Kettle Moraine State Forest offers extensive equestrian camping near Oak Creek, Wisconsin with dedicated facilities for riders and their horses. The forest's glacial topography creates varied terrain ranging from 250 to 400 feet in elevation, with moderate temperature variations typical of Wisconsin's continental climate. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing while summer days reach 75-85°F with moderate humidity, making April through October the prime season for horseback riding excursions.
What to do
Fishing and water activities: Ottawa Lake in the southern unit provides anglers with multiple fishing spots. "The lake is nice and there is a very nice beach as well as a fishing pier. I didn't take advantage of any of the hiking trails so cannot speak to those," notes a visitor to Kettle Moraine South Camping.
Mountain biking: The southern unit contains designated mountain biking trails for visitors seeking alternative recreation. "Great natural and historical sites. Awesome single-track mountain bike trails. Multiple campgrounds. Something for everyone," shares a reviewer at Kettle Moraine Southern Unit.
Winter camping: Some areas remain open during colder months for off-season visitors. "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," reports a camper at Ottawa Lake.
Backpacking adventures: The Ice Age Trail connects with campgrounds, offering overnight hiking options. "Camped here twice - the first time was just one night in early July 2017 when we were backpacking on the Ice Age Trail. 3 of us were newbies and wanted a comfortable/safe place to stay for the night," writes a visitor to Pinewoods Campground.
What campers like
Loop diversity: Campgrounds offer different experiences based on loop selection. "There are 3 separate loops, 1 quiet zone, one group, one family. Pit and flush toilets, showers, only 2 electric sites within Pinewoods," explains one Pinewoods Campground visitor.
Nearby attractions: The forest's proximity to area landmarks provides additional activities. "There's a lake for swimming, fishing and boating only 4 miles down the road at Ottawa Campground. Both are a part of Kettle Moraine South Unit," mentions a Pinewoods camper.
Spacious campsites: Many sites offer room for equipment and privacy from neighbors. "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," shares a review from Big Foot Beach State Park.
Wildlife encounters: The natural setting offers opportunities to observe local animals. "There was a posting about black bear sightings in the area. We did not experience that, just chipmunks and birds," notes a Pinewoods visitor.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Advanced booking is recommended, especially during peak season. "Please reserve especially on weekends," advises a camper at Kettle Moraine South Camping.
Site selection considerations: Not all campsites are created equal and research helps ensure the best experience. "Firstly- don't reserve a spot in loop 1 if you have a dog. It was easy enough to change but now we know to aim for loop 2 or 3," reports a visitor to Pinewoods.
Weather preparedness: Rain can significantly impact camping conditions. "When it rained the first night, most of the site was mud," explains a Menomonee Park visitor about managing wet conditions.
Noise levels: Different loops have varying noise regulations. "The site was actually really lovely and I appreciated the thick brush creating some real seclusion. The quiet Loop was a wonderful idea however, the campsite next to us was blasting music," shares a Pinewoods camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "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," notes a visitor to Menomonee Park.
Educational opportunities: Activity books enhance children's experiences. "Pick Up the activity book for kids it is a great adventure lots to do at the lake!!!" suggests a camper at Kettle Moraine South Camping.
Bike-friendly environments: Bicycles help families navigate larger campgrounds. "Bringing bikes is a great idea for getting around to bathrooms/the camp store. Definitely make sure to bring your bug spray for this location!" advises a Pinewoods visitor.
Loop selection for quieter experience: Family campers seeking less noise should research specific areas. "We have been to Menomonee park several times. It is one of the kids favorites. The sites are just about all wooded. Not huge but a good size for a country park," reports a reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Electric site availability: Limited electric hookup sites may require early reservations. "There are a number of sites along one side of the park that are a little more secluded and in a pine forest. 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," notes a visitor to Southern Unit Horseriders Campground.
Site layout considerations: RV campers should research specific site dimensions before arrival. "We stayed in loop 3 site 273 as we were camping in the early season and loops 1-2 were closed. The site was well wooded and very spacious! It had a decent clearing for some sun and the driveway was longer setting it back from the loop road," shares a Pinewoods camper.
Dump station access: Check for waste disposal facilities before arrival. "Electric is easily accessible, and water/sanitary is easy to get in and out of," reports a visitor at Fox Den campground.
