Best Tent Camping near Oconomowoc, WI

The Kettle Moraine State Forest surrounding Oconomowoc, Wisconsin offers several secluded tent camping options, including the highly-rated KMSF Shelter 1 Backpack Site accessible only by hiking trails. Sandhill Station State Campground in the Lake Mills Wildlife Area, about 20 miles west of Oconomowoc, provides walk-in tent-only camping in an oak savanna setting. For tent campers seeking lakeside views, Snug Harbor Inn Campground on Turtle Lake features elevated tent sites with lake vistas, while Cappie's Landing offers boat-in and walk-in tent camping opportunities. Little Turtle Lake and Purplehaze Acres provide additional primitive tent camping options within a 30-mile radius of Oconomowoc.

Many tent-only sites in the region require campers to carry gear from parking areas to their campsites, with distances ranging from 100 to 500 yards at Sandhill Station. Pit toilets are common at most locations, though flush toilets and showers are limited to larger facilities. Fire rings are provided at most sites, but firewood availability varies significantly. According to reviews, campers should pack light when visiting walk-in sites and consider seasonal conditions, as summer camping can bring heavy mosquito activity near wetlands. Fall and spring typically offer more comfortable tent camping conditions with fewer insects and moderate temperatures.

In early fall, tent campers at Sandhill Station enjoy spacious, private sites with oak trees providing mixed shade. One visitor noted the campground is "a nice choice if you want a private, quiet getaway into the oak savanna of southern Wisconsin." At KMSF Shelter 1 Backpack Site, campers reported finding "a decent walk and terrain to get to the site" with "an open shelter to put your tent if you prefer" and described it as "very secluded for privacy." The Greenbush Group Campground in the northern unit of Kettle Moraine State Forest offers large grassy sites surrounded by trees, with some sites able to accommodate up to 20 backpacking tents, making it ideal for group backcountry tent camping experiences approximately 45 miles north of Oconomowoc.

Best Tent Sites Near Oconomowoc, Wisconsin (11)

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Tent Camping Reviews near Oconomowoc, WI

615 Reviews of 11 Oconomowoc Campgrounds



Guide to Oconomowoc

Tent camping near Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, offers a variety of scenic spots where nature lovers can unwind and enjoy the great outdoors. With options ranging from rustic sites to more developed campgrounds, there's something for everyone.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • Enjoy a peaceful retreat at Sandhill Station State Campground — Lake Mills Wildlife Area, where you can hike in and explore the beautiful oak savanna.
  • Experience the tranquility of KMSF Shelter 1 Backpack Site, perfect for those seeking a secluded backpacking adventure with a fire pit and picnic table.
  • Take a break along the Wild Goose City Park trail in Juneau, where you can relax and enjoy a picnic after biking through the scenic landscape.

Local attractions to explore

Tips for tent camping near Oconomowoc

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Oconomowoc, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Oconomowoc, WI is KMSF Shelter 1 Backpack Site with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Oconomowoc, WI?

TheDyrt.com has all 11 tent camping locations near Oconomowoc, WI, with real photos and reviews from campers.