Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit offers diverse camping options near Palmyra, Wisconsin. The forest features rolling hills, diverse wetlands, and spring-fed lakes formed by glacial activity 10,000 years ago. Elevations range from 750 to 1,050 feet, creating distinctive terrain for camping with seasonal wildflower displays across forest and prairie habitats.
What to Do
Hiking the Ice Age Trail: Access this famous trail directly from campsites at Whitewater Lake Campground. "Easy access to Ice Age Trail from the campground. Nice hike to Rice Lake," notes Abbe W., who appreciated the clean, quiet East Loop sites.
Winter camping adventures: Experience the tranquility of off-season camping at Ottawa Lake Campground. "No showers in winter but awesome," reports David H., who found winter camping particularly rewarding at this location.
Swimming in natural lakes: Find clean swimming areas with gradual depth changes. "The lake is very clean and the site are a good size. Gets very busy on the weekends!" explains Neysha R. about Ottawa Lake's swimming options, ideal for visitors seeking water recreation.
Backpacking to remote sites: Seek seclusion at primitive camping shelters throughout the forest. "Great backpack camp site. Decent walk and terrain to get to the site... very secluded for privacy," writes Erin Z. about her experience at the remote KMSF Shelter 1 site.
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained grounds and facilities at Big Foot Beach State Park Campground. "Clean sites, Lake Geneva swimming, friendly staff not far from Lake Geneva and stores for food and supplies," notes Belinda R.
Proximity to recreational areas: Many sites provide easy access to natural features. "We've stayed here twice. Nice, clean, well-run campground with some electric sites and several bathroom/shower buildings if needed. Nice little lake to swim or paddle on. 20 minute drive to the awesome Kettle Moraine biking trails," explains Heather H.
Convenient location: Campgrounds offer strategic positions for exploring the region. "Perfect for a couple days in the woods. Like most of Wisconsins' parks and forests, Ottawa lake is no different. Offers clean and quiet settings and facilities. Close enough to metropolitan areas but not too close," shares GA J.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Natural habitats attract diverse wildlife. "There are a lot of sites but still felt like there was ample space... Due to the fest, there was some late noise, but nothing obnoxious," reports Dan W. about his stay at Elkhorn Campgrounds.
What You Should Know
Seasonal considerations: Campground usage varies dramatically by season. "Busiest days are after memorial day weekend and to labor day weekend," advises GA J. regarding Ottawa Lake Campground.
Road noise levels: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. "The road noise is absolutely noticeable. It was incredibly loud when we drove through the loop closest to the highway and was significantly better even just one section over," Linda N. observes about site selection at Ottawa Lake.
Popularity factors: Certain sites fill quickly during peak seasons. "This was our first visit to Kettle Moraine and this site was completely booked," notes Linda N., highlighting the importance of advance reservations.
Amenities variation: Available features differ across the area. "Nestled in the heart of the Kettle Moraine State Forest, this welcoming retreat offers lakeside fun, scenic hiking trails, the quiet beauty of a true Northwoods experience, all without a long drive," explains Mark D.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature child-friendly play areas. "Great place to bring our three boys. There are 2 playgrounds, a nice pool, games and activities for the kids over weekends, and the rv sites are well spaced," reports Erin B. about her stay at Milton-Madison SE KOA.
Educational hiking trails: Choose sites near interpretive trails. "The site was spacious and clean... Scuppernong Springs was also a treat for the kiddos although I highly recommended planning for a solid 2 mile hike if you're with kids," suggests Linda N.
Swimming safety: Lakes offer various swimming conditions. "The lake is great for swimming, though they do have e coli warnings frequently in the heat of summer," cautions Jimmy P. about Ottawa Lake, advising families to check water quality reports.
Insect preparation: Seasonal bug activity affects comfort levels. "Nicely nestled in the kettle moraine but busy in the summer. Bring bug spray," advises Adam about Ottawa Lake Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on specific needs. "We were located on the end of the row and had lots of grass to enjoy. Owner was very friendly and helpful," shares Michael R. about his experience at Pilgrims Campground.
Electrical considerations: Check power capacity at potential sites. "They didn't have full hook up sites and we have a 50 amp rig… we used a dogbone to connect to the 30 amp site. It was fine for a bit but then we started to get surges," cautions Jessica T. about electrical issues at Pilgrims Campground.
Glamping alternatives: For those seeking luxury camping near Palmyra, Wisconsin, several options exist. "While the campground doesn't have the flashy resort-style amenities of some bigger parks, it makes up for it with well-kept facilities, a friendly, welcoming staff, and a slower pace that let us truly enjoy time together outdoors," explains Maria Mercedes M. about the glamping experience at Pilgrims Campground.
Regular maintenance checks: Verify systems functionality upon arrival. "Found this great little campground when I was in a pinch to find a place to put my 45ft fifth wheel. Super friendly staff, rates are reasonable and it is big rig friendly," says Jeremy M. about his experience at Pilgrims Campground.
