Wisconsin's Scenic Lake Escape Less Than Two Hours From Madison Is A Midwest Gem For Camping And Kayaking

Wisconsin is full of superb natural scenery, from the breathtaking Apostle Islands to the coastal towns of Door County. With some 15,000 lakes spread across the state, it's not difficult to find a lakeside getaway for a bit of peaceful relaxation or fun in the sun. About a 1.5-hour drive north from the lively, scenic city of Madison is Castle Rock Lake, a perfect spot for a weekend escape from the city or a longer vacation.

According to Discover Wisconsin, Castle Rock Lake is the fourth-largest lake in Wisconsin. It's a flowage on the Wisconsin River, created in the late 1940s, and covers about 14,000 acres. The lake has 60 miles of shoreline and is a dreamy destination for outdoor activities. Kayaking and camping are very popular in the area, along with fishing, hiking, birdwatching, and boating. Anglers can cast a line for musky, walleye, and bass, among others, and you may spot wildlife such as a bald eagle, osprey, or white-tailed deer here. While there are so many destinations that make for one of the best Wisconsin lake vacations, Castle Rock Lake is especially well-suited for nature lovers.

The best way to experience Castle Rock Lake is by getting out on the water. Kayaking is a fun way to explore the shoreline and scenery. Castle Rock Watersports is open seasonally and rents out single and double kayaks, as well as canoes and paddleboats. If you'd rather take it easy, rent a pontoon boat — several operators offer them on the lake. There are also three beaches on the lake if you want to go swimming.

The lake itself isn't the only place to enjoy a paddle. Miles Paddled recommends trying the Wisconsin River from Castle Rock Dam, a trip that covers about 9.5 miles and will take roughly 3 hours. You'll paddle past beautiful bluffs towards the end point. Discover Wisconsin suggests kayaking around Pavlovski Waterfront Developments, on the western part of the lake, as well as the nearby Lemonweir River. 

There are plenty of campgrounds in the area if you want to stay a while. Buckthorn State Park is one of the best destinations for lakeside camping in Wisconsin, with 69 sites for tents or trailers and more for backpacking or carting-in. Relax in the woods at Juneau County Castle Rock Park, which offers almost 300 campsites near the shore. There are also several private campgrounds: Castle Rock Lake Campground has a swimming pond and playground, and is close to two boat launches, while Buckthorn Campground Resort boasts large sites, a pool, and a camp store. Whichever campground you choose, you'll be in a fantastic area for exploring the lake's natural features and enjoying some lakeside fun.