Waunakee sits at approximately 1,000 feet elevation in the drumlins and marshes of Wisconsin's Driftless Area, where camping options extend beyond just the county parks mentioned in existing reviews. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer cooler camping with fewer insects. Year-round options exist within 45 minutes of Waunakee, though site availability becomes extremely limited on holiday weekends.
What to do
Hiking trails and natural exploration: At William G. Lunney Lake Farm Campground, campers appreciate the immediate trail access. One reviewer noted, "Wonderful grounds and right on a really nice walking/bike trail." Another camper mentioned using the trails for transportation: "I decided that Saturday morning was a good time to hit the trail and head to farmers market. It's a pretty easy ride until you get right up to the square."
Swimming and water activities: Ice Age Campground provides excellent water access. A reviewer explained: "We fished on the lake and hiked a portion of the Ice Age Trail, specifically to the Devil's Doorway and Balanced Rock. Highly recommend the hike; it's worth the view at the top." Campers also use "the boardwalk along the lake as a spot to stop and bank fish."
Observing wildlife: Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground offers good wildlife viewing with "mature trees" and "lots of trails scattered throughout the park." One visitor wrote, "I seen bunnies and chipmunks. There are a lot of mature trees on site, which provided abundant shade in the mid 80's."
What campers like
Spacious camping sites: At Token Creek County Park, campers appreciate the varied site options. As one reviewer noted, "Sites are generous with space in the higher numbers. Lower numbered sites nearer the shower house get 'friendlier'." Another mentioned that "careful of the even numbered side. It's a bit of a low space, and some sites can flood in heavy rain."
Quiet weekday camping: Midweek stays offer a completely different experience than weekends. At Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground, a visitor remarked "Beautiful sites super quiet" about their weekday stay. Similarly, a Devil's Lake camper reported: "We headed out early on Monday and did an 8 mile loop right from our campsite. We saw beautiful overlooks and only encountered 1 person on the trail."
Convenient urban access: While enjoying nature, many campers appreciate proximity to Madison. A visitor at Mendota County Park noted it's a "Great location on the lake and short drive to downtown Madison." Another camper highlighted the dual nature of the park: "Excellent campground on lake Mendota. Great for family camping. Lots of places to eat near by if you don't want to cook and still want to be outside."
What you should know
Insect preparation is essential: Mosquitoes and other insects can be a significant challenge. A camper at Mendota County Park warned: "The bugs (gnats and mosquitoes) were relentless, especially in the grassy areas so bring bug spray!" Another review at Lake Kegonsa noted: "I don't think you can possibly use enough mosquito spray."
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience noise from nearby roads, trains, or airports. A Token Creek visitor mentioned: "The campground is somewhat close to the interstate and rural highway roads so there is some traffic noise but relatively quiet by night time. What was NOT quiet on Thursday night was the freight train that came through around midnight and then again at 2 am."
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on privacy needs and weather considerations. At Token Creek, "Odd side backs up to trees and a natural area" while at William G. Lunney Lake Farm Campground, a camper advised: "We were in site 2, which is level and there is a picnic table and fire ring. The bathrooms/showers are nice, there is water and a dump station."
Tips for camping with families
Pool and splash pad access: At Blue Mound State Park Campground, families enjoy excellent water facilities. A visitor described, "The pool is very nice and very clean. There is a pool section and a splash section. There are chairs and lounges around both and shade awnings. The cost is $3 for an adult and $2 for child."
Kid-friendly hiking options: Several parks offer hikes suitable for children. At Blue Mound, "There are a lot of trails for hiking and mountain biking. A swimming pool and picnic area." Another visitor noted it's "a beautiful park with tons of trees. Beautiful hiking trails everywhere for different levels of hiker."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature playground equipment. A Lake Farm visitor mentioned, "There was a playground as well for the kids," while another camper at Blue Mound praised its family-friendliness: "It is a beautiful park with plenty of trees. Beautiful hiking trails everywhere for different levels of hiker. The pool is awesome, and the splash pad is absolutely incredible."
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: At Mendota County Park, electrical hookups can be challenging to reach. One reviewer advised, "Some sites electric is close by, others not so much! Everything from huge class A's to little tents here this weekend." Another camper suggested: "Bring an extension cords!!"
Leveling considerations: Several campgrounds require careful setup for RVs. At Token Creek, a visitor noted: "Sites are level" while another mentioned: "If you're good with your rig you can get nice and close to the dump station." At Mendota County Park, a camper observed: "The sites are nice and level, and they include an aluminum picnic table and a fire ring."
Size limitations: Larger RVs may struggle at some parks. At Lake Kegonsa, a reviewer warned: "The sites we were in were a little narrow to back in a 30ft camper. The pictures of the site did not show this." For Token Creek, another camper advised: "If you're good with your rig you can get nice and close to the dump station."
