Glamping options near Mequon, Wisconsin provide easy access to southern Wisconsin's kettle moraine landscape, formed by glacial deposits during the last ice age. This terrain creates a mix of rolling hills, small lakes, and wooded areas ideal for camping. Winter temperatures in the region can drop below 10°F, while summer camping season typically runs from April through October with daytime temperatures averaging 70-85°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Playful Goose Campground, campsites along the Rock River provide easy water access. One visitor noted, "Great sites along the Rock River, just a few minutes from the Horicon Marsh. Bird watching was abundant!" The campground offers river frontage for catch-and-release fishing at their pond.
Hiking trails: Several parks feature extensive trail systems for day hikes ranging from beginner to moderate difficulty. At Kettle Moraine State Forest, the Scuppernong Springs area offers a 2-mile family-friendly loop. A camper mentioned, "Hiking in the area is always nice, as it is part of the Kettle Moraine Southern Unit."
Swimming beaches: Most county and state parks maintain designated swimming areas with varying amenities. Kohler-Andrae State Park features "clean beaches" along Lake Michigan where you can "hear the waves at night." The park offers "gorgeous sunsets" and a "nice beach for kids" with lifeguard supervision during summer months.
What campers like
Beach access: Lake Michigan shoreline at Kohler-Andrae State Park receives consistent positive reviews. According to one visitor, "Right on Lake Michigan, had nice and clean beaches. Campsites are nice—not the most private but it's a big park, and the facilities are stocked and clean."
Wooded campsites: Menomonee Park features sites that are "just about all wooded. Not huge but a good size for a county park. Most offer decent separation from your neighbor." Another visitor mentioned that "The sites are mostly wooded and offer good shade."
Family activities: Seasonal campgrounds offer structured recreation programs. At Breezy Hill Campground, families appreciate that there's "plenty for the kids to do. There's a fishing pond (catch and release), arcade, jumping pillow, etc. Owners are friendly and helpful. Have events almost every weekend."
What you should know
Campsite privacy varies: Many parks have a mix of secluded and open sites. At Naga-Waukee Park, "The family sites are small—and there are only toilets available—but there is a main building down a steep hill to get to nicer facilities and showers."
Road noise: Several campgrounds are within earshot of highways or local attractions. At Plymouth Rock Camping Resort, "The race track is very close by and the noise from the cars can be pretty loud but not a deal breaker." Similarly, Naga-Waukee Park has "the constant hum of traffic, sometimes louder than others."
Shower facilities: Bathroom and shower quality varies significantly between parks. At Menomonee Park, "There are pit toilets by the sites but a nice shower house with flush toilets about a 1/4 mile walk away." Some facilities charge for showers, like at The Playful Goose where "Coin operated showers, 25 cent for several minutes."
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate swimming: For younger children, look for beaches with gradual entry points. Kohler-Andrae State Park offers "a large open area and play area for kids to run around walkable from the camping, lots of little paths to explore!"
Educational opportunities: The Horicon Marsh near Playful Goose Campground provides wildlife viewing opportunities. Families report, "Bird watching was abundant! Great overnight stay" and many campgrounds offer ranger-led programs during summer months.
Activity planning: Breezy Hill Campground schedules regular weekend events for kids. Visitors appreciate that it's an "extremely clean, kid and pet friendly, with lots of amenities. Staff is incredibly friendly!" However, note that "if you want visitors, there is a $5/visitor fee."
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Many campgrounds have limited large RV capacity. Plymouth Rock has restricted access as "the short term sites are literally over a mile of tight, windy road to get to them. Once there the sites are ok."
Winter camping options: Some parks remain open year-round with limited facilities. At Kettle Moraine State Forest-Ottawa Lake, winter campers note "No showers in winter but awesome" for those prepared for cold-weather camping.
Utility hookups: Electric service is available at most developed campgrounds, but amp ratings vary. At Naga-Waukee Park, camping without electricity is standard, but one camper noted they "was able to use my generator during the day while camping in my pop-up."
