Tent campsites near Westfield, Wisconsin are situated in Wisconsin's Central Plains region, characterized by glacial terrain with rolling hills, wetlands, and mixed hardwood forests. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during the day and 55-65°F at night. Many campgrounds in this region maintain tent-specific areas with level pads and tree cover for shade.
What to do
Hiking local trails: Devils Lake State Park offers extensive hiking beyond the popular East Bluff trail. As one camper noted, "Spent a weekend here in one of the group sites (G3) in mid November 2021... Spent about 5 hours hiking the East Bluff, it was challenging for some of our younger hikers. Everyone was impressed by Devils Doorway. Would love to go back and hike the Western Bluff." The park maintains over 29 miles of hiking trails with varying difficulty levels.
Water activities: Devils Lake State Park Group Campground provides water recreation options during summer months. According to a visitor, "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." Rentals typically cost $12-20 per hour depending on the watercraft.
Rock climbing: The quartzite bluffs at Devils Lake offer climbing opportunities for various skill levels. One reviewer mentioned, "We took the East Bluff trail to do some rock climbing with the kids." The park features over 1,600 climbing routes, with most concentrated on the East Bluff and West Bluff areas.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Camp Wilderness offers secluded tent camping with natural buffers between sites. One camper appreciated that "there's primarily tent sites with trails, a lake, an obstacle course and more right nearby." The tent areas are arranged to maximize separation and natural screening.
Group camping options: The spacious group sites at Devils Lake accommodate multiple families. A camper reported, "Reserved the group camp for three families, cost was $40 a night for a secluded, spacious, clean group site." These group sites can accommodate up to 20 people per site with parking for 6 vehicles.
Wildlife viewing: The wooded settings provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. One camper shared their experience: "Got a visit from some local raccoons at night, overall experience was great!" Morning and evening hours are optimal for wildlife observation, particularly near water sources.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Temperature variations can be significant, especially in spring and fall. One camper reported, "It was in the 30s at night but got up to the high 40s during the day, great camping weather!" Pack additional layers and appropriate sleeping gear for potentially cold nights even when days are warm.
Weekday vs. weekend crowds: Elroy Campground and other area facilities experience different visitation patterns. A camper advised, "We went during the week and it kept the crowds to a minimum." Summer weekends often reach full capacity, while midweek camping provides more solitude and site selection options.
Water access: Most tent sites require carrying water from central pumps. As one camper described at Devils Lake, "Next to the bathrooms is a water pump where you can collect water and haul it back to your site." Bring collapsible water containers for transporting drinking and cooking water to your campsite.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Oakwood Campsites and surrounding areas provide learning experiences for children. One parent suggested, "Camp Wilderness is a good place to initiate your kids with the outdoors and teach them fun skills." Many sites offer junior ranger programs during summer months.
Meal planning: Cooking at camp can be an adventure with proper equipment. A camper shared, "Camp life was awesome, we ate very well since we brought two Dutch ovens. We ate Cowboy Casserole, Mountain Man breakfast, peach cobbler, 7 can soup, hobo dinner and apple sausage casserole." Plan meals that can be prepared with limited facilities.
Activity timing: Schedule challenging hikes early in the day with children. One family noted their experience: "Spent about 5 hours hiking the East Bluff, it was challenging for some of our younger hikers." Morning hikes generally offer cooler temperatures and higher energy levels for younger campers.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: While tent campsites near Westfield offer varying amenities, Devils Lake provides options for different camping styles. A camper observed, "Adequate size site with a tent pad, shade and privacy. Trees for a hammock. Clean shower house." Request sites with natural features that complement your camping equipment.
Bathroom facilities: Facility access varies significantly between campgrounds. At Devils Lake, one camper noted, "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." Check facility locations when selecting your site, particularly for nighttime access.
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