Camping options near Brownsville, Wisconsin include established campgrounds in the Kettle Moraine State Forest region with both Mauthe Lake and Long Lake Campgrounds offering tent and RV sites approximately 30 miles east of the city. The area features several county park campgrounds including Ledge County Park and Waupun Park Campground, which provide electric hookups, drinking water, and shower facilities. Most campgrounds in the region support both tent and RV camping, with a few locations like Breezy Hill Campground also offering cabin and glamping accommodations.
Seasonal operations affect campground availability throughout the region. Many facilities operate from early May through mid-October, with some sites requiring advance reservations during peak summer months. Ledge County Park and Waupun Park Campground maintain modern shower facilities and clean bathrooms, while more rustic options can be found throughout the Kettle Moraine State Forest areas. Several campgrounds provide electrical hookups, water access, and sanitary dump stations for RVs. The best sites tend to fill quickly, especially during summer weekends and holidays. As one visitor noted about Ledge County Park, "Our spot was a nicely wooded site in the back portion of the campground. The hiking trails are beautiful, with great views. It's a great place for some fall camping."
Campers report high satisfaction with the natural settings and terrain variety in the region. Ledge County Park receives consistent praise for its unique rock formations, hiking trails, and observation points overlooking Horicon Marsh. At Waupun Park Campground, visitors appreciate the secluded wooded sites that provide privacy. According to one camper, "The deep spots offer gorgeous private, well wooded area that makes you feel like you're all alone in the woods." Many campgrounds feature fire rings, picnic tables, and access to recreational activities. The non-electric camping areas typically offer more secluded sites with a more natural setting, while electric sites tend to be closer together but provide greater convenience for RVs and trailers. Most campgrounds maintain clean facilities, with friendly staff and hosts who assist visitors with firewood delivery and local information.
$18 - $28 / night
"Mauthe Lake Campground is located in the Northern Kettle Moraine Forest in East/Centreal Wisconsin."
"Wonderful trail around the lake and a variety of different campsites. Plenty of space, very rural. Very wisconsin!"
"It is right next to the toilets/showers. The bathrooms were clean, the attendants were really nice, they borrowed us an extension cord so we could set up a bit further back."
"Walking along the trails, you can see where it gets its name! Lots of cool ledges and rock outcrops. We saw a moderate amount of birds and heard a bunch of critters (owls, a fox (?!))"
$20 - $30 / night
"A little better than the average Wisconsin state campground."
"We loved just walking around the paths to and from the lake to our site."
"We enjoyed the fall colors and privacy for a long stop on our trip across the northern border."
"We stayed there for a while very pretty and the people very friendly bring wood to your camp they have trails you can walk and county pool and golf course sites are good size we will return it's **close **"
"North Kettle Moraine, Pike Lake Unit was an easy choice given it's proximity to the city- about 40 minutes."
"A last minute decision to camp for a night led my son and I to the often visited Pike Lake unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. Its a beautiful park and within 30 minutes of our home."
"I really enjoyed the large lot we were on that backed up to a creek which you cannot hear or see but it is all forest behind you."
"Nice trails within different areas of campground."
"We stayed on site 22 which was a nine minute walk from the toilet and had a street light. There are water spigots throughout. Site 21 or 23 would be better."
"Golf course right next-door so close you could walk to. Most of the sites were in a wooded area, which gives you some privacy."
"It was great to be able to stay in the middle of the city/town versus on the outskirts like most normal campgrounds."
"Open tent sites and well designed riggings and beyond excellent, well-maintained trails, accommodations and hospitality."
ScoutThis State Park is located along the Niagara Escarpment. The campground is near the bluff and gives a great view of Lake Winnebago. The vault bathrooms are open year-round as is half the campground. During the summer, the store at the marina offers camping gear and there is a restaurant near the golf course outside the park. I camp here regularly, rock climb, and run the trails.
LegendThe Group Campground at Harrington Beach State Park brings a completely different energy, offering an expansive, open setting that feels made for large family reunions, scout troops, family birthday party overnighters and lively gatherings that stretch long into the evening. Unlike the more intimate family sites, this area is designed for scale, with wide communal spaces, larger fire rings and plenty of room for picnic tables, shared meals and kid-filled games of tag and flag football. We passed through and couldn’t help but smile watching a group roast marshmallows together while another set of kids played flashlight hide-and-seek across the open field. While it is less private and more bustling, this locale creates a joyful sense of togetherness that feels perfect for celebrations and group bonding. While the restroom and shower facilities were mediocre (at best), they were functional and clean. But the real star here is the close proximity to Lake Michigan. I’d recommend this Group Campground for larger parties who want space to spread out, EZ beach access and the freedom to make memories together in a beautiful lakeside setting.
