Kettle Moraine State Forest surrounds Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin with over 30,000 acres of glacial hills, kettle depressions, and mixed hardwood forests. The region typically receives 35 inches of annual precipitation, creating lush camping conditions from May through October when temperatures average 55-75°F. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations between 850-1,000 feet above sea level.
What to Do
Swimming at Mauthe Lake: The swimming beach at Mauthe Lake Campground features clear water with a sandy bottom. "Nice clean swimming and lots of hiking and biking options," notes Noreen T., while Kaylyn C. adds, "Nice beach/swimming area, bike path, and playground for the kids."
Explore the Niagara Escarpment: High Cliff State Park Campground offers unique geology with limestone cliff hiking. "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," shares Sam F.
Beach time on Lake Michigan: Pack beach gear for a day trip to Lake Michigan at Harrington Beach State Park, about 40 miles from Elkhart Lake. "The huge sandy beach spans the entire length of the park - which features plenty of trails, a quarry, and a historical element," according to Ross K.
What Campers Like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural screening at Kettle Moraine State Forest Long Lake Campground. "Very nice campground. Sites are decent sized for tenting or small camper. Almost all the sites are surround by trees and small brush so it gives a private feel," reports Brandon L.
Clean facilities: Kohler-Andrae State Park maintains well-kept bathrooms and showers. "Bathhouse very nice. Very nice nature center. Laundry facilities available," mentions Kathie M., while Sara S. confirms, "The facilities are well kept and there is a good variety of things to do at the park from the beach to the boardwalk."
Spacious group sites: Greenbush Group Campground offers exceptionally large gathering areas. "Large sites great for groups. Sites 2 and 9 are the largest. Those can each fit over 20 backpacking tents at the same time. Grassy sites surrounded by trees (plenty for hammocks too)," explains Amber R.
What You Should Know
Seasonal water restrictions: Water availability varies at campgrounds. "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. They have pit toilets open year round whatever the case," warns Brandl B. at High Cliff State Park.
Lake conditions change: Water quality at Long Lake can be inconsistent. "Beach test positive for ecoli 2x this year. If you stay here do not swim. They have 2 beaches, they test one for ecoli and close it but leave the other one open because they don't have to test both," cautions MarkDaShark99.
Reservation requirements: During peak season (June-August), Harrington Beach State Park Campground fills quickly. "I don't know how we got a last minute reservation to this campground, but I'm glad we did. Nice size site: 118. Lots of room to spread out," shares Amanda G.
Tips for Camping with Families
Multi-activity parks: Choose campgrounds with diverse recreation options. "Great clean sites and fishing. Many hiking trails. Historical attractions. Wisconsin does their parks and forests right," says GA J. about Mauthe Lake.
Kid-friendly beaches: Long Lake has multiple swimming areas for different ages. "This campground is great for family and offers many wooded sites. The lake is rather shallow so best for swimming in early summer or warm fall days," advises Chris A.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature updated play equipment. "Very nice, clean and quiet campground. The showers are a bit of a hike from most sites but they are private/individual rooms. Sites aren't too small," notes Graisyn S. about Mauthe Lake.
Tips for RVers
Site selection considerations: At Plymouth Rock Camping Resort, site quality varies significantly. "The park is mostly seasonal and the short term sites are literally over a mile of tight, windy road to get to them. Once there the sites are ok," mentions angie G.
Limited pull-through options: Many campgrounds require backing into sites. "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," warns angie G. about Sundance Farm Campground.
Electric hookup reliability: Most state parks offer only 30-amp service. "Campground facilities are clean, 30 amp at the electrical site worked perfectly. Other campers amazingly friendly," reports Elizabeth S. about her experience at Mauthe Lake.
