites from either end as the ones closest to the main loop aren't very deep. Closer to the center of this row is best," recommends a family from Honeysuckle Hollow.
Halloween camping events: Several area campgrounds offer themed camping weekends. "We booked a site here for Halloween and had a great time. My kids love Halloween Weekend camping at the various JellyStone Campgrounds. This location did not disappoint," shares a family visitor to Jellystone Park.
Budget-friendly activities: Many campgrounds include features that don't require additional fees. "There are a ton of activities here to include two bouncy pillows, three play grounds, a pool, water slides, a kids water activity area, beach, water obstacle course, inflatable slide, RC car track, laser tag, mini golf, giant chess, and I'm sure I'm missing something," notes a visitor to Jellystone Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RV campers should research specific site characteristics. "Fox Den is superior to Honeysuckle Hollows because each site has an individual electric post. Sites in Honeysuckle have electric posts too far from parking pad. Fox Den also has more space between sites, more level pads and each site is tucked away with trees," advises an RVer at Fox Den Campground.
Hookup considerations: Water access varies between campgrounds. "All sites are spacious with electric and water at each site. Well taken care of grounds. Nice bathrooms with clean showers," reports an RV camper at Cliffside Park, noting the convenience of individual hookups.
Reservation timing: RV sites at popular campgrounds fill quickly. "The full hook ups fill up fast no spur of the moment camping unless it is early or late in the season," warns a camper at Fox Den Campground about planning ahead for prime RV sites.
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