Camping in the Kettle Moraine region provides visitors multiple options within a short drive from Kewaskum, Wisconsin. The area features glacial topography with elevation changes between 900-1,200 feet, creating unique camping environments across the region. Winter temperatures average 10-20°F while summer months typically reach 75-85°F with moderate humidity levels.
What to do
Beach activities: Lake swimming at Harrington Beach State Park features clean, sandy shorelines with clear water. "We loved just walking around the paths to and from the lake to our site. People were very respectful," notes a visitor. The park has multiple picnic areas overlooking the water.
Fishing: Long Lake Campground offers productive fishing waters. "We caught some large blue gill, a few crappie, perch and bass. It is a 'weedy' lake but when your fishing for certain fish, that's a good thing," writes a camper. The lake permits motorcraft on weekends, making it suitable for both fishing and water recreation.
Hiking through rock formations: Ledge County Park provides distinctive terrain experiences with exposed rock ledges. "Walking along the trails, you can see where it gets its name! Lots of cool ledges and rock outcrops," remarks one visitor. The park includes observation points with views of Horicon Marsh.
Astronomy: Pike Lake Campground features an interpretive astronomy trail, unique among area campgrounds. Visitors can climb Powder Hill tower for expanded views. "We saw a moderate amount of birds and heard a bunch of critters (owls, a fox) one night," notes a recent visitor.
What campers like
Private sites: Mauthe Lake Campground receives praise for site separation. "The sites are well separated for privacy. Also, the shower house is perfect for an end of the day washing," notes one camper. Sites vary in depth and configuration, with some featuring paths to additional tent locations.
Camping near water: Long Lake Campground offers sites with direct water access. "Great camping and there are some areas that you can group camp. Great place to take in views," mentions a camper. The dual beach areas provide different experiences, with the South Shore beach offering more convenient access.
Motor-free recreation: Mauthe Lake attracts visitors seeking quieter water experiences. "No motor boats so nice and quiet. Also great trail running opportunities on the Ice Age," writes a visitor. The crushed gravel connecting trail between Mauthe and Long Lake accommodates multiple activities.
Clean facilities: Harrington Beach State Park maintains high-quality amenities. "ULTRA clean bathrooms," exclaims one visitor, while another notes the "paved roads, super clean bathrooms, and a great beach with amazing hiking around the quarry." The park offers a shuttle service to the beach area during peak season.
What you should know
Site selection matters: At Pike Lake, backpacking sites offer seclusion. "If I had to guess I think it was about a quarter mile hike to the site. There are a few back there but once there it feels secluded," explains a visitor. These sites connect directly to the Ice Age Trail.
Seasonal water quality: Long Lake has experienced water quality issues. "Beach test positive for ecoli 2x this year. If you stay here do not swim," warns one visitor from a recent season. Park officials test only one of two beaches but both share the same water system.
Tree coverage varies: Kohler-Andrae State Park offers a mix of sun and shade sites. "Whether you're in a tent, popup, tow-behind, or 5th wheel, this campground has a site for you," notes a camper. Some campgrounds in the region have lost shade trees to emerald ash borer infestation.
Weather impacts: After rainfall, standing water can collect in low-lying sites. "Even after a major storm that uprooted trees, the park was still in great conditions," mentions a Long Lake visitor, highlighting maintenance staff responsiveness.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly beaches: Long Lake Campground offers two beaches with different features. "My dad took me here when I was in junior high. And now I've been taking my daughter here for years. Two beaches and a fishing pier make our top list of daytime activities," shares a returning visitor.
Ice cream stops: Consider visiting nearby towns for treats. "If you like ice cream, head to Dundee and visit the Hamburger Haus," recommends a Mauthe Lake camper. These short excursions provide break options during longer stays.
Playgrounds and recreation areas: Kohler-Andrae has "two beautiful sand beaches with large grassy picnic areas, hiking, a boat launch, and a reservable pavilion" for family gatherings. Multiple parks maintain dedicated play areas for children.
Biking opportunities: Timber Trail Campground offers family amenities close to Kewaskum. "There is a small fishing pond off the back side of the non-electric sites and there is a nice outdoor pool and indoor jacuzzi next to a large rec room/bar," notes a visitor, highlighting its proximity advantage for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Pike Lake Campground has specific sites better suited for larger vehicles. "The sites are very close together and walking through it felt like going through a festival or circus more than a campground," notes one tent camper about the electric section. Check site dimensions before booking.
Electric hookup locations: At Long Lake, the electric sites in the 900 loop have specific configurations. "Our site was a bit less secluded than I'd prefer but still very nice. The loop we were on, the lower 900 loop, had quite a few sites that could be combined to be group sites," explains a visitor.
Dump station access: Harrington Beach includes a sanitary dump station that receives regular maintenance. The station location is convenient to exit routes, reducing departure congestion during busy weekends.
Storage restrictions: Most Kettle Moraine campgrounds limit on-site equipment storage. "Don't be so crazy about the rules. You have to sign a piece of paper saying you understand and have read the rules," cautions a Lake Lenwood visitor, highlighting the importance of reviewing site policies.
