Best Campgrounds near Oconomowoc, WI

The Kettle Moraine State Forest dominates the camping landscape near Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, with multiple developed campgrounds within a 30-minute drive. Ottawa Lake Campground and Pinewoods Campground, both part of the Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit, provide established camping areas with varying amenities. These locations accommodate diverse camping preferences with tent sites, RV hookups, and some cabin options. The Southern Unit of Kettle Moraine offers year-round camping opportunities, though specific campgrounds like Pinewoods operate seasonally from May through October. Several county parks supplement these options, including Naga-Waukee Park by Waukesha County Parks, which maintains 30 sites for tents and RVs approximately 15 miles north of Oconomowoc.

Camping regulations and amenities vary significantly across the region's campgrounds. Most sites in Kettle Moraine require reservations, particularly during summer weekends and fall color season. The state forest campgrounds typically provide drinking water, toilets, and shower facilities, with electric hookups available at select sites. Ottawa Lake Campground features both standard and electric sites, while Pinewoods Campground offers more secluded, wooded camping areas. Accessibility remains good throughout most of the year, though spring conditions can create muddy access roads. As one camper noted, "The campsites are large with lots of foliage for privacy. It's so pretty in the fall. Red Trail, Paradise Trail, Rice Lake are all great hikes."

Visitors consistently highlight the region's glacial topography and recreational opportunities. The Ice Age Trail passes through several campgrounds, providing direct hiking access from campsites. Campers frequently mention the privacy of sites at Pinewoods Campground, where the pine forest creates natural separation between camping areas. According to reviews, Ottawa Lake offers "gorgeous private, well wooded areas that make you feel like you're all alone in the woods." Water recreation represents another popular feature, with Ottawa Lake providing swimming and fishing opportunities directly from the campground. The proximity to hiking trails receives particular praise, with multiple reviewers mentioning the convenience of accessing the Ice Age Trail and other hiking paths from their campsites. Winter camping is available at some locations, though with reduced amenities and fewer open facilities.

Best Camping Sites Near Oconomowoc, Wisconsin (98)

    1. Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    39 Reviews
    North Prairie, WI
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 594-6200

    "Site was spacious but very close to your neighbors. Lots to do in the area. Bathrooms and showers were clean. The beach was not clean and very hard to walk on, very rocky."

    "Made my first visit to Ottawa Lake on a mid-March weekend. The facilities were still under their winter setup (only vault toilet, no shower available, pay in an envelope)."

    2. Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    22 Reviews
    North Prairie, WI
    10 miles
    +1 (262) 626-2116

    $18 - $30 / night

    "It is close to the Ice Age trail and the Scuppernong trail, and a short drive from Ottawa LakeNearby is some excellent mountain biking in hilly terrain at the Emma Carlin and John Muir trails. "

    "Pinewoods Campground is part of the southern Kettle Morraine State Forest in Wisconsin. The campground is secluded and most sites are private and shaded."

    3. Kettle Moraine Southern Unit — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    10 Reviews
    North Prairie, WI
    11 miles
    Website

    $28 / night

    "You can walk over to an area that has hiking trails right out of the campsite. State park mountain biking trails are also close by, but you would need to drive to them."

    "Reservable backpacking sites about 45-60min away from nearest parking.

    Fire pit, shelter, and picnic table at site.

    Really enjoyed the hike through forest to get to this site."

    4. Naga-Waukee Park by Waukesha County Parks

    8 Reviews
    Delafield, WI
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 548-7801

    $25 - $80 / night

    "Nestled in the heart of lake country (Waukesha County) and accessible from the Lake Country Trail and Ice Age Trail, this county park is perfect for those just passing through or families looking for a"

    "Very windy weekend but I imagine during the summer it’s a great spot to camp near their big beach and lake access."

    5. Pike Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Pike Lake Unit

    18 Reviews
    Slinger, WI
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 670-3400

    "North Kettle Moraine, Pike Lake Unit was an easy choice given it's proximity to the city- about 40 minutes."

    "A last minute decision to camp for a night led my son and I to the often visited Pike Lake unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. Its a beautiful park and within 30 minutes of our home."

    6. Kettle Moraine South Camping — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    12 Reviews
    Eagle, WI
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 594-6220

    "Red Trail, Paradise Trail,Rice Lake are all great hikes. Great views of Lake Ottawa.

    The close by town of Oconomowoc has a nice place to eat, Burkes Lakeside."

    "Whether you're in a tent or in a camper you can find just as much comfort as you're looking for. there's a lake with a swimming area if that's what you're looking for, not to mention a dock with great"

    7. Harnischfeger County Park

    3 Reviews
    Ixonia, WI
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (920) 386-3700

    "Has trails, disc golf, and rock river for kayaking."