LegendThere is something deeply calming about waking up just steps from Lake Michigan at the Harrington Beach State Park Family Campground, where our little crew found the perfect balance of nature and comfort in a setting that feels both scenic and safe. The campground is well-organized with clearly defined family-sized sites, clean restrooms and EZ access to walking trails and the beach, making it especially friendly for parents juggling gear and excited boys. One of our favorite moments was sitting around the campfire as we tried to stay warm from an early first wave of the winter to come while the sun melted into the lake in soft pink streaks. We loved that everything felt thoughtfully laid out without feeling crowded or chaotic. I would absolutely recommend this campground for families looking for a peaceful getaway with just enough adventure, thanks to its natural beauty, clean facilities, lakefront access and gentle, welcoming atmosphere.
LegendThere is something wonderfully grounding about settling into the Family Campground at Kohler-Andrae State Park, where our little crew felt instantly wrapped in the gentle rhythm of Lake Michigan and the whispering grasses of the sandy dunes that our boys loved to explore. The campground is very well laid out with 137 clearly defined family-sized sites (52 of which have electrical hookups), exceptionally clean restrooms and perfectly manicured pathways leading to the boardwalk and shoreline, making every moment of exploration feeling manageable and peaceful. One of our favorite moments was walking down the wooden boardwalk as the boys raced ahead to spot driftwood treasures and tiny shore birds along the beach. Everything here feels calm, safe and naturally beautiful without being overly rugged. And while you can bring everything you will need to enjoy camping here, in case you forget anything, nearby Sheboygan has you covered for just about any supply you could think of (except for firewood, which you can buy either at the park office or from one of the campground hosts). I would absolutely recommend this campground for families seeking a soothing lakeside escape with a perfect mix of nature, comfort, and gentle adventure.
ScoutThis is a nice getaway for camping, picnics, hiking, fishing and in the summer swimming! They only offer swimming with lifeguards in the summer months. They have great open spaces for group camping.
TravelerThis park is pretty much the perfect blend of forest, marsh, beach, dunes, and hills. It's got breathtaking views year round. Not all sites are created equal- there's functionally three different types of campsite. The southernmost are wooded and fairly private. There's a longer walk to the showers. Feels more primitive, although the roads are well maintained and bathrooms clean. The campsites in the middle of the park have few trees and little privacy. These are more like crash pads if you want to spend the day swimming, hiking, or fishing. The north end of the park offers denser woods and more established sites. These are close to the water and the park exit. Winter camping is peaceful and quiet. Spring is exciting, but can be wet. Summer is cool near the lake and usually busier. Fall is crisp and colorful.
ScoutIf you are looking for winter storage, look elsewhere. The Wisconsin State Fair RV Park storage is run with zero flexibility and rude service.
The Access Issues: They have extremely limited hours(10 AM- 3 PM Monday to Saturday), are closed on every minor holiday, and require you to give 24-hour notice so someone can unlock the lot. If you work a normal job or have a busy schedule, good luck getting your rig ready to leave.
The 'Money Grab': I planned to leave on 1/21, but my truck was hit, and I physically couldn't move the camper. I admitted I missed the 11 AM checkout deadline, but when they called me at 1:12 PM, I returned the call 3 minutes later to extend my storage for another 23 days. Instead of waiving the late fee since I was paying for nearly another month of storage, the rude receptionist just quoted'rules and regulations' and charged me an extra $25.
It’s completely unreasonable to charge a late checkout fee to a customer who is actively extending their stay due to an emergency. It feels like a terrible money grab. Save yourself the headache and store somewhere else.
ScoutWe had a weather change and had to pivot and camp. Found last minute and booked. In freezing temp full service cluding water hookup. Its a parking lot with laundry? Showers, vending and restrooms.
TravelerThis is such a good spot, it’s not just an RV parking lot. Each site is its own little site just far enough from its neighbor to feel alone. Super nice and well kept
Camping sites near Brownsville, Wisconsin offer a mix of river access, lakefront recreation, and wooded retreats. Most campgrounds in the region sit on glacial terrain formed during the last ice age, creating unique natural features like kettles, moraines, and rock formations. Winter camping options are limited as many facilities close from mid-October through April when temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
Fishing opportunities: At Long Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Northern Unit-Iansr, visitors enjoy multiple fishing spots. "Good fishing" is mentioned by several campers, with Haley K. noting the lake is "lots to do at mauthe lake! one of my favs. good fishing."
