Tent campsites near Verona, Wisconsin range from oak savanna settings to wooded riverfront locations within a 45-mile radius. Most camping areas sit at elevations between 800-1,100 feet, creating varied terrain for tent placement. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable camping conditions with temperatures between 45-75°F, while summer nights rarely drop below 60°F with high humidity levels in wooded areas.
What to do
Brewery visits: New Glarus State Park Campground's location provides easy brewery access. "It is a smaller state park camping wise. There is hiking and mountain bike trails available. 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," notes Phillip J.
Paddle sports: Snug Harbor Inn Campground on Turtle Lake offers water activities right from camp. "The campground sells ice, firewood and rents boats," reports Josh F. The campground sits on a terraced slope with three levels, giving most sites lake views.
Hiking to unusual features: Backpacking campsites at Governor Dodge State Park connect to extensive trail networks. One camper shared: "We did the lost canyon trail which is just stunning with bluffs, small water fall." The backpacking sites require a half-mile to mile hike from parking areas.
What campers like
Accessible group camping: Devils Lake State Park Group Campground provides convenient group facilities. "The group sites are well spaced out from each other and offer pit toilets and full bathroom facilities with sinks, toilets and showers within walking distance from all sites. You can even drive to the bathrooms as there is a small parking area next to them," according to Sarah F.
Private walk-in sites: Many campers appreciate New Glarus Woods' secluded spots. "Although the park is tiny and you can't really escape the sound of the road, the walk-in sites are spaced out well and heavily wooded. Perfect for a quick escape from city life," reports Shelagh R.
Natural features: Blackhawk Memorial Park provides a rustic camping experience. "Quiet, off the grid! Very pleasant!" notes Christie B. The park has limited amenities but offers riverfront access, making it suitable for paddlers and anglers seeking solitude.
What you should know
Highway noise concerns: Several tent-only sites near Verona suffer from traffic noise. At New Glarus Woods State Park, one camper reported: "These sites are right next to the highway and (at least during the week) are subject to continuous, round the clock highway noise. The highway seems to be a regular truck route, with lots of semis driving by at all hours."
Seasonal mosquito patterns: Sandhill Station State Campground near Lake Mills can be challenging in summer. "The sites are really near some stagnant water, though, so WAY too many mosquitoes, even with the really intense bug spray. We were there in mid-June on one of the hottest weekends of the year and we were massacred the second we walked into the site," warns one camper.
Carry-in requirements: Many tent camping areas require gear hauling. At Sandhill Station, "all 15 standard sites are carry-in only. The parking lot is anywhere from 100-500 yards from the campsite, depending on which one you choose," states Jimmy P.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife education: Governor Dodge State Park offers excellent nature study opportunities. "Back packing sites are 1/2- 1 mile hike from parking lot. Great hike threw out the state park. 2 main lakes with great fishing is a plus. Lots to do for the whole family," notes Nick C.
Playground access: Hickory Ridge Group Camp provides family-friendly amenities. "Nice family campground. Has a lot of amenities including shower," reports Lesley R. The group camp areas accommodate multiple families wanting to camp together.
Water activities: Multiple lakes within 30 minutes of Verona offer swimming options. At Devils Lake, one camper mentions, "There is a beach and camp store/concession stand (south) a short drive or longer walk away. At this area you can rent paddle boards, Canoes, kayaks and paddle boats."
Tips from RVers
Lakefront camping: Snug Harbor Inn Campground on Turtle Lake provides full hookup sites with views. "Great three tiered camping spot. Full hookup, and great views. Has a pub/restaurant with good food. Lots to do!" shares Alix M. The campground's terraced design ensures most sites have lake views.
First-timer friendly: Snug Harbor works well for RV beginners. "Wanted someplace close to home. Familiar with the Delavan area so was excited to find Snug Harbor. Set up went well, didn't blow anything up! Yea! Staff was great, helped me back in," says James W.
Amenities proximity: Campgrounds near small towns provide easy access to forgotten supplies. One camper at Snug Harbor noted it was "Nice place in the country but close enough to town to grab all those things we forgot, Like coffee and cups."
