Kettle Moraine State Forest offers several primitive camping options within 25 miles of Ixonia, Wisconsin. The forest contains multiple backcountry sites accessible by hiking, including backpack shelters that provide a more secluded alternative to the established campgrounds in the area. Most sites are situated between 800-1,000 feet elevation within the glacial topography that characterizes this region. Winter temperatures can drop below zero degrees Fahrenheit, while summer highs typically reach the mid-80s with moderate humidity levels.
What to do
Hiking the Ice Age Trail: Cross-country trails throughout Kettle Moraine State Forest offer varying difficulty levels for day hikers and backpackers. "Beautiful campground (Ottawa Lake campsites) Great Lake, hiking to see the natural springs which is the coolest!! Drank fresh spring water!" mentions Autumn S. from Ottawa Lake Campground.
Paddling on motorboat-free waters: Several lakes in the region permit only non-motorized watercraft. "Nice little lake to swim or paddle on. 20 minute drive to the awesome Kettle Moraine biking trails. Yee haw!" reports Heather H. about the tranquil paddling opportunities.
Wildlife viewing: The natural areas around Ixonia provide habitat for deer, small mammals, and numerous bird species. "Live nearby. We go there a lot over the summer. Fun park to ride bikes through. Many trails to walk or hike. The pond has a great beach for kids," explains Kyle B. from Menomonee Park.
Winter camping: Unlike many Wisconsin campgrounds that close for winter, some sites remain open year-round. "No showers in winter but awesome," reports David H. about winter camping at Ottawa Lake Campground, confirming its status as a four-season destination.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds near Ixonia feature well-separated campsites. "The sites are large and offer good shade. There are miles of nice hiking trails, a nice beach, pavilions to rent, horse riding trails, archery range and I'm sure I'm missing more," notes Matt N. about camping options at Menomonee Park.
Clean facilities: Most established campgrounds maintain good bathroom standards. "Clean bathrooms with showers. Good sized site with nice privacy. Good hiking around the lake and mostly dog friendly. Nice play ground with horse she pits," writes Matt N. about Lake Kegonsa State Park.
Winter camping options: For those seeking off-season glamping near Ixonia, Wisconsin, year-round sites provide unique opportunities. "Very nice staff. Although the road ways are a little tight. Very windy weekend but I imagine during the summer it's a great spot to camp near their big beach and lake access," reports Kyle B. about spring camping conditions.
Rustic shelters: For a true backcountry experience, consider the shelter sites. "Great backpack camp site. Decent walk and terrain to get to the site. There is an open shelter to put your tent if you prefer to outside. There is a fire pit, but we found our own wood around the site," explains Erin Z. about KMSF Shelter 1 Backpack Site.
What you should know
Seasonal mosquito issues: Bug populations peak during summer months. "We stayed 3 nights but did not have 1 visit from the hosts even to clean out the fire pit. By the end our pit was full of ashes!" notes Lisa S. about one state park, indicating minimal maintenance during busy periods.
Variable shower conditions: Bathroom quality varies widely between campgrounds. "Shower 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," observes Linda N. about Ottawa Lake.
Highway noise at some locations: Road sounds may affect certain campsites. "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," mentions Linda N.
Train noise concerns: Some campgrounds experience occasional train disturbances. "The first train only blew its horn a few short times. The second train acted like someone was laying on the tracks and was a little excessive for 3 am!" writes Lisa S. describing nighttime noise at one location.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "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," explains Matt N. about Pilgrims Campground.
Swimming options: Many locations offer designated swimming areas with varying features. "Spent the weekend and was impressed. Most sites are well spaced for a state park. Clean bathrooms with flush toilets and showers. Wood and ice available to purchase. Walked down by the beach but it was too cold to go in. Sandy beach but looked like a rock bottom. Great hiking right across the street with views of little springs. Kids lived it," reports Matt N.
Luxury glamping experiences: For upscale camping near Ixonia, Wisconsin, options include elevated tent platforms with premium bedding. "We were located on the end of the row and had lots of grass to enjoy. Owner was very friendly and helpful," writes Michael R. about his glamping experience.
Seasonal activities: Check campground schedules for special events. "This place was the best on our trip so far. We were here for a couple nights. The pool was great (from 3-4 it's adult swim, so the kids had to get out). The sites were very clean," notes Chris H. from Milton-Madison SE KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site selection advice: Choose RV sites carefully based on access and level ground. "Indoor pool great for kids. Bath house was a bit dated but okay. Coin operated showers, 25 cent for several minutes. Pay attention to reservation online or call….they have multiple types of sites. We accidentally got one without sewer, but they have dump tank on property so no issue," advises Beth B. about The Playful Goose Campground.
Electrical options: Most campgrounds offer multiple hookup configurations. "Found this great little campground when I was in a pinch to find a place to put my 45ft fifth wheel. Super friendly staff, rates are reasonable and it is big rig friendly," reports Jeremy M.
Navigating tight roads: Many established campgrounds have narrow access roads. "This campground had a lot of seasonal campers. Fairly large sites, problem is getting into them. Our site was downhill so that presented quite the challenge to level out," shares Steven P. about tight turning conditions.
Year-round accessibility: Some RV-friendly sites operate during winter. "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," explains Steve K.
