Kettle Moraine State Forest's Northern Unit offers specialized horse camping facilities near Kiel, Wisconsin. Located in glacial terrain, this equestrian destination sits within 30,000 acres of forest land characterized by kettles, moraines, and varied topography shaped during the last Ice Age. The region's distinct soil and drainage patterns create favorable trail conditions throughout most seasons except during heavy spring rains.
What to do
Trail riding on dedicated bridle paths: Kettle Moraine State Forest features over 30 miles of maintained horse trails through diverse terrain. According to Lesley R., the trails offer "beyond excellent, well-maintained trails" through "one of the most lush forests in the SE corner of Wisconsin near Milwaukee."
Hiking forest paths: High Cliff State Park Campground provides excellent hiking options with varied difficulty levels. "Great place to explore with the fam. Hike the trails to see pieces of Wisconsin history throughout. Some trails on the Ridgeline offer vista views and moderate inclines that add to the adventure," notes Sam F.
Water recreation: Mauthe Lake Campground offers excellent fishing and paddling opportunities. "Located right on Mauthe Lake the campsites are separated by lush trees and bushes. The lake itself is great for canoeing or kayaking," says Charles M. The lake prohibits motorized boats, creating a peaceful environment.
Historical exploration: Visit the lime kiln ruins and historical sites within the region's state parks. Nancy S. explains, "Lime kiln trail is difficult but so worth it," while other visitors mention various historical attractions scattered throughout the forest systems.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Equestrian campers appreciate the well-designed spacing at horse camping areas. The camping areas provide sufficient room for trailers and horses while maintaining a natural setting. Campers at nearby Point Beach State Forest similarly note that "each space [is] separated by trees/bush/woods."
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower facilities receive consistent positive mentions across area campgrounds. Graisyn S. comments on Mauthe Lake: "Very nice, clean and quiet campground. The showers are a bit of a hike from most sites but they are private/individual rooms."
Reliable amenities: Electrical hookups and water access are consistently available at most established campgrounds. At Sundance Farm Campground, Sarah N. appreciates the "reliable Wi-Fi, great water/power hookups, the works," noting it's only "minutes from downtown Plymouth and Road America."
Proximity to natural features: Many sites provide quick access to trails, water, or scenic areas. Laura M. explains that at Point Beach, "You get a choice of electric or non electric" sites, with some positioned closer to the dog-friendly beach areas.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most equestrian camping in the area operates from early May through late October. Justin F. describes Mauthe Lake as an "awesome campground in the north unit of Kettle Moraine" with a "wonderful trail around the lake and a variety of different campsites."
Reservation requirements: Equestrian sites fill quickly, especially during summer weekends. Reservations should be made well in advance through the Wisconsin state park reservation system.
Trail conditions: Spring conditions can vary significantly based on rainfall amounts. Most trails maintain good footing throughout summer and fall.
Cooking requirements: At New Prospect Horseriders Campground, fires are not permitted, requiring campers to bring alternative cooking methods such as propane stoves.
Horse containment systems: Campers must bring their own containment methods as corrals are not provided at the equestrian campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for kids: Family-friendly swimming opportunities exist at several nearby locations. Kaylyn C. recommends Mauthe Lake for its "nice beach/swimming area, bike path, and playground for the kids."
Playgrounds and activity areas: High Cliff State Park offers multiple recreation facilities for children. "There's plenty to do from fishing to hiking mountain biking lookout towers and parks," explains Sam F., while Karyn S. adds, "We stayed here Sept of 2016 for a week. We had a wonderful time, there is so much to do here you don't need to leave the park."
Short hiking trails: Several family-appropriate trails of varying lengths accommodate different ability levels. Nancy S. notes that "hiking trails are short but nice" at High Cliff State Park, making them manageable for families.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids often enjoy spotting local wildlife throughout the forest. Denise L. cautions that "raccoons can be a pest and beg for food" at High Cliff, something families should prepare for by securing food items.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookups: Equestrian sites with electrical service accommodate RVs with horses. Elizabeth S. found that at Mauthe Lake "30 amp at the electrical site worked perfectly" and that "sunset on the lake is ridiculously beautiful!"
Dump station timing: Laura M. advises: "The dump station gets really backed up at the end of the weekend, so heads up." Plan accordingly by dumping earlier or later than peak departure times.
Site selection for larger rigs: Angie G. cautions about Sundance Farm Campground: "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. Site was paid for, but zero refund when the promised pull through was not available." Always confirm site dimensions when bringing horse trailers or larger RVs.