Swimming in motor-free waters: The swimming areas at Mauthe Lake are popular for their quieter atmosphere. Sarah L. shares, "We've been camping here 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."
Hiking on observation trails: Ledge County Park offers distinctive hiking with rock formations. Renee R. describes, "Walking along the trails, you can see where it gets its name! Lots of cool ledges and rock outcrops. We saw a moderate amount of birds and heard a bunch of critters (owls, a fox) one night."
Biking on crushed gravel paths: Several campgrounds connect to the region's bike trail system. According to a reviewer at Pike Lake, "Bike trail now connects to the campground making biking to Pike Lake possible," while another mentions "a crushed gravel trail running from here to Long Lake that is great for running/walking/biking."
Private, wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy levels at Waupun Park Campground. Rita G. notes, "The deep spots offer gorgeous private, well wooded area that makes you feel like you're all alone in the woods. Fire rings and tables are there as well as bathrooms showers, a dump station and fresh water."
Clean, modern facilities: Shower buildings receive consistent positive reviews. Stacey N. reports, "Bathrooms and showers are modern and clean. We would camp here again. Site 21 is very nice… a little private elevated back yard area with a fire ring and picnic table."
Lake access without boats: Several campgrounds offer quiet water recreation. One camper at Pike Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Pike Lake Unit appreciates that "Pike Lake is a local favorite, with decent hiking trails and beach. Heed warnings of swimmers itch and know that the dog beach is very small, with no beach at all."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Camping near Horicon Marsh provides unique wildlife encounters. At Ledge County Park, Michael L. describes it as a "Great place to take in views of Horicon marsh," while another camper mentions seeing "deer every day which was lovely."
Site selection matters: At Kettle Moraine State Forest Long Lake Campground, differences between campsite loops affect privacy levels. Darren L. explains, "Our site was a bit less secluded than I'd prefer but still very nice. The loop we were on the lower 900 loop, had quite a few sites that could be combined to be group sites."
Water quality concerns: Water conditions vary throughout the season. One camper cautions, "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. It's 50 feet away."
Dog restrictions: Pet owners should research limitations before arrival. Heewon A. reports, "The negatives as a dog owner is that dogs are not allowed on most trails or on to the beach," while another mentions there is "a dog friendly picnic area near the water though."
Campground layouts: Campers note significant differences between electric and non-electric sites. At Ledge County Park, one visitor observed, "I'm not a trailer camper, but if I were I would not appreciate the vibes of the electric sites. The sites are very close together and walking through it felt like going through a festival or circus more than a campground."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At The Playful Goose Campground, Beth B. notes, "Indoor pool great for kids. Bath house was a bit dated but okay. Coin operated showers, 25 cent for several minutes."
Beach facilities: Family-friendly beaches offer amenities for full-day outings. Kaylyn C. describes Mauthe Lake as having a "Nice beach/swimming area, bike path, and playground for the kids. Also the most beautiful sunset over the lake and pines in July."
Group camping options: Family reunions work well in designated areas. At Waupun Park, Jamie W. shares, "This is a wonderful park for family get togethers. The group site is separate from the single sites. Very nice showers with soft water. There is a great water park just on the edge of the park."
Educational activities: Nature trails provide learning opportunities. GA J. reports that Mauthe Lake has "Great clean sites and fishing. Many hiking trails. Historical attractions. Wisconsin does their parks and forests right."
RV hookup limitations: At Fondu Lac County Fairground, placement can impact connections. Austin-Tarra G. advises, "We did have to buy two extenders for our sewer hose as our 38 foot rig's sewer spigot was too far from the sewer hook up."
Campground navigation challenges: Some roads present difficulties for larger vehicles. Sugar Maple S. warns about Pike Lake: "There is a TIGHT turn in the campground loop near site #17 to be aware of with longer trailers."
Site dimensions for large RVs: Certain sites accommodate bigger rigs better. "Some are large and flat perfect for a class A (#2 #4, #29 #31 is okay, but smaller)," notes one camper about Pike Lake, while Joe at Waupun Park mentions, "Spots for a couple tents and a camper at each site."
Seasonal RV options: Long-term camping is available at select locations. Amber C. notes at The Playful Goose, "We were situated where the seasonal campers are and near the edge of the campground," suggesting established seasonal communities at certain campgrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Brownsville, WI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Brownsville, WI is Mauthe Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit with a 4.4-star rating from 45 reviews.
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