There are campgrounds that are dripping with amenities and are so luxurious that you might not even feel like you’re outside. Wandawega Lake Resort, aka Camp Wandawega, is not one of those places. This is a resort that actually warns guests to keep their expectations low – this isn’t a resort that comes equipped with scented candles and high thread count sheets. What it does have is even better – a true outdoors experience that even includes the opportunity to sleep in a replica teepee. Intrigued? Read on to see why Camp Wandawega offers a secluded getaway like no other.
Camp Wandawega is located in Walworth Count in the town of Sugar Creek, about two hours north of Chicago. It’s on the north side of Lake Wandawega, a shallow 120-acre lake that’s filled with panfish, largemouth bass, and northern pike.
This lake is not just a destination for anglers. Camp Wandawega offers an old-school camping experience for those who love recreating in the great outdoors.
The resort has a long history – the place dates back to 1925. It has a range of lodging options and they are all pretty rustic. You can rent a big bunkhouse that sleeps 24, a modern home on a hill, vintage cabins, a canvas cabin, or a lake view cabin.
The grounds are beautiful, but it’s not a luxury hotel – as the owners are quick to point out, “it’s not for everyone.”
One of the most remarkable experiences that Camp Wandawega offers can be found in an area the resort calls the “rustic camping cluster.” It’s a collection of tents and cabins overlooking the lake and some wetlands. The cluster includes a recreation of a Native American teepee. The whole cluster sleeps 10 and includes cots but not much else.
The replica teepee is pretty primitive – you’ll want to bring all your own food and you’ll have access to an outdoor toilet but will need to walk to reach it. But when you sit by the campfire and look up at the stars, you’ll be glad you decided to rough it.
Camp Wandawega doesn’t have walk-in accommodations – it hosts all-camp events and it also accepts reservations online. If you like one-of-a kind camping experiences, you should consider booking a night at this haunted campground, but only in you dare: it’s truly terrifying!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!
