Best Camping in and near Governor Dodge State Park

97% (17 reviews)

Discover Governor Dodge State Park's natural splendor and outdoor adventures.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Governor Dodge State Park

94%

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Camp Cedar Hills

41 sites · RVs, Tents800 acres · Mazomanie, WI

Cedar Hills is a wonderful private campground located on a ridge above 800 acres of stunning DNR land and only a couple minutes drive from historic Sauk City, WI and its many great restaurants. Enjoy great views and 2 miles of hiking trails, personal fire pits and private campsites with access to large pavilion and many communal spaces. Founded in 1979 Cedar Hills has a long history and large community of regulars some of whom have maintained and added to their sites for decades, making this place truly a labor of love. Large sections of this campground are clothing optional, and the whole campsite is strictly 18 and above. Cedar Hills is LGBTQ friendly. Located on a ridge above 800 acres of stunning DNR land and only a couple minutes drive from Sauk City WI and 150 miles from Chicago. Enjoy great views and 2 miles of hiking trails, personal fire pits and private campsites with access to large pavilion. Winter campers may enjoy cross country skiing, snowshoeing and access with your snow machine Founded in 1979 Cedar Hills has a long history and large community of regulars some of whom have maintained and added to their sites for decades, making this place truly a labor of love. Large sections of this campground are clothing optional, and the whole campsite is strictly 18 and above and LGBTQ friendly. Come and visit our 40 sites located on a breathtaking ridgeline with stunning views of the valleys below.

