Kettle Moraine State Forest offers multiple campgrounds within 45 minutes of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin. The forest's glacial terrain features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,200 feet. Summer temperatures typically average 75-85°F during daytime with cooler evenings around 55-60°F, making it ideal for overnight horse trips from April through November.
What to do
Trail riding access: The Southern Unit Horseriders Campground provides direct access to extensive bridle trails that wind through glacial terrain. "The campground has a little free library. There are electric and non-electric campsites, all seem to have a picnic table and fireplace. There are ample places to bridle horses and shared corrals every four or five campsites," notes Josh F. from Southern Unit Horseriders Campground.
Hiking options: Backpacking trails connect to campgrounds throughout Kettle Moraine. "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. Area has extensive trail systems," says Andrew S. from Kettle Moraine Southern Unit.
Swimming and fishing: After a day on horseback, cool off at nearby lakes. "The lake is nice and there is a very nice beach as well as a fishing pier. When it rained the first night, most of the site was mud," reports Glenn S. about Ottawa Lake at Kettle Moraine South.
What campers like
Camp privacy: Many sites offer good separation 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," writes Abbe W. about Pinewoods Campground.
Quiet camping areas: Dedicated quiet zones appeal to those seeking peaceful equestrian camping. "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," shares Wendy Z. from Kettle Moraine Southern Unit.
Group facilities: For equestrian group trips, specialized areas accommodate larger gatherings. "Making reservations at the group site was easy and ensured no other campers were near us. Beach access and a great tree canopy allowed for comfortable tent camping," notes Juliya R. from Kettle Moraine South Camping.
What you should know
Winter access: Unlike some campgrounds that close seasonally, year-round options exist. "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," advises Tim H. about Ottawa Lake Campground.
Restroom facilities: Bathroom quality varies by campground and season. "The pit toilets are about 3 sites away, a short walk. The showers were clean and when we used them, available. There is a playground right next to them as well," mentions Wendy Z. about Kettle Moraine.
Site selection tips: Research specific sites before booking. "The group campsite has six sites and they are not pull through for trailers. There is a fire pit with fixed seating around it centrally-located in the group campsite. The group campsite does not have electric units," explains Josh F. about the Southern Unit Horseriders Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer recreation areas for children. "A nice state park. Clean bathrooms with showers. Good sized site with nice privacy. Good hiking around the lake and mostly dog friendly. Nice play ground with horse she pits," recommends Matt N. from Lake Kegonsa State Park.
Hiking with kids: Look for trails accessible directly from campsites. "We asked the ranger about hiking and she gave us a map to a trail system that connects to this campground between the group sites and loop 3. We enjoyed a 4 mile hike from camp to the observation trail. The trail is wide which meant my doggo hiked by my side," shares Art S. from Pinewoods Campground.
Activity options: Campgrounds with varied amenities keep children engaged. "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," reports Taylor C. from Harnischfeger County Park.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Some campgrounds offer pull-through options for horse trailers. "There are several 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," suggests Josh F. about the Horseriders Campground.
Electric and water hookups: Verify utility availability when booking. "Sites with letters are tent sites without water or electric, sites with numbers have water and 30 amp service, though there are plans to upgrade the sites to all have water and 50 amp service in the future," explains Lauren S. from Harnischfeger County Park.
Weather preparation: Be prepared for changing conditions. "When we were there 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," recalls Joyce B. about camping in Kettle Moraine.
