Wisconsin Dells draws big crowds with its waterparks and attractions—but it’s not for everyone. There are alternatives to the crowds at Wisconsin Dells. If you’re looking for a quieter, more relaxed escape, you’re not alone. Whether you’re planning a weekend with the kids or a quiet retreat with your partner, there are peaceful places just outside the Dells that offer the same natural beauty without the chaos.
Located just 30 minutes away, Howling Hills Campground is the perfect Wisconsin Dells alternative. It’s close enough for a day trip, yet far enough to enjoy true peace and quiet.
Here are 10 peaceful alternatives to the crowds at Wisconsin Dells:
1. Howling Hills Campground
Howling Hills Campground offers spacious RV sites, tent camping, and cozy cabins surrounded by trees and quiet trails. With a spring-fed swimming pond, playgrounds, and campfires under the stars, families and couples can unwind in a laid-back setting.
2. Baraboo Range & Trails
Skip the crowded water slides and hike scenic forest trails. The Baraboo Range offer sweeping views, wildlife spotting, and plenty of room to breathe.
3. Mirror Lake State Park
Just a short drive from the Dells, Mirror Lake State Park has calm waters, quiet paddling, and shaded campsites. It’s ideal for fishing, canoeing, and escaping the noise.
4. Devil’s Lake State Park (Weekday Visit)
Devil’s Lake can get busy on weekends, but weekdays offer a quiet, scenic experience with hiking, swimming, and incredible bluffs overlooking the lake.
5. Wonewoc’s 400 State Trail
Bring your bikes and enjoy a quiet ride through farmland, bluffs, and forest. The Wonewoc’s 400 State Trail passes near Howling Hills Campground and is rarely crowded.
6. Local Farm Markets and Bakeries
The small towns outside the Dells, including Wonewoc and La Valle, have charming local spots to grab fresh produce, baked goods, and coffee—without the tourist lines.
7. Spring-fed Swimming Pond at Howling Hills
No wristbands or long lines. Just soft sand, clean water, and the sound of kids laughing—not screaming. It’s a favorite for families looking for simple fun.
8. Stargazing at Night
Wisconsin Dells doesn’t offer much in the way of starry skies. But at Howling Hills, you can step out of your tent or cabin and see the Milky Way on a clear night.
9. Campfire Time
Roasting marshmallows with your kids or relaxing by the fire with a cold drink beats noisy hotel hallways and overpriced theme park snacks every time.
10. Slow Mornings in Nature
Wake up to birdsong, not traffic. Brew coffee at your site and enjoy the quiet before planning a low-key adventure—or just another day of rest.
Love the natural beauty of the Dells but dread the traffic, long lines, and noise? You’re not alone. Luckily, there are alternatives to the crowds at Wisconsin Dells that let you enjoy the region without the chaos. From hiking in the Baraboo Range to stargazing at Howling Hills Campground, these peaceful destinations offer fresh air and family fun without the hustle. You can still enjoy a day trip into the Dells for big attractions, but end your day roasting marshmallows by a quiet fire, not waiting in line for overpriced snacks. It’s the perfect balance of adventure and calm.
If you’re searching for quiet campgrounds near Wisconsin Dells that still give you access to the area’s attractions, Howling Hills Campground delivers. You can take a short drive into the Dells for waterslides and arcades, then return to a peaceful campsite where the only noise is the crackle of a fire and the hum of crickets.
Family camping near Wisconsin Dells doesn’t have to mean packed parks and noisy nights. Choose Howling Hills for the best of both worlds: access and escape.
