Glamping in Cudahy, Wisconsin provides access to both Lake Michigan shorelines and inland forests within a 30-mile radius. The area experiences warm summers with average highs of 80°F and cold winters dropping below freezing, making May through September the prime camping season. Most luxury camping options require advance booking during summer weekends when temperatures and visitor numbers peak.
What to do
Lake activities and fishing: Ottawa Lake Campground in Kettle Moraine State Forest offers clear water ideal for kayaking and swimming. "The lake is very clean and the site are a good size. Gets very busy on the weekends!" notes one visitor. This location maintains water clarity even during peak summer months.
Winter recreation: For cold-weather enthusiasts, Ottawa Lake Campground stays open year-round with modified amenities. "No showers in winter but awesome," reports David H., highlighting the campground's accessibility during colder months when most glamping sites close.
Trail exploration: The Ice Age Trail sections near Naga-Waukee Park connect directly to lakefront areas. A visitor mentioned, "Nestled in the heart of lake country and accessible from the Lake Country Trail and Ice Age Trail, this county park is perfect for those just passing through." The trail system includes both gravel and paved sections suitable for various hiking abilities.
Seasonal events: Halloween camping attracts families to many glamping locations with decorated sites and special activities. Melissa C. from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park shares, "We got 3 weekends for a very much discounted price... We will again spend most of September here! So many activities for the kids and adults!"
What campers like
Value seasonal packages: While glamping options can be expensive, some locations offer multi-weekend deals that reduce costs significantly. "Last year we heard out their fall package and got 3 weekends for a very much discounted price. Loved it so much we got it again this year!" explains a Jellystone Park visitor, noting that seasonal packages can make luxury camping more affordable.
Site privacy: Big Foot Beach State Park provides larger, more secluded glamping areas compared to standard sites. "Nice large sites. gravel spot for arc/trailer. fire pit and picnic table. trails for hiking are nice," reports Melissa B., who appreciated the separation between camping areas.
Varied accommodation options: Fox Den Campground offers upgraded camping with individual electrical hookups for each site. "Fox Den is superior to Honeysuckle Hollows because each site has an individual electric post," explains one reviewer, adding that "Fox Den also has more space between sites, more level pads and each site is tucked away with trees."
Multiple recreation options: Menomonee Park features diverse activities beyond just accommodation. Matt N. reports, "The park has a lot of trails for hiking, biking and some horse trails. The quarry is good for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing. There is a beach with life guards."
What you should know
Limited winter facilities: While some campgrounds remain open year-round, expect reduced services. "No showers in winter but awesome," notes a winter camper at Ottawa Lake Campground, indicating the tradeoff for off-season visits.
Site selection matters: At Menomonee Park, site quality varies significantly. "Campsites were ok, not much separation or privacy at all. Pit toilets and metros desperately need to be cleaned more often," reports Kim, who recommends, "I'd stay here again because the park overall is great, but I would try to choose a better site. #9 looked alright, and in the 20#s looked a bit more tree lined and bigger."
Alcohol policies vary: Unlike some private campgrounds, state parks have specific alcohol regulations. "ALL Illinois State Parks are now enforcing a no alcohol policy even if you are on your own site," warns Jeanne M. about Chain O' Lakes State Park campgrounds, information particularly relevant for adults planning glamping experiences.
Gate closure times: Parks enforce strict access hours that can affect late arrivals. Brian O. cautions about Chain O' Lakes State Park: "The gates close at 10:PM and there are tire shredders, you can leave but you can't get back in... unless you want to walk 2+ miles in the dark."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access considerations: Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort offers dedicated family-friendly swimming areas with amenities. "I recommend the lakefront tent sites, they are spacious and you can fish right from your site! The lake is beautiful and surprisingly picturesque as it is all nature preserve on the opposite side," suggests Chloe N., who appreciates the convenience for young children.
Activity scheduling: Morning activities work best for younger children at glamping locations. "We biked around the campground during the days and took advantage of the adult only hot tub hours at night," shares Jenifer K., demonstrating how families can balance child and adult activities.
Wildlife awareness: Chain O' Lakes campgrounds require extra food security measures. Meg warns, "The raccoons at night here are no joke. The second it's dusky, they come scavenging for absolutely anything food has touched. So basically, eat dinner and do s'mores early, then everything must be packed into cars for the night and all surfaces wiped down."
Tick prevention: Several campgrounds report significant tick populations. "SO many ticks. With a baby crawling that needed to be set free, we were constantly doing checks," cautions a parent who suggests, "Plan for toddlers and babies to have a contained covered screen house and have them wear hats or a wagon shade on walks so nothing lands in their hair."
