Kettle Moraine State Forest offers tent camping opportunities approximately 75 miles north of De Pere, Wisconsin, with sites nestled within its 30,000 acres of glacial terrain. Winter temperatures can drop below 10°F in January while summer averages reach the mid-70s°F, creating distinct seasonal camping experiences throughout the forest. The Northern Unit contains several miles of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, providing direct trail access from some campsites.
What to do
Hiking trails access: At Northern Unit Greenbush Group Camp, campers can explore over 30 miles of maintained trails directly from their sites. A camper noted, "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."
Water activities: Several lakes within 15 minutes of Greenbush Group Campground offer fishing, swimming, and non-motorized boating opportunities. The campground provides "large sites great for groups" with "grassy sites surrounded by trees," making it a convenient base for water recreation.
Winter sports: When snow conditions permit, the Northern Unit maintains groomed cross-country ski trails and designated snowshoeing areas. These winter activities provide year-round options for tent campers visiting the De Pere region during colder months when crowds thin out.
What campers like
Spacious group sites: Tent camping areas at Northern Unit Greenbush Group Camp accommodate multiple tents with room to spread out. According to reviews, "We had six tents, but the site could easily have accommodated more," making it ideal for larger gatherings or family reunions.
Hammock opportunities: The wooded setting provides ample trees for hammock camping as an alternative to ground tents. Campers mention there are "plenty for hammocks too" surrounding the grassy tent sites, offering flexibility for sleep arrangements.
Basic amenities: Despite the rustic setting, campers appreciate the accessible drinking water and toilet facilities. Reviews note the "short walk to pit toilets and drinking water," though during certain periods "water is usually available, but more limited during the pandemic (spigot turned off by our campsite, but available near the parking lot)."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Northern Unit Greenbush operates from April through November, closing during winter months despite the area's winter recreation opportunities. Plan accordingly if seeking tent camping near De Pere during the off-season.
Site separation: While sites have visual barriers, sound carries between campsites, especially on weekends. A camper at Northern Unit Greenbush noted they "could hear loud music from the site 4 late into the night," suggesting noise-sensitive campers should bring earplugs or consider midweek visits.
Facility limitations: Neither campground offers showers or electrical hookups, maintaining their primitive camping focus. Water access may require walking to central spigots, with one visitor reporting that during certain periods, the water source was "available near the parking lot at the entrance - a longer walk."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: At Greenbush Group Campground, families should target specific sites for maximum space. According to campers, "Sites 2 and 9 are the largest," with each able to accommodate over 20 backpacking tents simultaneously, providing ample room for family groups.
Activity preparation: Pack field guides or download nature apps before arrival, as cell service can be spotty throughout the Kettle Moraine area. The diverse glacial terrain and forest environments offer educational opportunities for children to learn about Wisconsin's natural history.
Weather planning: Spring camping near De Pere often means variable temperatures and occasional rain. Families should pack additional layers and waterproof gear, particularly when camping in April or May when nighttime temperatures can still drop near freezing.
Tips from RVers
Alternative options: These tent-only campgrounds don't accommodate RVs, but nearby alternatives exist for larger vehicles. RV campers visiting the Kettle Moraine area from De Pere should investigate the Southern Unit campgrounds, which offer more RV-friendly accommodations including some electric sites.
Day-use consideration: RV travelers can park at designated day-use areas and access the tent camping sections for group gatherings. This allows families with mixed camping preferences to enjoy the forest together while maintaining separate overnight accommodations.
