Kettle Moraine State Forest, spanning 30,000 acres across southeastern Wisconsin, offers several dedicated camping options within 60 miles of Neenah. The forest's glacial terrain features unique kettles (depressions) and moraines (ridges) formed during the last ice age. Most horse campgrounds in this region operate seasonally from May through October due to Wisconsin's snowy winters and spring thaw conditions.
What to do
Trail riding adventures: New Prospect Horseriders Campground provides direct access to over 33 miles of bridle trails through Kettle Moraine's diverse terrain. A camper noted, "Open tent sites and well designed riggings and beyond excellent, well-maintained trails, accommodations and hospitality" at this Northern Unit New Prospect Horseriders Campground.
Beach access and swimming: After a day of riding, some equestrian families visit nearby swimming areas. At Mauthe Lake in the northern Kettle Moraine unit, campers enjoy "Nice clean swimming and lots of hiking and biking options" with a "nice beach/swimming area" that's perfect for cooling off after trail rides.
Multi-day rides with rentals: Wild West Campground & Corral in Amherst (about 45 minutes from Neenah) offers additional riding opportunities with rental equipment. Visitors appreciate the serene setting where "being able to watch the horses was very calming" according to recent camper feedback.
What campers like
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Horse campers consistently mention bathroom quality as important after long days on trails. At High Cliff State Park Campground near Sherwood, visitors appreciate that "bathrooms were clean and well taken care of, staff friendly and helpful" with "good amenities" for both riders and non-riders.
Privacy between sites: Equestrians value space for their animals and gear. At Mauthe Lake Campground, "the sites are well separated for privacy" and many sites are "separated by lush trees and bushes" allowing both humans and horses adequate space.
Scenic surroundings: The natural landscape enhances the experience for both riders and horses. Campers note the "beautiful sunset over the lake and pines" at Mauthe Lake and appreciate the "beautiful fall colors" during autumn trail rides when foliage transforms the forest.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At New Prospect Horseriders Campground, weekends often book months in advance, especially for holiday weekends and fall color season.
Water access limitations: Some sites require planning for water needs. At Point Beach State Forest, campers warn "the drinking water is not good so be sure to pack enough" for both human and equine consumption.
Seasonal closures: Winter conditions close most horse trails and campgrounds. A Point Beach visitor noted the "campground will be closed until May 24, 2024 for maintenance on the waterlines" - a common occurrence at equestrian sites that need annual repairs and updates.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds near equestrian areas offer additional activities for children. At Hartman Creek State Park Campground, families appreciate that "there are lots of hiking trails in the park, plus a lake with swimming, fishing, grills, and lots of campsites nearby."
Playground access: Children need breaks from trail riding. Bay Shore Park offers "two playgrounds and lots of space to play frisbee or run around" making it suitable for families with varying interests beyond horseback riding.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds provide junior ranger programs or nature exhibits. At Hartman Creek, families can "enjoy bringing the family's bikes and love the single trail bike paths through the woods" when taking breaks from horse activities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup challenges: Some RV sites at horse campgrounds have unusual configurations. At Bay Shore Park, RVers report "the electric and water hookups were on opposite sides of the site, and we had to keep adjusting the travel trailer to get both to actually hook up."
Site selection for trailers: Horse trailers require specific considerations. Some visitors at Bay Shore Park noted "we were reserved, but unable to stay due to having a trailer with a car in it and not being able to unhitch to back into a site" - a common challenge at campgrounds not specifically designed for equestrian vehicles.
Dump station timing: At popular horse campgrounds, end-of-weekend departures create congestion. Point Beach visitors warn "the dump station gets really backed up at the end of the weekend" suggesting earlier departure times for those with holding tanks.
