Camping options near Palmyra, Wisconsin center on the unique glacial topography of the Kettle Moraine region, which was formed by the retreat of ice sheets approximately 10,000 years ago. The landscape features distinctive kettle depressions, kames, drumlins, and eskers that provide varied camping terrain across the region. At elevations ranging from 800-1,100 feet, campsites throughout the area experience cool nights even in summer with temperatures often dropping into the 50s after sunset.
What to do
Hike to the observation tower: The Southern Unit has hiking trails directly accessible from Pinewoods Campground that lead to scenic overlooks. "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," notes one visitor who appreciated the trail access.
Visit natural springs: The spring-fed waterways near Ottawa Lake Campground offer refreshing exploration options. "Great hiking right across the street with views of little springs. Kids lived it," explains a camper who enjoyed the natural water features with their family. Another camper notes the "hiking to see the natural springs which is the coolest!! Drank fresh spring water!"
Swimming and water activities: Summer visitors can enjoy the clean beaches and swimming areas. "The lake is very clean and the site are a good size. Gets very busy on the weekends!" reports a camper at Ottawa Lake. For those seeking alternatives, Mukwonago Park has "a spring fed and very pleasant swimming pond with a nice sandy beach" according to one review.
What campers like
Quiet camping sections: For those seeking peace, Kettle Moraine Southern Unit offers specialized camping loops. "We liked this site because it was on the 'quiet loop.' No radios or pets allowed... it was a beautiful site and wonderfully quiet for the long weekend over the 4th of July," explains a visitor who appreciated the designated quiet zones. At Pinewoods Campground, "Loop 1 is a quiet zone, which actually was very quiet. Everyone was respectful of the rules."
Winter camping options: Unlike many Wisconsin campgrounds, some sites remain open year-round. "No showers in winter but awesome," reports a winter visitor to Ottawa Lake Campground. Another camper notes, "You can camp year around in this campground. Most recent 2 times were winter camping. Nice place for solitude. No rowdies in winter."
Varied site privacy levels: The amount of seclusion between sites varies significantly. At Mukwonago Park by Waukesha County Parks, "The sites are large, spaced out, and the campground is generally quiet." A visitor observed that "Sites are large and well spaced out. The campground is clean and well kept."
What you should know
Seasonal differences in facilities: Services change significantly between seasons. "No showers in winter but awesome," notes a winter visitor to Ottawa Lake, while other campers mention that some bathroom facilities may be limited to vault toilets during colder months.
Weather fluctuations: The area experiences significant temperature swings, especially in fall. One camper at Kettle Moraine State Forest noted their October camping trip: "We blew through 4 bundles of firewood each day!" due to cold temperatures.
Campsite terrain: The glacial geography creates varied site conditions. At Scenic Ridge Campground, one camper mentioned: "Our site was downhill so that presented quite the challenge to level out." Another review notes, "When it rained the first night, most of the site was mud" due to minimal grass coverage in some areas.
Tips for camping with families
Activity books for kids: Some parks offer special educational materials. "Pick Up the activity book for kids it is a great adventure lots to do at the lake!!!" recommends a visitor to the Kettle Moraine area.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer play areas for children. At Snug Harbor Inn Campground, "There is a playground too but the diverse hiking and woodsy sites make this one to return to," according to a camper with children.
Water features for kids: The swimming areas are particularly appealing for families with children. "Spent the weekend and was impressed... Great hiking right across the street with views of little springs. Kids lived it," notes a visitor to Ottawa Lake Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Not all sites accommodate larger RVs equally well. The Southern Unit Horseriders Campground offers "several sites along one side of the park that are a little more secluded and in a pine forest" and "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."
Electric site availability: Electric hookups are limited at some campgrounds. "There's only 2 electric sites within Pinewoods," notes one camper, while others mention that Ottawa Lake has more electric options for those requiring power.
Dump station access: RVers should plan ahead for sanitation needs. At Scenic Ridge Campground, "The sump station is in a rather inconvenient spot at the top of the hill," which caused some issues for departing campers with "about 40 minutes" wait time reported during busy periods.
