Kettle Moraine State Forest area offers a variety of horse riding facilities near Cambridge, Wisconsin, located within 30 miles of the town. The region features glacial terrain with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,100 feet. Most equestrian campgrounds operate seasonally from April through November when trail conditions are optimal for riding.
What to do
Trail riding access: Pinewoods Campground in Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit provides convenient access to extensive trails. "There is a central shower building with vault toilets in the camping loops. We asked the ranger about hiking and she gave us a map to a trail system that connects to this campground between the group sites and loop 3," notes Art S., highlighting the trail connections directly from camp.
Swimming opportunities: Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground offers water recreation options after a day of riding. "The park includes a beach and boat launch to help you enjoy Lake Kegonsa. It was also pet friendly with pet trails and a pet beach of their own," according to Lisa S., giving riders a chance to cool off.
Off-site excursions: For riders wanting variety beyond horse trails, Kettle Moraine South Camping provides access to the broader forest area. "About 20 minutes northeast of the campground is Lapham Peek Park with a walk up tower offering great views of the area," recommends Cathy L., suggesting worthwhile destinations for non-riding days.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit receives praise for its layout. "The site was actually really lovely and I appreciated the thick brush creating some real seclusion. The quiet Loop was a wonderful idea," writes Kendal R., appreciating the design that gives equestrians space.
Clean facilities: Riders value the maintained facilities at Kettle Moraine's campgrounds. "Clean facilities, friendly staff, and great trails. No bugs!" reports Brendan E. from Lake Kegonsa State Park, noting essential comforts for after-ride relaxation.
Seasonal considerations: Fall visits are particularly popular at many horse campgrounds. "Very nice campground. I have camped at Richard Bong State Park numerous times and this campground is very similar. The campsites are roomy and was wooded and private," mentions Glenn S. about Lake Kegonsa, suggesting autumn as an ideal time for horse camping.
What you should know
Special campground rules: Different camping loops have specific regulations. "Don't reserve a spot in loop 1 if you have a dog. It was easy enough to change but now we know to aim for loop 2 or 3," advises Art S. about Pinewoods Campground, information particularly relevant for equestrians traveling with dogs.
Access challenges: Some trails and areas have limited accessibility. "There is also a bit of a hike to get there. So if you take a cooler you may want a wagon," Ted W. notes about Lake Kegonsa State Park, which applies to hauling riding gear as well.
Booking requirements: Horse campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "Making reservations at the group site was easy and ensured no other campers were near us," explains Juliya R. from Kettle Moraine Southern Unit, highlighting the importance of advance planning.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Big Foot Beach State Park Campground offers options for young riders and non-riders. "Good fishing ponds for the kids, and great hiking trails throughout the property. I look forward to more quick trips to Big Foot State Park with the family!" shares Brenton S., suggesting activities beyond horseback riding.
Campsite selection: Choose sites based on needs for family horse camping. "We stayed in loop 3 site 273 as we were camping in the early season and loops 1-2 were closed. The site was well wooded and very spacious!" recommends Jack D. from Pinewoods Campground.
Educational opportunities: Some horse campgrounds provide learning experiences. "Pick Up the activity book for kids it is a great adventure lots to do at the lake!!!" suggests Jill G. from Kettle Moraine South Camping, noting resources for young equestrians.
Tips from RVers
Site specifications: Harnischfeger County Park offers detailed site information. "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., critical information for those hauling horse trailers.
Pull-through availability: Many equestrian campers require specific site layouts. "There are also a series of pull-through sites that would make it easier for those who don't care to back trailers in or out of the site. These include electric sites 405, 404, 403, 402, and 401," notes Josh F. about the Southern Unit Horseriders Campground.
Seasonal closure awareness: Operating dates vary by location. "You can camp year around in this campground. Most recent 2 times were winter camping," mentions Tim H. about Kettle Moraine Southern Unit, though horse facilities may have more limited seasonal availability.