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Beaver Point Cabin

1 site · Lodging90 acres · Belleville, WI

The cabin is an off-grid, 12'X20' insulated structure, with a 7'X8' loft and a 12'X6' screened covered porch/deck. That overlooks a small stream and a cattail marsh. It is in the center of our 90 acres and is very private but near to some rural houses, only our house is (barely) visible in winter and you might see some lights of one other neighbor when the leaves are off the trees. We are 1 and a half miles from the village of Belleville and 5 miles from New Glarus. The Badger State Trail runs across the western edge of our property. It connects with the Sugar River State Trail 8 miles away. Near by New Glarus has many shops, restaurants, Baily's Run winery and the famous New Glarus Brewery (tours daily). Everything can be easily reached by bike or, in season, snowmobile. The marsh is a haven for all sorts of birds and wildlife. Spring brings an abundance of winged migrators and returning residents. There are: sand hill cranes, red wing blackbirds, a number of ducks; buffleheads, mergansers, woodducks, blue winged teal and shovelers just to name a few. The American woodcock can be heard overhead most spring mornings and evenings. The spring peepers (small frogs) are a symphony on their own and they continue into early summer. The woods has many spring flowers and the fall colors are wonderful. In summer there are many song birds like: bluebirds, finches, orioles, humming birds, cedar wax wings, robins, cardinals and herons. Sitting on the screened in deck one can hear a kaleidoscope of bird songs and activity. And an abundance of fireflies in later May through late July and then some. The cabin is off-grid, what that means is: there is NO RUNNING WATER in the cabin and only a chemical toilet (port-a-potty). A limited amount of water is supplied for drinking and washing. There is a sink with a drain in the cabin but no bathroom or refrigerator so bring a cooler. Very limited electricity. There is basic LED lighting and you will be able to charge your phones/devices. The power is supplied from batteries/inverter charged by solar panels on the roof. There are LED lights and a coffee maker. There is NO air conditioning but excellent ventilation and a small, cozy wood stove for heat. If you're uncomfortable or unfamiliar with a wood stove, it may not be wise to stay here in the winter heating season, but we can show most people how to use the stove safely. This is still considered "camping" so be prepared to bring camping gear: your own pillows, sleeping bag, food, drinks, cups, plates, cooking utensils etc. There are carryout options a short drive away. The only thing you won't need is a tent, the cabin is very cozy, warm on the cold days and cool on the warm ones and there is a picnic table, lawn chairs and a gas grill with a side burner. There are a few spots around the cabin for tents if you have additional friends staying. There is an additional charge for additional guests (over 2) but please be advised: any loud "parties" or disturbances and you will be asked to leave. This is a place to enjoy nature and quiet time. To get away from it all. No extra charge for children 12 or under. Insects are a part of the woods environment, if you're afraid of bugs this may not be the right fit for you. We rarely have any real issues, so we're reluctant to use toxic chemicals to kill most (normal) bugs. Normal bug repellent is about all that is necessary. Why we have this cabin; It's a way to share this special place that, judging from the artifacts found here has been a camping area for thousands of years. We want to let others enjoy the seasons; the return of the migrating birds, the spring peepers in the marsh, the fall colors, the silence of a winter day in the woods and the warmth of a wood stove. (many people have found the stove to be their favorite feature) The cabin gives you a front row seat in the middle of, comparatively, pristine nature. Campers will have access to our fine trails for hiking, skiing, snowshoeing and biking. (we would allow a snowmobile from the State trail to the cabin). All campers take note: 1. Please do your best to arrive/check in before dark! The cabin is dark; no yard lights, no streetlights, and if it isn’t a moonlit night, it IS very dark. Some of you are not used to real darkness. We provide some flashlights and headlamps (if you forgot yours) and there are LED lights in the cabin we keep charged for you. Camping headlamps are great for cooking, using the port-a-potty and finding your way around, etc. Bring yours or you can borrow ours, just ask. 2. Take safety precautions with the wood stove and learn how to use it correctly. The only source of heat in the cabin is a small, very nice wood stove. Those without any experience with using wood for heat are advised not to stay at the cabin during the cold season. Those that are eager to learn--we can help you, but safety is very important and you must at least have some basic skills to handle wood heat: using a propane torch, using kindling, splitting wood, operating the stove airflow. 3. Campfires: Campfire wood can be purchased for a reasonable price @$10 for a tote, or @$20 for a large pot/container. We do allow people to bring their own if they are coming from less that 50 miles away. Some exceptions do apply. 4. It has been very enjoyable meeting the many campers. Everyone has been very well prepared and it has been a pleasure seeing them have fun. We especially have enjoyed the families with young children and people with their dog(s). All have been very well behaved and very enthusiastic. 5 Dogs are welcome, but please let us know if your dog does not get along well with other dogs, so we can let others know. We have a young golden retriever that is very friendly and does very well with other dogs, kids and all people. If your dog doesn't get along with others (dogs or people) please let us know in advance, so we can warn others and please, for safety, keep them on a leash. Your hosts, Dan and Anne

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Healing Hills

9 sites · Lodging, Tents20 acres · Hillsboro, WI

We are nestled into a hillside in Wisconsin's Driftless and amish country. Surrounded by beautiful ridges, valleys and trout streams, campers can enjoy hiking trails throughout our land, nearby streams and rivers for fishing and paddling, amish markets, famous bike trails, Wildcat Mountain and the Kickapoo Reserve. Or sit back and relax in one of our private camp sites and fall asleep under endless stars while coyotes lull you off to sleep.

95%

(40)

SKILLET CREEK CAMPGROUND

3 sites · Tents70 acres · Baraboo, WI

Skillet Creek Campground was previously Wheeler's Campground, located in Baraboo. It has the state park feel, large sites, wooded areas, hiking trails, and activities for the the kids. Learn more about this land: Peaceful and scenic area nestled in 70 acres of wooded forest. Spacious sites, hiking, biking, fishing pod, new swimming pond, large barn game room, gaga ball pit, cross net, jumping pad, bike rentals, 4 wheelcart rental, clean bathrooms. Full hookup sites and privative camping sites. Located 1 mile from Devil's lake in Baraboo, Wi. Enjoy nearby breweries, zoo, circus world museum.

