Cabin camping options near Horicon, Wisconsin provide access to the Kettle Moraine region's distinctive glacial landforms and diverse ecosystems spanning over 30,000 acres. Located within 40 miles of the Horicon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge, these cabin rentals serve as convenient bases for exploring the largest freshwater cattail marsh in the United States. Winter cabin rentals remain available at several locations when temperatures typically range from 10°F to 30°F.
What to do
Hiking natural springs: Ottawa Lake Campground offers access to Scuppernong Springs, located across from the campground. "Hiking to see the natural springs which is the coolest!! Drank fresh spring water!" notes Autumn S. The springs area features a 2-mile trail suitable for families with children.
Beach activities: Kohler-Andrae State Park provides Lake Michigan shoreline access with sandy beaches for swimming. "The lake is great for swimming, though they do have e coli warnings frequently in the heat of summer," reports Jimmy P. The park features a dune boardwalk trail running parallel to the shoreline.
Winter exploration: Ottawa Lake Campground stays open year-round, including winter months. "No showers in winter but awesome," according to David H., who visited during cold months. Winter camping requires additional preparation but offers quieter surroundings with "no rowdies in winter" as Tim H. describes.
Water recreation: Glacier Valley Campground features a swimming pond with inflatable water toys. "The pond was clean and had fun giant inflatables!" Laura B. shares. The freshwater recreation area accommodates various skill levels and allows guests to bring their own pool toys.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Bathrooms and shower buildings receive regular maintenance at most cabin locations. "Bath house #2 was clean although a bit older (paint was peeling off the walls due to humidity) but the water pressure was fine and as hot as I needed it to be," reports Linda N. from Ottawa Lake Campground.
Seasonal events: Duck Creek Campground offers themed weekend activities throughout their April to October season. "They have weekend themed activities for kids and adults, a clean swimming pond with inflatables, volleyball & basketball courts and play structures for the kids," writes Heather B. Halloween weekends are particularly popular.
Lake access: Many cabin rentals provide direct water access. "Loved our site right next to the water!" Cassie W. shares about Glacier Valley Campground. Some lakefront sites feature fishing opportunities, swimming areas, and water sports rental options.
Proximity to trails: Harrington Beach State Park offers cabin camping near extensive hiking options. "There is a huge sandy beach spans the entire length of the park - which features plenty of trails, a quarry, and a historical element," notes Ross K. The trails connect different park features including the beach, quarry and wooded areas.
What you should know
Road noise considerations: Some cabins at Ottawa Lake Campground experience highway noise. "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," Linda N. explains. Request sites further from roads when making reservations.
Pet policies vary: Most cabin sites welcome pets but specific rules differ. "This is an amazing property dog friendly and very kid orientated!" Heather H. says about Glacier Valley Campground. Some locations have designated pet areas or charge additional pet fees.
Reservation timing: Kettle Moraine State Forest cabins require early booking, especially during peak season. "Busiest days are after memorial day weekend and to labor day weekend," notes GA J. Winter reservations typically remain available with shorter notice periods.
Quiet zone options: Several campgrounds offer designated quiet areas. "The Pine Woods area because it has no electricity, is a 24-hour quiet area and no pets allowed," Josh F. describes at Kettle Moraine. These areas typically enforce stricter noise regulations throughout the day.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: River Bend RV Resort offers extensive family programming. "This place is a young kids heaven. Tons of activities! All included with admission etc... four wheel bikes to take out, jumping balloon, pool with multiple water slides, pond with blow up floating slides and climbing activities, canoes, a bar and restaurant, mini golf, frisbee golf, live music some weekends, a kids barn with crafts, volleyball, shuffle board, etc..." Darren L. explains.
Site selection: Choose cabin locations based on proximity to playgrounds for convenience. "We had a group of 7 kids, it was nice to be backed up to the volleyball courts," Danelle C. shares about their River Bend RV Resort experience. Request cabin locations near desired amenities when booking.
Evening activities: Many campgrounds schedule family-friendly nighttime programs. "They had a triathlon there we weekend we stayed," Linda N. mentions about Ottawa Lake. Evening activities often include movies, campfires, and seasonal events like Halloween celebrations.
Accommodating different preferences: Multiple accommodation types allow family members to choose their preferred camping style. "It was excellent to have tent, cabin and rv spots available as each family felt comfortable staying there," a visitor notes about camping options near Horicon.
Tips from RVers
Long-term stays: Indian Trails Campground works well for extended visits. "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," shares Steve K., who regularly returns to the area.
Electricity options: Cabin and RV sites offer varying hookup capabilities. "Not all sites here have electricity so be mindful of that while booking," Linda N. cautions about Ottawa Lake Campground. Request specific utility needs when making reservations.
Site access considerations: Some locations present challenges for larger vehicles. "Nice campground but the roads are narrow and the sites are kinda hard to squeeze into," Mikala D. notes about Duck Creek Campground. Check road width and turning radius requirements before arrival.
Waste disposal facilities: Dump stations at most cabin campgrounds accommodate RV needs. "The dump station lanes need some attention, more than gravel would be great," J T S. recommends at River Bend RV Resort. Check station hours as they may differ from general campground access times.