    "Their is also a great hiking trail if you like that."

    8. Menomonee Park by Waukesha County Parks

    7 Reviews
    Menomonee Falls, WI
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 548-7801

    $25 - $80 / night

    "Live nearby. We go there a lot over the summer. Fun park to ride bikes through. Many trails to walk or hike. The pond has a great beach for kids."

    "There are miles of nice hiking trails, a nice beach, pavilions to rent, horse riding trails, archery range and I’m sure I’m missing more."

    9. Mukwonago Park by Waukesha County Parks

    6 Reviews
    Mukwonago, WI
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 548-7801

    $25 - $80 / night

    "The rangers drive through regularly and will deliver wood to your site if requested."

    "Swim or fish in the lake, archery or huge picnic sites."

    10. KMSF Shelter 1 Backpack Site

    1 Review
    Eagle, WI
    12 miles
    Website

    "Decent walk and terrain to get to the site. There is an open shelter to put your tent if you prefer to outside. There is a fire pit, but we found our own wood around the site. (Bring a small axe)."

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Recent Reviews near Oconomowoc, WI

678 Reviews of 98 Oconomowoc Campgrounds


  • Jessica T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Pilgrims Campground

    Nice enough grounds, poorly maintained electric panels

    To be honest I thought this stay was going to be easy and the first couple days were. They didn’t have full hook up sites and we have a 50 amp rig… we used a dogbone to connect to the 30 amp site. It was fine for a bit but then we started to get surges. Our EMS protected the rig but ultimately we couldn’t use the power. Even with only running the fridge it continued to trip. We tried the one next to us and it gave us the reverse polarity code so we decided it would be best to just leave the following day. The grounds are well maintained and the owners are friendly… they mentioned some of their 30 amp sites will get converted to 50 next year so hopefully that helps but definitely frustrating to need to book another site and forfeit money on this one.

  • Mark D.
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    We had such an enjoyable time at Ottawa Lake Campground.

    Escape the everyday and immerse yourself in nature at Ottawa Lake Campground. Nestled in the heart of the Kettle Moraine State Forest, this welcoming retreat offers lakeside fun, scenic hiking trails, the quiet beauty of a true Northwoods experience, all without a long drive.

    We have visited the Campground 5 times this year already, we love hiking all the trails in the Kettle Moraine Southern Unit.

    https://youtu.be/xl4uAtNWclM

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Fon du Lac County Waupun Park

    Oak/hickory forest

    The campground is in a beautiful oak/hickory forest with many birds, chipmunks and skeeters(pack protection). We stayed on site 22 which was a nine minute walk from the toilet and had a street light. There are water spigots throughout. Site 21 or 23 would be better. The sites are large and the ones on the outside of the loop are very private. The campground was quiet, especially after dark! There is a train horn occasionally, but it’s distant. The showers were hot and clean. The playground was fun. There is a pickle ball court, so bring paddles. There is also a walking trail.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Pettits Lakeview Campground & Bar

    Family Friendly Lakeside Campground

    Pettit’s Lakeview Campground & Bar is the kind of place where family camping meets lakeside fun with a lively twist, sitting right on Lake Koshkonong with beautiful sunset views and easy boat access. My kids loved the playground while the adults enjoyed Friday fish fries, live music and the laid-back bar that doubles as a social hub, creating a strong community vibe with theme weekends and plenty of laughter. That said, it’s definitely more “festival” than “quiet forest” with sites being closing together, weekends can get noisy with karaoke and bar traffic, and shade is limited, so if you’re looking for peace and birdwatching, this isn’t it, but for families who don’t mind a little bustle, it’s a fun and memorable spot.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Pilgrims Campground

    Simple Campground

    With a small family to mind, while out enjoying a short weekend of camping, I appreciated Pilgrim’s Campground in Wisconsin for its quiet, family-oriented atmosphere that made our stay both relaxing and memorable. The sites were clean, level and easy to settle into, with plenty of shade and enough space for the kids to play safely nearby. While the campground doesn’t have the flashy resort-style amenities of some bigger parks, it makes up for it with well-kept facilities, a friendly, welcoming staff, and a slower pace that let us truly enjoy time together outdoors. My kids loved riding their bikes around the loops, roasting marshmallows at night and spotting wildlife along the nature trails, while I valued the sense of safety and the community feel among fellow campers. Conveniently located near local attractions yet peaceful enough to feel tucked away, Pilgrim’s offered the perfect balance of simplicity, comfort, and wholesome family camping.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Milton-Madison SE KOA