100%

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The Hill Family Camping

15 sites · RVs, Tents18 acres · Wonewoc, WI

The Hill is a private forested camp area that was originally made for a large group of friend's annual party. Spanning 4 acres on top, there is space for campers including 30 amp plug-ins, tents, and has buildings on-site for groups if needed. We also an add on of a simple rental glamper we call the Sugar Shack (listed as an Extra). The variety of trees, open space, and a group areas including fire pit, horseshoes/bags, and walking paths make the Hill a beloved getaway. Elroy/Sparta trail is 4 miles away that you can reach on the 400 trail just 1.2 miles from Hill. Golf course in town, paddle on Baraboo, fish/swim at Dutch Hollow, or hike at Wildcat --all within 15 miles.

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(105)

Terra Growers Organic Farm

13 sites · Tents80 acres · Waunakee, WI

Terra Growers is a 100 year-old organic family farm in Springfield WI near Waunakee. We raise free-range chickens (for eggs), grow an extensive variety of vegetables, tend to several fruit orchards, and grow a variety of berries. Terra Growers also has a year-round on-farm store, events open to the public, multiple campsites for rent, as well as extensive volunteer opportunities.

99%

(160)

Goatland

4 sites · Tents15 acres · Cedarville, IL

Fifteen acre livestock farm in NW IL with a creek and pond. We raise sheep, goats, chickens, guineas, peafowl, fancy pheasants, Tom's pet trout, and two ridiculous dogs. If you like nature, and animals, up close, this is the spot. You can respectfully interact with the livestock, or not, as you choose. We're pretty hands off, but are happy to talk about the animals if you ask. Just a quick note: the satellite view is 7 years old so isn't an accurate depiction. We welcome and are a safe space for LGBTQ+ visitors.

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Breakaway Stables

1 site · RV, Tent14 acres · Mount Horeb, WI

Chasing a dream, took a leap of faith and made an offer and to our surprise it was accepted. Learn more about this land:Breakaway from it all, grab your gear, and head to Breakaway Stables where you will experience a beautiful panoramic view of Blue Mounds State Park located in the Driftless Area of southern WI. Enjoy being in the presence of equine energy from near or far depending on your comfort level. We offer a central location to pitch a tent in the middle of numerous possibilities for short trips that are sure to lead you to fun and adventure. Not quite comfortable with total isolation? We live close by to lend a helping hand with camp setup, directions, information about the surrounding area, and anything else in between. Make memories that will last a lifetime. This will be a trip you will want to make a tradition.

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The Heifer Pasture

1 site · Lodging40 acres · Cross Plains, WI

Located on a hill side pasture on the properties back forty along the Ice Age Trail. This fenced off area within the pasture includes a small pond, walking trails, forest and prairie areas. There is a “feed shed” that is available to use (generator on site for electricity)otherwise just pitch a tent. Completely remote from any other houses.

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(2)

The Mother-In-Law’s Pad

1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · Richland Center, WI

This is a cabin based, short-term rental property with a single, well-shaded, RV/Motorhome pad. Located in a rural area this is a great quiet camping spot best for a motorhome or camper under 40’. The location is quiet with expansive views of a crop farming valley with electric and water hookups and free access to a Finnish steam sauna and laundry.

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Circle M Farm Stay Camp n Glamp

