Kettle Moraine State Forest spans several areas near Mequon, Wisconsin, with terrain characterized by glacial landforms, kettle lakes, and mixed hardwood forests. The region maintains a continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. Camping options range from basic tent sites to fully equipped RV hookups, with some areas remaining open year-round despite Wisconsin's variable weather conditions.
What to Do
Horseback riding trails: Access over 33 miles of dedicated bridle paths at Kettle Moraine Southern Unit Horseriders Campground. "Driving on country roads to this campground, I drove past many many horse ranches. So it's no surprise that there is a dedicated campground for horseback riding in this state park," notes Josh F.
Swimming and water recreation: Cool off at the beaches and lakes throughout the area. At Kettle Moraine South Camping, "There's swimming, access to almost all of the hiking trails available in kettle Moraine, and all within walking distance of where you park your tent or vehicle. We saw a guy with a catfish the size of my forearm," shares Kelsey H.
Year-round outdoor activities: Some campgrounds maintain winter accessibility. Tim H. mentions about Ottawa Lake Campground: "You can camp year around in this campground. Most recent 2 times were winter camping. No host so buying wood is an issue, but pick a site on the edge and there is more than enough free. Bring a saw."
What Campers Like
Quiet camping loops: Several campgrounds offer designated quiet sections. At Pinewoods Campground, Wendy Z. appreciates that "We liked this site because it was on the 'quiet loop.' No radios or pets allowed. I'm not sure about children! The sites are fairly close together and the trees are sparse, but it was a beautiful site and wonderfully quiet for the long weekend over the 4th of July."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept washrooms. At Elkhorn Campgrounds, Dan W. reports "Site, restrooms, and showers were clean. There are a lot of sites but still felt like there was ample space. Great location to visit Lake Geneva (~8mi.) or see a concert at Alpine Valley (~20 min)."
Scenic sunsets: The kettle lakes create perfect sunset viewing spots. Elizabeth S. observed at Mauthe Lake Campground: "Campground facilities are clean, 30 amp at the electrical site worked perfectly. Other campers amazingly friendly. Sunset on the lake is ridiculously beautiful!"
What You Should Know
Seasonal limitations: Most equestrian facilities close during winter months. Check operating schedules before planning a horse camping trip.
Site selection matters: Not all sites offer the same features or privacy. Josh F. recommends specific sites at Menomonee Park: "The sites are just about all wooded. Not huge but a good size for a country park. Most offer decent separation from your neighbor. The Ranger will come by often with wood to buy."
Reservation requirements: Most popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. Kim advises: "Great park with swimming beach, trails, dog park, and archery range. Campsites were ok, not much separation or privacy at all. I'd stay here again because the park overall is great, but I would try to choose a better site. #9 looked alright, and in the 20#s looked a bit more tree lined and bigger."
Event awareness: Campgrounds near event venues may experience noise and crowds. "This weekend had their annual Ribfest. Great food and music that you can walk to from your site (~2 min walk). Due to the fest, there was some late noise, but nothing obnoxious," notes Dan W. about Elkhorn Campgrounds.
Tips for Camping with Families
Recreational variety: Choose campgrounds with multiple activity options. At Menomonee Park, Matt N. shares: "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."
Junior ranger activities: Some parks provide educational programming. Jill G. suggests: "Pick Up the activity book for kids it is a great adventure lots to do at the lake!!!"
Playgrounds and beach access: Look for campgrounds with built-in entertainment. Kyle B. says about Menomonee Park: "Fun park to ride bikes through. Many trails to walk or hike. The pond has a great beach for kids."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup options: RV sites with power vary across parks. At Mauthe Lake Campground, Elizabeth S. confirms "30 amp at the electrical site worked perfectly." For horse camping with larger rigs, the Southern Unit Horseriders Campground offers 50-amp service.
Pull-through availability: Some campgrounds offer easier access sites. Josh F. notes: "There's also a series of 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."
Generator restrictions: Check campground rules regarding generator use. Michael R. shares his experience at Menomonee Park: "We stayed with a group of people here with no electricity but was able to use my generator during the day while camping in my pop-up."
Traveler
