The Southern Unit Horseriders Campground offers specialized facilities for those traveling with horses, with both electric and non-electric sites available. Located within Kettle Moraine State Forest, the campground connects directly to an extensive trail network spanning varied terrain. The facility includes shared corrals between campsites, dedicated areas for animal waste collection, and large pull-through sites that accommodate horse trailers. Amenities include a shelter building with picnic tables and roll-up sides for weather protection, flush toilets and showers in modern facilities, plus pit toilets throughout the grounds. Sites 409-413 provide more seclusion in a pine forest setting, while the group campsite area offers six non-electric sites with a central fire pit. The campground's thoughtful design includes horse mounting assistance via a small stair-step system for beginners or young riders.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: Pinewoods Campground in Kettle Moraine State Forest offers access to diverse trail systems. "The sites were far enough apart for some privacy and the trails were very well kept up. We had great hiking weather and some great scenery at the Overlook View," shares Charles M. These trails connect directly to the campground between loop areas.
Lake activities: Ottawa Lake within Kettle Moraine South provides swimming, fishing and boating options. "There's a lake for swimming, fishing and boating only 4 miles down the road at Ottawa Campground. Both are a part of Kettle Moraine South Unit," notes Teresa D. The lake offers a refreshing break after trail riding or hiking.
Wildlife observation: Chain O'Lakes State Park features multiple connected lakes ideal for wildlife spotting. "I love to kayak through here because I don't need to paddle through the river unless I'm feeling competitive. I enjoy this route for the wildlife and nature scenery. I've seen beavers, minks, ferrets, and sand cranes on my two trips so far," explains Cora M. The interconnected waterways create prime habitat for diverse wildlife.
What campers like
Pine forest setting: Pinewoods Campground offers tranquil camping under pine trees. "The site was actually really lovely and I appreciated the thick brush creating some real seclusion. The quiet Loop was a wonderful idea," states Kendal R. Many sites feature natural pine needle ground cover perfect for tent camping.
Quiet camping options: Kettle Moraine Southern Unit campgrounds include designated quiet zones. "We liked this site because it was on the 'quiet loop.' No radios or pets allowed. It was a beautiful site and wonderfully quiet for the long weekend over the 4th of July," reports Wendy Z. These quiet loops provide a more peaceful camping experience.
Access to water recreation: Mauthe Lake Campground combines wooded sites with lakefront access. "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 no-motor-boat policy keeps the lake peaceful for paddlers and swimmers.
What you should know
Reservation recommendations: Fox Den Campground at Chain O'Lakes State Park requires advance planning. "The only big minus is the full hook ups fill up fast no spur of the moment camping unless it is early or late in the season," advises Jeanne M. This applies particularly to equestrian camping near Brookfield where specialized sites are limited.
Bathroom facilities vary: Menomonee Park facilities can be inconsistent. "Pit toilets and metros desperately need to be cleaned more often," notes Kim. Most campgrounds feature a mix of vault toilets near sites and centralized shower buildings that may require a walk or short drive.
Seasonal considerations: Ottawa Lake Campground offers year-round camping options. "You can camp year around in this campground. Most recent 2 times were winter camping. No host so buying wood is an issue, but pick a site on the edge and there is more than enough free. Bring a saw," suggests Tim H. Winter camping provides solitude not found during peak summer season.
Tips for camping with families
Campground amenities: Menomonee Park offers family-friendly features beyond horseback riding. "The park has a lot of trails for hiking, biking and some horse trails. The quarry is good for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing. There is a beach with life guards," explains Matt N. Multiple activity options keep children engaged throughout your stay.
Site selection strategy: When horseback camping with families, choose sites strategically. "We have been to Menomonee park several times. It is one of the kids favorites. The sites are just about all wooded. Not huge but a good size for a country park. Most offer decent separation from your neighbor," notes Matt N. Corner sites typically offer more space for families with multiple tents.
Educational opportunities: Big Foot Beach State Park provides learning experiences. "You can walk over to an area that has hiking trails right out of the campsite. State park mountain biking trails are also close by, but you would need to drive to them. The showers were clean and when we used them, available. There is a playground right next to them as well," shares Wendy Z. The park's nature programs offer hands-on learning for children.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Harnischfeger County Park accommodates larger rigs despite limited sites. "Sites with letters are tent sites without water or electric, sites with numbers have water and 30 amp service, though there are plans to upgrade the sites to all have water and 50 amp service in the future," explains Lauren S. This smaller park provides a quieter alternative to larger facilities for equestrian camping near Brookfield.
Electrical considerations: When horse camping with an RV, verify hookup locations. "The campsite was clean and the fire pit and table were in good condition. Our site was very shaded and quiet at night," shares Michelle M. about Fox Den Campground. Most electric sites in the region offer 30-amp service, with 50-amp options limited to newer facilities.
Camp host assistance: Several campgrounds feature helpful staff. "Overall the park looks nice, but we would not recommend this place based on the noise after quiet hours," notes Jon about his experience at Menomonee Park. Camp hosts can assist with noise issues, jump starts, and local information but services vary by season and location.
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