Bark River Campground

The Great Outdoors

There are many natural areas and designated state parks located within a short drive when you book an RV rental in Jefferson County. One of the closest is Rose Lake State Natural Area, a shallow lake surrounded by forested hills, oak trees, and wetlands. The area is a natural haven for a wide variety of plant species and wildlife. There are multiple species of aquatic plant including duckweed, watermilfoil, and common pondweed, although Illinois pondweed is the dominant species. Meanwhile, the open mudflats attract shorebirds, and the wetlands are a natural breeding habitat for both rare and common birds. Patient bird watchers can spot marsh wren, sandhill cranes, yellow-headed blackbirds, and many more bird types.Another highlight of this region of Wisconsin is Kettle Moraine State Forest, located approximately one hour's drive from Milwaukee. You can visit with an RV rental and take advantage of the plethora of recreational activities available. The forest provides a mix of hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing trails, as well as access to the 1,200-mile Ice Age National Scenic Trail. The forest also boasts four freshwater lakes where you can canoe or kayak along the beautiful shoreline. Water and jet skiing are also permitted in two of the lakes, or you can launch your own vessel.You might also like to make a visit to one of Wisconsin’s most popular state parks while you’re RV camping at Bark River Campground. Devils Lake State Park, located near Baraboo, receives approximately three million visitors each year, many of whom come for the excellent water sports, rock climbing, and hiking opportunities. With over 25 miles of scenic hiking trails and up to nine miles of cycling trails of various lengths, Devils Lake State Park is ideal for visitors of all ages and abilities. During the winter these trails are open for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Visitors can also get out on the water in canoes and kayaks, which are available for rent within the park or launch a non-motorized boat from one of the boat ramps. The lake is even a popular spot for scuba diving. For anyone who prefers to relax in the great outdoors, Devils Lake State Park offers two sandy beaches where you can swim, and there's also an informative nature center. With so many recreational activities and facilities available, it’s no wonder that Devils Lake State Park is a favorite with both locals and vacationers.

Explore the Area

When you book an RV in Jefferson County, you’ll also have the opportunity to explore the county seat. The rural city of Jefferson is situated between the Crawfish and Rock rivers. It boasts a number of historic buildings as well as a small-community ambiance and strong German heritage. Each September, Jefferson hosts its own Gemuetlichkeit Days, also known as Oktoberfest. During the festivities, locals put on their lederhosens and prepare for a weekend of parades, contests, and family-friendly events. Here you can taste traditional German foods, listen to live music, or join a dancing lesson. Adults can enjoy a beer in the Beer Garden while kids can take part in races or costume competitions.Jefferson also hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Jefferson County Fair in July. Every Thursday from June to August, you can see live concerts in Rotary Park or stock up on food for your RV rental vacation at the weekly farmers' market.If you decide to camp in an RV near Jefferson outside of the summer season, there are still plenty of things to keep you busy. The city hosts an outdoor theater on Highway 18 with double features, popcorn buckets, and cold soda, open from April to September. Of course, Jefferson’s shops and eateries are open year-round, so during the coldest season, you can warm up with a hot coffee and pastries or get lunch at one of the city's restaurants or burger joints. Or, you can shop for souvenirs. Jefferson offers a range of antique and second-hand stores, as well as farm stores with locally produced food, goods, and crafts.Whether you’re traveling with friends and family or you’re out on a solo adventure, you’ll find an abundance of things to do while you’re camping with an RV at Bark River Campground.