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Blanchardville, WI

Camp in style on a beautiful Driftless Farmstead! This tiny valley farm once had stanchions to milk 8 cows in the barn. That was in 1890. Now we are home to dozens of sheep, steers, goats, hogs, cats, dogs, chickens and geese and myriad wild critters and pollinators and migrators. We are a conservation farm and on a mission to heal our wetland, improve our trout stream and bring people out to the land. We are in Driftless Southwest Wisconsin - gorgeous hills and quilted cropland bisected by oak woods and switchback rivers. Pitch your tent, park a small camper/rv, or stay in our vintage camper as close as the backyard or further away by the sheep pasture or frog pond. You will share an indoor bathroom, or our open-to-the-sky hot outdoor shower, and an outdoor sink with other campers. We have a Cedar Sauna you can reserve. This is easy camping with a view of the stars, nestled in a farm-to-table farm community with lots of goods to buy. We LOVE our Driftless neighborhood in SW Wisconsin and can recommend many amazing activities for everyone from fisherman to families! We live on a 20 acre farm bisected by a small river and a great trout stream, adjacent to 150 acres of restored prairie. We're close to shopping, antiquing, Amishing and good eating. We're within a half hour of 3 great rail trails, two state parks and one amazing ATV rental. Go to an old-fashioned drive in movie, a local farmers market, dirt-track stock care races, tractor pulls, a u-pick apple farm or a Toy Train Museum. Go tubing, kayaking, boating or biking - you can rent what you need. Or sit on one of the porches to watch the chickens peck and the pigs dig. We can't wait to introduce you to all the livestock, cats, our Great Pyrrannees pups, Waylon and Willie, and our Border Heeler, Dolly! We are a five minute walk from our cute downtown with a playground, library and several great places to eat. Ten minutes from New Glarus Brewery and Argyle (Pec Time Tubing). A half hour from Mineral Point (Fall Art Tour), Mount Horeb (Troll Way), Dodgeville (House on the Rock) and Monroe (Cheese Days). Fifteen minutes from hiking, fishing and boating at Yellowstone Lake State Park. Campfire with s'mores every night, coffee and scones in the morning. Wifi is reliable on some spots on the property, and a sure thing on the front breakfast porch. We do require a two-night minimum to stay in the campers. Tent camping we have no minimum. Please reach out to us on the app to see what is available.

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S-Camp at Turtle Head Rock

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Viroqua, WI

Hey there Happy Campers! We welcome you to our small slice of Driftless heaven. This private campsite is located in prairie land, surrounded by agricultural and wooded property (it’s quiet). Within a few minutes drive you have access to some of the best trout streams a fishing license can buy. You're also in close proximity to amazing hiking and biking trails, agri-tourism (apple pickin' good times!), endless photography opportunities, wineries, birding, stargazing and visits to downtown Viroqua! After a long day of adventuring, come back to this quiet retreat, make some brandy old fashions and enjoy the ambiance of the stars and crackling camp fire! This site can accommodate 2 large tents with plenty of room for a camp kitchen, fire pit and seating area. There is newly constructed composting style outbuilding (please read instructions before using it) and a camp kitchen table along with solar powered lighting. Firewood and other supplies are conveniently available in downtown Viroqua. Be sure to check out the various retailers and restaurants while you're there! Hope you enjoy the camp and we just ask to please leave it better than you found it!

The best camping near Governor Dodge State Park guide

Overview

About

Bike, hike, spike, okay now we’re just rhyming. But at Governor Dodge State Park you can find the first two; or all three if you start a volleyball game. For other non-rhyming activities, hit the horse trails with your favorite four-legged-friend or captain your own boat or canoe. The fun isn’t done when the weather gets cold; cross-country skiing, sledding, ice-fishing, there’s no excuse for staying indoors!

Notable campgrounds

Twin Valley Campground – Set against a backdrop of steep valleys, this campground is perfect for a serene retreat.
Cox Hollow Campground – Ideal for families, this site offers easy access to the park's lakes and trails.
Group Camp – Large groups can enjoy the park's natural beauty together at this spacious campground.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your spot, as campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability and a quieter experience.
Keep an eye on cancellations to snag a last-minute reservation.
Explore nearby camping options if the park's campgrounds are fully booked.

When to go

The best time to visit Governor Dodge State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer offers warm days perfect for water activities, though it's also the busiest season. Winters are quiet and offer a snowy wonderland for cross-country skiing, but be prepared for cold temperatures.

Know before you go

Ensure your vehicle has a valid admission sticker before entering the park.
Check the park's official website for any property notices or closures before your visit.
Remember that the park is open from 6am to 11pm year-round, offering ample time for exploration.
Volunteering opportunities are available for those who wish to contribute to the park's upkeep.
Accessibility information can be obtained by contacting the park directly to ensure a comfortable visit for all.