Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground

For those in Wisconsin eager to immerse themselves in the state's natural beauty and enjoy a classic outdoor adventure, Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground offers an idyllic setting. Situated along the picturesque shores of the 3,200-acre Lake Kegonsa, this state park campground provides a perfect blend of recreational opportunities and tranquil natural surroundings. It’s a cherished destination for Wisconsinites looking to escape the everyday, offering everything from serene lakeside relaxation to invigorating outdoor pursuits.

Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a gateway to diverse ecosystems including oak woodlands, prairies, and wetlands. Its well-maintained facilities and wide array of activities make it an excellent choice for families, couples, and solo adventurers seeking a memorable Wisconsin camping experience. The park's commitment to preserving its natural environment while providing ample recreational amenities ensures a rewarding visit for every guest.

Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground is conveniently located at 2405 Door Creek Rd, Stoughton, WI 53589, USA. This prime location places it just south of Madison, making it an exceptionally accessible destination for residents across south-central Wisconsin and beyond. The park's proximity to major roadways ensures a relatively short and straightforward drive from many of Wisconsin’s population centers, allowing for more time enjoying the outdoors and less time on the road.

Stoughton, a charming city known for its Norwegian heritage and welcoming community, is just a short drive away, offering campers convenient access to local shops, restaurants, and essential services should they need anything during their stay. The surrounding area is characterized by its beautiful lake views and rural charm, providing a peaceful backdrop for your camping adventure. Its position along the eastern shore of Lake Kegonsa means easy access to the lake for boating, fishing, and swimming, while the park’s extensive trail system invites exploration of the diverse landscapes within. Whether you're coming from Milwaukee, Madison, or elsewhere in Wisconsin, Lake Kegonsa State Park offers a refreshing natural escape that feels both secluded and incredibly convenient.

• Diverse Campsite Options: The campground boasts 96 campsites, accommodating tents, pop-ups, trailers, and recreational vehicles (RVs). Among these, 29 sites offer electrical hookups for added convenience. All campsites are equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate. There are also two accessible campsites for campers with disabilities. For larger groups, six group campsites are available, designed for tents only and able to accommodate up to 20 campers per site.

• Restrooms and Showers: Modern amenities include flush toilets and showers located at the campground entrance, providing comfort and convenience. Three vault toilets are also strategically placed throughout the campground for easy access.

• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available at several spigots distributed throughout the campground loops.

• Sanitary Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is provided for RV campers to dispose of waste and refill their fresh water tanks, conveniently located between the family camp and the group camp on the main park road.

• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase from a concessionaire, typically on weekends during the camping season and daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day. This ensures campers have a readily available supply for their campfires.

• Picnic Areas and Shelters: Multiple picnic areas are scattered throughout the park, including reservable shelters, perfect for day use, family gatherings, or larger events.

• Boat Launch: A public boat launch provides easy access to Lake Kegonsa for various water activities.

• Recycling and Garbage Facilities: Designated areas for recycling and garbage disposal are available to help maintain the cleanliness of the park.

• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome in the campground and throughout most of the park, though they must be on a leash. There is even a designated pet swimming area for furry companions to enjoy the water.

• Lake Access and Water Recreation: The paramount feature is direct access to Lake Kegonsa, a 3,200-acre lake perfect for a variety of water activities. Guests can enjoy boating, fishing (known for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, musky, and catfish), kayaking, canoeing, and swimming at the designated beach area. There are also two fishing piers available.

• Extensive Hiking Trails: The park offers nearly 5 miles of hiking trails that weave through diverse landscapes, including oak woodlands, prairies, and wetlands. Trails range from easy, accessible paths like the 1.3-mile Prairie Trail and the 0.1-mile Wetland Boardwalk Trail (with a wildlife viewing platform), to more traditional woodland trails, suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

• Heavily Wooded Campsites: Many of the campsites are described as "heavily wooded," providing a natural, secluded feel and ample shade, enhancing the traditional camping experience. Sites 1-9 and 87-93 are partially wooded, offering options for different shade preferences.

• Winter Activities: The park transforms into a winter wonderland, offering groomed cross-country ski trails when snow conditions permit. Designated trails ensure a dedicated experience for skiers, while other trails are available for snowshoeing and winter hiking.

• Wildlife Viewing and Nature Observation: The park is home to over 20 species of mammals and more than 60 species of birds, making it a fantastic spot for nature watching and bird identification. The diverse habitats, including marshes and prairies, attract a wide array of flora and fauna.

