The Fontana-on-Geneva Lake region sits at approximately 860 feet above sea level in southeastern Wisconsin's kettle moraine landscape, characterized by rolling hills formed by glacial activity. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing from December through February, while summer camping season offers average highs in the mid-80s. Campgrounds in this area feature diverse water access options with several properties offering lake frontage.
What to do
Explore hiking trails: At Ottawa Lake Campground, the interconnected trail system provides various difficulty levels through the Kettle Moraine State Forest. "Nice, clean, well-run campground with some electric sites and several bathroom/shower buildings if needed. Nice little lake to swim or paddle on. 20 minute drive to the awesome Kettle Moraine biking trails," notes one visitor.
Visit local farms: Within 10 miles of most area campgrounds are seasonal farm attractions with apple picking, pumpkin patches and corn mazes from September through October. "If you're looking for nature and quiet this is not the place, but if you like parties you will enjoy. Several places to eat within walking distance," reports a camper from Big Foot Beach State Park.
Kayak the Chain O'Lakes: Turner Lake South Campground provides direct water access for paddlers. "I love to kayak through here because I don't need to paddle through the river unless I'm feeling competitive. I enjoy this route for the wildlife and nature scenery. I've seen beavers, minks, ferrets, and sand cranes on my two trips so far," shares one camper.
What campers like
Private campsites: The tent camping areas at Thomas Woods Campground offer seclusion not found at more developed sites. "Have stayed here a few times tent camping. Smaller campground in McHenry county. Good staff. Other campers relatively friendly and quiet. County police make a presence in the camp ground. Clean. Decent sites, some have hike in (kind of)," writes one reviewer.
Lakefront views: Many campers appreciate the water access at Snug Harbor Inn Campground, which features tiered camping areas. "Great three tiered camping spot. Full hookup, and great views. Has a pub/restaurant with good food. Lots to do! Definitely a do again!" reports one visitor.
Affordable options: Budget-conscious glampers near Fontana-on-Geneva Lake find value at state parks. "These campsites are as low as $12/night!! One of my favorite spots to test new gear. Family friendly. There's some small trails around as well that are beginner. There was electricity, however those sites are $25/night," notes a Turner Lake South camper.
What you should know
Seasonal differences: Kettle Moraine's Ottawa Lake maintains year-round availability but with reduced amenities in winter. "No showers in winter but awesome," reports one camper about off-season glamping near Lake Geneva.
Site privacy varies: At Big Foot Beach State Park Campground, sites offer differing levels of seclusion. "More of a yard style, open camping. No privacy. Lots of kids everywhere. Ok trails," notes one camper, while another observed, "Nice large sites. gravel spot for arc/trailer. fire pit and picnic table."
Wildlife encounters: Several campgrounds report active wildlife, particularly after dark. "We had a back-in site on the north side of the campground. We had 50 amp, but no water/sewer, although there was a water spigot next to our site that we could use to fill up jugs of water," explains a visitor to Honeysuckle Hollow.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Chain O'Lakes offers multiple kid-friendly water options. "There is so much to do at this campground. Horseback riding, archery, hiking, boating, fishing. There is also a park for the kids in several areas," writes a Turner Lake South camper.
Consider campground layout: At Fox Den Campground, the arrangement provides more privacy than nearby alternatives. "Fox den at Chain-o-Lakes state park provides a more secluded camping experience than Honeysuckle or the 2 tent camping areas. Pads are pretty level, and each site has some semblance of privacy from other campers," notes a visitor.
Seasonal activities: Family-oriented special events occur regularly at campgrounds throughout summer. "We did our first (family of 5) camping trip at Thomas Woods. We were at site 4 which is electric hookup and it was a huge area! The kids had so much space to run around and explore. They loved the well pump."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup considerations: At Elkhorn Campgrounds, the full-service sites come with well-maintained facilities. "Such a great little place to escape to or visit if you're just passing through. Nothing crazy fancy but hook-ups and fire pits available if needed. Within walking distance to downtown Elkhorn," reports a camper.
Dump station timing: Plan for potential wait times when departing popular campgrounds. "The dump station was near the entrance to the camping loop and had potable water. It was also very busy and we had to wait when filling up and again when dumping," notes a Honeysuckle Hollow visitor.
Site leveling requirements: Some premium spots require additional preparation. "Our site was downhill so that presented quite the challenge to level out," reports a Scenic Ridge camper, while another notes about Fox Den, "Pads are pretty level, and each site has some semblance of privacy from other campers."
