Kettle Moraine camping areas near Nashotah feature varied terrain shaped by glacial activity, with elevations ranging from 900-1,200 feet above sea level. The region's climate includes warm summers with average highs of 80°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from April through November, though Ottawa Lake maintains year-round sites for winter camping enthusiasts.
What to do
Paddle the lakes: Ottawa Lake offers a clean swimming beach with opportunities for kayaking. "Nice little lake to swim or paddle on. 20 minute drive to the awesome Kettle Moraine biking trails," notes Heather H. about Ottawa Lake Campground.
Explore Scuppernong Springs: The natural springs provide a unique hiking experience accessible from several campgrounds. "Hiking to see the natural springs which is the coolest!! Drank fresh spring water!" shares Autumn S. about her experience at Ottawa Lake.
Mini golf and disc golf: Harnischfeger County Park features a 9-hole mini golf course costing $1 per person. "Has a 9 hole mini golf course that cost $1 a person. Has trails, disc golf, and Rock River for kayaking," explains Brittany R. about Harnischfeger County Park.
Climb observation towers: Several hiking trails lead to observation points with panoramic views. "There is a lookout tower that offers stunning views of the surrounding area," mentions Joyce B. about Pike Lake Campground.
What campers like
Quiet camping loops: Many campgrounds offer designated quiet areas for more peaceful camping. "We were in the quiet loop, Loop 1, which actually was very quiet. Everyone was respectful of the rules," shares Abbe W. about Pinewoods Campground.
Winter camping options: Year-round camping is available at select sites. "No showers in winter but awesome," reports David H. about Ottawa Lake Campground, making it one of the few dog friendly campgrounds near Nashotah with winter access.
Private, wooded sites: The natural spacing between campsites creates privacy. "The sites were far enough apart for some privacy and the campground is generally quiet," notes Joel N. about Mukwonago Park.
Good shower facilities: Most campgrounds maintain clean shower facilities. "Bathroom and shower facilities were well maintained! Our campsite had a table and fire pit," says Maaya Y. about Kettle Moraine Southern Unit.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: The area experiences significant seasonal temperature variations. "It was really cold and we blew through 4 bundles of firewood each day!" warns Charles M. about Pinewoods Campground.
Campground layouts: Understanding the different loops helps with site selection. "Generally, the inner ring is electric (except #23) and the outer ring is non-electric. Flush bathrooms and clean showers," explains Sugar Maple S. about Pike Lake Campground.
Seasonal crowding: Many campgrounds become busy during summer months. "The lake is very clean and the site are a good size. Gets very busy on the weekends!" advises Neysha R.
Road noise concerns: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise due to proximity to highways. "It was quite nice and pretty out here... It is very close to main roads as I heard traffic all day and sometimes sirens," reports Corbin P. about Naga-Waukee Park.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Several campgrounds offer swimming beaches ideal for children. "The beach on the shores of Lake Nagawicka is well-groomed, clean, has a seasonal lifeguard and a playground within earshot," recommends Ross K. about Naga-Waukee Park.
Playground options: Look for sites near play areas. "There is a playground right next to them as well," mentions Wendy Z. about shower facilities at Kettle Moraine.
Dog swimming areas: Pet-friendly campgrounds near Nashotah often have designated dog swimming spots. "Dog friendly, even a dog swimming area," notes Lesley R. about Naga-Waukee Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer chances to see local wildlife. "Great landscape and wildlife. We were lucky enough to have a couple of Sandhill Cranes walk through our camp early one morning," shares Abbe W. about Mukwonago Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection by size: Several campgrounds have specific sites better suited for larger rigs. "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)," advises Sugar Maple S. about Pike Lake.
Electric hookup locations: Plan your site based on power needs. "We were able to grab a nonelectric site and transfer to an electric site when one cancelled last minute," shares Linda N. about Kettle Moraine Southern Unit.
Tight turns warning: Be cautious about campground road layouts when driving larger vehicles. "There is a TIGHT turn in the campground loop near site #17 to be aware of with longer trailers," warns Sugar Maple S. about Pike Lake Campground.
Year-round options: For those camping in cooler months, select sites that remain open. "We've been full time RVers for 4 years and this is a beautiful campground close to 'home'. We stay here a couple of times each year," reports Steve K. about Ottawa Lake.
