Wisconsin's Windsor area offers rustic to fully-serviced camping experiences within 20-30 minutes of Madison. The region features glacial terrain with kettle lakes and eskers, creating diverse camping landscapes between 850-900 feet elevation. Winter temperatures can drop below zero while summer camping season typically runs May through October with daytime highs averaging 75-85°F.
What to do
Lake activities at Lake Kegonsa State Park: The park offers a dog-friendly beach area separate from the main swimming beach. "There is a beach & pet swim area. Very nice hiking trails right from campground. Lake & pet swim area," notes reviewer Kathy L. The park maintains multiple beaches for different uses.
Fox River kayaking from Indian Trails: Seasonal paddling options with transportation service. "They do kayaking or canoeing down the fox river. They will drop you off and pick you up," explains Mikala D. The campground provides equipment rentals and shuttle service for river trips.
Explore trails at regional parks: Walking paths range from short loops to interconnected systems. "There were also multiple trails scattered throughout the park. Everything from a quick half mile trek to loops that allow you to put on a couple of miles," shares Lisa S. about Lake Kegonsa State Park. Most trails are well-maintained even after rain.
Off-season camping at Sky High: Unique winter camping options for cold-weather adventurers. The campground operates year-round, as one visitor confirms: "Took a tour of Sky Haven on a whim. Talk about full service camping! They have everything here- tent sites, RV sites, cabins, nightly, weekly, and long term rates."
What campers like
Spacious sites with privacy: Many campgrounds offer good separation between campsites. "Clean facilities, friendly staff, and great trails. No bugs!" notes Brendan E. about Lake Kegonsa State Park. The park features wooded sites with natural screening.
On-site food options: Several campgrounds have restaurants or food service. "Along with them looking brand new. We fell in love with this camp and will be back for sure," writes David H. about Indian Trails Campground, where campers enjoy fresh donuts on Sunday mornings.
Water features beyond swimming: Many properties offer fishing ponds separate from swimming areas. "Plenty of things to do for kids they have quite a few little playgrounds all around the campground along with their indoor and outdoor swimming pools," explains David H. Multiple water options accommodate different activities simultaneously.
Organized weekend activities: Themed weekends add structured entertainment. "We did not spend a lot of time at the campground since we were there for the Dells on a long trip from Atlanta, GA to Duluth, MN. The kids did have a blast in the pond," reports Jeffrey S. about Duck Creek Campground.
What you should know
Train noise at some locations: Railroad crossings near some campgrounds cause nighttime noise. "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," warns Lisa S.
RV height restrictions: Low clearance points exist at some parks. "Major CAUTION for RVs: 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," cautions Kathy L.
Crowding during peak times: Popular amenities get busy during weekends. "This is a private 'resort' type campground with something for everyone, except peace and quiet and privacy," explains Annie C. about Pride of America. Some reviewers recommend weekday stays for more relaxed experiences.
Water quality varies by location: Swimming options range from natural to constructed. "The pedestrian beach is to rocky for my liking, but the dog beach is nice and sandy yet small. There is also a bit of a hike to get there. So if you take a cooler you may want a wagon," advises Ted W. about Lake Kegonsa State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection matters: Choose locations based on amenities and noise levels. "We are actually having a blast at this Campground campsites are located right next to the playground so we can watch the kids from the campsite," shares Sarah C. about Duck Creek Campground.
Pack for water activities: Many glamping options include water features requiring appropriate gear. "The kids were thrilled with the heated pool that even has a waterfall, the playgrounds, gaga ball, arcade, and weekend rides like the barrel train and hayrack. In short, there was always something to keep them entertained while I could actually relax," describes Maria Mercedes M.
Consider specialized weekends: Theme weekends provide extra entertainment for children. "Love Halloween camping," says Justin about Indian Trails Campground, while another reviewer notes: "I think many of the locals know the bugs are bad and leave it for those of us from out of state to get eaten alive."
Plan for weather variables: Prepare for temperature changes and insects. "There were free showers, flush toilets and running water in the bathrooms. This was nice, however, the mosquitos were in there too!" reports Melissa K. Bug spray is essential during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have tight turns or limited space. "The sites we were in were a little narrow to back in a 30ft camper. The pictures of the site did not show this," warns Ted W. about Lake Kegonsa State Park.
Full-hookup options: Many locations offer premium services. "We were in sites#13 and couldn't be happier with our choice. I had done a drive through before reserving the site on the state camping website so I knew which ones would work for us," explains Lisa S. about Lake Kegonsa State Park.
Premium site costs: Better sites often require additional fees. "They do allow you to pick your site if your willing to pay $10 extra," notes Marc W. about Milton KOA. Some campgrounds charge premium rates for weekend stays or holiday periods.
Seasonal availability: Some campgrounds close during winter. "Love this campground! Great facilities and a dumping station. No hookups but the area cannot be beat. This is our favorite boondock spot," shares Abby W. about Crystal Lake Campground, which operates from April to October.