Many campgrounds near Germantown, Wisconsin contain heavily wooded sites with varying degrees of privacy. The area sits on glacial terrain formed during the last ice age, creating a unique landscape with hills, ridges, and kettle lakes. Most campgrounds near Germantown permit leashed pets, but specific rules vary regarding leash length, pet-friendly areas, and breed restrictions.
What to do
Hike the Ice Age Trail: At Pike Lake Campground, the iconic Ice Age Trail runs directly through the backpacking sites. "For my five-year-old son's first backpacking experience, we hiked about 3 miles on the Ice Age Trail, into Pike Lake campground. We camping on one of the backpacking sites right off the trail," shares one visitor who appreciates the convenience of trail access.
Visit Scuppernong Springs: Located near Ottawa Lake, this natural spring area offers approximately 2 miles of hiking trails suitable for families. "Scuppernong Springs was a treat for the kiddos although I highly recommended planning for a solid 2 mile hike if you're with kids," notes a camper who found the springs worth the effort.
Beach activities: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming areas for summer recreation. At Mauthe Lake Campground, "Nice beach/swimming area, bike path, and playground for the kids. Also the most beautiful sunset over the lake and pines in July," according to one visitor who enjoyed the water amenities.
What campers like
Seclusion in wooded sites: Pinewoods Campground offers heavily wooded sites with natural separation. "The site was actually really lovely and I appreciated the thick brush creating some real seclusion," mentions one camper who valued the privacy at this Kettle Moraine campground.
Escape proximity: Campers appreciate how quickly they can reach wilderness from urban areas. One visitor noted about Harrington Beach State Park, "Most of the sites are pretty secluded so if you enjoy your privacy I will love this place. Everything was clean and updated including the bathrooms." This park provides beach access on Lake Michigan within a reasonable drive from Germantown.
Off-season camping: Several campers mention the appeal of fall camping in the region. At Ottawa Lake Campground, one reviewer highlighted, "Great for winter camping. No showers in winter but awesome." This campground operates year-round, unlike many seasonal options in the area.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. For Menomonee Park, a local camper advised, "We have been to Menomonee park several times. It is one of the kids favorites. The sites are just about all wooded. Not huge but a good size for a country park."
Water quality considerations: Some campgrounds experience water issues during certain seasons. At Ottawa Lake, "the lake is great for swimming, though they do have e coli warnings frequently in the heat of summer."
Limited urban camping options: For those requiring full hookups close to Milwaukee, options are limited. Wisconsin State Fair RV Park offers "nice clean facilities, but it is basically a large parking lot with a band of grass on the far right as you enter." While not scenic, it provides convenient access to urban attractions.
Tips for camping with families
Quarry swimming: Menomonee Park offers a unique swimming experience in its quarry. "The quarry is good for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing. There is a beach with life guards," reports a family camper who found multiple activities available.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds for children. At Naga-Waukee Park, "There are very large group camping sites as well as a small number of family sites. The family sites are small - and there are only toilets available - but there is a main building down a steep hill to get to nicer facilities and showers."
Kid-friendly hiking: Choose shorter trail loops with diverse features. "The park has a lot of trails for hiking, biking and some horse trails. The quarry is good for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing," notes a parent who visited Menomonee Park with children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Ottawa Lake Campground, "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."
Electrical hookups: Several campgrounds offer limited electrical sites. Pike Lake Campground has specific sites with amenities: "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."
Dump station access: Many campgrounds have limited dumping facilities. An RVer at Ottawa Lake mentioned, "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."
