Wisconsin's tent camping landscape around Windsor provides diverse camping environments beyond state parks, from remote backpacking shelters to group campgrounds on oak savannas. Located about 15 miles north of Madison, Windsor's surrounding camping areas range from prairie and oak woodland to areas adjacent to rivers and lakes. Late summer and early fall camping typically features temperatures ranging from 45-75°F with decreased insect activity compared to June and July.
What to do
Hiking trails exploration: Governor Dodge State Park features extensive trail systems with bluffs and waterfalls. A camper noted, "We did the lost canyon trail which is just stunning with bluffs, small water fall," demonstrating why this park offers some of the most scenic hiking near Windsor.
Biking excursions: The Sugar River Trail connects directly to New Glarus Woods State Park, making it perfect for cycling adventures. "It's proximity to the brewery and the restaurants, shops, and bars of New Glarus, can't be beat. Also on the Sugar River Trail so bring your bike!" shared one camper at New Glarus State Park Campground.
Water recreation: Devils Lake State Park provides multiple water activities during summer months. As one visitor mentioned, "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."
What campers like
Budget-friendly group sites: Devils Lake State Park Group Campground offers affordable options for multiple families. A camper reported, "Reserved the group camp for three families, cost was $40 a night for a secluded, spacious, clean group site," highlighting the value for larger camping parties.
Easy backpack camping: For those seeking backpacking without extreme hiking, Kettle Moraine State Forest provides accessible shelters. A reviewer of Shelter 1 said, "Great backpack camp site. Decent walk and terrain to get to the site. There is an open shelter to put your tent if you prefer to outside."
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds near Windsor offer birdwatching opportunities. At Devils Lake Group Campground, a visitor observed, "The birds near the group camp are cool, but can also sound like a large pack of dinosaurs squawking at each other...very loud."
What you should know
Weekend congestion: Popular campgrounds become extremely crowded Friday through Sunday. A Devils Lake reviewer warned, "Weekends are pack with campers. The beaches have hard pebbles and rocks," suggesting mid-week visits for a quieter experience.
Road noise consideration: Some campgrounds experience significant traffic noise despite wooded settings. A New Glarus Woods visitor cautioned, "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."
Toilet facilities vary widely: Blackhawk Memorial Park and similar county parks offer more rustic facilities than state parks. As one camper described, "Pit toilets/shelter/playground near the entrance... Sites have picnic tables (in season) and fire pits. Sites are generally well marked, but some can be difficult to find."
Tips for camping with families
Scout-friendly activities: Devils Lake Group Campground works well for youth group outings. A scout leader shared, "Spent a weekend here in one of the group sites (G3) in mid November 2021. It was in the 30s at night but got up to the high 40s during the day, great camping weather!"
Playground access: For families needing recreational facilities, Wild Goose City Park provides amenities along a bike trail. A visitor mentioned, "There's a playground and public bathroom, drinking fountain. Plenty of space to spread out for a picnic when you're biking through."
Dutch oven cooking: Hickory Ridge Group Camp and other group sites provide ample space for family cooking. One camper at Devils Lake shared, "Camp life was awesome, we ate very well since we brought two Dutch ovens. We are Cowboy Casserole, Mountain Man breakfast, peach cobbler, 7 can soup, hobo dinner and apple sausage casserole."
Tips from RVers
Site selection cautions: When considering the best tent camping near Windsor, Wisconsin for RVs, carefully research site layouts. At New Glarus Woods, a camper noted, "There are drive-up sites, walk-in sites and a group campground. The drive-up sites are next to the road so you do hear cars all night/day and it is a tiny space."
Seasonal planning: Fall offers the most comfortable RV camping experiences near Windsor. A Sandhill Station visitor advised, "Overall, the campground is a nice choice if you want a private, quiet getaway into the oak savanna of southern Wisconsin. I wouldn't go in the middle of summer, due to the limited shade, but it was very nice in early fall."
Water access considerations: Many smaller campgrounds have limited water hookups. At Blackhawk Memorial Park, one reviewer noted the water conditions: "The lake water is like green paint and the river is now brackish, but moving," highlighting the importance of bringing sufficient potable water.
