Whether you stay at Winding River Campground to enjoy the peace and quiet of camping life or to indulge in activities that you don’t have time for at home, our campsites offer the perfect escape! Ready to go biking? How about a round of golf? Want to try paddle boarding on a quiet river? Looking for fun rock climbing adventures? There are a lot of activities to explore in the Necedah area.
Lake & River Fun
Castle Rock Lake, the 4th largest lake in WI, is only 4 miles away and Petenwell Lake, the 2nd largest lake, is only 11 miles from WRC. The Wisconsin and Yellow Rivers are also a short distance from the campground.
Fishing
You’ll never know what you’ll find in the rivers and lakes of Juneau County. Northern pike and bullheads are regulars in the local waters, as well as black crappies, bluegills, and sunfish, even large catfish are fun to net!
Rock Climbing
Wisconsin’s best climbing spots are within a short drive of the campground. Devil’s Lake State Park boasts world-class quartzite cliffs with over 1,600 routes, perfect for climbers of all skill levels. For a quieter experience, Petenwell Rock offers scenic climbing opportunities near the Wisconsin River. While Roche-A-Cri State Park doesn’t allow climbing, its striking sandstone formations make for an inspiring visit. Whether tackling challenging routes or enjoying the stunning landscapes, climbers will find plenty of excitement in this region!
Hiking
For the nature enthusiasts, the Necedah National Wildlife Refuge spans 44,000 acres of wetlands, forests, and prairies, providing a haven for diverse wildlife, including the endangered whooping crane and Karner blue butterfly. The refuge offers visitors a chance to explore its scenic beauty through well-maintained trails and boardwalks. These elevated pathways wind through marshes and wetlands, making it easy to observe migratory birds, waterfowl, and other native species.
Biking
- Omaha Trails is a 12.5 miles long rail-to-trail bike trail from Camp Douglas to Elroy
- Elroy-Sparta State Trail – 3 rock tunnels and 5 small towns along a 32.5 mile route (one tunnel is .75 mile long, recommended you have flashlights and a jacket)
- 400 State Trail is 22.3 miles long.
Dining
There are some tasty options for dining out around Castle Rock Lake, Necedah downtown, New Lisbon, and Mauston. Just talk to the seasonal campers, they’ll tell you the best location for what you are looking for. The Campground Store has a menu binder of local dining locations.