Glamping options near Cedarburg, Wisconsin range from basic to premium accommodations at campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. The region sits on glacial till deposited during the last ice age, creating a landscape of rolling hills, kettle lakes, and mixed hardwood forests. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F with nighttime lows in the 50s, making this area suitable for three-season camping from April through October.
What to do
Hiking dune trails: Kettle Moraine State Forest offers unique terrain with trails through glacial formations. At Ottawa Lake Campground, visitors can explore diverse ecosystems. "Hiking is nice, there is a dune boardwalk trail that is good that runs parallel to Lake Michigan shoreline," notes one camper from Ottawa Lake Campground.
Fishing and kayaking: The quarry at Menomonee Park provides opportunities for anglers and paddlers. "The quarry is good for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing. There is a beach with life guards," according to a review from Menomonee Park. Another camper adds, "Great for fishing and hiking."
Winter camping: Unlike many seasonal sites, some campgrounds remain open during colder months. "No showers in winter but awesome," reports a visitor to Ottawa Lake Campground, making this a year-round option for those prepared for cold-weather camping.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded feel of sites in the region. At Menomonee Park, "The sites are just about all wooded. Not huge but a good size for a country park. Most offer decent separation from your neighbor," writes one reviewer.
Clean beaches: Lake access points are well-maintained at several campgrounds. "The beach on Lake Michigan is very nice," notes a camper at Kohler-Andrae State Park. The park offers "trails, dunes, marshes, forests, and Lake Michigan. Very well kept."
Backpacking shelters: For those seeking more remote experiences beyond standard glamping, backcountry options exist. "Great backpack camp site. Decent walk and terrain to get to the site. There is an open shelter to put your tent if you prefer to outside," explains a visitor to KMSF Shelter 1, noting "It's very secluded for privacy."
What you should know
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby highways or recreational facilities. At Plymouth Rock Camping Resort, "The race track is very close by and the noise from the cars can be pretty loud but not a deal breaker," according to one camper.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak season. "If you plan to camp for a weekend, you must make a reservation way in advance," advises a visitor to Kohler-Andrae State Park.
Bathroom facilities vary: Amenities range from basic to modern. "There are pit toilets by the sites but a nice shower house with flush toilets about a 1/4 mile walk away," explains a Menomonee Park visitor, while another notes, "Pit toilets and metros desperately need to be cleaned more often."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Multiple swimming areas cater to families with children. At Naga-Waukee Park, "The beach on the shores of Lake Nagawicka is well-groomed, clean, has a seasonal lifeguard and a playground within earshot."
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Several parks offer cycling opportunities for all ages. "Fun park to ride bikes through. Many trails to walk or hike. The pond has a great beach for kids," reports a visitor to Naga-Waukee Park.
Seasonal activities: For families seeking structured entertainment, some sites offer programmed events. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, "There are a ton of activities here to include two bouncy pillows, three play grounds, a pool, water slides, a kids water activity area, beach, water obstacle course, inflatable slide, RC car track, laser tag, mini golf, giant chess."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV sites vary significantly in size and accessibility. "Most sites are well spaced for a state park. Clean bathrooms with flush toilets and showers," advises an Ottawa Lake Campground visitor.
Accessibility challenges: Some campgrounds have navigation difficulties. At Plymouth Rock Camping Resort, "The short term sites are literally over a mile of tight, windy road to get to them. Once there the sites are ok."
Electrical availability: Many campgrounds offer limited electric sites. "We didn't have a reservation and showed up on a Tuesday and camped for a few nights. We were in the non-electric 200's, not as many RV's in this area," explains a Kohler-Andrae State Park reviewer, highlighting how site selection affects the camping experience.
