1. Refined Travel
  2. Parks Near Me
  3. Wisconsin
  4. Dodge County
  5. Horicon
  6. Parks in Main Street
  7. The Playful Goose Campground of the Horicon Marsh

The Playful Goose Campground of the Horicon Marsh

The Playful Goose Campground of the Horicon Marsh 10The Playful Goose Campground of the Horicon Marsh 1The Playful Goose Campground of the Horicon Marsh 2The Playful Goose Campground of the Horicon Marsh 3The Playful Goose Campground of the Horicon Marsh 4The Playful Goose Campground of the Horicon Marsh 5The Playful Goose Campground of the Horicon Marsh 6The Playful Goose Campground of the Horicon Marsh 7The Playful Goose Campground of the Horicon Marsh 8The Playful Goose Campground of the Horicon Marsh 9The Playful Goose Campground of the Horicon Marsh 10The Playful Goose Campground of the Horicon Marsh 1
Close1 / 10

The Playful Goose Campground of the Horicon Marsh About

For Wisconsin residents looking to immerse themselves in nature, particularly near one of the state's most iconic natural treasures, The Playful Goose Campground of the Horicon Marsh offers a compelling option. Situated on the doorstep of the vast Horicon Marsh, this campground aims to provide an engaging and activity-filled experience for campers of all ages, including their canine companions. It's a place where outdoor adventure meets family fun, promising a memorable escape into the heart of Wisconsin's unique wetland ecosystem.

The Playful Goose Campground, as its name suggests, is designed to be a lively and enjoyable destination. Positive feedback highlights its appeal, noting it as a "Great campsite and dog friendly!" with "very reasonable pricing for the wood." The array of activities, from "kayak or canoe rental" to a "play set for kids" and a "pool," further cements its reputation as a place with "plenty of activities." Many visitors express their intent to "definitely return," which speaks volumes about the overall positive experiences many have had.

However, like any business with a long history, customer experiences can vary, and it's important to consider all perspectives. While numerous aspects make The Playful Goose an attractive choice for campers in the Horicon area, understanding the full scope of customer interactions, including those concerning policies, is crucial for making an informed decision. This article will provide a balanced overview of The Playful Goose Campground, drawing on available public information to help Wisconsin locals determine if it’s the right fit for their next outdoor adventure.

Location and Accessibility

The Playful Goose Campground of the Horicon Marsh is conveniently located at 2001 Main St, Horicon, WI 53032, USA. This address places it directly in Horicon, a small city in Dodge County, Wisconsin, renowned as the gateway to the Horicon Marsh. The Horicon Marsh is a vast freshwater cattail marsh, internationally recognized as a Wetland of International Importance and a critical stopover for migratory birds, especially geese.

The campground's location on Main Street (likely a local artery within Horicon) ensures relatively easy accessibility. It's situated directly in the town, meaning campers can quickly access local services, shops, and perhaps some dining options without significant travel. Its proximity to the Horicon Marsh is a major draw, allowing campers to easily venture out for bird watching, hiking, or other marsh-related activities.

For Wisconsin residents, Horicon is generally accessible via state highways, making The Playful Goose a feasible destination for weekend trips or longer stays from various parts of the state. While the specific highway access isn't detailed, its presence on a main street within a recognizable town suggests good connectivity. The convenience of being located in a town, rather than in a remote wilderness area, provides a balance of outdoor immersion and access to modern conveniences, making it an appealing choice for families or those who prefer to be close to amenities while camping.

Services Offered

The Playful Goose Campground of the Horicon Marsh aims to provide a range of services designed to enhance the camping experience for families and individuals. The positive reviews highlight several key offerings:

  • Campsites: The core service of a campground, offering spaces for tents and RVs. While specific hookup details (water, electric, sewer) are not provided in the snippet, it's typical for a campground with various activities to offer a range of site types.
  • Kayak or Canoe Rental: A significant amenity for those looking to explore the nearby Horicon Marsh or local waterways. This allows guests to experience the natural environment directly without owning their own equipment.
  • Swimming Pool: A popular feature, especially for families, providing a refreshing way to cool off and have fun during warmer weather.
  • Play Set for Kids: A dedicated recreational area for younger campers, ensuring they have a safe and engaging space to play.
  • Fishing from the Bank: Opportunities for shoreline fishing, appealing to anglers of all ages looking to enjoy a relaxing day by the water.
  • Wood for Campfires: Available at "very reasonable pricing," indicating the campground provides convenient access to firewood for traditional camping enjoyment.
  • Dog-Friendly: The campground explicitly welcomes dogs, making it an attractive option for pet owners who want to bring their furry friends along on their camping adventures.

While the provided information highlights these appealing services, prospective campers are always encouraged to contact the campground directly for full details on all available amenities, specific site types, and any associated fees to ensure they meet individual needs and expectations.

Features / Highlights

The Playful Goose Campground of the Horicon Marsh boasts several key features and highlights that contribute to its appeal as a family-friendly and activity-rich camping destination in Wisconsin.

  • Proximity to Horicon Marsh: A significant highlight, offering unparalleled access to one of Wisconsin's most famous natural areas. This allows for excellent bird watching, nature photography, and exploration opportunities directly from the campground's doorstep.
  • Abundance of Activities: The campground provides "plenty of activities," catering to various interests. This includes water-based fun with "kayak or canoe rental," recreational options for kids with a "play set," and opportunities for "fishing from the bank." The presence of a "pool" further enhances the recreational offerings.
  • Dog-Friendly Policy: A major plus for many campers, the "dog friendly" policy ensures that guests can bring their beloved pets along for the adventure, making it a truly inclusive family getaway.
  • Reasonable Wood Pricing: The availability of wood at "very reasonable pricing" is a practical highlight, allowing campers to enjoy campfires without excessive cost or the need to transport their own firewood.
  • Family-Oriented Environment: With a play set and a pool, the campground is clearly designed with families in mind, providing amenities that keep children entertained and parents relaxed.
  • High Return Intention: The sentiment "Will definitely return!" from positive reviewers speaks volumes about the overall satisfying experience many campers have had at The Playful Goose.

