Camping spots near Oostburg, Wisconsin range from lakeside sites along the 300 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline to wooded inland locations with diverse terrain. The region sits on glacial formations that created kettles and moraines throughout the landscape, resulting in distinctive camping environments with elevation changes between 700-1,000 feet. Temperatures typically range from 65-85°F during peak camping season from late May through September.
What to do
Boardwalk hiking through dunes: At Kohler-Andrae State Park, wooden boardwalks provide accessible trails through rare sand dunes. "Hiking trails are great, especially the ones through the dunes," notes Elliot Q., who recommends these paths for their unique ecosystem views.
Lake swimming and beach activities: Beaches at Kettle Moraine State Forest Long Lake Campground offer sandy shores for summer water activities. "Two beaches and a fishing pier make our top list of daytime activities," reports Amy F., who has been taking her daughter there for years.
Astronomy programs: Several parks in the region offer night sky observation opportunities with minimal light pollution. "Nicely situated in Kettle," notes Chris A. about Long Lake Campground, making it ideal for stargazing on clear nights when ranger programs aren't scheduled.
Fishing in varied waters: Multiple fishing spots exist across the region's lakes. "We caught some large blue gill, a few crappie, perch and bass," shares Nicole T., who finds Long Lake great for fishing despite being a "weedy" lake, which actually benefits certain fish species.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers value secluded spots that provide separation from neighboring campers. At Harrington Beach State Park Campground, "Most of the sites are pretty secluded so if you enjoy your privacy I will love this place," according to J K., who appreciated the well-maintained grounds.
Sunset views: Lakefront camping areas offer memorable evening skies over the water. "Sunrises so, so beautiful," says Kathie M. about Kohler-Andrae State Park, which she describes as having "everything! Trails, dunes, marshes, forests, and Lake Michigan."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers rank high on camper priorities. At Mauthe Lake Campground, "Campground facilities are clean, 30 amp at the electrical site worked perfectly," reports Elizabeth S., who found the sunset on the lake "ridiculously beautiful."
Paved roads for activities: Some campgrounds feature paved pathways ideal for family recreation. "The paved roads in the campground are nice for bike and rollerblading," mentions Mel C. about Kettle Moraine State Forest Long Lake Campground, appreciating how they enhanced exploration options.
What you should know
Tree removal impacts: Insect infestations have affected tree coverage at some campgrounds. Geoffrey B. notes about Harrington Beach: "They had to cut down most of the trees due to the emerald ash borrer. when the sun is out it gets HOT."
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Long Lake Campground, GA J. advises, "You can reserve or try your luck on getting in especially during summer season," but recommends booking ahead whenever possible.
Lake water quality concerns: Water testing impacts swimming safety at some locations. One camper warns about Long Lake: "They test one [beach] for ecoli and close it but leave the other one open because they don't have to test both. It's 50 feet away."
Varying site sizes: Campgrounds offer different sized sites for different camping styles. Justin F. explains that Kohler-Andrae provides "pretty good space in between sites" but notes "inconsistency with fire pits, some on the opposite side that doesn't give you much privacy for a campfire."
Tips for camping with families
Beach accessibility: When selecting a campsite, consider distance to swimming areas. Amanda G. recommends checking location before booking at Harrington Beach: "The lake was a short bike ride from our site, and we enjoyed walking the beach and attached trails."
Activity planning for kids: Several campgrounds offer specific recreation options for children. Kendra G. notes that Kohler-Andrae has "a large open area and play area for kids to run around walkable from the camping, lots of little paths to explore!"
Ice cream excursions: Local treats can enhance family camping trips. Brandon L. recommends from Sundance Farm Campground: "Took a ride over to the town of Dundee and checked out Hamburger Haus for some HUGE ice cream cones."
Weather preparation: Temperatures can fluctuate unexpectedly in the region. Lillix E. warns about Kohler-Andrae: "I wasn't planning on it being that cool at night, I know better now," suggesting families pack extra layers even for summer camping.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Electric service differs across campgrounds. Mauthe Lake Campground offers 30-amp service at selected sites, which Elizabeth S. found "worked perfectly" for her camping setup.
Site selection for large rigs: Some campgrounds have limited pull-through options. Angie G. cautions about Sundance Farm: "Few pull throughs... We were reserved, but unable to stay due to having a trailer with a car in it and not being able to unhitch to back into a site."
Campsite surfaces: Site conditions vary throughout the region. Charles M. explains at Mauthe Lake: "Some of the campsites seems very shallow but if you looked closer they have a path or another site to put a tent."
Road considerations: Internal campground roads may present challenges. Sarah N. praises Sundance Farm for "great water/power hookups" while being "minutes from downtown Plymouth and Road America," making it convenient for RVers seeking both nature and nearby amenities.
