Camping near West Bend, Wisconsin offers access to the glacially-formed Kettle Moraine region with its distinctive hills, kettles, and eskers created during the last ice age. The area sits at approximately 900 feet above sea level with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds in this region operate from April through October, though availability and accessibility can vary based on seasonal rainfall patterns.
What to do
Hiking the Ice Age Trail: At Kettle Moraine State Forest-Northern Unit, you can access this historic trail directly from the campground. "Awesome campground in the north unit of Kettle Moraine. Wonderful trail around the lake and a variety of different campsites. Plenty of space, very rural. Very wisconsin!" notes Justin F.
Beach swimming: Mauthe Lake Campground features dedicated swimming areas with clean beaches. "Nice beach/swimming area, bike path, and playground for the kids. Also the most beautiful sunset over the lake and pines in July," shares Kaylyn C. The beaches remain open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather permitting.
Astronomy and stargazing: Visit the interpretive astronomy trail at Pike Lake Campground. As Susan S. recommends, "Be sure to check out the interpretive astronomy trail and take the walk up Powder Hill to the tower!" The observation tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and Holy Hill.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Harrington Beach State Park offers private camping spots removed from the main areas. "The tent non-electric campsites are fantastic. We had a nice private campsite that was completely wooded all around it," explains Jessica F. These sites provide a more isolated camping experience for those seeking quiet.
Wildlife viewing: Ledge County Park provides ample opportunities to spot local fauna. "We saw a moderate amount of birds and heard a bunch of critters (owls, a fox) one night," reports Renee R. The park's proximity to Horicon Marsh makes it an excellent location for wildlife enthusiasts.
Fishing opportunities: Long Lake Campground offers access to productive fishing waters. "We love camping at Long Lake for years and love the beautiful lake for swimming and watersports. No motor boats so nice and quiet. Also great trail running opportunities on the Ice Age," notes Sarah L. The lake is stocked with panfish and bass for anglers of all skill levels.
What you should know
Seasonal water quality concerns: Some lakes experience bacterial issues during summer months. "Beach test positive for ecoli 2x this year. If you stay here do not swim. They have 2 beaches, they test one for ecoli and close it but leave the other one open because they don't have to test both," warns MarkDaShark99 about Long Lake.
Reservation requirements: Most popular sites fill quickly, especially at Pike Lake. "This campground is about 20 minutes from our home and provides a quick getaway when needed. Less than 30 campsites so it is small and private," explains Lisa S. Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance through the Wisconsin DNR website.
Flooding impacts: Kohler-Andrae State Park experiences seasonal lake level changes. "Lake Michigan water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting beach size. The park has a large open area and play area for kids to run around walkable from the camping, lots of little paths to explore!" notes Kendra G. High water years can significantly reduce beach areas.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and facilities: Mauthe Lake provides family-friendly facilities. "Great clean sites and fishing. Many hiking trails. Historical attractions. Wisconsin does their parks and forests right," shares GA J. The playground area is located near the beach, allowing parents to supervise children from comfortable seating areas.
Kid-friendly hiking: Pike Lake offers accessible trails for children. "For my five-year-old son's first backpacking experience, we hiked about 3 miles on the Ice Age Trail, into Pike Lake campground. Our campsite was very large, fully shaded, and included a picnic table and a fire ring," Jimmy P. reports. Several shorter loop trails under 1 mile are perfect for younger children.
Lake activities: Timber Trail Campground provides swimming options beyond natural lakes. "There is a small fishing pond off the back side of the non-electric sites and there is a nice outdoor pool and indoor jacuzzi next to a large rec room/bar," Mel C. explains. The pool is maintained at approximately 80°F during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookups: Mauthe Lake accommodates RV campers with reliable services. "Campground facilities are clean, 30 amp at the electrical site worked perfectly. Other campers amazingly friendly. Sunset on the lake is ridiculously beautiful!" shares Elizabeth S.
Site selection: Choose carefully at Harrington Beach State Park. "I don't know how we got a last minute reservation to this campground, but I'm glad we did. Nice size site: 118. Lots of room to spread out. Our site had electric only, which suited our needs," explains Amanda G. Sites numbered 100-125 tend to offer the most space for larger rigs.
Dump station access: Sanitary dump stations are available at most state parks including Kettle Moraine units, but private campgrounds like Lake Lenwood and Lazy Days offer full-hookup sites with sewer connections. Check seasonal availability as some facilities close during freezing weather.