• Accessible Features: Lake Kegonsa State Park is committed to accessibility, offering accessible campsites, an accessible fishing pier, a boat launch with accessible boarding piers, and two accessible picnic shelters. An adaptive tandem kayak is also available for rent.

• Group Camp Amenities: The group camp area includes a sand volleyball court, horseshoe pit, and a ball field, providing excellent options for group recreation and friendly competition.

• Proximity to Stoughton: The charming nearby city of Stoughton offers additional amenities and attractions, including unique shops, dining, and a rich Norwegian cultural heritage, providing opportunities for exploration beyond the park.

As Lake Kegonsa State Park is part of the Wisconsin State Park System, promotions and special offers are typically managed at the state level rather than individually by the campground. While specific, ongoing "promotions" in the traditional sense (like "buy one night, get one free") are less common for state parks, there are several ways Wisconsin residents can enjoy value and take advantage of what the park offers:

• Wisconsin State Park Vehicle Admission Sticker: A valid Wisconsin State Park System vehicle admission sticker is required for park entry. This sticker provides unlimited access to all Wisconsin State Parks for the year, offering significant savings for frequent visitors. Various annual options are available, including resident and non-resident, and senior rates.

• Wisconsin DNR Go Wild Licenses: For activities like fishing and hunting within the park (where permitted), a valid Wisconsin fishing or hunting license is required. These licenses are generally affordable and provide year-round access to these popular activities across the state.

• Off-Peak Season Camping: While not a formal promotion, camping during the shoulder seasons (early spring or late fall) often means fewer crowds and a more serene experience. While some amenities might be limited (e.g., showers closed due to weather), the natural beauty remains, and it can be a more peaceful time to visit.

• Wisconsin State Park System Events: The Wisconsin DNR frequently hosts special events, educational programs, or volunteer opportunities at state parks throughout the year. While not a discount, participating in these can enhance your visit and provide unique experiences. Check the Wisconsin DNR website calendar for details.

For the most accurate and current information regarding entrance fees, camping rates, and any statewide promotions or programs that might benefit your visit, it is always best to consult the official Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website for Lake Kegonsa State Park or call their main information line.

To plan your visit or inquire further about Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground, you can use the following contact details:

• Address: 2405 Door Creek Rd, Stoughton, WI 53589, USA

• Phone: (608) 873-9695

For camping reservations, it is generally recommended to use the Wisconsin DNR's online reservation system or call their statewide reservation line, as specific park staff may have limited ability to book directly.

For residents of Wisconsin, Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground stands out as an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination for a multitude of reasons. Its primary advantage is its accessibility. Located conveniently near Madison, it offers a quick and easy escape from urban life without the need for extensive travel, making it perfect for weekend trips or even spontaneous day visits. This proximity means less time driving and more time enjoying the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that the park provides.

The diverse range of activities available caters to a broad spectrum of interests, ensuring there's something for every Wisconsinite. Whether you're an avid angler keen to fish the well-stocked Lake Kegonsa for bass or walleye, a family looking to cool off at the swimming beach, or a nature enthusiast eager to explore miles of hiking trails through varied ecosystems, Lake Kegonsa delivers. The heavily wooded campsites provide a true sense of immersion in nature, offering a peaceful and private setting for a relaxing outdoor experience. For dog owners, the pet-friendly policies and dedicated pet swim area are a significant bonus, allowing the entire family, including furry members, to enjoy the adventure.

Beyond the natural attractions, the park's commitment to well-maintained facilities, including clean restrooms, showers, and a convenient dump station, ensures a comfortable and hassle-free camping experience that is often highly valued by regular campers. The presence of reservable picnic shelters also makes it an ideal spot for local family reunions or group gatherings, offering a picturesque backdrop for celebrations. Even in the colder months, the park's groomed cross-country ski trails offer a fantastic opportunity for locals to stay active and embrace Wisconsin's beautiful winter landscapes.

In essence, Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground embodies the spirit of Wisconsin's outdoor recreation—accessible, beautiful, diverse, and well-managed. It's a place where lasting memories are made, where urban dwellers can easily reconnect with nature, and where the simple joys of camping are celebrated right in their backyard. For any Wisconsin resident seeking a fulfilling outdoor escape, Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground is a top-tier choice.