Kettle Moraine State Forest offers distinctive terrain for equestrian camping near Oostburg, Wisconsin. The forest's glacial landscape features rolling hills and valleys formed during the last ice age, creating diverse riding elevations and challenges. Campsites for horse enthusiasts operate seasonally from May through October, with most equestrian facilities requiring advance reservations.
What to do
Swimming and water recreation: Mauthe Lake Campground provides a clean swimming area with no motor boats allowed. "Nice clean swimming and lots of hiking and biking options," notes Noreen T. Sarah L. adds, "We've been camping here for years and love the beautiful lake for swimming and watersports. No motor boats so nice and quiet."
Biking on crushed gravel paths: Kettle Moraine trails connect various lakes and camping areas via maintained paths suitable for casual riders. At Mauthe Lake, visitors appreciate the "crushed gravel trail running from here to Long Lake that is great for running/walking/biking," according to Sarah L.
Mini golf: Harnischfeger County Park offers a 9-hole mini golf course for $1 per person. "Has a 9 hole mini golf course that cost $1 a person. Has trails, disc golf, and Rock River for kayaking," shares Brittany R. Taylor C. confirms, "The campground has alot of great amenities. Theirs a mini gulf course that we had alot of fun with."
What campers like
Private shower facilities: Campers appreciate individual shower rooms at select campgrounds in the area. At Mauthe Lake, "the showers are a bit of a hike from most sites but they are private/individual rooms," notes Graisyn S.
Spacious campsites: High Cliff State Park receives positive feedback for site dimensions. "The sites are good sized and clean. Bathrooms were clean and well taken care of, staff friendly and helpful," reports Karyn S. At Mauthe Lake, Charles M. notes, "The sites are well separated for privacy."
Firewood delivery service: Some campgrounds bring firewood directly to your site. At Menomonee Park, Kim shares, "Very convenient that they drive through the Campground to sell/deliver firewood."
What you should know
Water quality considerations: Pack extra drinking water when visiting certain campgrounds. At Point Beach State Forest, Terry L. advises, "The drinking water is not good so be sure to pack enough."
Shower house locations: Many campgrounds have shower buildings centralized rather than distributed throughout camping areas. Charles M. notes at Mauthe Lake, "the shower house is perfect for an end of the day washing," but other campers mention distances to facilities can be substantial.
Campground capacity: Smaller parks fill quickly, especially during peak season. Laura M. reports about Point Beach State Forest: "Huge campground, and I guess we were lucky to snag a site mid week in August, as there were only two sites left when we arrived in the early afternoon."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Menomonee Park features family-friendly swimming areas. Matt N. notes, "The quarry is good for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing. There is a beach with life guards." Kyle B. confirms, "The pond has a great beach for kids."
Playground options: Some parks offer dedicated play equipment for younger visitors. At High Cliff State Park, Kaylyn C. mentions, "There are two playgrounds for the kids as well."
Ice cream stops: Treat opportunities exist both inside and outside the parks. Sarah L. recommends, "If you like ice cream, head to Dundee and visit the Hamburger Haus." Other campgrounds like Point Beach State Forest have on-site options where Laura M. notes they enjoyed "ice cream" from the concession stand.
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection for trailers: At Sundance Farm Campground near Plymouth, pull-through sites are limited. Angie G. warns, "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."
Dump station timing: Plan departure times strategically to avoid congestion. Laura M. advises about Point Beach State Forest: "The dump station gets really backed up at the end of the weekend, so heads up."
Electric service specifications: Most equestrian camping areas in the region offer 30-amp connections rather than 50-amp. Check power requirements before booking, especially for larger RVs with air conditioning units that may require higher amperage during summer months.
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