Tent camping near Cedarburg, Wisconsin provides access to the Kettle Moraine region's glacial terrain, characterized by distinctive ridges, hollows, and wetlands. The area averages 160 frost-free days annually with camping seasons typically running April through October at most locations. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing with summer highs averaging in the mid-80s Fahrenheit.
What to do
Biking options: The Wild Goose City Park connects to an extensive trail system that spans through Dodge County. "Wild Goose bike trail leads to this park in Juneau. It's a good place to stop and have a break. There's a playground and public bathroom, drinking fountain. Plenty of space to spread out for a picnic when you're biking through," notes visitor Kim L. at Wild Goose City Park.
Water activities: Waubedonia County Park offers river access for canoeing and fishing during warmer months. One camper describes it as "A nice little campgeound near the river in Fredonia, WI. The campsites are inexpensive and comfortable, though there aren't as many amenities that a larger campground would have" according to Kevin S. at Waubedonia County Park.
Backpacking: The Kettle Moraine State Forest Northern Unit features hiking opportunities ranging from day trips to multi-day backpacking routes. Shelter sites offer rustic accommodations along trails. "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," reports Erin Z. about KMSF Shelter 1 Backpack Site.
What campers like
Group accommodations: The Greenbush Group Campground provides spacious sites for larger gatherings. Hilary S. explains, "We booked this for a coronavirus-safe camping trip, and it did not disappoint. Water is usually available, but more limited during the pandemic. We had six tents, but the site could easily have accommodated more" at Northern Unit Greenbush Group Camp.
Secluded tent sites: Several campgrounds near Cedarburg offer more private camping experiences away from developed areas. "It's very secluded for privacy. We will definitely be back," notes a backpacker about the shelter sites.
Budget-friendly options: Most tent sites in the area range from $12-25 per night, with some backpacking locations available for lower fees or free with permits. Multiple campgrounds offer firewood for purchase on-site to comply with firewood transportation restrictions.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance bookings, particularly during summer months and fall color season from late September to mid-October. Group sites at Greenbush fill quickly on weekends.
Toilet facilities: Most tent camping areas provide basic pit toilets rather than flush toilets. According to Erin Z., "There is an outhouse, but I wouldn't recommend using it" at some backcountry locations.
Water availability: Access to drinking water varies significantly by location. Amber R. notes about Greenbush Campground, "Short walk to pit toilets and drinking water" but many primitive sites require campers to bring their own water supplies.
Noise considerations: Even in group camping areas, sound travels between sites. "The nine sites are visually separated, but not far enough away from each other to block louder noise - we could hear loud music from the site 4 late into the night," reports one camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Wild Goose City Park includes playground equipment adjacent to camping areas, making it suitable for families with younger children who need recreational options beyond hiking.
Site selection: At Greenbush Group Campground, some sites offer more space than others. Amber R. advises, "Sites 2 and 9 are the largest. Those can each fit over 20 backpacking tents at the same time. Grassy sites surrounded by trees (plenty for hammocks too)."
Weather preparation: The Cedarburg area experiences significant temperature variations, particularly in spring and fall. Nighttime temperatures can drop below 50°F even in summer months. Pack additional layers for children who may be more sensitive to temperature changes.
Tips for RVers
Limited RV accommodations: Most tent camping locations near Cedarburg have few or no RV-specific amenities. Little Turtle Lake and similar smaller campgrounds generally focus on tent camping with limited vehicle access.
Walk-in requirements: Several campgrounds require equipment to be carried from parking areas to tent sites, making them impractical for RV camping. Check site-specific details before arrival as many locations are tent-only by design.
Alternative considerations: For those with RVs seeking proximity to Cedarburg, consider designated RV parks slightly further from the city center that offer full hookups and amenities not available at the tent-focused campgrounds within the immediate area.
