Are you the owner for this storage? Make it a featured listing and be seen in the top search results!
Petenwell Lake (Adams County Park)
Overview
Situated on the eastern shore of Wisconsin's second-largest inland lake, Petenwell Lake (Adams County Park) offers a classic Upper Midwest camping experience. This sprawling park in Arkdale serves as a gateway to 23,000 acres of water, providing a serene waterfront backdrop for RVers seeking a connection with nature. The park balances a rustic, wooded atmosphere with well-maintained facilities, making it a staple for those who enjoy expansive views and fresh air without the crowded feel of more commercial destinations.
Location & Surroundings
The park is located in the heart of Adams County, surrounded by a mix of dense forest and the vast, open waters of Petenwell Lake. Because the lake is a man-made reservoir on the Wisconsin River, the surrounding terrain is relatively flat but rich in biodiversity. RV travelers will appreciate the easy access via Highway 21, allowing for a quick transition from the road to a quiet, lakeside retreat nestled among towering pines and indigenous wildlife.
Amenities & Park Features
RVers will find sites equipped with 30-amp and 50-amp electrical service, catering to various rig sizes. While the sites maintain a natural feel, the park provides essential modern conveniences, including a dump station and fresh water fill. Visitors can enjoy a large sandy swimming beach, multiple boat launch ramps, and a unique harbor. For families, the playground and designated picnic areas offer plenty of space for daytime recreation and evening gatherings after a long day on the water.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The lake itself is a premier destination for trophy musky and walleye fishing, drawing anglers from across the region. Beyond the water, guests can explore the Necedah National Wildlife Refuge or take a short drive to the bustling attractions and waterparks of the Wisconsin Dells. The park also features an internal trail system perfect for hiking or birdwatching, while the nearby Castle Rock Lake provides additional opportunities for exploration within a twenty-minute drive.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an ideal match for active outdoor enthusiasts and families who prioritize water-based recreation over luxury resort amenities. If you prefer a tranquil environment where the sound of the lake replaces city noise, you will feel right at home. It is particularly well-suited for boaters and fishing hobbyists who want immediate access to the water while maintaining a peaceful basecamp for their Wisconsin adventures during the warmer months.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Shannon Helmer
Awesome, clean, peaceful park to camp at.
Lynn Hirte
Great & affordable camping, spacious sites with hookups or not, fishing, boat launch, friendly staff and beautiful scenery. ATV trails near. We try to come back every year! Don't forget to stop at Petenwell Pub on the lake for some great food and spirits! Watch out for the bugs...they have been nasty some years 😳🦟🪰 Update, unfortunately the pub is closed now but the owners still offer cabin rentals.
Peter Rekitzke
Great place for camping. They made accommodations for us campsites were good bathrooms were good clean. Showers could use a little cleaning up. And other than an excess of mosquitoes. Is good solid experience.
Lucas L
Absolutely unbearable Mosquitoes and Black Flies. We camped there last year and the black flies and mosquitoes were unbearable. When we first arrived we noticed how empty the big beautiful beach was until we just got massacred by biting flies and mosquitoes. Tried Thermacells and every can of spray you could imagine. They ate us and the dogs alive. We camp a lot usually in off grid national NF sites and all of Wisconsin and the U.P and mosquitoes and black flies aren’t usually a problem like they are at Petenwell. Won’t go back. Not enjoyable one bit. They have to hire someone to come in and spray or something or that place is gonna keep losing money. Lady told me “oh well” when we mentioned how unbearable it was.
Ronald Dallmann
Popular place on Sherwood lake. We stopped in for there excellent petiza. Did not fail. Waitress was very helpful, friendly drinks were made to perfection. We had a good time enjoying the lake patio.I would recommend this place when every your in the mood to enjoy a good dinner