Kettle Moraine State Forest encompasses over 22,000 acres of glacial hills, lakes, and forests within 30 minutes of New Berlin, Wisconsin. The region formed during the last ice age, creating unique geological features including drumlins, kames, and kettles that shape camping areas. Winter cabin camping remains available at several locations when temperatures drop below freezing, with Ottawa Lake Campground maintaining year-round operation.
What to Do
Hiking at Kettle Moraine Southern Unit: Access the extensive trail system from your campsite for experiences ranging from short walks to challenging day hikes. "Hiking to see the natural springs which is the coolest!! Drank fresh spring water!" notes Autumn S. about Ottawa Lake Campground.
Lake activities on Ottawa Lake: Swim, paddle or fish in the clean waters throughout summer. "The lake is very clean and the site are a good size. Gets very busy on the weekends!" explains Neysha R. The lake offers family-friendly water activities with a swimming beach and fishing access.
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: Located 20 minutes from most campsites, the Kettle Moraine trails provide excellent terrain for cyclists. "Nice little lake to swim or paddle on. 20 minute drive to the awesome Kettle Moraine biking trails. Yee haw!" shares Heather H. about her experience at Ottawa Lake.
Seasonal events at private campgrounds: Check event schedules when booking, particularly during fall and winter. "We go at least once a year to see the Christmas lights. A great little after work trip on a Friday to cure the kiddos cabin fever a bit," writes Darren L. about holiday activities at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
What Campers Like
Private, wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural separation between sites. "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," explains Wendy Z. about Kettle Moraine Southern Unit.
Winter camping options: Unlike many Wisconsin campgrounds, select locations remain open year-round. "No showers in winter but awesome," notes David H. about winter camping at Ottawa Lake Campground, making it a rare option for cold-weather cabin stays.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and shower buildings. "The shower houses are decent (we usually just have toddler use her travel potty, but this one was fine)," reports one visitor to Honeysuckle Hollow Campground, which offers another cabin option within driving distance of New Berlin.
Lake access for recreation: Most campers value the clean swimming and fishing opportunities. "The lake was very nice. We were able to kayak but be careful getting the kayaks in. Stairs down to the pier and the bottom of the lake is very mushy. The water was very clear and you could see the fish swim by," shares Julia B. from Turner Lake South Campground.
What You Should Know
Cabin availability varies by season: Most cabin accommodations require advance planning, especially for summer weekends. "We were able to grab a nonelectric site and transfer to an electric site when one cancelled last minute," explains Linda N. about camping at Ottawa Lake.
Quiet areas have specific rules: For those seeking minimal noise, certain campground sections enforce stricter policies. "We liked this site because it was on the 'quiet loop.' No radios or pets allowed," notes Wendy Z. about Kettle Moraine Southern Unit.
Mosquitoes and ticks are prevalent: Be prepared for insects, particularly in wooded areas. "It's a wetland, mosquitoes are happening, but the trade off is just about worth it. If you enjoy bird watching or rabbit spotting, this is a great place to go," writes Tim H. about Sunset Campground.
Wildlife encounters are common: Store food properly to avoid attracting animals. "The second it's dusky, they come scavenging for absolutely anything food has touched. So basically, eat dinner and do s'mores early, then everything must be packed into cars for the night and all surfaces wiped down," advises a visitor about raccoons at Honeysuckle Hollow.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Choose sites near recreation areas for convenience with children. "Multiple playgrounds, access to launch sites for kayaks, little store to buy ice cream or snacks," notes a camper about Honeysuckle Hollow facilities.
Kid-friendly activities at Jellystone: Theme park-style amenities provide structured entertainment options. "Great campground for families! Tons to do! Bathrooms/showers are good. Comfortable stay," shares Carol W. about Jellystone Caledonia's family programming.
Cabin camping for beginners: Rustic cabins offer an entry point for families new to outdoor recreation. "Very nice campground and great place to camp for first-time campers like I was. Very nice and clean facilities," reports Barbara P. about Harrington Beach State Park.
Lake safety precautions: Monitor children closely around water features. "The beach and lake was incredibly clean (they had a triathlon there we weekend we stayed). Scuppernong Springs was also a treat for the kiddos although I highly recommended planning for a solid 2 mile hike if you're with kids," advises Linda N.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Research campground layouts before booking cabin or RV sites. "The sites in this area generally have long driveways, more 'privacy' than I've seen in many State Parks campgrounds and generous space between sites," explains Josh F. about the Pine Woods area at Kettle Moraine.
Extended stay options: Seasonal campers find certain areas better suited for longer visits. "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 for doctor and dentist appointments, visiting family and friends, and general relaxation," shares Steve K. about Ottawa Lake Campground.
Electric service limitations: Some cabins and campsites share utilities or have restricted access. "Some spaces the box is further than 30 feet from the pad. A lot of the spaces are also crowded together. Recommend sites 23 to 46 for spacing and electric distance," advises a visitor to Honeysuckle Hollow.
