Best Campgrounds near Elkhorn, WI

Campgrounds near Elkhorn, Wisconsin range from established facilities at the Walworth County Fairgrounds to more secluded options in the surrounding Kettle Moraine State Forest region. The Elkhorn Campgrounds provide basic amenities with electric hookups and fire pits in a central location, while locations like Big Foot Beach State Park and Ottawa Lake Campground offer more natural settings with a mix of tent sites, RV spots, and some cabin accommodations. Most campgrounds in the area maintain well-marked trails connecting to larger networks throughout southern Wisconsin's glacial terrain.

Many established campgrounds in the Elkhorn area operate seasonally, typically from April through October, though some Kettle Moraine facilities remain open year-round with reduced services in winter. The region experiences humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 80°F, while spring and fall bring more moderate conditions ideal for hiking and outdoor recreation. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer weekends and holidays when Lake Geneva visitors often fill nearby camping areas. Water access varies significantly between locations, with some offering lakefront settings while others are set back in wooded areas. According to one visitor, "This area has always been a summer getaway, so reservations are hard to get. We went in October, so it was much easier, but the weather was unpredictable."

Campers consistently note the appeal of sites within Kettle Moraine State Forest, where glacial topography creates a distinctive landscape. The Ottawa Lake area receives particularly positive reviews for its spacious sites and proximity to various trails. Several visitors highlighted the advantage of camping slightly away from Lake Geneva to avoid crowds while maintaining reasonable access to recreation areas. For families, campgrounds like Snug Harbor on Turtle Lake offer amenities focused on water activities, though these tend to fill quickly during peak season. One camper remarked that "The campsites are large with lots of foliage for privacy. It's so pretty in the fall. Red Trail, Paradise Trail, Rice Lake are all great hikes." Winter camping options remain limited in the immediate Elkhorn area, though some state forest locations maintain minimal services for cold-weather enthusiasts.

Best Camping Sites Near Elkhorn, Wisconsin (91)

    1. Big Foot Beach State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Lake Geneva, WI
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 248-2528

    "We stayed at site 98- just barely big enough to fit our travel trailer in and right next to the showers and bathrooms. Not a great location, but fine."

    "This is one of the most popular State Parks in Wisconsin because it's on Lake Geneva. In fact, it's the only state park within town's limits."

    2. Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    39 Reviews
    North Prairie, WI
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 594-6200

    "Site was spacious but very close to your neighbors. Lots to do in the area. Bathrooms and showers were clean. The beach was not clean and very hard to walk on, very rocky."

    "Made my first visit to Ottawa Lake on a mid-March weekend. The facilities were still under their winter setup (only vault toilet, no shower available, pay in an envelope)."

    3. Kettle Moraine South Camping — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    12 Reviews
    Eagle, WI
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 594-6220

    "Red Trail, Paradise Trail,Rice Lake are all great hikes. Great views of Lake Ottawa.

    The close by town of Oconomowoc has a nice place to eat, Burkes Lakeside."

    "Whether you're in a tent or in a camper you can find just as much comfort as you're looking for. there's a lake with a swimming area if that's what you're looking for, not to mention a dock with great"

    4. Snug Harbor Inn Campground on Turtle Lake

    6 Reviews
    Delavan, WI
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 883-6999

    $15 - $45 / night

    "I did not stay here, but I spend some time walking through to get a feel for the place."

    "Wanted someplace close to home. Familiar with the Delavan area so was excited to find Snug Harbor. Set up went well, didn’t blow anything up! Yea! Staff was great, helped me back in."

    5. Elkhorn Campgrounds

    4 Reviews
    Elkhorn, WI
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 723-3228

    "Not many frills but quiet and within walking distance to downtown Elkhorn."

    "Within walking distance to downtown Elkhorn, EAHS, and the horse areana. You might even be able to catch a show or two on site at the fair grounds, depending on the time of year."

