The landscape around Combined Locks, Wisconsin features glacial terrain with rolling hills and kettle formations dating back to the last ice age. Located in Outagamie County at approximately 750 feet above sea level, the area offers moderate summer temperatures averaging 80°F during camping season. Winter snowfall and spring thaws contribute to well-drained campsites in the summer months, with occasional rain creating muddy conditions at certain campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking through glacial terrain: Explore the distinctive landscape at High Cliff State Park Campground with its unique geological features. "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," notes camper Sam F.
Lake swimming and paddling: Mauthe Lake Campground provides excellent water recreation options with a designated swimming area. "Nice beach/swimming area, bike path, and playground for the kids. Also the most beautiful sunset over the lake and pines in July," shares Kaylyn C. The lake restricts motorized boats, creating a peaceful environment for paddlers.
Horseback riding on dedicated trails: Equestrians camping near Combined Locks can access miles of bridle paths at Northern Unit New Prospect Horseriders Campground. "Open tent sites and well designed riggings and beyond excellent, well-maintained trails, accommodations and hospitality," says reviewer Lesley R., who praises the specialized facilities for riders.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Campers appreciate the natural separation between sites at Bay Shore Park. "The tent sites are a great size and semi private (you can have a conversation and not be heard at other sites). The bathroom and showers are decent and cleaned daily around 6 am," reports Jennifer S.
Clean facilities: The maintained restrooms and shower houses receive consistent praise. At High Cliff State Park, camper Brandl B. notes, "Great spot, lots of trails, and the bathrooms were clean. 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."
Diverse terrain for outdoor activities: The variety of landscapes supports multiple activities. At Mauthe Lake, reviewer Charles M. describes, "Mauthe Lake-Kettle Moraine is a joy for campers. Located right on Mauthe Lake the campsites are separated by lush trees and bushes. The sites are well separated for privacy."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the area operate from spring through fall with specific opening dates. Point Beach State Forest camper Laura M. advises, "Campground will be closed until May 24, 2024 for maintenance on the waterlines." Plan accordingly as many facilities close during winter months.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. "Huge campground, and I guess we were lucky to snag a site mid week in August, as there were only two sites left when we arrived in the early afternoon," reports a Point Beach State Forest visitor.
Water and electrical hookups: Site amenities vary widely between campgrounds. At Bay Shore Park, Nikki & Mike found, "The electric and water hookups were on opposite sides of the site, and we had to keep adjusting the travel trailer to get both to actually hook up."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for children: Hartman Creek State Park Campground offers family-friendly swimming areas. "Hartman Creek is a nice small lake, with no wake. There is now a rental building available with kayaks, paddle boats, SUP, etc to rent. We rented kayaks for an hour and a very reasonable price. Small lake so we were able to explore—saw about 3 dozen turtles which was super fun for the kids," shares Jen E.
Playground availability: Several campgrounds include play areas for children. At Bay Shore Park, Kristine M. mentions, "This is a great spot for kids..although there isn't swimming there are 2 playgrounds and lots of space to play frisbee or run around."
Evening quiet hours: Many families appreciate enforced quiet times. At Hartman Creek, Jen E. noted, "We loved the quietness at night. Not entirely sure, but I believe there is a quite policy after 10pm. Gorgeous to look up and see the amazing stars at night."
Tips for RVers
Dump station timing: Plan your departure to avoid congestion at sanitary stations. At Point Beach State Forest, Laura M. warns, "The dump station gets really backed up at the end of the weekend, so heads up."
Site size considerations: Wild West Campground & Corral provides specialized facilities for horse owners approximately 40 miles from Combined Locks. When selecting a site, RVers should verify dimensions. At Sundance Farm Campground, one camper cautions, "We were reserved, but unable to stay due to having a trailer with a car in it and not being able to unhitch to back into a site. Yea, we made that clear when we reserved."
Weather impact on sites: Ground conditions can change rapidly with rainfall. At Bay Shore Park, Celeste D. observed, "Everything was very clean and even with the campground full it was nice and quiet. The spots are beautiful and shaded. Rain does cause many of the spots to flood."
Traveler
