Forest camping near Lake Mills
Discover and reserve the best campgrounds, cabins, RV parks, and more.
98% (878 reviews)
- Lake Mills
98% (878 reviews)
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12 top forest campgrounds near Lake Mills
95%
(243)
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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$45
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93%
(53)
Terra Growers Organic Farm
15 sites · RVs, 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.
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$55
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Purplehaze Acres
9 sites · Lodging, Tents60 acres · Rubicon, WI
Purplehaze Acres is a 60-acre organic rustic farm in Rubicon, WI and resides at the beginning of the approx. 650-mile Niagara Escarpment--known locally as "The Ledge". We are in close proximity to the Ice Age Trail, and the natural treasures of the great Horicon Marsh, Lake Sinnissipi/Rock River with canoeing/kayaking/fishing, Ledges County Park, and the world-renowned Holy Hill Shrine.
Nearby Hustisford ("Husti") offers unique shopping and dining experiences, such as the Mercantile and Mocha Vino. Need a few organic groceries? Make sure to visit Back To The Best Organic grocer only 3 miles away, featuring food raised on local organic farms including Purplehaze Acres.
Potable water, charcoal grills, firepit grates, eggs and available for purchase--firewood. COMING SOON: Did you forget something? If so, check out our Camp Cupboard Store.
Your approach via 1/2-mile dirt drive up the hills and through the woods . . . to not your grandmother's typical house you go. You'll find wonderful vistas, wildflowers, berries, trails up into the woods, a 900' grass runway for aviators on an overall great "peace" of earth. ☮
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$40
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Bakeracres
1 site · RV, Tent45 acres · Lebanon, WI
Bakeracres is a 45 acre farm that raises hay, oats and pumkins. We also raise Belgian draft horses, that we use for field work and logging. The camp site is at the back of the farm in a wooded area near a pond. Great area to go biking with many miles of quiet roads in our area. Also we are about 4 miles from the Rock river, which is great for canoeing/kayaking. We are about 5 miles outside of Watertown , which has plenty of shopping, restaurants, and fun drinking establishments. We are less than an hour from Milwaukee, Madison, or Fon du Lac.
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$50
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100%
(5)
Ice Age Retreat
3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Palmyra, WI
Surrounded by the Kettle Moraine Forest, we purchased this property in October of 2022 to be closer to nature and to share this property with you. We look forward to hosting you. The forest provides many opportunities enjoy! Close to the Ice Age Hiking Trail, Blad Bluff Scenic Overlook within walking distance of our retreat. Hiking, Moutain Biking, Cross Country Skiing, Snow Shoe, Horse Back Riding and much more
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$40
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SKILLET CREEK CAMPGROUND
1 site · Tent70 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.
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$48
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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.
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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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$95
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Camp Kettlewood
7 sites · Lodging80 acres · East Troy, WI
Founded in 2020, Camp Kettlewood is actually the second campground to have operated on this beautiful land. The property previously belonged to the Girl Scouts of Wisconsin- Badgerland Council. The Girl Scouts hosted outings and events here from 1967 through 2018. That's over 50 years of learning, laughing, building friendships, and making memories in the great outdoors!
We knew that this land was special when we bought it. So, when we decided to turn this campground into...well...a campground, we wanted to respect that rich history and honor it in a new way. You'll notice the campsite signs are new, but the campsite names- like The Hilton, Mushroom Gulch, and Last Resort- are all original. That was purposeful, not only because we couldn't think of any better names (it's harder than you think!) but mostly because we wanted to show respect to what was here before us. We even created a new campsite and named it Oakwood Knoll, which was the previous name of this property. If you keep an eye out, you'll be able to see more subtle nods to the Scouts program incorporated into our decorations at the campsites!
Our campsites are each set spaciously apart, so guests can have more privacy than they would at a traditional campground. Our premium sites are also designed for comfort and ease. When you arrive, the campsites are ready for you, so there's no setting up or tearing down. You'll also get to sleep in real beds, as opposed to sleeping in a bag on the ground. Guests can expect to enjoy electricity, flush toilets, coffee makers, propane grills, and the warm ambiance of
string lights hung at each site. These sites are perfect for both campers and glampers.
