Lake Kegonsa State Park is located 10 miles southeast of Verona, Wisconsin, in a region characterized by rolling drumlins formed during the last glacial period. The area features a mix of oak savanna, prairie restoration areas, and shoreline along the 3,200-acre Lake Kegonsa. Most campgrounds near Verona open from April through October, though several now offer glamping accommodations with heating options for extended seasonal comfort.
What to do
Kayak the Sugar River: At Crazy Horse Campground, you can take advantage of free kayak rentals and a shuttle service. One visitor noted, "They provide at no charge kayaks and a shuttle to a drop-off point which you can kayak back down to the campground which takes about an hour and a half they space out the shuttles very well."
Explore historic trails: Governor Dodge State Park offers 40+ miles of hiking paths with informational plaques about early settlers. A camper shared, "First you can explore the old spring house and read the informational signs about the family that used to farm there and other early settlers in the area. Once you continue down to the falls they have another informational plaque."
Attend weekend events: Many campgrounds host structured activities throughout the summer. At Sweet Minnihaha Campground, "There are bands playing on the weekends. Easy access to on and off the river for tubing. Id say its more of an adult atmostphere."
Visit nearby attractions: The Spring Green Desert conservancy is just 6 miles from Wisconsin Riverside Resort. According to one camper, "Don't forget the Spring Green Desert conservancy nearby. Who knew there were cactuses in Wisconsin? Total hike is about 3.2 miles round trip, with a gorgeous view of the valley."
What campers like
Riverside camping: Wisconsin Riverside Resort provides direct river access with rental equipment. "The river felt amazing on a 95 degree day. If you have a kayak we suggest bringing it to get to the sandbar to hang out. We brought a tub and swam to the other side."
Playground equipment: Lake Kegonsa State Park features multiple recreation areas. A reviewer mentioned, "Adjacent to the shower house was a nice wooded picnic area with playground equipment for the kids. There was also a trail path the lead down the lake."
Tent site privacy: Despite being primarily RV-focused, some campgrounds offer secluded tent options. "I'm a tent camper so tucked in the back was great," noted one Wisconsin Riverside Resort visitor.
Wildlife encounters: Sweet Minnihaha Campground provides opportunities to interact with animals. A camper shared, "On our visit we saw lots of wildlife from chickens to cats that are so nice and walk right up to you."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially for glamping structures near Verona. One visitor to Milton-Madison SE KOA recommended, "Peak season reservations are a definite (weeks to months in advance for weekends)."
Low clearance hazards: Watch for height restrictions at some parks. A Lake Kegonsa visitor warned, "There is an oak tree near entry with low branches and it took the AC off our friend's fifth wheel. There is also a low hanging overpass and it took the roofs off TWO fifth wheels while we were staying there."
Seasonal flooding: Spring conditions can affect site quality. At Lakeland Camping Resort, "Half of camping sites closed due to flooding. Big sites, not a lot of bugs or critters, electric available."
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience railroad disruptions. One Lake Kegonsa camper reported, "What was NOT quiet on Thursday night was the freight train that came through around midnight and then again at 2 am. The first train only blew its horn a few short times. The second train acted like someone was laying on the tracks."
Tips for camping with families
Opt for campgrounds with water features: Lake Kegonsa State Park offers multiple swimming options. "The park includes a beach and boat launch to help you enjoy Lake Kegonsa. It was also pet friendly with pet trails and a pet beach of their own."
Book mid-week for quieter experience: Weekends draw crowds at family-oriented campgrounds. One visitor noted, "Beautiful sites super quiet," regarding weekday camping at Lake Kegonsa.
Look for dedicated dog areas: Many campgrounds accommodate pets with special facilities. At Governor Dodge State Park, a camper shared, "My boyfriend and I brought our two dogs here to camp. They had a dog beach for them to swim in which was a huge plus! Great hiking with some beautiful scenery."
Consider activity passes: Some campgrounds bundle amenities. A Crazy Horse Campground visitor explained, "They have a Daily Activity bracelet that allows you to partake in all activities but you need to purchase per person for each day regardless if you will utilize."
Tips from RVers
Choose sites carefully: At Crazy Horse Campground, site location matters. One RVer advised, "I think they need more spacious campsites near the lagoon for bigger rigs. We had a 5th wheel 40 feet it felt tight to get into to."
Use site photos wisely: Online images may not show all accessibility factors. One camper at Lake Kegonsa noted, "The sites we were in were a little narrow to back in a 30ft camper. The pictures of the site did not show this."
Check for uneven terrain: Some sites require leveling equipment. A Lake Kegonsa visitor shared, "Good sized wooded sites with trees providing reasonable privacy. Flat area for tents but not all 'driveways' are level which, unfortunately, we discovered in site 33. We slept with our heads lower than our feet in our camper van."
Confirm utility placements: Hookup locations vary across campgrounds. At Wisconsin Riverside Resort, "The electrical and water hook ups were conveniently located, and the site was easy to get into. There were a lot of big Class A motorhomes, so the sites are plenty big."