    6. Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    22 Reviews
    North Prairie, WI
    20 miles
    +1 (262) 626-2116

    $18 - $30 / night

    "It is close to the Ice Age trail and the Scuppernong trail, and a short drive from Ottawa LakeNearby is some excellent mountain biking in hilly terrain at the Emma Carlin and John Muir trails. "

    "Pinewoods Campground is part of the southern Kettle Morraine State Forest in Wisconsin. The campground is secluded and most sites are private and shaded."

    7. Scenic Ridge Campground

    7 Reviews
    Whitewater, WI
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 883-2920

    "You are in walking distance of the lake with boat ramp, kayaking and water inflatables. I loved it! Also, there is a store with full kitchen."

    8. Sunset Campground — Richard Bong State Recreation Area

    23 Reviews
    Burlington, WI
    21 miles
    Website

    "I would recommend this for anyone for starting to step out of the comfort zone for the outdoors. very simple, many paths to walk, jog, or ride a bike. a small lake is near the further parking lot. dogs"

    "Had some cool amenities like the off road park and multiple fishing spots. Has a winery and cool dive bars all within 10 min. Only downside is all the noise from the road and the drag strip near by."

    9. Rock Cut State Park - Staghorn Campground

    81 Reviews
    Machesney Park, IL
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 885-3311

    $12 - $50 / night

    "The hiking/biking trails are many miles long.  The fishing near t he dam is great and you can always find a spot near the edge of the lake.  Bring bug spray."

    "Rock cut is only about a 50 minute drive from the far burbs of Chicago. It’s situated a few miles outside of Rockford so if you’re into exploring old industrial river towns, this is a nice one."

    10. Sunrise Campground — Richard Bong State Recreation Area

    21 Reviews
    Burlington, WI
    21 miles
    Website

    "Rocket launch (bring your own,) atv (no rentals-bring your own), water fowl hunting (during season), fishing, wildlife watching, swimming at the beach, playground for kids, and my favorite- nice trails"

    "the property is HUGE and most things are about a 10 to 15 min walk from the campsites. lots of hiking, boating, swimming fishing and more! a great place for anyone!"

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Recent Reviews near Elkhorn, WI

777 Reviews of 91 Elkhorn Campgrounds


  • Jessica T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Pilgrims Campground

    Nice enough grounds, poorly maintained electric panels

    To be honest I thought this stay was going to be easy and the first couple days were. They didn’t have full hook up sites and we have a 50 amp rig… we used a dogbone to connect to the 30 amp site. It was fine for a bit but then 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 so we decided it would be best to just leave the following day. The grounds are well maintained and the owners are friendly… they mentioned some of their 30 amp sites will get converted to 50 next year so hopefully that helps but definitely frustrating to need to book another site and forfeit money on this one.

  • Operation_Fun ..
    Sep. 19, 2025

    Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park

    Could be better

    This seemed like it could be a really great campground, but it's not taken care of very well and felt a bit unsafe. 

    It's a huge park, yet the sites aren't very private. The mosquitoes and ticks are the worst I've experienced thus far, and the abandoned buildings by the beach feel like crack dens.

    We brought chairs and relaxed by the beach for a while, which was very peaceful and really made the trip.

    It's worth checking out if you're interested. I now understand why there are always sites available here when it seems every other campground is fully booked.

  • Mark D.
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    We had such an enjoyable time at Ottawa Lake Campground.

    Escape the everyday and immerse yourself in nature at Ottawa Lake Campground. Nestled in the heart of the Kettle Moraine State Forest, this welcoming retreat offers lakeside fun, scenic hiking trails, the quiet beauty of a true Northwoods experience, all without a long drive.

