Denise B.
Traveler
TravelerSanders Park Campground
Sanders park
Love this quaint smaller campground, close to home although you feel like you're way up north! Clean restrooms showers! Walking trails with preservation.
Best Campgrounds near Germantown, WI
Camping options around Germantown, Wisconsin center on the Kettle Moraine State Forest system, which offers several developed campgrounds within a 30-minute drive. The Pike Lake Campground in the Kettle Moraine State Forest-Pike Lake Unit provides wooded sites with electrical hookups, drinking water, and modern restroom facilities. Several county parks supplement these state offerings, including Menomonee Park in Menomonee Falls, which features tent sites, RV spots, and glamping options from April through November. Most established campgrounds in the region accommodate both tent and RV camping, with varying levels of hookups and amenities.
Seasonal considerations play a significant role in camping near Germantown, with most campgrounds operating from early April through late October. The Pike Lake Campground typically opens in early April and closes after the third weekend in October, while Menomonee Park runs from April to November 10. Winter camping options are limited, though Ottawa Lake Campground in the southern Kettle Moraine unit remains open year-round. Many sites require advance reservations, especially during summer weekends and holidays. The region experiences typical Midwestern seasonal variations, with humid summers and cold winters. According to one camper, "Mid to Late October is great Fall camping in Southern Wisconsin. Cool nights range from lower 30's to upper 40's. Day time temps can exceed 60."
The Kettle Moraine forests provide a natural backdrop for camping experiences, with glacial topography creating unique landscapes. Campers frequently mention privacy as a key feature at many sites. At Pike Lake, "Wooded lots make you feel overall secluded," while at Mauthe Lake in the Northern Kettle Moraine unit, "Sites are fairly wooded and private. Most of them seemed to be a decent size." Water features enhance many camping experiences in the region, with several campgrounds offering swimming beaches, fishing piers, or boat launches. Many campers appreciate the hiking opportunities throughout the Kettle Moraine system, particularly along the Ice Age Trail which connects several campgrounds. Proximity to Milwaukee (approximately 30 minutes) makes these campgrounds popular weekend destinations for urban residents seeking natural surroundings.
Best Camping Sites Near Germantown, Wisconsin (72)
1. Pike Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Pike Lake Unit
18 ReviewsSlinger, WI11 milesWebsite+1 (262) 670-3400"North Kettle Moraine, Pike Lake Unit was an easy choice given it's proximity to the city- about 40 minutes."
"A last minute decision to camp for a night led my son and I to the often visited Pike Lake unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. Its a beautiful park and within 30 minutes of our home."
2. Menomonee Park by Waukesha County Parks
8 ReviewsMenomonee Falls, WI6 milesWebsite+1 (262) 548-7801$25 - $80 / night
"Live nearby. We go there a lot over the summer. Fun park to ride bikes through. Many trails to walk or hike. The pond has a great beach for kids."
"There are miles of nice hiking trails, a nice beach, pavilions to rent, horse riding trails, archery range and I’m sure I’m missing more."
3. Mauthe Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit
45 ReviewsCampbellsport, WI25 milesWebsite+1 (262) 626-2116$18 - $28 / night
"Mauthe Lake Campground is located in the Northern Kettle Moraine Forest in East/Centreal Wisconsin."
"Wonderful trail around the lake and a variety of different campsites. Plenty of space, very rural. Very wisconsin!"
4. Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit
52 ReviewsNorth Prairie, WI27 milesWebsite+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."
"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."
5. Wisconsin State Fair RV Park
9 ReviewsWauwatosa, WI16 milesWebsite+1 (414) 266-7035$55 / night
"So we just use that because no one was there. 1.7 miles on bike path to Brewer Baseball field. It was raining to we used Uber to the game and walked back for an afternoon game."
"Very close to downtown, right off of interstate. Clean facilities. We were visiting family downtown and it was very convenient."
6. Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit
26 ReviewsNorth Prairie, WI25 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 Lake. Nearby 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. Naga-Waukee Park by Waukesha County Parks
9 ReviewsDelafield, WI18 milesWebsite+1 (262) 548-7801$25 - $80 / night
"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"
"Very windy weekend but I imagine during the summer it’s a great spot to camp near their big beach and lake access."
8. Harrington Beach State Park Campground
20 ReviewsBelgium, WI24 milesWebsite+1 (262) 285-3015"This was our first time camping in Wisconsin and we got to say we absolutely love this park. Most of the sites are pretty secluded so if you enjoy your privacy I will love this place."
"There is something deeply calming about waking up just steps from Lake Michigan at the Harrington Beach State Park Family Campground, where our little crew found the perfect balance of nature and comfort"
9. Lake Lenwood Beach and Campground
5 ReviewsWest Bend, WI15 milesWebsite+1 (262) 334-133510. Lazy Days
5 ReviewsWest Bend, WI15 milesWebsite+1 (262) 675-6511$31 - $43 / night
"Swimming lake was very warm and clean. Fishing was available. Very affordable canoe kayak rentals. Mini golf and a little store where if you need it they have it."
Recent Camping Photos near Germantown, WI
203 Photos of 72 Germantown Campgrounds
Matt N.
Menomonee Park by Waukesha County Parks
Lisa S.
Pike Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Pike Lake Unit
Aaron W.
Lake Lenwood Beach and Campground
justin
Lazy Days
Mel C.
Timber Trail Campground
Corbin P.
Naga-Waukee Park by Waukesha County Parks
Kevin S.
Waubedonia County Park
Taylor C.
Harnischfeger County Park
Melissa B.
Harrington Beach State Park Campground
Emma K.
Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit
Jay W.
Mauthe Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit
Heather H.
Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit
Recent Reviews near Germantown, WI
537 Reviews of 72 Germantown Campgrounds
- Denise B.Traveler
Sunset Campground — Richard Bong State Recreation Area
Happy Akers
Very enjoyable campground.
I don't remember the site number but the kids had a great time. Lots of things to do. 
Maria Mercedes M.
LegendHarrington Beach State Park - Group Campground
A Spacious Setting Near Lake Michigan
The Group Campground at Harrington Beach State Park brings a completely different energy, offering an expansive, open setting that feels made for large family reunions, scout troops, family birthday party overnighters and lively gatherings that stretch long into the evening. Unlike the more intimate family sites, this area is designed for scale, with wide communal spaces, larger fire rings and plenty of room for picnic tables, shared meals and kid-filled games of tag and flag football. We passed through and couldn’t help but smile watching a group roast marshmallows together while another set of kids played flashlight hide-and-seek across the open field. While it is less private and more bustling, this locale creates a joyful sense of togetherness that feels perfect for celebrations and group bonding. While the restroom and shower facilities were mediocre (at best), they were functional and clean. But the real star here is the close proximity to Lake Michigan. I’d recommend this Group Campground for larger parties who want space to spread out, EZ beach access and the freedom to make memories together in a beautiful lakeside setting.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Harrington Beach State Park Campground
Lake Michigan Sunsets & Firefly Evenings
There is something deeply calming about waking up just steps from Lake Michigan at the Harrington Beach State Park Family Campground, where our little crew found the perfect balance of nature and comfort in a setting that feels both scenic and safe. The campground is well-organized with clearly defined family-sized sites, clean restrooms and EZ access to walking trails and the beach, making it especially friendly for parents juggling gear and excited boys. One of our favorite moments was sitting around the campfire as we tried to stay warm from an early first wave of the winter to come while the sun melted into the lake in soft pink streaks. We loved that everything felt thoughtfully laid out without feeling crowded or chaotic. I would absolutely recommend this campground for families looking for a peaceful getaway with just enough adventure, thanks to its natural beauty, clean facilities, lakefront access and gentle, welcoming atmosphere.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Kohler-Andrae State Park
Dunes, Driftwood & Barefoot Bliss
There is something wonderfully grounding about settling into the Family Campground at Kohler-Andrae State Park, where our little crew felt instantly wrapped in the gentle rhythm of Lake Michigan and the whispering grasses of the sandy dunes that our boys loved to explore. The campground is very well laid out with 137 clearly defined family-sized sites (52 of which have electrical hookups), exceptionally clean restrooms and perfectly manicured pathways leading to the boardwalk and shoreline, making every moment of exploration feeling manageable and peaceful. One of our favorite moments was walking down the wooden boardwalk as the boys raced ahead to spot driftwood treasures and tiny shore birds along the beach. Everything here feels calm, safe and naturally beautiful without being overly rugged. And while you can bring everything you will need to enjoy camping here, in case you forget anything, nearby Sheboygan has you covered for just about any supply you could think of (except for firewood, which you can buy either at the park office or from one of the campground hosts). I would absolutely recommend this campground for families seeking a soothing lakeside escape with a perfect mix of nature, comfort, and gentle adventure.
- AAnnMarie K.
ScoutMenomonee Park by Waukesha County Parks
Great county park
This is a nice getaway for camping, picnics, hiking, fishing and in the summer swimming! They only offer swimming with lifeguards in the summer months. They have great open spaces for group camping.
Athan D.TravelerKohler-Andrae State Park
Very nearly the perfect state park.
This park is pretty much the perfect blend of forest, marsh, beach, dunes, and hills. It's got breathtaking views year round. Not all sites are created equal- there's functionally three different types of campsite. The southernmost are wooded and fairly private. There's a longer walk to the showers. Feels more primitive, although the roads are well maintained and bathrooms clean. The campsites in the middle of the park have few trees and little privacy. These are more like crash pads if you want to spend the day swimming, hiking, or fishing. The north end of the park offers denser woods and more established sites. These are close to the water and the park exit. Winter camping is peaceful and quiet. Spring is exciting, but can be wet. Summer is cool near the lake and usually busier. Fall is crisp and colorful.
- Kris K.Scout
Wisconsin State Fair RV Park
A warning for RV owners needing winter storage
If you are looking for winter storage, look elsewhere. The Wisconsin State Fair RV Park storage is run with zero flexibility and rude service.
The Access Issues: They have extremely limited hours(10 AM- 3 PM Monday to Saturday), are closed on every minor holiday, and require you to give 24-hour notice so someone can unlock the lot. If you work a normal job or have a busy schedule, good luck getting your rig ready to leave.
The 'Money Grab': I planned to leave on 1/21, but my truck was hit, and I physically couldn't move the camper. I admitted I missed the 11 AM checkout deadline, but when they called me at 1:12 PM, I returned the call 3 minutes later to extend my storage for another 23 days. Instead of waiving the late fee since I was paying for nearly another month of storage, the rude receptionist just quoted'rules and regulations' and charged me an extra $25.
It’s completely unreasonable to charge a late checkout fee to a customer who is actively extending their stay due to an emergency. It feels like a terrible money grab. Save yourself the headache and store somewhere else.
- Kissie R.Scout
Wisconsin State Fair RV Park
Winterized all year easy to book
We had a weather change and had to pivot and camp. Found last minute and booked. In freezing temp full service cluding water hookup. Its a parking lot with laundry? Showers, vending and restrooms.
Guide to Germantown
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."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Germantown, WI?
Which is the most popular campground near Germantown, WI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Germantown, WI is Pike Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Pike Lake Unit with a 4.3-star rating from 18 reviews.
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