Circle K Campground

For those of us in Wisconsin who cherish our time in the great outdoors, finding a campground that perfectly balances convenience, comfort, and a true sense of community can be a real gem. Circle K Campground in Palmyra, WI, has earned a reputation among many locals as their "Go To Campground," and for good reason. Nestled at W1316 Island Rd, Palmyra, WI 53156, it offers a welcoming environment that caters to both overnight tent campers and those looking for a seasonal home for their RV.

What makes Circle K Campground stand out? As one glowing review puts it, "Truly Awesome!! The tent sites were very clean, larger than expected and set aside from the seasonal campers. Out houses and shower/laundry, you could tell, were well kept and attended to! Close to reality, but yet the right amount of seclusion! Everything went great and we were still able to relax and enjoy!" This highlights a crucial aspect: the campground successfully provides a sense of seclusion and natural escape while remaining conveniently "not that far" from everyday life, making it easy for those quick trips back and forth, even for tasks like arranging pet sitters. The commitment to cleanliness, especially in communal areas like outhouses, showers, and the laundry room, is a strong indicator of dedicated management.

The personal touch is also highly valued. Reviews consistently praise the "owners and staff were very personable and the amenities added to the great experience." This friendly atmosphere and attentive service from hosts Ed and Coleen Dionne contribute significantly to the overall positive experience, making campers feel genuinely welcome and at home, whether they're staying for a weekend or an entire season.

It is important to acknowledge that like any business, especially one with long-term residents, Circle K Campground has received some mixed feedback. One concerning review mentioned, "The owner is not respectful of your site. Been here for 10 years. Stold 300$ from me and damaged my trailer." While this is a serious accusation from a long-term camper, it stands in stark contrast to numerous other positive reviews that highlight helpfulness and excellent service. This discrepancy underscores the importance of direct communication with management and perhaps visiting the site in person to address any specific concerns, especially for those considering a long-term stay.

However, the overwhelming sentiment points to Circle K Campground being a well-loved, family-oriented destination. With its mix of spacious, clean sites, essential amenities, and a range of activities designed for fun, it continues to be a top choice for many Wisconsin families looking for that perfect balance of outdoor adventure and comfortable relaxation.

Location and Accessibility

Circle K Campground is conveniently situated at W1316 Island Rd, Palmyra, WI 53156, USA. Palmyra is a village nestled in Walworth County, Wisconsin, within a region renowned for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. This location places the campground in the heart of southeastern Wisconsin's picturesque Kettle Moraine area, a landscape shaped by glaciers and characterized by rolling hills, diverse forests, and numerous lakes.

The accessibility of Circle K Campground is a significant advantage for campers from across Wisconsin, particularly those residing in the southern and eastern parts of the state. Palmyra is easily reachable from major urban centers. It's approximately 45 miles southwest of Milwaukee and about 40 miles southeast of Madison. This relatively short driving distance allows for convenient weekend getaways or even longer seasonal stays without extensive travel time.

The campground is accessed via well-maintained state and county roads. Highways like Highway 59 and Highway 106 lead into the Palmyra area, connecting to local routes like Island Road. This ensures a smooth journey for both cars and RVs of all sizes. Despite its proximity to populated areas, the specific location on Island Road offers a sense of "seclusion" and being "close to reality, but yet the right amount of seclusion," as noted by a camper. This balance allows for easy access to nearby towns for supplies, gas, or dining, while still providing the tranquil atmosphere desired for a camping experience. Furthermore, being in the Kettle Moraine region means immediate access to countless outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and exploring the natural wonders of the state forest, making it a prime spot for local adventurers.

Services Offered

Circle K Campground offers a comprehensive array of services designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for both short-term visitors and long-term seasonal campers. Their amenities reflect a commitment to catering to a diverse clientele.

• Diverse Campsite Options:

  • RV Sites: The campground features 99 total sites, with 89 offering water/electric hookups (30 & 50 amp service available). Many sites are described as "oversized" (some up to 60' x 60'), grassy, and designed to accommodate various RV sizes. Metered electric is common for longer stays. They do not have a dump station but offer convenient "Honey Wagon Service" for tank pump-outs ($10 fee), where they come directly to your site.

  • Tent Sites: Separate "rustic tent sites" are available, praised for being "very clean, larger than expected and set aside from the seasonal campers." These typically do not have electric or water hookups directly at the site but offer a more traditional tent camping experience.

  • Seasonal Sites: A significant portion of the campground (75 sites) is dedicated to seasonal campers, fostering a stable community atmosphere.

• Modern Restroom Facilities: "Outhouses and shower/laundry" facilities are available and noted for being "well kept and attended to." They offer free hot showers in indoor, tiled restrooms.

• Laundry Facilities: An on-site laundry room is provided for camper convenience.

• Recreational Amenities:

  • Heated Swimming Pool: A refreshing feature, available for a small fee ($1.50 per person per day for campers, $3.00 for non-campers).

  • Swimming Pond/Beach: A private "3.5 acre pond for fishing & swimming for free" is available, with a sandy beach area.

  • Playground: A dedicated area for kids to enjoy.

  • Game Room & Recreation Hall: Features indoor games like pool table, darts, pinball, and video poker. A pavilion/rec hall is available for group entertainment or events.

  • Outdoor Games: Horseshoe pits, volleyball courts, and badminton are typically available.

  • Fishing: The pond is stocked, and no fishing license is required on the pond. Bait is available for sale.

• Convenience Store & Essentials: A "General Store" is on-site, offering groceries, RV supplies, wood for sale (outside firewood is not allowed due to state regulations), ice, bait, and often an ATM. LP Gas is also available.