    We have visited the Campground 5 times this year already, we love hiking all the trails in the Kettle Moraine Southern Unit.

    https://youtu.be/xl4uAtNWclM

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Pettits Lakeview Campground & Bar

    Family Friendly Lakeside Campground

    Pettit’s Lakeview Campground & Bar is the kind of place where family camping meets lakeside fun with a lively twist, sitting right on Lake Koshkonong with beautiful sunset views and easy boat access. My kids loved the playground while the adults enjoyed Friday fish fries, live music and the laid-back bar that doubles as a social hub, creating a strong community vibe with theme weekends and plenty of laughter. That said, it’s definitely more “festival” than “quiet forest” with sites being closing together, weekends can get noisy with karaoke and bar traffic, and shade is limited, so if you’re looking for peace and birdwatching, this isn’t it, but for families who don’t mind a little bustle, it’s a fun and memorable spot.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Pilgrims Campground

    Simple Campground

    With a small family to mind, while out enjoying a short weekend of camping, I appreciated Pilgrim’s Campground in Wisconsin for its quiet, family-oriented atmosphere that made our stay both relaxing and memorable. The sites were clean, level and easy to settle into, with plenty of shade and enough space for the kids to play safely nearby. While the campground doesn’t have the flashy resort-style amenities of some bigger parks, it makes up for it with well-kept facilities, a friendly, welcoming staff, and a slower pace that let us truly enjoy time together outdoors. My kids loved riding their bikes around the loops, roasting marshmallows at night and spotting wildlife along the nature trails, while I valued the sense of safety and the community feel among fellow campers. Conveniently located near local attractions yet peaceful enough to feel tucked away, Pilgrim’s offered the perfect balance of simplicity, comfort, and wholesome family camping.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Milton-Madison SE KOA

    KOA Close to Lake Koshkonong

    With 2 kids to mind, I found the Milton-Madison SE KOA to be one of the most family-friendly campgrounds we’ve visited, with something for everyone to enjoy. With over 200 sites, the campground is clearly geared toward RVs and fifth wheels, but it also offers a few cabins and tent sites, giving families different ways to stay. The kids were thrilled with the heated pool that even has a waterfall, the playgrounds, gaga ball, arcade, and weekend rides like the barrel train and hayrack.  In short, there was always something to keep them entertained while I could actually relax. I appreciated the practical touches like clean restrooms and showers, laundry facilities, a well-stocked market and a clubhouse with plenty of space to gather. My husband loved that Lake Koshkonong was right nearby for fishing and paddling, and we all enjoyed exploring Milton’s small-town restaurants with Mary’s Café for biscuits and gravy that was a huge hit and Frederick’s Supper Club, both of which made for a special night out. The Riggio family, who run the campground, were some of the kindest hosts we’ve met, which made the whole experience feel extra welcoming. While I do think the tent sites and cabins are a bit pricey for what you get, the number of activities, amenities, and nearby conveniences made it worth it for the memories we created together. For families looking for a lively, activity-packed camping trip, this KOA is a great choice.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Lakeland Camping Resort

    Lakefront Fun

    As a mom, I found Lakeland RV Campground in Milton to be the kind of place where the whole family can truly unwind and have fun together. Set along Lake Koshkonong this place was bursting with energy and feels more like a summer resort than a traditional campground with over 270 full-hookup sites and cozy cabins for families who don’t have an RV. The kids had endless options to keep them busy from 2 swimming pools, a sandy beach, playgrounds, mini golf, sports courts, and even planned activities and themed weekends and I loved the convenience of the camp store, laundry, fitness center and clean facilities. In the evenings, we enjoyed gathering around the campfire under the stars, and during the day we ventured onto the lake for kayaking and fishing, which felt like a little adventure just steps from our site. It was also nice knowing that if we wanted a change of pace, Milton and Janesville offered small-town charm and great dining and Madison wasn’t far for a day trip. My mom tips? Book a site away from the pools if you want peace and quiet, treat yourself to dinner at Fredrick’s Supper Club, sneak out early for a serene paddle on the lake, and don’t worry if you forgot gear as nearby shops have you covered. Lakeland made it easy for me to relax while my kids had a blast, and that combination is what makes it such a special family getaway.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Fort Atkinson

