Camping near Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin offers sites within pine forests and near bluffs, with most locations situated between 800-900 feet of elevation. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, with moderate humidity affecting tent camping comfort. Spring and fall bring temperature swings that campers should prepare for with layered clothing and proper sleeping gear.
What to do
Kayaking on Mirror Lake: Mirror Lake State Park features a no-wake lake perfect for paddling. "The lake is great for kayaking. Lots of sandstone cliffs," notes a visitor to Bluewater Bay Campground. Rentals are available at the boat launch area for those without equipment.
Hiking the Ice Age Trail: This historic trail passes through several Wisconsin Dells campgrounds. At Ice Age Campground, one camper reported: "We followed it out and back after setting up camp. The ranger said the east and west bluff trails are the most popular. We headed out early on Monday and did an 8 mile loop right from our campsite."
Swimming and fishing: Devils Lake offers designated swimming areas and fishing opportunities. "Beautiful hiking and swim in the park. Campsites are very large. We came in a group with multiple cars and tents, but the sites easily accommodated us," shares a camper at Bluewater Bay Campground about their experience using the site as a base for Devils Lake activities.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural separation between sites. At Rocky Arbor State Park Campground, "Many of the sites are separated from others by some space and numerous trees, tucked back away in the pine forest. The secluded nature gives it the feel of a National Park with beautiful stretches of pine and rocky ledges."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower buildings are frequently mentioned in positive reviews. A visitor to Fox Hill RV Park & Campground stated: "Despite the very crowded campground, the bathrooms were immaculate. Even the Men's room was super clean. They have 3 indoor showers in each gender bathroom, and a couple of outdoor shower stalls."
Proximity to attractions: Campers value being close to both natural areas and Wisconsin Dells attractions. "This is a great park that was great to visit midweek instead of on a crowded weekend," explains a camper at Ice Age Campground, highlighting the benefit of timing visits to avoid peak crowds.
What you should know
Highway noise impacts certain sites: Interstate proximity affects several campgrounds. At Cliffwood Campground, one camper warned: "Freeway noise is very prominent, especially at night." Similarly, at Rocky Arbor State Park Campground: "The first time we stayed they had a terrible gypsy moth infestation that had denuded all the deciduous trees."
Reservation requirements: Devils Lake State Park campgrounds book up fast, especially during summer and holidays. "You need to book the 11 months in advance, especially for holiday weekends," advises a camper at Quartzite Campground.
Cost considerations: Wisconsin Dells camping prices vary widely. One camper at Ice Age Campground reported: "Cost at end of september, sunday night was $76/night PLUS $16 parking fee so $92 for a night at a mediocre campground with no privacy."
Tips for camping with families
Water features for kids: Several campgrounds offer swimming options beyond the waterparks. At Wisconsin Dells KOA, "The kids loved the pool and splash pad as well." Another camper noted it has "a heated pool with some little attractions attached for the kids."
Playground access: Family-friendly sites include play areas for children. "Nice playground right next to the shower so the kids could play while we showered," mentioned a visitor to Northern Lights Campground.
Activity planning: Allow time for both natural and commercial attractions. Fox Hill RV Park offers "a variety of activities for kids which was something that would draw us back to the campground again." Features include "large outdoor games like chess, connect 4, and checkers."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RVers should research specific sites before booking. At Wisconsin Dells KOA, one RVer advised: "We were in the new part of the campground, the site was level and the full hookups were well placed. Plenty of room and a concrete patio & nice picnic table."
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require additional equipment for leveling. A Fox Hill RV Park visitor noted: "Our site was very unlevel side to side. It took two 2x6 and a 1x6 under the camp side to be level. That made the first step into the coach, and last step out of the coach extremely high off the ground."
Access considerations: Larger RVs face limitations at some campgrounds. At Rocky Arbor State Park, a camper warned: "The website to reserve states the site is max 70ft long. No way!! First of all be aware there is a steep curving narrow road to get to sites. We have 33ft trailer. Site 70 is short, not level and the highway noise was so loud we had to shout."
