RV Dump Station in McFarland, Wisconsin: Babcock County Park
RV Dump Station Reviews & Ratings
There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.
There’s a special kind of satisfaction that comes from finding a dump station that’s more than just a utility connection; it’s a destination in itself. Babcock County Park, just south of Madison in the village of McFarland, is one of those places. It’s steeped in a bit of quirky Wisconsin history, named for Stephen Babcock, the scientist whose butterfat test revolutionized the dairy industry. The park sits right where the Yahara River flows out of Lake Waubesa, and it offers the kind of setting that makes you want to linger. You can empty your black and grey tanks just steps away from fishing piers, picnic tables, and gorgeous sunset views, all without having to battle the traffic heading into the city.
McFarland has this wonderful, laid-back vibe, like Madison’s easygoing cousin. It’s a classic Wisconsin lake town where the local supper clubs have prime views of evening water-ski shows. This area is a paradise for outdoor lovers. A must-do is the Lower Yahara River Trail, which features the longest inland bicycle bridge in the state. It’s an amazing ride or walk, giving you incredible views of the water. We’ve spent many hours here, with me trying to hook a walleye or muskie from the shore while my partner scans the marshes for sandhill cranes and other birdlife. The location is just perfect for building a little RV adventure. With Lake Kegonsa just to the south and the fantastic University of Wisconsin Arboretum to the north, you can easily fill a week with paddling, hiking, and sampling the local breweries.
The on-the-ground experience at Babcock is shaped by its dual purpose as a park and a boat launch. This means the traffic flow has a distinct rhythm. The early mornings can be a flurry of activity with fishermen launching their boats for the day. My advice is to time your arrival for a little later in the morning, after 10 a.m., or in the early afternoon. By then, the boaters are out on the water, and the place is much quieter. You’ll find that the maneuvering is surprisingly easy, even for larger Class A rigs. They have a nice, paved turnaround area that takes the stress out of getting positioned. The fee station is right at the park entrance, and it’s usually a self-service kiosk that handles both park entry and dump station fees. It’s a good idea to have a credit card handy.
The amenities here are thoughtfully designed for people who love the water. Of course, there’s a convenient fresh-water fill right near the dump lane for topping off your tanks. The park is leashed-pet friendly, and the path that circles the shoreline is perfect for a dog walk while your tanks are draining. One of my favorite little perks is the convenience store just up the road on US-51 that sells ethanol-free fuel. If you carry a small boat, a generator, or any other small engine, you know how valuable that is. The park also boasts newly updated and accessible shower and restroom facilities, which are a real treat after a long day of fishing or kayaking. And, a huge plus for any RVer, there are park dumpsters available for your trash. It’s a small thing, but not having to haul your garbage to the next stop is a real relief. All 25 campsites in the park feature electricity, so if you decide the view is too good to leave, you can easily grab a spot for the night.
You will need to plan for propane and any major repairs elsewhere, as those services aren’t available in the park. Stoughton and Madison are your best bets for that. The cost for dumping is usually very modest, typically under ten dollars, which is a fantastic bargain for a location this scenic and well-equipped. A couple of insider tips from someone who’s been there: keep an eye on the ground, especially on the grassy areas. The local goose population is healthy and they leave plenty of "presents" behind. Also, if you’ve been fishing, the pier is a great place to rinse off your gear with a portable hose before you pack it away in the RV, keeping those fishy smells out of your living space. In short, Babcock County Park is an ideal stop for the RVer who wants to pair their chores with a healthy dose of Wisconsin’s iconic lake culture. It’s a practical, beautiful, and incredibly convenient spot that feels like a reward at the end of a long drive.
4601 Burma Rd, McFarland, WI 53558
(608) 224-3730
Cost: Price not available
Category: Park
Has Water
danecountyparks.com/park/Babcock