Camping opportunities near Greendale, Wisconsin sit within the glacial landscape of southeastern Wisconsin, where terrain ranges from 580 to 900 feet in elevation. Most campgrounds in the region experience a humid continental climate with warm summers averaging 80°F and cold winters, with camping season typically running April through October. Fall color camping peaks from late September through mid-October when maple and oak forests display vibrant colors.
What to do
Beach activities at state parks: Campers staying at Naga-Waukee Park can access lake swimming and water recreation on Lake Nagawicka. "The beach on the shores of Lake Nagawicka is well-groomed, clean, has a seasonal lifeguard and a playground within earshot," notes one camper. Families appreciate the designated swimming areas at county parks.
Hiking on Ice Age Trail: Several campgrounds provide direct access to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. "We asked the ranger about hiking and she gave us a map to a trail system that connects to this campground between the group sites and loop 3. We enjoyed a 4 mile hike from camp to the observation trail," wrote a visitor to Pinewoods Campground.
Fishing in stocked ponds: Many county parks maintain fishing ponds within walking distance of campsites. At Muskego Park, "The weekend we were there they had a free Kids fishing weekend and John the naturalist was amazing!! There is a ton to do at this park the nature center has activities all weekend long," reports one visitor.
What campers like
Woodland camping sites: Many campers appreciate the mature forest settings at area campgrounds. At Sunrise Campground in Richard Bong Recreation Area, "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," notes a visitor to site 114.
Entertainment options for families: River Bend RV Resort offers numerous organized activities. "Riverbend has a lot for everyone. Nice swim pond, great pool, fishing…you name it, it's probably here. If you want to have fun, this is the place," writes a camper. Structured activities throughout summer weekends keep children entertained.
Proximity to Chicago and Milwaukee: Several campgrounds serve as convenient baselines for city exploration. According to a camper at NAVSTA Great Lakes RV Campground, "We decided to stay here...the location was right on the water so that was nice." Most Greendale area campgrounds sit within 30-60 minutes of either major city.
What you should know
Reservation policies vary widely: County parks implement different booking rules. At Cliffside Park, "The campground takes reservations 7 days out or drive up. We saw a lot of bigger rigs but so much space between sites it didn't feel like we were crowded," notes a visitor. Processing fees range from $9-12 across different reservation systems.
Electric service limitations: Some campgrounds advertise electric hookups but have limited amperage. A visitor to Snug Harbor Inn reports, "Great three tiered camping spot. Full hookup, and great views." However, many county parks offer only 20/30-amp service rather than 50-amp needed for larger RVs.
Seasonal facilities: Most county parks operate from April through mid-October with variable shower facilities. "There are nicely-groomed volleyball courts, picnic shelters and abundant picnic tables. There are pit toilets throughout the campground and one flush toilet station in the public picnicking area," reports a visitor to Muskego Park.
Tips for camping with families
Waterfront options: Sites near beaches prove popular with families. A Naga-Waukee Park visitor notes, "Nice quiet place to take kids to swim. Beach is clean and there are trees for shade and grills to cook." Waterfront sites typically book 2-3 months in advance during summer.
Playground proximity: When booking sites with children, select locations near playground facilities. "It is a small plot of camp. It was noisy from kids. But it was a good time and easy to get to from Chicago," notes a Muskego Park camper, highlighting the balance between convenience and noise considerations.
Off-peak camping benefits: Spring and fall weekends offer lower occupancy rates with fewer crowds. "We stayed here for a quick weekend getaway in the late spring. The campground area is nice and wooded. Provides ample privacy from other campers," reports a visitor to Muskego Park.
Tips from RVers
Quiet hours enforcement: RV campgrounds near Greendale enforce quiet times differently. "One of the members of our group moved sites due to a very loud party in an unoccupied site. When security was called multiple times, they did nothing to quiet them down at 3 in the morning," noted a River Bend RV Resort visitor, underscoring the importance of site selection.
Dump station logistics: Most county parks have single-lane dump stations with limited capacity. "The dump station lanes need some attention, more than gravel would be great," mentions a camper at River Bend RV Resort. Weekday departures allow easier access to dump facilities.
Water hookup requirements: Many campgrounds require longer water hoses to reach connections. "All sites are spacious with their own power and water," notes a visitor to Cliffside Park Campground, but adds, "Sites 1-41 are available for first come if not previously reserved." Carrying 50-75 feet of drinking water hose ensures adequate reach at most facilities.