We're confident you'll get the perfect mix of relaxation, nature, and comfort during your stay. You'll also certainly get some great Instagram-able photos!
Also, while you're here, check out the many places and activities located just a short drive from Camp Kettlewood. As our name suggests, we're adjacent to the Kettle Moraine State Forest, as well as many other parks and nature preserves. You can also enjoy swimming, paddle boarding, boating, and fishing in several nearby lakes. All within 20 minutes or less of our camp, making day trips a breeze!
Thank you again for your interest in staying at Camp Kettlewood. We’re very excited to share our summers with you and we're honored to carry on the tradition of this property as a place for making memories- not only as a campground, but also as our home!
We are blessed to live on-grounds in the renovated lodge, which was previously the Girl Scout's cafeteria and club house. We've put a lot of hard work into this land and we're pretty proud of what we've been able to accomplish. We hope you will be, too!
Sincerely,
- Simona & Jeremy Ebner, Owners
Camp Kettlewood, Est. 2020
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$175
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93%
(21)
Simply Maple Farm 🪶🏕️🛶
1 site · RV, Tent100 acres · Mukwonago, WI
Reconnect with nature at our secluded campsite nestled next to the Fox River. You can bring your own RV/tent/campervan or choose to stay in the tipi. There are two kayaks labeled for guests to use during their stay and could use to fish The Fox River.
As you drive on the dirt road to the site there are farm fields to your left and the Fox River is straight ahead.
If needing to to get groceries, Walmart and Aldi's are about 5 minutes away. Local towns are Mukwonago and East Troy. Chicago is 90 minutes away and Milwaukee and Lake Geneva are 30. Fork in the Road is a popular restaurant in Mukwonago or try Mead in East Troy at the Hive! The Alpine Valley Music Theatre is 15 minutes away. Location is near I-43 & Highway 83.
You can Venmo or use cash while you are at the campsite to purchase wood for one dollar a piece.
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$75
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98%
(22)
Mayville Farm
2 sites · RVs11 acres · Wind Lake, WI
Our home and property was originally built by the Norwegian immigrants that emigrated to the US, settling and founding North Cape. This property has evolved and devolved in the last 170 years and I’m working hard to restore it all again.
I also keep sheep for wool and ducks, chickens and geese for eggs.Learn more about this land:Hobby farm, just starting out. Historic property, sheep, ducks, geese, chickens. Very quiet, peaceful place! I also make soap (check out The Humble Soaping Company), home brew beers wines, meads, spirits and gardens abound all around the property! We do have pets, it can interact as much or as little as you’d like. Our place is the perfect one-night stop when traveling long distances!
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$15
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Kettle Moraine Camper
1 site · Lodging2 acres · Dousman, WI
Just off the Ice Age Trail, a great rest-stop for hikers seeking a good night's sleep in a nice cozy bed or travelers looking for a blissful quiet sleep. Our camper is set up for solitude and self-care, a great place to rest and restore. Find a restful evening in nature in our very comfortable "3 bedroom" (three pop-out bed) camper, plenty of room to stretch out and enjoy.
Organic home-cooked dinner with your hosts available for additional. Owner is an herbalist and can offer education on the flora in bloom as well as workshops.
