Camping near Combined Locks, Wisconsin features over a dozen established campgrounds within a 45-minute drive. Most facilities sit at elevations between 750-850 feet above sea level, creating varied terrain from limestone bluffs to lowland marshes. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during the day with cooler nights in the 50s, while spring and fall camping periods often see 20-30 degree temperature swings between day and night.
What to do
Hiking historical sites: Kettle Moraine State Forest features unique geological formations and historical attractions along the Ice Age Trail. One camper notes, "Great place to explore with the fam. Hike the trails to see pieces of Wisconsin history throughout. Some trails on the Ridgeline offer vista views and moderate inclines that add to the adventure" at High Cliff State Park Campground.
Water recreation: Lake Winnebago provides numerous access points for boating and fishing around Combined Locks. "There is a marina/boat launch. There is a sledding hill that is operable in the winter, otherwise makes for great hiking," reports a visitor to Calumet County Park, which offers both waterfront access and inland recreation options.
Geological exploration: The area's limestone formations create unique exploration opportunities. At High Cliff State Park, campers report "Really cool cliffs to climb/hike. There is also a lime kiln to hike to and see. There are two playgrounds for the kids as well." The Lime Kiln Trail receives particular attention as "difficult but so worth it."
What campers like
Privacy levels: Campsite privacy varies significantly across parks near Combined Locks. At Devils River Campground, one camper notes it has "nice grassy sites with tall trees for partial shade" but "if you want privacy, there's not a lot." Contrast this with Calumet County Park where "Harbor area: sites are well spaced, lovely trimmed grass sites with fire pits."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain excellent shower and restroom facilities. One camper at Hickory Oaks Campground reported, "Bathrooms are well maintained, showers are free, and there is ice cream and some camping stuff for sale in the office." Similarly, at Mauthe Lake, "the shower house is perfect for an end of the day washing."
Wildlife viewing: Several parks offer abundant wildlife observation opportunities. At Hickory Oaks, a camper shared: "We saw so much wildlife! Chipmunks, ducks, a great horned owl, and countless birds to name a few." Devils River Campground offers river access where "one year we caught about 60 crayfish and cooked them on the campstove and ate them."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds near Combined Locks require advance booking. At Mauthe Lake Campground, sites fill quickly during summer months. "Make sure to pick the right campsite, tho. Some of the campsites seems very shallow but if you looked closer they have a path or another site to put a tent."
Seasonal challenges: Water availability varies seasonally at several parks. At High Cliff State Park, "Only gripe is the uncertain schedule they have for turning on water for the season. First week or two of may is a safe bet, but no promises. They have pit toilets open year round whatever the case."
Noise considerations: Traffic and seasonal campers can affect noise levels. At Osh Vegas Palms, a camper reported "Road noise minimal, occasional airplane taking off." Other campers have noted weekend noise increases at some parks, with one Devils River visitor mentioning "One night there was very loud partying at some of the seasonal campers sites."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several parks offer swimming beaches or ponds for children. At Mauthe Lake, campers enjoy the "Nice beach/swimming area, bike path, and playground for the kids. Also the most beautiful sunset over the lake and pines in July." Similarly, Devils River installed "a large chemically treated swimming pond. The swimming is pretty good and there is now plenty of space."
Playground access: Many campgrounds feature play areas for children. High Cliff State Park offers "two playgrounds for the kids," while Calumet County Park provides "Expensive playground areas with picnic, grills, and fire pits."
Activity planning: Some campgrounds offer organized activities for families. At Apple Creek Campground, one reviewer described it as a "Great place for kids and anyone who likes calm quiet camping." Devils River sometimes offers historical tours, as "Sometimes they also give a tour of the old mill that is on the grounds. There is a lot of history."
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: RV sites vary considerably in size and layout across area campgrounds. At Calumet County Park, a 35-foot class A motorhome owner found "Large park with lots of site options. Being close to the lake is a plus! Firewood is well-priced and can be ordered ahead of time and delivered to your site."
Leveling requirements: Many campgrounds require leveling equipment. At Osh Vegas Palms, an RVer found "Grass Sites with easy entry for our 42 ft motor home without disconnecting our tow vehicle. 50 amp, water. And this small campground has great WiFi!"
Hookup variations: Electric and water access differs significantly between parks. Devils River offers "electric/water and they do have a dump station very close by," while a camper at Apple Creek noted "We wanted septic and they didn't tell us that the septic is a guy in a truck who comes by one or two times a week."
