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Yellowstone Lake
Overview
Yellowstone Lake State Park offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Driftless Area. Centered around a 455-acre reservoir, the park provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle of city life. The landscape features rolling hills and diverse habitats, making it a staple for Wisconsin campers seeking a mix of water activities and land-based exploration. This state-managed park is known for its quiet atmosphere and commitment to preserving the natural beauty of southwestern Wisconsin.
Location & Surroundings
Situated near Blanchardville, WI, the park lies within the unique topography of Lafayette County. Unlike much of the state, this region was not leveled by glaciers, resulting in deep valleys and steep ridges that characterize the Driftless Area. The park itself is surrounded by a large wildlife area, offering visitors a sense of seclusion and immersion in nature while remaining an easy drive from nearby hubs like Madison or Dubuque.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground provides 61 electric sites specifically designed to accommodate RV travelers looking for modern conveniences in a forest setting. While full hookups are not available, the park offers a convenient sanitary dump station and fresh water fill-up points for self-contained rigs. Campers have access to well-maintained bathhouses featuring flush toilets and showers. Additional park features include:
- A designated swimming beach and picnic areas.
- Multiple boat launches for easy lake access.
- Seasonal concessions offering boat and canoe rentals.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Beyond the water, visitors can explore over 4 miles of hiking trails that wind through restored prairies and lush woodlands. Anglers frequently visit to catch walleye, muskellunge, and panfish in the stocked lake. Just a short drive away, travelers can visit the historic town of New Glarus, known for its Swiss heritage and famous brewery, or explore the limestone architecture and art galleries of Mineral Point. These nearby excursions provide a great balance of culture and nature.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is ideal for nature lovers and families who prefer a rustic yet comfortable camping experience over a commercial resort. It is a perfect fit for RVers who enjoy water-based recreation like kayaking or fishing without the noise of high-speed boats, thanks to the lake's no-wake rules. If you appreciate dark night skies, quiet evenings by the fire, and wildlife watching, this state park will perfectly fit your travel style.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Cyndi Voeck
Stayed for four nights, October 12-16. They're currently upgrading some of the parking pads on some of the campsites and also repaving some areas, but they're almost finished. Even with that work going on, it was quite peaceful and quiet. I love the hiking trails. Site 30 was HUGE, complete with some hammock trees! I'll be back! 🥰
Nathan Flaminio
A huge, beautiful lake with a small beach, trails, and big grassy areas. To start, the restaurant was closed, which was disappointing. I was very much looking forward to giant pancakes. Really hope they figure something out because that place is a big part of the history of this park. Luckily, there was an ice cream truck by the dock. Unfortunately, the lake was completely overtaken by blue-green algae on our visit. I don't think I've ever seen a concentration that high in my life. It was like the lake was made of green paint. Very high probability of getting really sick from water like that. There are some differences from what I thought I remembered from childhood. I thought the beach was way bigger than what it is now (more than twice its size), but I suppose that could be because I was much smaller the last time I visited (around 40 years ago). Still, it seems very small now for a lake this large. Also, I thought there were a couple playground areas. One by the beach, and another by the dam. I'm not sure, though, I could be mixing multiple places together. Still, under normal circumstances, this is a fantastic place to spend a day (or several). We just happened to make it to the area when things weren't the greatest. There are nice trails, great views, plenty of places to park with water access, picnic areas all over, and a really great summer vibe.
Kathy's Channel
Beautiful campground, large spacious sites. We were in an electric site. Brand new restroom/ shower house. Hot water, very low water pressure, very disappointed. Nice hiking trails. They have vauled toilets throughout the camping area. The one in our loop was not usable.
Kim Brown
Trails are (in a good way) minimally kept. When you're out for a hike, there isn't a man-made trail...yes it's been trimmed but it is still nature under your feet. There are many trails to pick from and don't forget to bring bug spray!!! There is a dog beach, a people beach, boat launches, and plenty of scenery. I know there was at least one playground, unsure if there were others...plenty of picnic places. Stay clear of the yellow fanned out flowers (wild parsnip) they can scar you for life (seriously).
Frank Kosowski
Camped in the 2-36 loop. Large site nicely spaced out and private. Almost brand new shower/flush toilet building at the end of the loop. Firewood was $6/bundle. No camp host unfortunately, and the new check in/out times were NOT enforced. Brand new sand at the beach and many places to fish. Trails clearly marked and canoe/kayak launch was nice. FREE shooting range was very nice.