    KOA Close to Lake Koshkonong

    With 2 kids to mind, I found the Milton-Madison SE KOA to be one of the most family-friendly campgrounds we’ve visited, with something for everyone to enjoy. With over 200 sites, the campground is clearly geared toward RVs and fifth wheels, but it also offers a few cabins and tent sites, giving families different ways to stay. The kids were thrilled with the heated pool that even has a waterfall, the playgrounds, gaga ball, arcade, and weekend rides like the barrel train and hayrack.  In short, there was always something to keep them entertained while I could actually relax. I appreciated the practical touches like clean restrooms and showers, laundry facilities, a well-stocked market and a clubhouse with plenty of space to gather. My husband loved that Lake Koshkonong was right nearby for fishing and paddling, and we all enjoyed exploring Milton’s small-town restaurants with Mary’s Café for biscuits and gravy that was a huge hit and Frederick’s Supper Club, both of which made for a special night out. The Riggio family, who run the campground, were some of the kindest hosts we’ve met, which made the whole experience feel extra welcoming. While I do think the tent sites and cabins are a bit pricey for what you get, the number of activities, amenities, and nearby conveniences made it worth it for the memories we created together. For families looking for a lively, activity-packed camping trip, this KOA is a great choice.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Lakeland Camping Resort

    Lakefront Fun

    As a mom, I found Lakeland RV Campground in Milton to be the kind of place where the whole family can truly unwind and have fun together. Set along Lake Koshkonong this place was bursting with energy and feels more like a summer resort than a traditional campground with over 270 full-hookup sites and cozy cabins for families who don’t have an RV. The kids had endless options to keep them busy from 2 swimming pools, a sandy beach, playgrounds, mini golf, sports courts, and even planned activities and themed weekends and I loved the convenience of the camp store, laundry, fitness center and clean facilities. In the evenings, we enjoyed gathering around the campfire under the stars, and during the day we ventured onto the lake for kayaking and fishing, which felt like a little adventure just steps from our site. It was also nice knowing that if we wanted a change of pace, Milton and Janesville offered small-town charm and great dining and Madison wasn’t far for a day trip. My mom tips? Book a site away from the pools if you want peace and quiet, treat yourself to dinner at Fredrick’s Supper Club, sneak out early for a serene paddle on the lake, and don’t worry if you forgot gear as nearby shops have you covered. Lakeland made it easy for me to relax while my kids had a blast, and that combination is what makes it such a special family getaway.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Fort Atkinson

    Nostalgic Campground

    As a mom, I can honestly say that Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Fort Atkinson is one of those rare campgrounds where the kids are entertained from morning till night and parents can actually relax a little too. The whole place feels designed with families in mind: colorful playgrounds, themed weekends, wagon rides, character visits from Yogi and Boo Boo, and a pool with splash zones that keep little ones happy for hours. Our campsite was clean and level, with options for full hookups or cozy cabins if you’d rather skip the RV, and the bathhouses were spotless, which is something I always look for. What I appreciated most was the balance: the kids could run from the jumping pillow to the mini golf course to the craft barn without ever getting bored, while my husband and I enjoyed sitting by the campfire or joining in on family activities like outdoor 'movies under the stars.' The campground store was well-stocked with snacks, s’mores supplies, and those 'oops, we forgot it' supplies, which saved us more than once. And while there’s plenty to do onsite, being near Lake Koshkonong and Fort Atkinson means you can easily slip away for a day of fishing, boating, or exploring. For me, the best part was watching my kids’ faces light up during the evening hayride, sticky with marshmallow, waving at Yogi like he was a celebrity that felt like the kind of wholesome, memory-making trip I hope they’ll look back on for years.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    Close to "home" beautiful sites

    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.


Guide to Oconomowoc

Camping options near Oconomowoc, Wisconsin include multiple sites within short driving distance that remain accessible throughout most seasons. Winter camping is available at several locations in Kettle Moraine State Forest, though with reduced amenities. The area's glacial topography creates varied terrain for camping, with elevations ranging from 800-1,100 feet. Several campgrounds feature direct access to the Ice Age Trail, allowing hikers to explore the region's unique geological features.

What to do

Hiking at Scuppernong Springs: Pike Lake Campground provides access to numerous trails within a short distance. "We hiked and stayed for 2 nights in early October 2017. It was really cold and we blew through 4 bundles of firewood each day! Our site was close enough to the vault toilets and the flush toilets/showers weren't too far off," explains Joyce B.

Mini golf at Harnischfeger Park: This smaller county park features unexpected recreation options beyond standard camping. "The campground has alot of great amenities. Theirs a mini gulf course that we had alot of fun with. Their is also a great hiking trail if you like that," notes Taylor C.

