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

    37 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

770 Reviews of 91 Elkhorn Campgrounds



Guide to Elkhorn

Camping near Elkhorn, Wisconsin, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From scenic trails to family-friendly amenities, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful area.

What to do:

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the sites and restrooms. A review for Blackwell Family Campground stated, “The toilets on the loops are vault and the ones by the main entrance are flush. Didn’t use the showers on this trip but both facilities were well maintained and clean.”
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Many families enjoy the activities available for kids. One parent mentioned, “The ranger offers evening entertainment for the kiddos and during our stay, blew gigantic bubbles for the kids to chase around” at Blackwell Family Campground.
  • Secluded Sites: Campers often appreciate the privacy of the sites. A review for Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit noted, “There is plenty of greenery between sites giving privacy.”

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Big Foot Beach State Park Campground, lack certain amenities. A camper mentioned, “There aren’t many electrical hookups so it’s hard to get one of those spots.”
  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for some noise, especially on weekends. One camper at Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground said, “Campgrounds were pretty tight together, lots of people during the weekend didn’t abide by the ‘Quiet Hours.’”
  • Wildlife Encounters: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A review for Cliffside Park Campground mentioned, “We took our dogs on all the trails (oops) but saw other people doing the same.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Ottawa Lake Campground, which has playgrounds and activities for kids. One reviewer said, “Great trails close by. Family friendly (parks, beach, pet friendly).”
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. A parent at Rock Cut State Park Campground noted, “They have sites with electric and sites just for tents.”
  • Pack Snacks and Meals: Having food on hand can save time and keep everyone happy. A camper at Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park mentioned, “The only negative is no drinkable water.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Electrical Hookups: Make sure to reserve a site with the right electrical hookups. A review for Kettle Moraine State Forest — Ottawa Lake mentioned, “Electricity on site and water nearby.”
  • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds have close sites, so be ready for that. A camper at Blackwell Family Campground noted, “Tight getting into the spot for Class As but spots are spaced nicely.”
  • Bring an Adapter: If you’re using a 30 amp RV, consider bringing an adapter just in case. One camper at Rock Cut State Park Campground shared their experience with electrical issues, highlighting the importance of being prepared.

Camping near Elkhorn, Wisconsin, has its perks and quirks. With a little planning, you can enjoy a great outdoor experience!

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.