    Nostalgic Campground

    As a mom, I can honestly say that Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Fort Atkinson is one of those rare campgrounds where the kids are entertained from morning till night and parents can actually relax a little too. The whole place feels designed with families in mind: colorful playgrounds, themed weekends, wagon rides, character visits from Yogi and Boo Boo, and a pool with splash zones that keep little ones happy for hours. Our campsite was clean and level, with options for full hookups or cozy cabins if you’d rather skip the RV, and the bathhouses were spotless, which is something I always look for. What I appreciated most was the balance: the kids could run from the jumping pillow to the mini golf course to the craft barn without ever getting bored, while my husband and I enjoyed sitting by the campfire or joining in on family activities like outdoor 'movies under the stars.' The campground store was well-stocked with snacks, s’mores supplies, and those 'oops, we forgot it' supplies, which saved us more than once. And while there’s plenty to do onsite, being near Lake Koshkonong and Fort Atkinson means you can easily slip away for a day of fishing, boating, or exploring. For me, the best part was watching my kids’ faces light up during the evening hayride, sticky with marshmallow, waving at Yogi like he was a celebrity that felt like the kind of wholesome, memory-making trip I hope they’ll look back on for years.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    Close to "home" beautiful sites

    We've been full time RVers for 4 years and this is a beautiful campground close to "home". We stay here a couple of times each year for doctor and dentist appointments, visiting family and friends, and general relaxation.


Guide to Elkhorn

Camping spots near Elkhorn, Wisconsin sit at approximately 1,000 feet above sea level within southern Wisconsin's glacially-formed terrain. The camping season typically runs from April through October, with July temperatures averaging 82°F during the day and dropping to 60°F at night. Winter camping options remain limited to select locations in Kettle Moraine State Forest where temperatures often fall below freezing from December through February.

What to do

Hiking to scenic viewpoints: Pinewoods Campground offers direct access to scenic overlook trails with panoramic views. A visitor mentioned, "The site was actually really lovely and I appreciated the thick brush creating some real seclusion. The quiet Loop was a wonderful idea."

Water activities on Turtle Lake: Snug Harbor Inn Campground on Turtle Lake provides opportunities for fishing, boating and swimming. One camper noted, "The property is basically terraced along a slope down to the lake, with the RV and mobile home sites closer to the lake. The tent sites are above it all with decent views of the lake below."

Spring wildlife viewing: Richard Bong State Recreation Area has exceptional wildlife observation opportunities, particularly in spring. A visitor shared, "I have seldom seen as many rabbits as we saw. There were relatively few campers during the week and just about every other campsite had at least a bunny or two."

Winter camping experiences: Ottawa Lake Campground remains open year-round with modified services during colder months. A camper stated, "No showers in winter but awesome" when describing their off-season experience.

What campers like

Spacious, private sites: Many campers appreciate the site layout at Kettle Moraine South Camping, with one visitor noting, "The sites were very nice with some decent foliage between sites. The space was generous so we didn't feel crowded."

Accessibility to nearby towns: Elkhorn Campgrounds receives praise for its central location. A camper mentioned, "Within walking distance to downtown Elkhorn, EAHS, and the horse arena. You might even be able to catch a show or two on site at the fair grounds, depending on the time of year."

Fall foliage: Autumn camping offers spectacular colors throughout the region. According to one camper at Richard Bong State Recreation Area, "We left the rain fly off of the tent and just enjoyed the stars and the satellites streaking across the sky."

Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region maintain well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. A visitor to Sunrise Campground noted, "They have on site bathrooms and showers. Electric, water and sewer hookups. They also have tent sites."

What you should know

Highway noise impacts: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise due to proximity to major roads. A visitor to Big Foot Beach State Park Campground shared, "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."

Beach limitations: Beaches in the area vary significantly in size and quality. One camper noted, "There's a beach across a busy street that is about 5 feet long that's right against the road. The campsites themselves are okay."

