Kettle Moraine State Forest equestrian campgrounds include amenities and trail systems specifically designed for horse camping needs. Both the Northern and Southern Units offer riders direct trail access, various site accommodations, and specialized equipment for horse management. The Northern Unit's New Prospect campground near Campbellsport remains open from the first weekend in May until the last weekend in October, while the Southern Unit's facility extends its season from April through November.
What to do
Trail riding year-round: The trails at Kettle Moraine State Forest-Northern Unit provide varied terrain for riders of all experience levels. "Awesome campground in the north unit of Kettle Moraine. Wonderful trail around the lake and a variety of different campsites. Plenty of space, very rural. Very wisconsin!" notes Justin F.
Fishing opportunities: Lakes throughout the region offer excellent fishing spots for camping anglers. Haley K. highlights that at Mauthe Lake Campground you'll find "big campsites. not too close to neighbors, good fishing!"
Miniature golf: Harnischfeger County Park offers a 9-hole mini golf course that costs $1 per person. "The campground has alot of great amenities. Theirs a mini gulf course that we had alot of fun with. Their is also a great hiking trail if you like that," shares Taylor C.
Swimming at quarries and lakes: Several parks in the area provide swimming opportunities during summer months. At Mauthe Lake, Kaylyn C. mentions there's a "Nice beach/swimming area, bike path, and playground for the kids. Also the most beautiful sunset over the lake and pines in July."
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: Pinewoods Campground in the Southern Unit offers sites with natural separation. "There is plenty of greenery between sites giving privacy. We could hear children playing but only saw them when they rode their bikes around the loop," Art S. explains.
Well-designed horse facilities: The specialized equestrian areas at the Southern Unit provide thoughtful layout for horses and riders. Josh F. observed that the "sites along one side of the park that are a little more secluded and in a pine forest" and notes there are "several pull-through sites that would make it easier for those who don't care to back trailers in or out of the site."
Group amenities: Equestrian facilities include communal spaces for larger gatherings. Josh F. highlights how the Southern Unit Horseriders Campground is "clearly built for large groups to hang out together. There is a large shelter with picnic tables and very convenient roll-up sides that can be used to protect people during inclement weather."
Proximity to urban areas: Located within reasonable driving distance from Milwaukee and other cities, the camps provide accessibility without sacrificing wilderness feel. Caroline K. appreciates that Mauthe Lake has "several great wooded sites. You can't go wrong with how close the park is to Milwaukee."
What you should know
Winter camping options: Kettle Moraine Southern Unit offers year-round camping opportunities. Tim H. notes, "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."
Shower facilities: Most campgrounds feature clean shower facilities, though proximity varies by site. At Pinewoods Campground, campers will find "a central shower building with vault toilets in the camping loops," according to Art S.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially for horse camping. The Northern Unit New Prospect Horseriders Campground offers "open tent sites and well designed riggings and beyond excellent, well-maintained trails," according to Lesley R., who adds it's "an opportunity I couldn't pass up, so if you're looking for this kind of experience, don't pass it up."
Noise considerations: Train tracks run near some campgrounds, which may create noise disturbance at night. Some campgrounds designate specific quiet loops for noise-sensitive campers.
Tips for camping with families
Quiet loop options: Some campsites designate specific loops as quiet zones. In Pinewoods Campground, Kendal R. mentions, "The quiet Loop was a wonderful idea," though notes enforcement may vary depending on neighboring campers.
Beach and water access: Lake Kegonsa State Park offers family-friendly water activities. Brendan E. reports, "Clean facilities, friendly staff, and great trails. No bugs!" while Kathy L. notes the park has a "lake & pet swim area."
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds feature playground equipment for younger campers. Matt N. describes Menomonee Park as having a "nice beach, pavilions to rent, horse riding trails, archery range and I'm sure I'm missing more."
Educational opportunities: Many sites offer nature programs and historical attractions. GA J. comments that Mauthe Lake has "Many hiking trails. Historical attractions. Wisconsin does their parks and forests right."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through site availability: At the Southern Unit Horseriders Campground, pull-through sites (401-405) accommodate those uncomfortable with backing trailers. These make navigation easier for less experienced drivers.
Hookup options: Electric hookups vary across campgrounds. Charles M. notes regarding Mauthe Lake that "The sites are well separated for privacy. Also, the shower house is perfect for an end of the day washing."
Low clearance warnings: Pay attention to overhead clearance when navigating to some campgrounds. Kathy L. cautions about Lake Kegonsa: "Major CAUTION for RVs: there is an oak tree near entry with low branches and it took the AC off our friend's fifth wheel. There is also a low hanging overpass and it took the roofs off TWO fifth wheels while we were staying there."
Site size considerations: Site dimensions vary considerably between campgrounds. Glenn S. notes that at Kettle Moraine Southern Unit, "The campsites are roomy and (at least the one I was using) was wooded and private."
