Camping opportunities near Kiel, Wisconsin include sites situated between 800 and 1,100 feet above sea level in the eastern Wisconsin glacial landscape. The region features a mix of deciduous forests, marshlands, and lake access with typical summer highs reaching the mid-80s and winter camping requiring preparation for temperatures dropping below 20°F. Most local campgrounds operate with reduced services from November through April, while maintaining year-round accessibility for winter camping enthusiasts.
What to do
Hiking glacial terrain trails: At High Cliff State Park Campground, trails follow the Niagara Escarpment with limestone formations unique to the region. "My favorite thing about this park and campground is the hiking. Part of the Niagra escarpment there are plenty of cliffs and fun views along the trails," notes Racheal M. The park's trail system includes both ridgeline paths with vista views and historic features including lime kiln ruins.
Beach swimming access: The Mauthe Lake Campground offers a clean swimming area with sandy beaches for summer recreation. "Nice clean swimming and lots of hiking and biking options," states Noreen T. The swimming area includes designated zones with gradual entry points suitable for various skill levels, making it accessible for younger swimmers.
Boat launches and fishing: Several campgrounds provide direct water access for fishing and boating. At Calumet County Park, visitors can access the marina for water recreation. "There is a marina/boat launch. Not many extras at the park but its a great quiet campground," explains Alex N. The park sits along Lake Winnebago, providing opportunities for walleye and perch fishing, particularly during early morning and evening hours.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural buffers between campsites at Kohler-Andrae State Park. "Beautiful state park right on Lake Michigan. This campground has everything! Trails, dunes, marshes, forests, and Lake Michigan. Very well kept," reports Kathie M. The campground offers a mix of open and shaded sites with varying levels of privacy depending on location within the park.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathroom facilities rank high on camper satisfaction. "Bathroom/shower facilities were ok but could have been cleaner. Had horrible luck with fishing!!!" notes Sarah G. at Plymouth Rock Camping Resort. At Calumet County Park, "showers & bathrooms are very clean" according to Sherry J., with both pit toilets and modern facilities available depending on the camping loop.
Lake views and sunsets: Campsites with water views provide scenery and photography opportunities. "The park is on the shores of Lake Winnebago and the sunsets are fabulous!" remarks Sherry J. about Calumet County Park. Many waterfront sites include direct lake visibility, though these premium spots typically require booking 3-6 months in advance during peak season.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially for summer weekends. "We went 8/10, weather was nice, beach campground 924 spot was close to showers and restrooms. Good and close place for gateway, its only 2,30 hours from Chicago," shares Meri S. about Long Lake Campground.
Water conditions vary: Water levels and quality can fluctuate seasonally. Long Lake Campground has water quality monitoring that affects swimming access. One camper warns, "If you stay here do not swim. They have 2 beaches, they test one for ecoli and close it but leave the other one open because they don't have to test both." Similar water quality concerns may exist at other area campgrounds, so checking current conditions is advised.
Facility limitations: Not all campgrounds offer full amenities year-round. "Great spot, lots of trails, and the bathrooms were clean. Only gripe is the uncertain schedule they have for turning on water for the season. First week or two of may is a safe bet, but no promises," advises Brandl B. about High Cliff State Park. Most parks shut off water systems once freezing temperatures arrive in fall, typically by mid-October.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. At Broughton Sheboygan Marsh Park Campground, "Not much for kid entertainment except a playground and fishing. The restaurant on site has great food though!!!" mentions Megan. The recently installed playground equipment provides an activity option when water recreation isn't feasible.
Beach selection: When camping with children, consider beach quality and amenities. Long Lake Campground offers "Very nice, sandy and swimmable beach (not true for some campgrounds that I've visited!)" according to Renee R. The beach includes a gradual entry area appropriate for younger swimmers and restroom facilities within a short walk.
Pet restrictions: Family pets face limitations at some recreation areas. At Long Lake, "the pet picnic area was pretty disappointing. Just a small opening for a dog jumping in the water. All the nice beach area was not open for a dog," reports Heewon A. Similar restrictions apply at most state park beaches, limiting where dogs can access water.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult access for larger rigs or towed vehicles. Sundance Farm Campground presents challenges for certain configurations. "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," warns angie G. about the limited pull-through availability.
Electrical hookups: Power options vary significantly between campgrounds and even within the same facility. At Greenbush Campground, electrical hookups aren't available, making it tent-camping only. "Large sites great for groups. Sites 2 and 9 are the largest. Those can each fit over 20 backpacking tents at the same time," notes Amber R. For RVs requiring electrical connections, other regional options provide 30-amp service, with 50-amp less common.
Site size considerations: RV site dimensions vary considerably between campgrounds. Calumet County Park offers "some of the largest sites we've come across" according to Susannah B., who adds "Spacious sites! Excellent county campground with some of the largest sites we've come across." Specific site measurements aren't provided on most reservation systems, so contacting rangers directly is recommended for RVs over 30 feet.
