RV camping near Elm Grove, Wisconsin offers access to a wide range of environments from wooded sites to lakeside retreats. The area lies within the glaciated terrain of southeastern Wisconsin, with kettle formations and moraines creating rolling landscapes between 700-900 feet in elevation. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, typically closing between late October and mid-April when temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking accessibility: At Pike Lake Campground, campers can access the iconic Ice Age Trail directly from their sites. "The trails are well-marked and best yet the iconic Ice Age Trail runs right through all three campsites for the most convenient hiking access," notes Eric S. Nearby observation towers provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Water recreation: The small but deep Clear Lake near Blackhawk Camping Resort offers fishing, kayaking and boating opportunities. "The biggest attraction here hasn't changed, which is the quick and EZ access to Clear Lake, which is actually a combination of 3 different lakes: Mud Lake, Clear Lake and Duck Lake, which basically surrounds the entirety of Blackhawk Camping Resort," explains one reviewer.
Family activities: Kids have numerous recreation options at River Bend RV Resort, which features "four wheel bikes to take out, jumping balloon, pool with multiple water slides, pond with blow up floating slides and climbing activities, canoes, a bar and restaurant, mini golf, frisbee golf, live music some weekends, a kids barn with crafts, volleyball, shuffle board, etc..." according to Darren L.
What campers like
Space and privacy: Many campers appreciate the generous sites at Cliffside Park Campground, where "each site has water but in order to reach some of the spigots you would need more than a 50' water hose so choose your site with that in mind," advises Nancy W. Sites are described as "flat sites with electric and water at each site" with "well taken care of grounds."
Clean facilities: Reviewers consistently mention the quality of bathrooms at Naga-Waukee Park. "Heated in-door plumbing for the toilets that were open, vault toilets also available and all were clean, even off season," reports Lesley R. The campground features "various bathroom options - ranging from pit toilets to port-o-potties. Showers available at the Beach House."
Natural settings: Wooded sites create a remote feeling despite proximity to urban areas. Ross K. describes Naga-Waukee Park as "nestled in the heart of lake country (Waukesha County) and accessible from the Lake Country Trail and Ice Age Trail, this county park is perfect for those just passing through or families looking for a quick and easy weekend camping adventure."
What you should know
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies significantly across campgrounds. At River Bend RV Resort, one camper reports, "WiFi was great in some areas, Non-existent in others. No cell carrier works well here at all, so non-functional WiFi areas can be a deal-breaker for connected campers unless you get a spot where WiFi is really good."
Reservation requirements: Weekend availability can be limited at popular parks. At Cliffside Park, "the campground takes reservations 7 days out or drive up," according to one reviewer, while others note that summer weekends book quickly. At Pike Lake Campground, campers advise "limited sites so book early."
Noise factors: Location affects noise levels at many sites. Pike Lake campers mention "proximity to highway means more noise" and note the park is "also close to Slinger Speedway, which on Sundays on the weekend can be loud with the races and they can run kinda late (about 10PM)." Consider this when selecting sites for quieter experiences.
Tips for camping with families
Beach options: The swimming areas vary in quality and features. At Muskego Park, "the beach was really nice and sandy," according to Jessica, while another camper notes it's "a nice family friendly swimming area. There's a nice little concessions stand, a little sand area, and a small pier to jump off of."
Playground accessibility: Many campgrounds offer play structures within sight of camping areas. Natassha F. reports Muskego Park "had it all. A spring fed pond for swimming and fishing. Trails that took you through woods and then prairie and then up a decent elevation for an amazing view of the surrounding area."
Activity scheduling: Check campground event calendars when planning your stay. One Blackhawk Camping Resort visitor mentioned "golf cart parade, DJ, band, BINGO" during their stay, while Pike Lake Campground offers interpretive astronomy trails that interest children and adults alike.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on your specific needs. At Pinewoods Campground, "each of the 32 sites is unique in their own way. Some are large and flat perfect for a class A (#2 #4, #29 #31 is okay, but smaller), some incorporate the geography into the site," notes Sugar Maple S. who adds "there is a TIGHT turn in the campground loop near site #17 to be aware of with longer trailers."
Hookup variations: Verify hookup availability when booking. At Fairgrounds RV Park, campers report "20/30/50 amp service" with "most sites have water hook-up" though sewer connections may not be available at all locations, requiring use of the dump station.
Big rig considerations: Maneuverability can be challenging at some parks. At Pike Lake, campers note that "generally, the inner ring is electric (except #23) and the outer ring is non-electric," with some sites better suited for smaller rigs or tents rather than large motorhomes.
