Kettle Moraine State Forest and the surrounding Glenbeulah area features glacial terrain with kettles, moraines, and kames formed during the last Ice Age. The region typically experiences warm summers with highs in the 80s and cold winters with significant snowfall. Water levels in the area can fluctuate seasonally, affecting beach access and water activities, especially at marsh areas where authorities occasionally drain water for management purposes.
What to Do
Swimming at Long Lake Beach: Long Lake offers a shallow swimming area ideal for warmer days. "The lake is rather shallow so best for swimming in early summer or warm fall days," according to a reviewer at Long Lake Campground.
Biking on paved trails: Several campgrounds feature paved roads and dedicated trails for cycling. "The paved roads in the campground are nice for bike and rollerblading," notes a camper at Long Lake. The Kettle Moraine area offers a connecting trail between campgrounds that spans approximately 7 miles one way.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes in the region provide fishing access. At Mauthe Lake Campground, visitors report "good fishing" with reviewers noting that "lots to do at mauthe lake. big campsites. not too close to neighbors, good fishing!"
Historical attractions: The Ice Age Trail provides both recreational and educational opportunities. One camper at Mauthe Lake mentions "historical attractions" as part of what makes the area special, noting that "Wisconsin does their parks and forests right."
What Campers Like
Spacious, private sites: Many campsites throughout the area offer good separation between neighbors. At Kohler-Andrae State Park, "sites are quite private" and "the sites are well separated for privacy" at Mauthe Lake according to reviews.
Clean facilities: Bathrooms and shower facilities receive positive mentions at most campgrounds. "The shower house is perfect for an end of the day washing," reports one camper about Mauthe Lake. Another notes, "Campground facilities are clean, 30 amp at the electrical site worked perfectly."
Lake sunsets: Several reviewers specifically mentioned impressive lake views at sunset. A Mauthe Lake visitor described the "Sunset on the lake is ridiculously beautiful!" while another called it "the most beautiful sunset over the lake and pines in July."
Family-friendly amenities: Playgrounds, beaches and picnic areas make the region suitable for families. Kohler-Andrae State Park has "a large open area and play area for kids to run around walkable from the camping, lots of little paths to explore!"
What You Should Know
Weather considerations: Lake Michigan influences local conditions, with temperature fluctuations common. A reviewer at Harrington Beach State Park mentions that "when the sun is out it gets HOT" due to tree loss from emerald ash borer.
Electrical hookups vary: Different campgrounds offer different electrical options. Mauthe Lake provides "30 amp at the electrical site" that "worked perfectly" according to one visitor, while other campgrounds may have limited or no electrical service.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during summer months. "If you plan to camp for a weekend, you must make a reservation way in advance," advises a visitor to Kohler-Andrae State Park.
Water level changes: Water conditions can affect recreational activities. At Broughton Sheboygan Marsh Park Campground, campers should "check if the marsh is filled when reserving this campground. Otherwise it is just swamped muck."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Kohler-Andrae State Park, families appreciate that there is "a large open area and play area for kids to run around walkable from the camping."
Beach selection: Some beaches are more family-friendly than others. Mauthe Lake has a "nice beach/swimming area, bike path, and playground for the kids," making it suitable for families with younger children.
Group site options: For families camping together, High Cliff State Park offers good options. One reviewer notes, "Great for group camping and plenty to see during the day."
Local attractions: The region offers several family-friendly destinations near campgrounds. "If you like ice cream, head to Dundee and visit the Hamburger Haus," suggests one Mauthe Lake visitor, providing a nice break from campground activities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Some campgrounds accommodate RVs better than others. At Plymouth Rock Camping Resort, "the short term sites are literally over a mile of tight, windy road to get to them," which can be challenging for larger rigs.
Electric hookup options: Availability varies across campgrounds, affecting RV capabilities. "30 amp at the electrical site worked perfectly" at Mauthe Lake, while other campgrounds may have limited electrical options.
Water access planning: RV campers should check water hookup locations before arrival. At Broughton Sheboygan Marsh Park Campground, "One spigot for every four sites for water so 100 foot hose is required."
Dog-friendly considerations for RV campers: For those with pets, some dog-friendly campgrounds near Glenbeulah have restrictions worth noting. At Long Lake, a reviewer mentioned that "the pet picnic area was pretty disappointing. Just a small opening for a dog jumping in the water. All the nice beach area was not open for a dog."
