Camping options near Belgium, Wisconsin extend beyond the popular state parks to include a mix of lakefront sites, wooded retreats, and specialized camping areas. Most campgrounds in this region sit within the glacial terrain of southeast Wisconsin, characterized by kettles, moraines, and small lakes formed during the last ice age. Winter temperatures typically range from 10°F to 25°F, while summer days average between 70°F and 85°F with moderate humidity levels.
What to do
Beach activities at Kohler-Andrae: Access Lake Michigan's shoreline for swimming and sunbathing. "Gorgeous place to camp! everything was beautiful, this park has it all... spacious campsites, sand dunes, trails, beach, gorgeous sunsets!" writes Kendra G. about Kohler-Andrae State Park.
Hiking through diverse ecosystems: Follow the Ice Age Trail through Pike Lake. "Hiking trails are great, especially the ones through the dunes. Definitely worth the stay!" notes Elliot Q. The trail system includes sections through prairie, marsh, and forest terrain.
Fishing in stocked lakes: Cast a line at Long Lake for bluegill, crappie, and bass. "We truly enjoy camping at Kohler Andrae State Park. The facilities are well kept and there is a good variety of things to do at the park from the beach to the boardwalk," says Sara S.
Astronomical observation: Visit the interpretive astronomy trail at Pike Lake Campground and climb the observation tower. "Be sure to check out the interpretive astronomy trail and take the walk up Powder Hill to the tower!" recommends Susan S.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded nature of sites at Harrington Beach State Park Campground. "Most of the sites are pretty secluded so if you enjoy your privacy I will love this place. Everything was clean and updated including the bathrooms," reports J K.
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower buildings receive positive reviews at most state park properties. "Nicely situated in Kettle," says Chris A. about Long Lake Campground, while another camper notes "Very nice nature center. Laundry facilities available."
Easy accessibility: Multiple campgrounds offer convenient access from urban areas. "Close to most folks for a get away. Clean and quiet. Nice fishing and swimming. Great trails," writes GA J. about Long Lake Campground, noting it works well as a local weekend destination.
Historical features: Several parks contain points of interest related to the region's glacial and cultural history. "Make sure to venture into Sheybogan and check out the lighthouse," suggests Kathie M. when visiting Kohler-Andrae State Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Book well in advance for summer weekends at all state parks. "If you plan to camp for a weekend, you must make a reservation way in advance," warns Shanon P. about camping at Kohler-Andrae.
Tree cover variations: Some campgrounds have less shade than others. "This is a nice little campground but they had to cut down most of the trees due to the emerald ash borrer. When the sun is out it gets HOT," cautions Geoffrey B. about Harrington Beach State Park.
Water quality concerns: Be aware of potential water issues at certain locations. "The water smelled like rotten eggs. After getting home and taking two of the children to the doctor for an illness that was caught while in the campground, we found that the smell from the hot water in the showers was actually from bacteria in the water," reports Jen A. about Lake Lenwood Beach and Campground.
Lake conditions: Water levels can impact beach access. "The lake is rather shallow so best for swimming in early summer or warm fall days," notes Chris A. about Mauthe Lake Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Multi-use trails for activities: Look for paved paths suitable for various ages. "The paved roads in the campground are nice for bike and rollerblading. We loved exploring the paths to the lake from our site," shares Mel C. about camping in Kettle Moraine.
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer specific facilities for children. "There is a large open area and play area for kids to run around walkable from the camping, lots of little paths to explore!" says Kendra G. about Kohler-Andrae State Park.
Site selection for families: Choose sites based on proximity to bathrooms and activities. "We were at site 231, which was huge and very nice. We had some friends at other sites that weren't as nice. There is a YouTube video posted of all the sites," advises Jenny L. about Harrington Beach.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer chances to spot local fauna. "Lots of frogs and turtles to be found," notes Amanda G., making these parks excellent for nature education with children.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions and access: Large rigs require careful site selection. "Each of the 32 sites is unique in their own way. Some are large and flat perfect for a class A (#2 #4, #29 #31 is okay, but smaller)," advises Sugar Maple S. about Pike Lake Campground.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "Sites are open. We were in the non-electric 200's, not as many RV's in this area," notes Shanon P. about Kohler-Andrae State Park.
Turn radius considerations: Some campground roads have tight corners. "There is a TIGHT turn in the campground loop near site #17 to be aware of with longer trailers," warns a camper about Pike Lake Campground.
Hookup limitations: Electric service varies between campgrounds. "Generally, the inner ring is electric (except #23) and the outer ring is non-electric," reports Sugar Maple S. about amenities at Pike Lake.
