Southern Unit Horseriders Campground offers equestrians a unique camping experience from April to November. The grounds provide convenient access to bridle trails within the Kettle Moraine State Forest, with maps available for navigating multiple route options. Each site accommodates horse trailers alongside camping setups, and while the campground doesn't have dedicated horse corrals, riders can bring their own containment systems. The surrounding trail network features varied terrain across wooded areas, meadows, and distinctive kettle formations, making it suitable for both short rides and full-day excursions.
What to do
Trail rides with varied difficulty levels: Explore miles of equestrian-friendly trails connected to Kettle Moraine Southern Unit. The park offers multiple route options for both short rides and longer excursions. "The sites were very nice with some decent foliage between sites. The space was generous so we didn't feel crowded. The camp store was handy for ice and firewood. Our hike to the scenic overlook was pleasant - bring your binoculars!" according to Bill M.
Kayaking in nearby waterways: Within a 30-minute drive from Mukwonago, paddlers can access multiple water recreation opportunities at Turner Lake South. As Cora M. notes, "I love to kayak through here because I don't need to paddle through the river unless I'm feeling competitive. I enjoy this route for the wildlife and nature scenery. I've seen beavers, minks, ferrets, and sand cranes on my two trips so far."
Hiking at Kettle Moraine: The distinctive glacial formations create unique hiking terrain in the area. Art S. from Pinewoods Campground shares: "We asked the ranger about hiking and she gave us a map to a trail system that connects to this campground between the group sites and loop 3. We enjoyed a 4 mile hike from camp to the observation trail. While the view was mostly hidden it was still a nice hike."
What campers like
Private, wooded campsites: Many campgrounds near Mukwonago feature secluded sites with natural barriers. At Pinewoods Campground, Abbe W. reports: "The sites in Loop 1 are varied as far as tree coverage, seclusion, and terrain. Our site (22) was relatively flat, felt secluded, had good tree coverage with some filtered sunlight. The pit toilets are about 3 sites away, a short walk. There is room for two tents."
Year-round access: Unlike many Wisconsin campgrounds, some Kettle Moraine locations offer winter camping opportunities. Tim H. from Kettle Moraine South Camping explains: "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. Nice place for solitude. No rowdies in winter."
Horse-friendly facilities: The dedicated equestrian camping area provides specialized amenities. Josh F. observed at Southern Unit Horseriders Campground: "There are also nice touches, such as a small stair-step for beginners or young people to mount their horse. And the campground has a little free library. There are electric and non-electric campsites, all seem to have a picnic table and fireplace."
What you should know
Site selection strategies: When booking campsites in the Mukwonago area, consider the specific loop characteristics. Josh F. advises about Fox Den Campground: "Fox Den is superior to Honeysuckle Hollows because each site has an individual electric post. Sites in Honeysuckle have electric posts too far from parking pad. Fox Den also has more space between sites, more level pads and each site is tucked away with trees."
Weather preparedness: The area can experience significant seasonal changes and rainfall. Nina T. shares: "Our site was nice for a inside loop. However we got rained out and having a five year old little girl, a 14wk old puppy, and a newbie camper almost four others we could only take so much rain."
Wildlife encounters: Local campers frequently report wildlife sightings. Abbe W. notes: "There was a posting about black bear sightings in the area. We did not experience that, just chipmunks and birds."
Tips for camping with families
Loop selection for quieter experience: When camping with children, consider designated quiet areas. Wendy Z. from Big Foot Beach State Park explains: "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."
Playground accessibility: Several campgrounds offer play areas for kids. Brenton S. shares: "Great place to quickly get in and set up, easy access to all amenities, the ranger station, and camp hosts if needed. Good fishing ponds for the kids, and great hiking trails throughout the property."
Activity books for children: Look for educational materials at park offices. Jill G. suggests: "Pick Up the activity book for kids it is a great adventure lots to do at the lake!!!"
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookup reliability: RVers should note potential power limitations at older campgrounds. Rebecca C. from Rock Cut State Park warns: "We have a 30 amp trailer. When we got there, the electricity wasn't working. It was 93° on a Saturday. We called the Rangers and asked them to look at our site breaker since it kept tripping. They told us the park was old and not updated but then ultimately told us it was our trailer."
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. Glenn S. notes: "The campsites are roomy and was using was wooded and private. One thing that I didn't like as well as Bong State Park was that there was very little grassy area in the site. When it rained the first night, most of the site was mud."
Evening access restrictions: Pay attention to gate closing times when planning evening activities. Brian O. cautions: "One last thing, the gates close at 10:PM and there are tire shredders, you can leave but you can't get back in… unless you want to walk 2+ miles in the dark."
