Sometimes, the best stops on a road trip are the ones that surprise you. You pull off the interstate expecting a simple, functional place to take care of a chore, and instead, you find a destination that invites you to stay a while. That’s the feeling I get when I think about Hidden Valley RV Resort & Campground in Milton, Wisconsin. Tucked away just east of town off WI 59, it’s an easy exit from the I 39 corridor. At first glance, the $21 fee for the dump station might seem a bit steep compared to a ten dollar truck stop, but Hidden Valley isn’t just a dump station. It’s a full fledged resort, and that fee unlocks a level of cleanliness, service, and amenities that can turn a routine tank dump into a genuinely pleasant and refreshing part of your journey.
The area around Milton is classic Wisconsin dairy country, with rolling green hills and a sense of peaceful, rural charm. But it’s also rich with history and recreation. Milton’s biggest claim to fame is the Milton House Museum, a fascinating piece of American history that stands as the last authenticated Underground Railroad station in Wisconsin that you can actually tour. It’s a powerful and humbling experience. For those who appreciate a good glass of wine, the local area is home to surprisingly good wineries like Timber Hill and Northleaf, where you can sample some unique local varietals. And for the hikers and outdoor enthusiasts among us, the legendary Ice Age National Scenic Trail is directly accessible from town. You can literally step out of your RV and onto one of the country's most unique long distance trails. If you need a bit more, the beautiful botanical gardens and Rock River paddling routes in Janesville are just a fifteen minute drive south.
The experience of using the dump station at a private resort like Hidden Valley is a world away from a highway travel plaza. First off, you’re not just pulling into an open lot. The station is located inside the park gate, which adds a layer of security and exclusivity. You’ll stop at the main office to check in, pay the fee, and likely receive a gate code for access. The staff are friendly and helpful, a nice personal touch. The station itself is exactly what you’d hope for at a resort. It’s a well maintained concrete pad, properly sloped to ensure good drainage, which is a detail you really come to appreciate. It’s well lit, making it safe and easy to use even if you arrive a bit later in the day. They often have twin drains, which helps to keep things moving on busy checkout days. This level of infrastructure is particularly valuable during Wisconsin’s shoulder seasons. A clean, well designed station makes the often dreaded task of winterizing your water systems before a freeze so much easier.
Of course, the amenities are where a place like Hidden Valley truly shines. This is a full hookup resort, so in addition to the main dump station, most sites have their own sewer outlet. Potable water is readily available, clean, and fresh. The park is extremely pet friendly, going beyond just allowing dogs to providing several fenced play areas where they can run off leash. Having propane refills available on site is a huge convenience, saving you a separate trip into town. The bathhouses are modern and clean, with hot showers and laundry facilities that are a welcome sight for anyone who’s been on the road for more than a few days. You’ll find 20, 30, and 50 amp electric service across the resort, catering to every type of rig. And there are plenty of dumpsters located near the exit, so you don’t have to worry about packing out your trash. The only services you won’t find right on site are a gas station or a repair shop, but you can easily fuel up in Janesville, and mobile RV techs are known to service the park during the busy summer season.
Let’s talk about that $21 fee. Is it worth it? In my opinion, absolutely. You're not just paying to dump your tanks. You're paying for a clean, secure, and pleasant environment. You're paying for access to fresh, potable water to fill your tank. You're paying for the assistance of on site staff and the peace of mind that comes with a well maintained facility. For guests who are staying for multiple nights, this fee is typically rolled into the overall site rate, making it a non issue. But even for a drop in visit, the value is there. It’s the difference between a rushed, grimy chore and a calm, orderly process.
To make the most of your visit, I’d suggest making a reservation, especially if you plan to visit on a weekend during the summer. Southern Wisconsin is a popular getaway, and local festivals can fill up the campsites quickly. When you arrive, try to aim for the early afternoon. This is often a quiet time at campgrounds, after the morning departures and before the evening rush, making it easier to navigate through the park, especially around the kid focused activity zones like the playground or pool. And speaking of the pool, it’s heated and opens by mid May, so don’t forget to pack your swimsuits. For stocking up on provisions, the market in Milton is small and quaint, so a stop at a larger grocery store in Janesville beforehand is a good plan. If you’re traveling late in the season and there’s a chance of snow, a quick call ahead to confirm that the dump station pad has been plowed and is accessible is always a smart move. Hidden Valley offers a premium experience, pairing a spotless dump station with resort quality perks, all set in the heart of Milton's charming and historic landscape.
872 WI-59, Milton, WI 53563
(608) 868-4141
Cost: $21
Category: Campground
Has Water
hiddenvalleymilton.com