The glacial topography around Delafield, Wisconsin creates unique riding conditions with elevation changes of 300-400 feet throughout the Kettle Moraine region. Trail systems often connect multiple camping areas, allowing riders to explore varying terrain from forested hills to open prairie. Winter horseback camping is limited to specific areas with seasonal availability from April through November.
What to do
Trail riding at Southern Unit Horseriders Campground: Located in Palmyra, this facility offers direct access to extensive bridle paths with varying difficulty levels. "If I had a horse, I'd definitely camp here... There are ample places to bridle horses and shared corrals every four or five campsites. There are also animal waste collection areas throughout the campground," notes Josh F., who visited the Southern Unit Horseriders Campground.
Explore the Ice Age Trail: Several equestrian-friendly segments run through the area with connections to overnight facilities. "There are plenty of camp sites here! All different types. Electric, non-electric, primitive, walk-in, etc. Also, there's a small beach on a lake within the park near camping areas," according to Jessica B., who stayed at Kettle Moraine South Camping.
Visit the Observation Tower: Located within riding distance of several camping areas, this lookout provides views across the kettles and moraines. "Our hike to the scenic overlook was pleasant - bring your binoculars!" recommends Bill M., who camped at Pinewood campground.
What campers like
Multi-day trail access: The network allows for different routes each day without repeating paths. "The horseback riding trails in Kettle Moraine State Forest provide varied terrain through glacial landscapes," with "There are several sites along one side of the park that are a little more secluded and in a pine forest," according to Josh F. at Southern Unit Horseriders Campground.
Clean facilities: Shower houses and restrooms receive regular maintenance throughout the season. "The shower houses are clean and so are the camp sites. Also, there's a small beach on a lake within the park near camping areas," reports Jessica B. from Kettle Moraine South Camping.
Group amenities: Larger sites accommodate multiple trailers with shared facilities. "The group campsite has six sites and they are not pull through for trailers. There is a fire pit with fixed seating around it centrally-located in the group campsite," notes Josh F.
What you should know
Electric service limitations: While some sites offer 50-amp service, availability varies by location and season. "There are electric and non-electric campsites, all seem to have a picnic table and fireplace," according to Josh F., who explored the equestrian facilities.
Seasonal trail conditions: Spring thaw can create mud issues on certain sections through mid-May. "When it rained the first night, most of the site was mud," warns Glenn S., who camped at Kettle Moraine South Camping.
Advanced reservation requirements: Equestrian sites book quickly, especially for summer weekends and holidays. "Stayed on South side of the lake. Great for all campers whether privative or big honking buses... Please reserve especially on weekends," advises GA J.
Tips for camping with families
Campsite selection strategies: Sites near trail access points offer convenience for younger riders. "The sites were very nice with some decent foliage between sites. The space was generous so we didn't feel crowded," notes Bill M., who visited with family.
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds include play areas near shower buildings. "There is a playground right next to them as well... The campsite itself had a good log-stopper so you wouldn't drive too far into the woods, great fire ring, and picnic table," observed Wendy Z. at Kettle Moraine Southern Unit.
Multi-use recreational options: Non-riders have swimming and hiking alternatives. "There's a lake with a swimming area if that's what you're looking for, not to mention a dock with great fishing. We saw a guy with a catfish the size of my forearm," shares Kelsey H.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through site locations: Several areas accommodate larger horse trailers with living quarters. "There's also a series of pull-through sites that would make it easier for those who don't care to back trailers in or out of the site. These include electric sites 405, 404, 403, 402, and 401," recommends Josh F. at Southern Unit Horseriders Campground.
Utility hookup access: Water connections are available at specific sites within the equestrian areas. "You can't beat the views at this place, really spectacular. There were free showers, flush toilets and running water in the bathrooms," mentions Melissa K., who stayed at Lake Kegonsa State Park.
Campground layout considerations: Roads can be narrow in some sections, requiring careful navigation. "The roads are narrow, but surrounded by trees," notes Melissa K., adding practical insights for those with larger rigs.
