Kettle Moraine State Forest offers extensive horseback riding opportunities within an hour of Franksville, Wisconsin. The Southern Unit contains over 40 miles of designated bridle trails through glacial terrain. Trail conditions vary seasonally, with spring typically bringing muddy sections while summer and fall provide firmer footing for horses.
What to do
Trail riding at Kettle Moraine Southern Unit: Access over 40 miles of designated horse trails through diverse terrain. As one rider noted, "There are hiking trails incorporated into the campground with access to the kettle morraine Forrest. Bringing bikes is a great idea for getting around to bathrooms/the camp store. Definitely make sure to bring your bug spray for this location!" at Kettle Moraine South Camping.
Swimming after riding: Cool off at Ottawa Lake after a day on horseback. The lake provides a welcome break during summer months. "There's a lake for swimming, fishing and boating only 4 miles down the road at Ottawa Campground. Both are a part of Kettle Moraine South Unit," explains a visitor to Pinewoods Campground.
Seasonal group events: Join organized trail rides held spring through fall at Southern Unit. "We stayed in the group site. The site was actually really lovely and I appreciated the thick brush creating some real seclusion," reports a camper, though noting some noise issues in the quiet loop area.
What campers like
Private equestrian sites: The horse camping areas provide good separation between campsites. "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! It had a decent clearing for some sun and the driveway was longer setting it back from the loop road," shared a camper at Pinewoods Campground.
Trail access directly from camps: Horse trails connect directly to campgrounds, eliminating trailer loading. A visitor at Southern Unit Horseriders Campground notes, "There are electric and non-electric campsites, all seem to have a picnic table and fireplace. There are ample places to bridle horses and shared corrals every four or five campsites."
Year-round camping options: Some campsites remain open throughout winter. "You can camp year around in this campground. Most recent 2 times were winter camping. No host so buying wood is an issue, but pick a site on the edge and there is more than enough free. Bring a saw," advises a visitor at Kettle Moraine Southern Unit.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Book equestrian sites well in advance during peak season (May-October). Sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. "Making reservations at the group site was easy and ensured no other campers were near us. Beach access and a great tree canopy allowed for comfortable tent camping," explains a camper.
Facility variations: Bathroom and shower facilities differ across campgrounds. "There are pit toilets by the sites but a nice shower house with flush toilets about a 1/4 mile walk away," reports a visitor to Menomonee Park, a nearby camping alternative.
Insect preparation: Bring appropriate insect repellent, especially in summer. "When it rained the first night, most of the site was mud," notes one camper, highlighting the importance of site selection and weather preparedness.
Tips for camping with families
Family-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's programs. "The park has a lot of trails for hiking, biking and some horse trails. The quarry is good for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing. There is a beach with life guards," notes a visitor to Menomonee Park.
Educational opportunities: Pick up junior ranger activity books at ranger stations. "Pick Up the activity book for kids it is a great adventure lots to do at the lake!!!" recommends a visitor to Kettle Moraine South Camping.
Playground access: Most campgrounds include playground facilities near shower houses. "There is a playground right next to them as well," mentions a camper discussing amenities at Big Foot Beach State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Electric site location: The best electric sites for large rigs with horse trailers are specific. "There's also a series of pull-through sites that would make it easier for those who don't care to back trailers in or out of the site. These include electric sites 405, 404, 403, 402, and 401," notes a visitor to Southern Unit Horseriders Campground.
Nearby alternatives: For RVers without horses seeking more amenities, nearby options exist. "There is plenty of space around to find a spot on your own. The campsites are a nice size and have electric hookups. Water was at central locations and a dump is on the way out," explains a visitor to Fox Den Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Check road conditions during spring and fall. Some access roads may be challenging after heavy rain, particularly with horse trailers. "There was a posting about black bear sightings in the area. We did not experience that, just chipmunks and birds," reports a visitor about wildlife awareness.
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