Kettle Moraine State Forest offers equestrian camping facilities within 25 miles of Horicon, Wisconsin. The Northern Unit maintains 41 miles of bridle trails through the 30,000-acre forest, featuring glacial terrain with elevations ranging from 900 to 1,200 feet. Trail conditions vary seasonally, with spring often bringing muddy sections near stream crossings while summer provides firmer footing on the forest's sandy loam soil.
What to do
Trail connections: The Northern Unit features extensive bridle paths that connect directly to the Ice Age Trail. "Mauthe Lake-Kettle Moraine is a joy for campers. Located right on Mauthe Lake the campsites are separated by lush trees and bushes. Make sure to pick the right campsite, tho," notes Charles M. about Mauthe Lake Campground.
Swimming options: Ottawa Lake in the Southern Unit provides a beach area open from 6 am to 11 pm daily. "There is a nice beach for swimming and watersports. No motor boats so nice and quiet. Also great trail running opportunities on the Ice Age," shares Sarah L. about Kettle Moraine South Camping.
Mountain biking: The Southern Unit maintains over 30 miles of dedicated single-track mountain bike trails. "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!" explains Justin F. about the surrounding recreational opportunities.
What campers like
Quiet camping loops: Some campgrounds offer designated quiet areas with stricter rules. "We liked this site because it was on the 'quiet loop.' No radios or pets allowed. I'm not sure about children! The sites are fairly close together and the trees are sparse, but it was a beautiful site and wonderfully quiet for the long weekend over the 4th of July," writes Wendy Z. about Kettle Moraine Southern Unit.
Spacious sites: Many horse-friendly sites accommodate large rigs and provide adequate space. "The sites in Loop 1 are varied as far as tree coverage, seclusion, and terrain. Our site (22) was relatively flat, felt secluded, had good tree coverage with some filtered sunlight," shares Abbe W. about Pinewoods Campground.
Lake access: Several campgrounds provide direct lake access for fishing and recreation. "Lots to do at mauthe lake. big campsites. not too close to neighbors, good fishing!" comments Haley K. about recreational opportunities at Mauthe Lake Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most equestrian campgrounds in the region operate from May through October with specific opening dates. "We stayed in loop 3 site 273 as we were camping in the early season and loops 1-2 were closed. The site was well wooded and very spacious!" explains Jack D. about Pinewoods Campground.
Reservation requirements: Horse-friendly sites fill quickly, especially for weekends. "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. The Ranger will come by often with wood to buy," shares Matt N. about Menomonee Park.
Bear awareness: Recent wildlife changes have brought black bears to some camping areas. "There was a posting about black bear sightings in the area. We did not experience that, just chipmunks and birds," notes Abbe W. about Pinewoods Campground in the Southern Unit.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playground equipment near shower facilities. "Nice beach/swimming area, bike path, and playground for the kids. Also the most beautiful sunset over the lake and pines in July," mentions Kaylyn C. about Mauthe Lake Campground.
Activity programs: Check with ranger stations for junior ranger activities. "Pick Up the activity book for kids it is a great adventure lots to do at the lake!!!" recommends Jill G. about Harnischfeger County Park, which offers "a 9 hole mini golf course that cost $1 a person. Has trails, disc golf, and rock river for kayaking," according to Brittany R.
Weather preparation: Bring appropriate gear for sudden weather changes. "Our site was nice for a inside loop. However we got rained out and having a five year old little girl, a 14wk old puppy, and a newbie camper almost four others we could only take so much rain," shares Nina T. about her experience at Kettle Moraine Southern Unit.
Tips from RVers
Clearance awareness: Watch for low branches and underpasses when driving large rigs. "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," warns Kathy L. about Lake Kegonsa State Park.
Electric service: Most horse camping sites offer 30-amp service rather than 50-amp. "Campground facilities are clean, 30 amp at the electrical site worked perfectly. Other campers amazingly friendly," reports Elizabeth S. about Mauthe Lake.
Site dimensions: Research specific site dimensions before booking as some have limitations. "We were reserved, but unable to stay due to having a trailer with a car in it and not being able to unhitch to back into a site. Yea, we made that clear when we reserved," cautions angie G. about a difficult experience at a nearby campground.