Bird watching at Mukwonago Park: The varied ecosystems at this county park create excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "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.

Swimming in quarry waters: Menomonee Park offers unique swimming options different from the lake swimming at other area campgrounds. "The quarry is good for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing. There is a beach with life guards," explains Matt N.

What campers like

Winter camping opportunities: Several campgrounds in the region remain open for cold-weather camping with specific amenities. "No showers in winter but awesome," says David H. about Ottawa Lake Campground. For winter campers, proper preparation is essential since facilities are limited.

Wooded privacy between sites: Campers frequently mention the separation between campsites as a key feature at certain locations. "The campsites are nicely sized and sufficiently shady. The lake is great for swimming, though they do have e coli warnings frequently in the heat of summer," notes Jimmy P.

Spring water access: Natural springs provide unique features at several campgrounds. "Beautiful campground (Ottawa Lake campsites) Great Lake, hiking to see the natural springs which is the coolest!! Drank fresh spring water!" shares Autumn S.

Proximity to mountain biking: For cyclists, several campgrounds provide access to dedicated biking trails. "Nice, clean, well-run campground with some electric sites and several bathroom/shower buildings if needed. Nice little lake to swim or paddle on. 20 minute drive to the awesome Kettle Moraine biking trails. Yee haw!" explains Heather H.

What you should know

Road noise varies by location: Campgrounds near highways experience variable traffic sound levels. "The road noise is absolutely noticeable. It was incredibly loud when we drove through the loop closest to the highway and was significantly better even just one section over," reports Linda N. about Ottawa Lake Campground.

Site selection matters for weather: Some campgrounds have drainage issues during wet weather. "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," explains Glenn S. about Kettle Moraine South Camping.

Lake water quality fluctuates: Swimming conditions at certain lakes can change throughout summer. "The lake is very clean and the site are a good size. Gets very busy on the weekends!" notes Neysha R.

Varied quiet hour enforcement: Campgrounds differ in how strictly they regulate evening noise. "What good are quiet hours if they are not enforced? The people across from us were playing music and being loud well past 1:00 am," reports Jon at Menomonee Park.

Tips for camping with families

Choose correct loop for dogs: Pet policies vary by specific camping loop even within the same campground. "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," advises Art S. about Pinewoods Campground.

Select quiet zones for peaceful stays: Some campgrounds designate specific areas for families wanting less noise. "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," explains Wendy Z.

Look for activity variety: Parks with multiple recreation options keep children engaged. "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 Matt N. about Menomonee Park.

Prepare for bugs: Insect activity increases during summer months. "A beautiful campground that caters to families. There are hiking trails incorporated into the campground with access to the kettle morraine Forrest. 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 Amanda F.

Tips from RVers

Tight turns in campground loops: Some campgrounds have challenging driving conditions for larger rigs. "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.

Best sites for larger RVs: Specific campsites accommodate different vehicle sizes better than others. "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), some incorporate the geography into the site (#23 & #17 - very much tent sites, #15 great for a small trailer)," explains Sugar Maple S.

Full-time RV considerations: Some campers use these grounds as base camps while visiting nearby areas. "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 Kettle Moraine State Forest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find campgrounds near Oconomowoc, WI?

Several excellent campgrounds are located within a short drive of Oconomowoc. Kettle Moraine South Camping — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit is a popular option with large, private campsites surrounded by foliage, offering beautiful fall colors and access to hiking trails like Red Trail and Paradise Trail. Another good choice is Pike Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Pike Lake Unit, which features fantastic hiking trails in the glacial kettle moraine landscape. Both are within 30 minutes of Oconomowoc and provide access to scenic outdoor recreation opportunities.

What RV rental options are available in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin?

While Oconomowoc itself has limited direct RV rental services, several RV-friendly campgrounds in the area accommodate rental RVs. The Playful Goose Campground offers large lots that back up to forested areas, making it ideal for RV camping. Waupun Park Campground is another option with amenities specifically for RVs including fresh water access and a dump station. For RV rentals, check with dealerships in nearby Milwaukee or Madison, or use online peer-to-peer RV rental platforms that serve the greater Wisconsin area.

What amenities do Oconomowoc camping areas typically offer?

Campgrounds near Oconomowoc typically offer a range of amenities to enhance your camping experience. Big Foot Beach State Park Campground provides showers, bathrooms, and beach access. William G. Lunney Lake Farm Campground features generous sites with electric hookups at reasonable prices. Most campgrounds in the region offer fire rings, picnic tables, and access to clean restroom facilities. Many also provide water sources, while some have shower facilities and dump stations for RVs. The more developed campgrounds include additional amenities like playgrounds, hiking trails, and lake access for recreation.