Camp Wandawega: Weekend Getaway in Wisconsin

We’ve now had the pleasure of staying at Camp Wandawega twice—in winter and summer. These two experiences differed greatly, but each was amazing in its own way. During our winter stay we enjoyed the offerings of our vintage cabin, while in the summer we did more outdoor activities. No matter the season, rustic Camp Wandawega is a wonderful place to escape the city for a while and recharge. And by rustic, we mean truly rustic—the camp isn’t glamorous, or full of upscale amenities. It’s a place where you can live simply, even if just for a few days, and let your soul breathe deeply.

history of camp wandawega

Camp Wandawega has a long, interesting, and somewhat salty history. As its website explains, the camp has hosted everyone from sinners to saints. Originally, the camp originally served as a speakeasy during Prohibition. With trapdoors, multiple exits, and secret hiding places for stockpiles of illegal goods, it was well-designed for distributing liquor, as well as facilitating prostitution and gambling. Later the camp became a lake resort before Catholic Latvians bought it to establish a church camp. You can find more information about the camp’s history here.

accommodation

Camp Wandawega Side-By-Side Vintage Cabins

Nestled on a hill overlooking the camp’s private beach on Lake Wandawega, the Side-by-Side Cabins feature vintage decor, as well as their own picnic table, grill, and campfire pit. These cabins don’t include kitchens or bathrooms. But don’t worry, you’ll be able to use other facilities on the campgrounds! The Log Cabin sleeps two people, and the Cedar Cabin sleeps four. 

Camp Wandawega: Lakeview 3 Bedroom Cabin

The vintage Lakeview Cabin offers three bedrooms that accommodate up to 6 guests. The cabin also has a half bathroom, simple kitchenette with seating area, and access to camp showers on the floor below. Since there is a heater, the cabin is available for rent year-round. We stayed in this cabin in the winter, and it provided us a warm, cozy retreat.

Camp Wandawega Hillhouse

The Hillhouse is a renovated 1930s summer cabin that offers both modern amenities and vintage charm. With a spacious living room, beautiful kitchen, expansive main-level deck, and three bedrooms, the house comfortably accommodates 6 people. Separated by the main floor, two of the house’s bedrooms are located in the basement, while the third is on the top floor. The Hillhouse is a great place for a family gathering or get-together with friends.

Camp Wandawega Rustic Camping Cluster

The Rustic Camping Cluster consists of three old-school Boy Scout canvas platform tents, a vintage stick frame Sterlingworth Cabin, a mini a-frame cabin, and a traditional tipi. Situated on a bluff overlooking the lake and wetlands, the cluster offers spectacular views. In total, the cluster sleeps up to 10 guests. Here, you’ll have a fire pit, grill, and easy access to Camp Wandawega’s many outdoor activities.

Camp Wandawega Bunkhouse

The bunkhouse has three levels, each one with a separate entrance. There are two rental options: rent the whole building, or rent one of either the top level (6 guest rooms, parlor, kitchen, bathrooms, showers) or the mid and lower levels (6 guest rooms, two bathrooms, kitchen, dining room, and showers in the building next door).

things to do at camp wandawega

enjoy a BONFIRE

One of the experiences we enjoyed most during our summer stay at Camp Wandawega was sitting at bonfire and making s’mores. Close to the bonfire pit surrounded by log benches, there is a “ranger station” that was fashioned out of a 1940s teardrop trailer to hold all the supplies you’ll need to make the classic marshmallow and chocolate treats.

go boating

Near the dock, you’ll find several vintage boats with oars, as well as canoes and kayaks. Lifejackets are available in a nearby shed, and are encouraged for all guests. We found that the best time to take out a boat is at sunset. Since Lake Wandawega is oriented from east to west, at the end of the day the sun drops beyond the horizon at the marshy western end, casting a beautiful glow over the full length of the lake and the houses that surround it.

hang out at the beach

Camp Wandawega offers a private beach. On hot summer days, you can take in some rays, go swimming, or just enjoy the view across the lake as the sun shimmers on the rippling water.

archery & hatchet THROWING

At the archery range, you’ll find two old-school straw targets and some simple bows. If you’ve never done it before, you’ll find that pulling back the bow string and aiming the arrow takes a lot more strength than you might imagine. Right next door is the hatchet throwing station. Who knows, if you’re like us you might miraculously hit the bullseye the very first time you throw…and then miss the target completely every attempt after that. But one thing’s for sure, as long as you follow the safety guidelines (hint: wear gloves to avoid splinters), you’ll have a lot of fun trying both archery and hatchet throwing!

enjoy coffee & snacks at the canteen

Every morning from 8:00-11:00 am, the camp canteen offers free coffee and tea to all guests. There are also other snacks available for purchase. Outside the canteen are two little wooden tables with benches. We found this spot to be a peaceful place to enjoy breakfast, listen to birds chirping in nearby branches, and wait for your coffee to kick in. 

hang out at the tree house

Throughout the camp there are a number of secluded spots—some with views overlooking the lake, some in the woods—where you can find a comfortable chair and spend some time reading a book or simply enjoying the natural surroundings. 

take in the views

Have you ever wanted to step through a magical portal back into childhood? Just check out the Treehouse! This was one of our favorite places to explore at Camp Wandawega. Up high in the branches, far from the cares of the world, you feel like a kid again. Here you’ll find lots of books and interesting nooks for reading them. It’s also a great spot to hang out with a few friends.

get souvenirs

Check out the Stock Room Bar, the online camp store. Here you’ll find unique gifts and souvenirs—something to help you remember the great time you had at camp.

cool down at cedar tavern

The Cedar Tavern, one of the few spots that offers air conditioning, is a great place to escape the summer heat and enjoy a refreshing drink. 

check out the free library

Make sure to check out Camp Wandawega’s free library. Located at the camp entrance, the free library is a replica of the very first cabin built at Lake Wandawega. It’s stocked with books on subjects that Camp Wandawega’s team cares a lot about. 

get cozy at the lodge

On a chilly day, the lodge is where you want to be. This used to be the main building of The Wandawega Hotel. Built during Prohibition, the lodge served as a speakeasy. Right now, it’s a communal hang out spot with a big fireplace, plenty of seating, a record player, and various books, games, and musical instruments.