These features collectively create a dynamic and enjoyable camping environment, making The Playful Goose Campground a popular choice for those seeking an active and engaging outdoor experience near the natural beauty of the Horicon Marsh.

Promotions or Special Offers

Information regarding specific, publicly advertised "promotions or special offers" for The Playful Goose Campground of the Horicon Marsh is not explicitly detailed in the provided customer reviews. However, like many private campgrounds, they may offer various types of deals throughout the season.

It is common for campgrounds to provide:

  • Seasonal or Off-Peak Discounts: Reduced rates during less busy times of the year, such as early spring or late fall.
  • Extended Stay Rates: Special pricing for weekly or monthly reservations, which can offer significant savings compared to nightly rates.
  • Themed Weekend Packages: While not mentioned in the provided snippet, some campgrounds offer special pricing or activities around holidays or themed weekends.
  • Loyalty Programs: Repeat visitors might receive incentives or discounts, encouraging future stays.

One review mentions a specific negative experience regarding a refund policy after a natural disaster, highlighting a policy that offered only "Only $25 towards my next stay" instead of a full refund. This suggests that their cancellation and refund policies might be strict, particularly in unforeseen circumstances.

Therefore, while the campground is noted for "very reasonable pricing for the wood," any specific promotions on stays or rentals would need to be confirmed directly. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on rates, availability, and any potential special offers, as well as clarification on their booking and cancellation policies, prospective campers should contact The Playful Goose Campground directly using the contact information provided.

Contact Information

To learn more about The Playful Goose Campground of the Horicon Marsh, inquire about site availability, or ask any questions regarding their amenities and policies, please use the following contact details:

Address: 2001 Main St, Horicon, WI 53032, USA

Phone: (920) 485-4744

Mobile Phone: +1 920-485-4744

Reaching out directly is the best way to get the most current information and ensure your camping trip meets your expectations.

Conclusion: Why The Playful Goose is Suitable for Locals

For Wisconsin residents, The Playful Goose Campground of the Horicon Marsh presents a highly suitable option for their camping and outdoor recreation needs, particularly for those seeking a balance of natural immersion and convenient amenities.

Firstly, its prime location on the edge of the Horicon Marsh is an unparalleled advantage. This internationally recognized wetland offers extraordinary opportunities for bird watching, nature photography, and quiet contemplation, making it an ideal destination for Wisconsin locals who cherish the state's natural beauty and wildlife. Being able to access this ecological marvel directly from the campground greatly enhances the outdoor experience.

Secondly, the campground's wide array of activities caters directly to the interests of Wisconsin families. The presence of a pool, a play set for kids, and opportunities for fishing and kayak/canoe rentals ensures that there are "plenty of activities" to keep everyone entertained, regardless of age. This makes it an attractive choice for family vacations, where different interests can be accommodated within one convenient location. The "dog friendly" policy is also a significant plus for the many Wisconsin households that include furry family members, allowing them to enjoy their outdoor adventures together.

While a past negative experience regarding a refund policy was noted, the overall sentiment from many other campers of "Will definitely return!" suggests that for the majority, the positive aspects of the campground, including its reasonable pricing for firewood and diverse activities, outweigh potential concerns. For locals, the convenience of a nearby campground with such a rich natural setting and ample activities means less travel time and more time spent enjoying the outdoors, making The Playful Goose Campground a valuable resource for accessible and engaging family fun in the heart of Wisconsin.

Customer Reviews

3.0
278 reviews
C
Codey Houdek (Stumpy)
May 24, 2025

Great campsite and dog friendly! Very reasonable pricing for the wood. Has plenty of activities from kayak or canoe rental, play set for kids, fishing from the bank, and pool! Would recommend to anyone looking for a campsite in this area! Will definitely return!

S
Stacy Stoecker
May 21, 2025

Scam!!! Camped here growing up with my grandparents and family. They've had their ups and downs at the campground over the years. The last time I camped there, 10 years ago, it was not a good experience and actually left before dusk on the second day, so I decided to try again because...well...it's convenient. Nope nope nope. Those policies are absurd. Dodge Co has had 5 tornados in a week. My car got damaged, Mayville was a wreck! And I just couldn't make it the week after the tornado for obvious reasons. I offered to change the date...nope. They stole my money! Over $200. Great! Thanks! On top of insurance deductibles and rentals and chaos, they refused to refund my money. Only $25 towards my next stay. What?!?! I get it, refunding money sucks. But if the costumer offers to make both of you whole so our family can still have something to look forward and they absolutely refuse to work with you after a disaster. My family and I are DONE DONE. I rarely give reviews but families need to be aware of this scam!!!

J
James Coppersmith
May 27, 2025

Great campground. Nice tree covered spots for shade and some open sky spots where the starlink works great. We'll be back for a few more weekends this year.

J
Jesse Wunsch
Dec 02, 2024

Camped here as a kid and have camped here with my kids. It's always been a fun time, indoor pool is a unique touch. Very affordable and nice big, secluded sites. Old school playground equipment is fun too :)

C
Chris Richmond
Jul 29, 2024

I have stayed here for a week now. The campground is well maintained. The staff is not only professional, but they are a very hardworking team. I would recommend this place to anyone camping in the area. Well, as long as you are adult enough to abide by the few rules that they are strict about, but for obvious reasons. They work hard to keep the place nice, so they have expectations of their campers as well. Good people. I’m thankful for my time here.