Schultz City Park Campground

For Wisconsin locals, the joy of a perfect camping trip often involves a blend of outdoor activity, relaxation, and convenience. If your idea of an ideal getaway includes miles of scenic bike trails, refreshing swims, and a peaceful night under the stars, then Schultz City Park Campground in Elroy, WI, offers an intriguing option. This article is designed for our fellow Wisconsinites, aiming to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of this city park campground, helping you decide if it's the right choice for your next adventure in the heart of the state’s famous "Rails to Trails" country.

Wisconsin is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting a fantastic network of state trails, beautiful rivers, and charming small towns. Schultz City Park Campground positions itself as a practical and affordable base for exploring these attractions, particularly for those passionate about biking. While it offers essential amenities, it's a municipal campground, meaning its appeal often lies in its direct access to natural recreation rather than extensive private resort features. We'll delve into its strategic location, the services it provides, its notable highlights, and ultimately, why it's a suitable and appealing choice for those of us who call Wisconsin home and seek a straightforward, trail-oriented camping experience.

Location and Accessibility

Schultz City Park Campground is conveniently located at 301 S Main St, Elroy, WI 53929, USA. This address places it directly alongside the picturesque Baraboo River and, most significantly, right across the street from the 400 State Trail. Elroy itself is a small, friendly town renowned as "Where the Trails Meet," being the convergence point for the 400 State Trail, the Elroy-Sparta State Trail, and the Omaha Trail. This makes the campground an exceptional hub for bicyclists looking to explore Wisconsin’s famous rail-to-trail network.

The campground's location within Elroy provides easy access to the town's amenities, though it's important to note that payment and reservation processes might require a short trip into town, which can be an inconvenience if you're arriving by bike and already tired. Despite this, its proximity to these major trails is a huge draw for local users. The journey to Elroy from various parts of Wisconsin is generally straightforward, making it an accessible destination for a weekend cycling trip or a longer stay focused on trail exploration. The park’s setting, with its flat terrain and scattered trees, makes for easy maneuvering once you're on site.

Services Offered

• Electric Sites: Available for campers, providing essential power hookups. Some sources indicate these are first-come, first-served.
• Tent and RV Camping: Accommodates both tent and recreational vehicle campers.
• Showers: Clean shower facilities are available, which is a significant amenity for active campers.
• Flush Toilets: Modern restroom facilities are provided.
• City Pool: The Elroy city pool is located right at the park, offering a convenient way to cool off (seasonal operation, usually June through August).
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table.
• Fire Rings: Available at campsites for campfires.
• Playground Equipment: State-of-the-art, green playground equipment made of recycled materials, suitable for all ages.
• Baseball Field: A recreational area for sports.
• Tennis Courts: Available for tennis enthusiasts.
• Volleyball Nets: For recreational play.
• Picnic Area: General picnic areas within the park.
• Shelter Rentals: Two shelters are available for rent, ideal for groups or events.
• Dump Station: A facility for RV campers to dispose of wastewater.
• Kayak/Canoe Launch: An obscure but nice canoe/kayak launch is located at Schultz Park on the Baraboo River, making it possible to paddle the river (though some sections may require cleanup).
• On-site Payment/Registration (Potential Inconvenience): While sites are first-come, first-served, payment and registration reportedly require a trip into Elroy City Hall (approx. 1 mile away). It's advisable to call ahead for current payment procedures.

Features / Highlights

• Direct Access to 400 State Trail: This is a major highlight, placing campers immediately adjacent to one of Wisconsin’s premier crushed limestone rail trails, perfect for biking. It also connects to the Elroy-Sparta State Trail and the Omaha Trail.
• Affordable Rates: Priced at $28 a night (as per a recent review), making it a budget-friendly option for many local campers.
• Clean Facilities: Reviews praise the cleanliness of the bathrooms and pool, contributing to a comfortable stay.
• City Pool On-Site: Having a municipal pool directly accessible is a significant bonus, especially for families during warm Wisconsin summers.
• Soft, Well-Groomed Grass: Campers appreciate the comfortable and well-maintained grassy areas at the sites.
• Proximity to Baraboo River: The campground is on the river, offering scenic views and potential for water activities.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: With a playground, pool, and various sports courts, the park offers entertainment for children and active adults.
• Quiet River Sounds: The sound of the river can be very relaxing for campers.
• Local Charm: Located in a small town, offering a friendly, local Wisconsin experience.
• Elroy Fair Site: The park is also the site of the Elroy Fair, which could offer additional entertainment during fair season.

Contact Information

Address: 301 S Main St, Elroy, WI 53929, USA

Phone: (608) 462-2410 (This number is associated with Elroy City Hall for campground registration and information)

Mobile Phone: +1 608-462-2410

For reservations or current information, especially regarding payment procedures, it is strongly recommended to call Elroy City Hall at (608) 462-2410 during their business hours (typically M-F 8am-4pm). Some sources suggest reservations are accepted and advisable during peak seasons.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Wisconsin locals, Schultz City Park Campground in Elroy presents a compelling option, particularly if your outdoor pursuits revolve around cycling and simple, convenient camping. Its unparalleled access to the 400 State Trail, and its connections to the Elroy-Sparta and Omaha Trails, make it an ideal home base for exploring some of the state's most beloved multi-use paths. If you're an avid biker, or a family looking to introduce children to the joys of trail riding, the location alone is a significant draw.

The campground’s affordability, coupled with essential amenities like electric sites, clean showers, and the presence of the city pool, provides good value for a comfortable stay. For families, the playground and various sports courts within the park offer convenient entertainment, ensuring that there's always something to do after a day on the trails. The well-groomed grass and peaceful river setting contribute to a relaxing atmosphere, allowing you to unwind and enjoy the natural sounds of the Wisconsin countryside.

However, potential visitors should be aware of the self-registration process that might require a trip into town for payment, and the fact that there isn't always an on-site host to enforce rules. While this can lead to occasional disruptions as noted in some reviews, it is not necessarily the norm. For those who prioritize direct trail access, essential amenities, and a budget-friendly option in a small, welcoming Wisconsin town, Schultz City Park Campground offers a unique and suitable opportunity to experience the state's famous "Rails to Trails" country firsthand. It's a pragmatic choice for locals seeking an active and straightforward outdoor adventure.

Schultz City Park Campground

301 S Main St, Elroy, WI 53929, USA