RV Dump Station in Middleton, Wisconsin: Mendota County Park
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There are dump stations, and then there are dump stations with a view. Mendota County Park falls firmly into the second category. Imagine this: instead of staring at the back of a gas station or a dusty storage lot while you do the necessary deed, you’re greeted by a fresh breeze coming off a massive lake, with the Madison skyline shimmering in the distance. This beautiful park, nestled on the northwestern shore of Lake Mendota, is one of those spots that transforms a mundane chore into a genuinely pleasant part of your journey. For anyone exploring south-central Wisconsin, it’s a scenic, low-key, and wonderfully practical option that keeps you just a short fifteen minute drive from the heart of downtown Madison.
The nearby city of Middleton calls itself “The Good Neighbor City,” and it’s a fitting nickname. It has all the charm of a small town while benefiting from its proximity to the state capital. We’ve spent afternoons here biking the incredible trails of the Pheasant Branch Conservancy, watching the landscape shift from marshland to prairie. If you’re a golfer, the local course is fantastic. For us, a perfect day involves a stop at one of the local craft breweries before heading back to the rig. The main attraction, of course, is Lake Mendota itself. In the summer, it’s alive with sailboats, kayaks, and paddleboards. But what’s really magical is seeing it in the winter, when the vast expanse freezes over and becomes a city of ice-fishing shanties and colorful kites skimming across the snow. Many RVers, us included, will make a special trip on a Saturday to visit the Dane County Farmers’ Market on Capitol Square in Madison. It’s the largest producer-only market in the country, and it’s an absolute feast for the senses.
One very important thing to know, and a golden rule for any travel planning, is to check for updates before you go. The county has announced some major construction closures for parts of 2025, so a quick call or a visit to their website is essential to make sure the park and the dump station are open. Using a dump station inside a county park like this one is a totally different vibe from a truck stop. The pace is slower, the traffic is lighter, consisting mostly of fellow campers and local families out for the day. Access is usually via a paved spur road near the campground entrance. One thing I always look out for in older parks is low-hanging tree limbs, so keep your eyes up as you pull in. Payment is often handled at an honor box or a self-service kiosk, so it’s always a good idea to have some small bills on hand just in case the credit card reader is on the fritz.
The amenities here are geared towards the camper and the outdoor enthusiast. There’s a water spigot right next to the dump port, making for an easy rinse. I always carry a Y-adapter in my kit, which comes in handy if someone else is trying to fill their fresh tank at the same time. The park is very pet-friendly; dogs are welcome on-leash and there are plenty of grassy areas for them to explore. For those on a longer trip, the on-site showers and coin-op laundry are a true luxury. It's so nice to get everything clean, from yourself to your clothes, without having to leave the tranquility of the park. Flush toilets are just a short walk from the dump lane, another welcome convenience. You'll also find 30-amp electric pedestals, which are great for registered campers or even for day-users who need to charge up their e-bikes before hitting the trails.
You do need to plan ahead for a few things. There’s no fuel or propane available in the park, so make sure you’re topped up before you arrive. Madison has plenty of options. There's also no dedicated trash disposal at the dump station itself, so you'll need to pack out your garbage or use the designated campground bins if you're staying overnight. Don't expect any repair services or full hookup sites right at the dump station; this is primarily a place to empty your tanks and fill up with water. The cost is usually very reasonable. You can expect to pay a small day-use or dump-specific fee, which, when you consider the beautiful lakefront setting, feels like an absolute steal compared to a private RV resort. My best tip for a smooth visit is to arrive on a weekday. You’ll avoid the weekend rush of campers checking out all at once. It’s also wise to have a clear sewer elbow for your hose; some local rules require them so attendants can see that you’re flushing properly. Mendota County Park is the perfect blend of practicality and pleasure. It lets you take care of an essential RV task while enjoying some of the best scenery Wisconsin has to offer. Just remember to confirm its status before you go.
5133 Co Hwy M, Middleton, WI 53562
(608) 224-3730
Cost: Price not available
Category: Park
Has Water
danecountyparks.com/park/Mendota