Hattie Sherwood Campground, located near the shores of Green Lake, is undergoing extensive renovations as part of a multi-phase improvement plan. Visitors to the site will see several upgrades aimed at enhancing the overall experience for campers.

Over the past year, the Green Lake Public Works Department has spearheaded a series of improvement projects at Hattie Sherwood Park. Recent efforts have focused on removing dead and dying trees around the campground to open up scenic views of the lake from all 36 campsites. 

Further work has involved releveling and grading the top six campsites, making them more accessible and comfortable for visitors. As part of these upgrades, water lines have been installed at four sites, with plans to extend water access to additional sites next spring. 

The campground experienced an increase in occupancy rates during the 2024 season, reaching a total of 31%. This boost generated $74,000 in camping fees, a nearly 50% increase from previous years. Parks & Recreation Board Chairman Jon McConnell noted that the rise in revenue reflects a “future growth.”

“The revenue was up this year… which bodes well for future growth,” McConnell said. “It also allows us to pay back the general fund for the short-term borrowing it made to make the improvements. We hope 2025 shows more improvement in the revenues to allow us to continue on this path.”

At a recent Common Council meeting, a tentative site plan for Hattie Sherwood Campground received approval. The plan outlines several key improvements for the upcoming camping season, which runs from May 15 to October 20. 

Among these are additional water line installations, better stormwater management, and the development of new amenities to enrich the visitor experience.

“Our new campground manager, Quinn Niemann, has been doing a fantastic job,” McConnell said during the meeting, as reported by Commonwealth Ripon Press. “He had a steep learning curve since he had never done this sort of thing before, but he is doing very well.” 

The upgrades follow essential electrical work completed last year to address power fluctuations caused by campers using high-amperage equipment. The $41,000 electrical upgrade, handled by Moderow Electric, ensured all campsites could support electrical loads of 20 to 50 amps.

Despite the campground’s seasonal closure, renovation will continue through the winter and spring. Planned enhancements include the creation of a birdwatching path along the nearby mill pond, complete with two observation piers for bird enthusiasts. 

Additional upgrades planned for the campground include the installation of new signage at the park’s entrance and the construction of a rustic pavilion in the playground area. 

According to its website, Hattie Sherwood Campground offers a camping experience that blends natural beauty with a rich history. Each campsite provides views of the lake and surrounding wildlife.

For nearly a century, this park has welcomed guests to its grounds. The campground’s amenities, including a convenient boat launch, fire pits, and arranged sites, ensure that guests can fully immerse themselves in the Green Lake experience.

The campground’s prime location places guests within walking distance of Green Lake’s vibrant downtown area, featuring a marina, dining establishments, and popular ice cream shops. The campground also offers outdoor activities, from biking the scenic Loop the Lake trail to birdwatching and water sports.