• Rental Items: Pedal carts, bikes, paddle boats, canoes, and Corcl's are available for rent, adding to the recreational fun.

• Planned Activities: The campground often organizes "planned activities" for various age groups, which can include Archery Tag, Zorb Ball Track, Bounce House, and Ceramics – Painting Classes.

• WiFi/Hot Spots: Available for a fee ($2.50 per device per day), providing connectivity for campers.

• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome but must be on a controlled leash, and owners are responsible for waste disposal.

These extensive services make Circle K Campground a versatile choice for a wide range of camping preferences, from rustic tenters to full-service RVers.

Features / Highlights

Circle K Campground in Palmyra, WI, stands out with numerous features and highlights that contribute to its "Truly Awesome" reputation among Wisconsin campers:

• Spacious and Well-Maintained Sites: Both tent and RV sites are praised for being "very clean, larger than expected" and "oversized," offering ample space for campers. The grounds are consistently described as "well maintained and groomed," creating a pleasant environment.

• Separate Tent and Seasonal Areas: The campground thoughtfully segregates "tent sites... set aside from the seasonal campers." This provides a quieter, more traditional camping experience for tenters, while allowing seasonal campers to enjoy their established community.

• Excellent Recreational Amenities:

  • Heated Swimming Pool: A popular feature for all ages, providing a refreshing escape during warmer months.

  • Private Swimming & Fishing Pond: A 3.5-acre pond offers free swimming and fishing without requiring a state license, a unique and convenient benefit for campers.

  • Variety of Rentals & Activities: Pedal carts, bikes, paddle boats, canoes, and Corcl's are available for rent, complemented by planned activities like Archery Tag and ceramics classes, ensuring there's always something to do.

• Clean and Accessible Facilities: The "out houses and shower/laundry" facilities are consistently noted as "well kept and attended to," with free hot showers, adding a significant level of comfort for campers.

• Convenient Location with Seclusion: Situated "close to reality" yet with "the right amount of seclusion," the campground offers easy access to nearby towns and the Kettle Moraine State Forest, while still providing a peaceful, "out of the way from traffic and other noises" atmosphere.

• Personalable and Helpful Staff: Owners Ed & Coleen Dionne, along with their staff, are frequently described as "very personable," "friendly and helpful," and "accommodating." This excellent customer service significantly enhances the camping experience.

• Pet-Friendly Environment: Welcoming to pets, allowing families to bring their furry companions along for the adventure (with responsible leash and waste policies).

• Seasonal Camping Community: A large number of seasonal sites fosters a stable, friendly "family-oriented campground" atmosphere where neighbors are often "down to earth and very accommodating."

These highlights collectively ensure that Circle K Campground offers a comprehensive, enjoyable, and welcoming camping experience for a diverse range of visitors in Wisconsin.

Contact Information

To plan your visit, make reservations, or inquire about specific details regarding Circle K Campground in Palmyra, WI, you can use the following contact information:

Address:

W1316 Island Rd, Palmyra, WI 53156, USA

Phone Numbers:

(262) 495-2896

Mobile Phone: +1 262-495-2896

Email:

circlekcamp@centurytel.net

Website:

www.circlekcamp.net

Reservations are required, and it's advisable to call or check their website for current availability, rates (which vary by site type and season), and specific rules. Their office hours are typically from February to November, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours on Friday and Saturday during the Memorial Day to Labor Day period. For monthly or seasonal rates, contacting them directly is recommended as electricity may be metered separately. Utilizing their phone number or email for direct communication with the personable owners, Ed and Coleen Dionne, will help ensure a smooth planning process for your camping trip.

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

For residents across Wisconsin, Circle K Campground in Palmyra stands out as an exceptionally suitable and appealing choice for an outdoor escape, perfectly aligning with local preferences for convenient access to natural beauty, a strong sense of community, and a wide array of amenities.

One of its most compelling advantages for Wisconsinites is its ideal balance of seclusion and accessibility. Located within the scenic Kettle Moraine area, it offers that desired "right amount of seclusion" to truly unwind and connect with nature, yet it remains "not that far" from major urban centers like Milwaukee and Madison. This convenient drive means less travel time and more time enjoying the campground, making it a perfect spot for quick weekend getaways or even longer seasonal stays without feeling too remote from home. This flexibility is highly valued by busy local families and individuals.

The campground's family-oriented atmosphere and diverse offerings cater to a wide range of local campers. Whether it's the spacious and clean tent sites, which are thoughtfully set apart from seasonal campers, or the full-hookup RV sites, Circle K ensures a comfortable stay. The availability of modern amenities like clean bathrooms with hot showers and a laundry room significantly enhances the camping experience, making it appealing for both seasoned and beginner campers who appreciate these conveniences.

Furthermore, the extensive list of recreational activities – from a heated swimming pool and a private fishing pond to rentals like pedal carts and planned events – ensures there's always something fun to do for all ages. This makes it an ideal destination for family vacations, offering plenty of entertainment right on-site. The presence of friendly and personable owners and staff who go out of their way to be "accommodating" truly adds to the welcoming atmosphere, fostering a sense of community that many locals appreciate.

While some isolated concerns have been raised, the overwhelming sentiment from many long-term and returning campers points to Circle K as a well-maintained and enjoyable "Go To Campground." Its unique blend of accessibility, comprehensive amenities, and a genuine community feel makes it a highly attractive and reliable choice for any Wisconsinite looking for a memorable and convenient outdoor adventure.

Circle K Campground

W1316 Island Rd, Palmyra, WI 53156, USA