Equestrian camping near Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin is set amidst the glacial landforms of southeastern Wisconsin's Kettle Moraine region. The area features rolling hills and depressions formed by glacial deposits, ranging in elevation from 800 to 1,200 feet. Most horse camping sites are open from spring through late fall, with typical summer temperatures between 70-85°F during peak camping season.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Miles of bridle paths connect directly to both Northern Unit and Southern Unit horse camping facilities. "The Ice Age Trail intersects with several bridle paths, offering multi-day riding possibilities throughout the state forest," notes one visitor at Kettle Moraine Southern Unit — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit. "There are plenty of trails for hiking, of all skill levels," explains a camper.
Beach access and swimming: After a day on horseback, many campgrounds offer lake swimming. At Mauthe Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Northern Unit-Iansr, one visitor reports, "Nice beach/swimming area, bike path, and playground for the kids. Also the most beautiful sunset over the lake and pines in July." Another notes that "the lake itself is great for canoeing or kayaking" making it a good option for mixed-activity camping trips.
Archery and fishing: Several parks near Menomonee Falls provide additional recreation beyond horseback riding. "Great park with swimming beach, trails, dog park, and archery range," explains a visitor to Menomonee Park. At Turner Lake South, a visitor mentions "There is so much to do at this campground. Horseback riding, archery, hiking, boating, fishing."
What campers like
Site layout and privacy: Horse-friendly campgrounds are designed with equestrian needs in mind. At Northern Unit New Prospect Horseriders Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Northern Unit-Iansr, a visitor notes: "Open tent sites and well designed riggings and beyond excellent, well-maintained trails, accommodations and hospitality." Sites accommodate both campers and their horses comfortably.
Shared facilities: Equestrian campers appreciate the specialized amenities. At Southern Unit Horseriders Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit, one visitor details: "There is a large shelter with picnic tables and very convenient roll-up sides that can be used to protect people during inclement weather. There is also a large grill that would be great for serving many, and a very nice fire pit with fixed seating for a large group."
Weather considerations: Wisconsin's variable conditions can affect trail conditions. At Pinewoods Campground, a visitor noted seasonal considerations: "Our site (22) was relatively flat, felt secluded, had good tree coverage with some filtered sunlight." Another mentioned, "It was really cold and we blew through 4 bundles of firewood each day!" when camping in October.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Horse camping sites fill quickly during peak season. At Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit, camping is available from "May - Oct" and sites book fast. "Camped here twice - the first time was just one night in early July 2017 when we were backpacking on the Ice Age Trail," explains one visitor.
Water availability: Water access varies by campground and season. A visitor to Kettle Moraine Southern Unit Horseriders Campground points out, "There are electric and non-electric campsites, all seem to have a picnic table and fireplace. There are ample places to bridle horses and shared corrals every four or five campsites."
Wildlife awareness: Bears have been spotted in parts of Kettle Moraine. A Pinewoods Campground visitor mentioned: "There was a posting about black bear sightings in the area. We did not experience that, just chipmunks and birds." At Turner Lake South, another camper warns: "Had some raccoons at night even after we locked up everything in the car."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Many horse-friendly campgrounds accommodate families with non-riders. "The park has a lot of trails for hiking, biking and some horse trails. The quarry is good for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing. There is a beach with life guards," notes a visitor to Menomonee Park.
Site selection strategies: At Menomonee Park by Waukesha County Parks, a visitor advises: "The sites are just about all wooded. Not huge but a good size for a country park. Most offer decent separation from your neighbor." Another suggests: "#9 looked alright, and in the 20#s looked a bit more tree lined and bigger."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds have designated quiet areas. "We stayed in the quiet loop, Loop 1, which actually was very quiet. Everyone was respectful of the rules," explains a visitor to Pinewoods Campground, adding that "We did walk over to the other loops where there was more of a party atmosphere at some sites with larger groups, music, and kids."
Tips from RVers
Electrical and water hookups: RV campers with horses need sites with appropriate amenities. At Harnischfeger County Park, a camper explains, "sites with letters are tent sites without water or electric, sites with numbers have water and 30 amp service, though there are plans to upgrade the sites to all have water and 50 amp service in the future."
Dump station locations: Horseback riders with RVs need waste disposal for both human and equine needs. Harnischfeger County Park includes sanitary dump facilities, while a camper at Mauthe Lake Campground reports "Campground facilities are clean, 30 amp at the electrical site worked perfectly."
Site size considerations: Horse trailers require larger sites. Southern Unit Horseriders Campground offers pull-through sites that "would make it easier for those who don't care to back trailers in or out of the site. These include electric sites 405, 404, 403, 402, and 401."
