Camping options near Twin Lakes, Wisconsin include state parks and private campgrounds within a 20-mile radius. The region sits at approximately 800 feet above sea level along the Wisconsin-Illinois border with average summer temperatures between 75-85°F. Fall camping season typically extends through late October with overnight temperatures dropping into the 40s by mid-autumn.
What to do
Explore extensive hiking trails: Chain O' Lakes State Park offers multiple trail systems through woods and around waterways. "There are amazing trails through park for people to hike, bike, or ride horse on," notes one visitor. Some trails are paved or covered with crushed gravel for accessibility.
Kayak the Fox River: The Fox River access point at Chain O' Lakes provides paddlers with waterway options. "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," according to one camper who frequents Turner Lake South.
Rent boats for fishing: Boat rentals are available at several parks for accessing fishing spots. "The concessions/camp store is located near the boat docks and is easily walked or driven to with decent selection of foods, gear, and fishing items," shares a camper at Fox Den Campground.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Fox Den Campground offers more private sites compared to other areas. "Fox den at Chain-o-Lakes state park provides a more secluded camping experience than Honeysuckle or the 2 tent camping areas. Pads are pretty level, and each site has some semblance of privacy from other campers," explains a camper.
Budget-friendly options: Non-electric sites are available at lower costs. "These campsites are as low as $12/night!! One of my favorite spots to test new gear," mentions a reviewer about Turner Lake South camping area.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple campers note seeing diverse wildlife. At Sunrise Campground, a camper shared: "We stayed at site 114 and were very pleased with the size and layout. Overall flat and private. Showers and bathrooms were clean."
What you should know
Seasonal insect considerations: Ticks and mosquitoes are present, particularly in warmer months. A camper at Richard Bong State Recreation Area observed: "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."
Campground closing times: Some parks have strict gate closing policies. "A note that the park gates close early as well - we returned one evening at 10:30pm and couldn't get back in with a vehicle. Had to go back in on foot. Good to plan ahead!" warns a Prairie View camper.
Wildlife management: Multiple campers report raccoon activity. "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature multiple play areas. "Multiple playgrounds, access to launch sites for kayaks, little store to buy ice cream or snacks," reports a visitor to Honeysuckle Hollow.
Water activities for children: Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park offers beach access. "Easy access to the beach, great sites and was very quiet," states one camper, though another notes "Dogs aren't allowed in large swaths of the park nor on the tiny beach."
Safety considerations: Some areas have terrain issues. "Along one edge of campsites there is a huge cliff-sized drop off, so be cautious if camping with children," warns a visitor to Happy Acres Kampground.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup placement: Check hookup locations before booking. "More of the spaces the box is further than 30 feet from the pad. A lot of the spaces are also crowded together. Recommend sites 23 to 46 for spacing and electric distance," advises an RV camper at Honeysuckle Hollow.
Dump station timing: Plan dump station use strategically. "Since there's no full hookup, they needed someone to control the traffic that comes from two different directions going to the dual dump stations. There's no honor system, especially on a holiday weekend."
Dog friendly campgrounds near Twin Lakes: While several campgrounds allow pets, restrictions vary. "This state campground is within a couple hours of Chicago so it makes a nice getaway for the weekend... Water was at central locations and a dump is on the way out," reports a camper at Fox Den Campground, which welcomes pets with standard leash requirements.