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$125
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Kettle House
2 sites · Lodging77 acres · Eagle, WI
We found our Kettle House in 1999 when we were in the market for a vacant parcel to pitch a tent after a long day of riding the single track trails in the State Forest. We are originally from Dane County Wisconsin, which like the Eagle area is graced with terminal moraine geology. A terminal moraine is where the last glaciation stopped and dropped everything it was carrying. These deposited sand and gravel hills and interim kettles, many of which include lakes and wetlands, are the topography we are inherently drawn to. We were thrilled to have the opportunity to better balance our city living with a country weekend retreat in such a special area. The site's historic ecosystems (woodland, savanna, prairie and aquatic) were in rough shape when we bought the property which had been suburbanized to large degree, but as ecologists, we knew there was lots of potential to restore the site and reclaim a special part of Wisconsin's natural environment. It is our responsibility and privilege to care for this property and you may see evidence of our regular site work during your visit. We hope you mostly see and enjoy a nice example of natural Wisconsin in various stages of restoration!Learn more about this land:This amazing property is located 20 minutes northeast of Geneva Lake and Delevan Lake, 75 minutes southeast of Madison, 45 minutes southwest of Milwaukee and 1.75 hours northwest of Chicago. It is situated within minutes drive of the gorgeous Kettle Moraine State Forest Southern Unit parcels (10 minutes to Emma, 15 to John Muir, 5 minutes to McMiller trail heads). Additionally, the remarkable LuLu Lake State Natural Area is within a 10 minute walk down Nature Road. These nearby large scale natural areas offer many miles of trails and expanses of uninterrupted nature. Thus, we offer perfect accommodations for birders and outdoor recreationists, as well as family gatherings.In addition to the large public open spaces nearby, our site’s 77 acres are incrementally being restored and managed as woodland, savanna, prairie, wetland and aquatic native ecosystems. Miles of private mowed trails launch from the front door of the house, providing access to a beautiful private park with four fishing ponds. Hiking, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and limited single track biking and fishing are allowed. The mid-century modern house is modest, partially renovated, and very well situated on the terraced site, with lots of indoor-outdoor views and amenities including two indoor wood burning fireplaces, outdoor hot tub, an outdoor fire pit on the patio, a gas grill, lots of bird feeding stations and patio seating. Spring and fall warbler migration are particularly wonderful times of year here!In the immediate yard of the house, a small outdoor heated pool frames a lovely rear yard that includes a fountain and a screen porch. A remnant gravel hill prairie covers what would typically be mowed lawn. Respecting the site’s plants while enjoying them will be expected of all guests, as is being courteous of all neighbors in this quiet rural setting. We have enjoyed this incredible property for 20 years and are at a point in our lives that we are ready to share it with others who will appreciate the opportunity to immerse oneself in a beautiful environment while not being far from three large metropolitan areas. The ease of access to nearby amenities, especially the State Forest trail systems and the Villages of Eagle, East Troy, Mukwonago and Palmyra (restaurants, gas stations, Old World Wisconsin, Alpine Valley, Elegant Farmer, Eagle Spring Lake, LuLu Lake and Crooked Creek, etc.) all make staying here very easy, relaxing, recreational and enjoyable. The house has the potential to sleep 10, with three private bedrooms (one queen bed and two double + twin bunk beds), a long living room couch and a super single fold down couch by the fireplace in the breezeway. Sheets and towels provided, to be laundered by guests. Two bathrooms include a walk-in shower and tub/shower. Washer and drier available. Kitchen includes gas stove and range, refrigerator, freezer, dorm dishwasher, microwave, toaster and general kitchen equipment, dishes and utensils.Skylights and lots of windows provide ample light and views of surrounding savanna that features a handful of old bur and white oaks, intermixed with hickories. Our favorite room is the living room where floor to ceiling windows make it feel as if you are sitting outside all year round. During the winter, a fire in the hearth with a drink and a game or movie on the flat screen TV offer a great place to kick back. If you can’t completely unplug, complimentary WiFi and a corner home office + artist’s easel in the breezeway allow for dedicated work and creative space.
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$375
/ night
Under $50
Available this weekend
Forest camping near Lake Mills guide
Overview
Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for finding the perfect camping experience near Lake Mills, Wisconsin. With over 448 options available in the area, specifically tailored to your preference for a forest terrain, you're sure to find the ideal camping spot. Whether you're looking for a secluded campsite surrounded by trees or a cozy cabin nestled in the woods, we've got you covered. Check out top campsites like Purplehaze Acres (295 reviews), 🦫 Flutterby 🦋 Farm 👩🏽🌾 (203 reviews), and Toadally Natural Garden (127 reviews) for highly rated options. Enjoy popular amenities like potable water, pet-friendly locations, and showers. Plus, take advantage of activities such as horseback riding, biking, and swimming. With an average price per night of $45 and options starting as low as $10, the perfect forest camping experience awaits you!
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