Weekend crowding: Summer weekends see high visitation rates at most campgrounds. A visitor to Ottawa Lake Campground observed, "The lake is very clean and the site are a good size. Gets very busy on the weekends!"

Mosquito prevalence: The wetland areas throughout the region support significant mosquito populations. One camper warned, "It's a wetland, mosquitoes are happening, but the trade off is just about worth it. If you enjoy bird watching or rabbit spotting, this is a great place to go."

Tips for camping with families

Nature center activities: Sunrise Campground offers educational programming. A visitor shared, "The Weekend we were here they had a free Kids fishing weekend and John the naturalist was amazing!! There is a ton to do at this park the nature center has activities all weekend long."

Water play options: Several campgrounds feature water features specifically designed for children. A camper at Snug Harbor mentioned, "Great three tiered camping spot. Full hookup, and great views. Has a pub/restaurant with good food. Lots to do!"

Playground access: Multiple campgrounds maintain playground equipment for younger visitors. According to one camper, "There is a nice children's play area. There is a nice general store with a small restaurant for take out. They have activities on Holidays."

Educational hiking trails: Self-guided nature trails suitable for children exist throughout the region. One visitor noted, "Pick Up the activity book for kids it is a great adventure lots to do at the lake!!!"

Tips from RVers

Site selection strategy: When booking at Pinewoods Campground, choose sites carefully. A camper advised, "We stayed in loop 3 site 273 as we were camping in the early season and loops 1-2 were closed. The site was well wooded and very spacious!"

Power considerations: Rock Cut State Park offers both 30-amp and 50-amp sites. According to one RVer, "The sites begin with #500 and as you circumnavigate the simple circular loop, you will pass by about 2 dozen or so slots that are nice flat paved slots perfect sized for just about any RV or 5th Wheel."

Service availability: Water and electrical hookups vary between campgrounds. A camper at Scenic Ridge Campground noted, "There is a very clean bathroom and bathhouse, freshwater for campers, and some electric tent campsites."

Seasonal options: Several campgrounds feature year-round accessibility for RVs. One visitor shared, "We camp here at least 5 times a year. It's only 8 miles from our home. Many trails and not too expensive. They have sites with electric and sites just for tents."

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there RV camping facilities in Elkhorn, Wisconsin?

Yes, RV camping is available in and around Elkhorn. Pearl Lake offers RV sites with lakeside camping, providing a refreshing option during hot summer months. For RV camping directly in Elkhorn, the Walworth County fairgrounds hosts Elkhorn Campgrounds with hookups and fire pits available. Just a short drive away, Sunrise Campground — Richard Bong State Recreation Area provides big-rig friendly sites. Other nearby options include Prairie View at Chain O' Lakes State Park, which offers no-hookup sites with water available to fill tanks, and Hickory Hills Campground, which accommodates RVs in a more secluded setting.

What campgrounds are available near Elkhorn, WI?

Elkhorn offers several camping options in the surrounding area. Elkhorn Campgrounds is located at the Walworth County fairgrounds, providing a quiet setting within walking distance to downtown. For a state park experience, Big Foot Beach State Park Campground in nearby Lake Geneva offers shaded sites and is one of Wisconsin's most popular camping destinations. Other options within driving distance include Pinewoods Campground in Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit, which provides access to hiking and mountain biking trails, and Hickory Hills Campground near Edgerton, which offers a more secluded experience.

Is boondocking or free camping available around Elkhorn, WI?

Free camping or boondocking options are limited around Elkhorn, Wisconsin. Most camping in the area requires fees, including the county and state parks. For those seeking more primitive experiences, Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit offers more rustic camping opportunities, though permits are still required. William G. Lunney Lake Farm Campground provides reasonably priced county park camping with generous sites. For true boondocking, you may need to venture further from Elkhorn, as Wisconsin generally has limited free dispersed camping options compared to western states. Always check with local land management agencies for current regulations.