Camping near Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin offers access to the glacial topography of southeastern Wisconsin, where elevations range from 700-1,200 feet. The area experiences warm summers with daytime highs averaging 75-85°F from June through August, while spring and fall camping provides milder temperatures and colorful seasonal changes. Most campgrounds in this region open in mid-April when overnight temperatures typically rise above freezing.
What to do
Hiking observation towers: 2-mile round-trip at Pike Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Pike Lake Unit offers excellent views. "Many trails, a observation tower with a view of Holy Hill and Pike Lake, and of course the Ice Age Scenic Trail," notes Steve M. The trails are actively maintained for erosion control.
Swimming in quarry waters: Menomonee Park features a clean swimming quarry with lifeguards during summer months. A camper reports, "The quarry is good for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing. There is a beach with life guards."
Spring water exploration: At Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit, take a short hike to Scuppernong Springs. "Scuppernong Springs was also a treat for the kiddos although I highly recommended planning for a solid 2 mile hike if you're with kids," advises Linda N. The natural springs provide an educational opportunity to see groundwater emerging at the surface.
Archery practice: Both Menomonee Park and Muskego Park have archery ranges open to campers. "The park has a lot of amenities including a beachy pond area and an archery area where you can practice shooting from a blind above - great for hunters looking to brush up skills before the season starts," explains one visitor to Muskego Park.
What campers like
Pine forest camping sites: Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit offers heavily wooded sites with pine needle floors. "Sites 22 and 23, 24, 25 and 26 are very cool. The campsites are in the midst of a pine forest. It would be sweet to tent camp there and listen to the wind in those trees," shares a camper who explored the grounds.
Winter camping options: Unlike many area campgrounds, Ottawa Lake remains open year-round. "No showers in winter but awesome," reports David H., who enjoyed off-season camping there. Winter camping provides solitude and different recreational opportunities.
Dog-friendly areas: Several campgrounds accommodate pets with designated areas. "Dog friendly, even a dog swimming area," mentions a visitor to Naga-Waukee Park. Pike Lake Campground also features a designated dog beach area, though campers note it's "very small, with no beach at all (just a place for your dog to go take a swim)."
Backpacking shelters: The Kettle Moraine Southern Unit offers reservable backpacking shelters along the Ice Age Trail. "The shelter is basically a barn without a front door. It comes with a fire ring, table, and an outhouse!" explains Chuck W. These shelters provide a transitional option between tent camping and cabin stays.
What you should know
Loop selection matters: At Mauthe Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Northern Unit, campground loops have different characteristics. "Each of the 32 sites is unique in their own way. Some are large and flat perfect for a class A (#2 #4, #29 #31 is okay, but smaller), some incorporate the geography into the site (#23 & #17 - very much tent sites, #15 great for a small trailer)," explains a regular visitor.
Road noise considerations: Several campgrounds have sites near highways. At Ottawa Lake, "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."
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds book quickly for summer weekends. "The campsite was completely booked. We were able to grab a nonelectric site and transfer to an electric site when one cancelled last minute," explains one Ottawa Lake visitor. For prime sites during peak season, book 3-6 months in advance.
Winter camping preparation: If camping October through April, prepare for temperatures ranging from 20-50°F. "Mid to Late October is great for Fall camping in Southern Wisconsin. Cool nights range from lower 30's to upper 40's. Day time temps can exceed 60."
Tips for camping with families
Best swimming beaches: Naga-Waukee Park by Waukesha County Parks features a well-maintained beach on Lake Nagawicka. "The beach on the shores of Lake Nagawicka is well-groomed, clean, has a seasonal lifeguard and a playground within earshot," notes one visitor. The combination of swimming and playground access makes this ideal for families with younger children.
Quiet loops for families: Many campgrounds offer designated quiet areas. Pinewoods Campground has "three separate loops, 1 quiet zone, one group, one family," shares Teresa D. These quiet zones enforce stricter noise regulations, beneficial for families with early bedtimes.
Motor-free lakes: For safer family paddling, consider Mauthe Lake. "Beautiful lake for swimming and watersports. No motor boats so nice and quiet," reports Sarah L. This creates a more controlled environment for children learning water activities.
Astronomy opportunities: Pike Lake features an interpretive astronomy trail accessible to all ages. "Be sure to check out the interpretive astronomy trail and take the walk up Powder Hill to the tower!" recommends Susan S. This educational feature provides a science learning opportunity during camping trips.
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: At Wisconsin State Fair RV Park, "Full hookup sites are all blacktop. Not a place for recreation, but good as a base for Milwaukee attractions," notes Paul Y. This urban option provides convenient access to city amenities while camping.
Electrical considerations: Campgrounds vary in power availability. "We noticed it, but our site was 15 amp. On the same pole were two 30 amps. So we just use that because no one was there," shares an RVer at State Fair RV Park. Always confirm amperage before booking.
Tight turns in campgrounds: Some loops present challenges for larger rigs. At Mauthe Lake, "There is a TIGHT turn in the campground loop near site #17 to be aware of with longer trailers." Scout campground maps before arrival to identify potential navigation issues.
Dump station positioning: RVers should note unusual setups at some parks. "The sewage system is strange at this park... The pipe is highly elevated, making the process more hands-on than one would like," reports an RVer about State Fair RV Park's facilities.
