Wisconsin's Kettle Moraine region near Delafield features a unique glacial landscape with kettle depressions, moraines, and eskers formed during the last ice age. Camping options range from state forest sites with electrical hookups and shower facilities to primitive backpacking shelters on the Ice Age Trail. The area experiences four distinct seasons with particularly vibrant fall colors from late September through mid-October.
What to do
Hiking the Ice Age Trail: Access multiple segments of this National Scenic Trail from Ottawa Lake Campground in Kettle Moraine State Forest. "We've stayed here twice. Nice, clean, well-run campground with some electric sites and several bathroom/shower buildings if needed. Nice little lake to swim or paddle on. 20 minute drive to the awesome Kettle Moraine biking trails," shares Heather H.
Swimming in the kettle lakes: Cool off during summer months at the swimming beaches. "The lake is very clean and the site are a good size. Gets very busy on the weekends!" notes Neysha R. about Ottawa Lake, while Linda N. adds, "In terms of Ottawa Lake, the beach and lake was incredibly clean (they had a triathlon there we weekend we stayed)."
Winter camping options: Unlike many seasonal campgrounds, some sites remain open year-round. "No showers in winter but awesome," says David H. about winter camping at Ottawa Lake. This provides opportunities for winter hiking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing when most glamping accommodations are closed.
What campers like
Natural springs exploration: The freshwater springs near Menomonee Park are popular with visitors. "We have been to Menomonee park several times. It is one of the kids favorites. The sites are just about all wooded. Not huge but a good size for a country park," writes Matt N. The park features "miles of nice hiking trails, a nice beach, pavilions to rent, horse riding trails, archery range and I'm sure I'm missing more."
Lake activities beyond swimming: Most glamping areas near Delafield offer multiple water recreation options. "Nice little lake to swim or paddle on," notes Heather H. about Ottawa Lake, while Scenic Ridge Campground provides "a nice lake with a few marina slips. There are wonderful water toys at a beach with a pier. There is a small doggie beach. There is a fishing spot," according to Cheryl W.
Fall season camping: The area's wooded settings make it ideal for autumn visits. "Fall is beautiful and less crowded," notes Belinda R. about camping near Lake Geneva, making this period ideal for those seeking a more peaceful upscale glamping experience near Delafield.
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: At Pilgrims Campground, "We were located on the end of the row and had lots of grass to enjoy. Owner was very friendly and helpful," shares Michael R. However, other campgrounds offer less separation: "It was a small plot of camp. It was noisy from kids," notes Michael S. about Naga-Waukee Park.
Highway noise at some locations: Road noise can be an issue at certain campgrounds. "The road noise is absolutely noticeable. It was incredibly loud when we drove through the loop closest to the highway and was significantly better even just one section over," explains Linda N. about Ottawa Lake Campground.
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites near Delafield require advance booking, especially for weekend stays from May through September. "This site was completely booked. We were able to grab a nonelectric site and transfer to an electric site when one cancelled last minute," explains Linda N., highlighting the importance of planning ahead.
Tips for camping with families
Lake Koshkonong access: Milton-Madison SE KOA provides family-friendly accommodations near additional water recreation. "Great place to bring our three boys. There are 2 playgrounds, a nice pool, games and activities for the kids over weekends, and the rv sites are well spaced," says Erin B., adding, "We were able to rent a golf cart which the kids got a kick out of."
Scuppernong Springs with kids: This natural area makes for an educational outing. "Scuppernong Springs was also a treat for the kiddos although I highly recommended planning for a solid 2 mile hike if you're with kids," advises Linda N. about a popular day trip from Ottawa Lake Campground.
Child-friendly water features: Beyond natural lakes, some campgrounds offer additional aquatic options. At Milton KOA, "The kids were thrilled with the heated pool that even has a waterfall," according to Maria Mercedes M., while Menomonee Park has "a quarry good for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing. There is a beach with life guards," per Matt N.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Kettle Moraine: RVers should research specific site dimensions before booking at Big Foot Beach State Park. "Nice large sites. Gravel spot for arc/trailer. Fire pit and picnic table," notes Melissa B., but adds that "the overall camping area isn't very big. 100 sites only. 30 with electric."
Service challenges at some parks: Electrical connections can be problematic at certain campgrounds. At Pilgrims Campground, Jessica T. reports: "We started to get surges. Our EMS protected the rig but ultimately we couldn't use the power. Even with only running the fridge it continued to trip. We tried the one next to us and it gave us the reverse polarity code."
Winter camping considerations: For RV campers planning cold-weather stays, Ottawa Lake remains open but with limited services. "No showers in winter but awesome," notes David H., making it one of the few year-round glamping options near Delafield where winter RV camping is possible.
