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Best Campgrounds near Pewaukee, WI

657 Reviews

The Kettle Moraine State Forest dominates the camping landscape around Pewaukee, Wisconsin, with multiple established campgrounds within a 30-minute drive. Ottawa Lake and Pinewoods campgrounds in the Southern Unit provide a mix of camping styles, including tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin options. Waukesha County Parks manages several additional campgrounds including Naga-Waukee Park in Delafield, approximately 8 miles from Pewaukee, and Menomonee Park in Menomonee Falls. Most facilities accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several locations offering electric hookups and modern amenities like showers and flush toilets.

Camping seasons vary significantly throughout the region, with most county park campgrounds operating from April through early November. The Kettle Moraine facilities maintain longer seasons, with Ottawa Lake remaining open year-round and Pinewoods operating May through October. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for summer weekends when lake access sites fill quickly. The Ice Age Trail connects many campgrounds, providing hiking opportunities directly from campsites. Campground amenities typically include picnic tables, fire rings, drinking water, and access to toilet facilities. As one camper noted, "Sites are spread out. Facilities were in good condition for a state park in July. Showers were all working and had hot water."

Campers consistently praise the wooded settings and privacy at many sites throughout the area, particularly in the quiet loops at Pinewoods Campground. Several visitors mentioned that despite being close to urban areas, many campsites maintain a secluded feel. "Each campsite was private with a good amount of space for tents. You can park right in your campsite which is really nice," reported one camper at Pinewoods. Water access represents a significant draw, with Naga-Waukee Park offering sites near Lake Nagawicka. County parks generally feature smaller campgrounds with 20-37 sites, creating more intimate camping experiences compared to larger state facilities. Some campgrounds have designated quiet areas with enforced 24-hour noise restrictions, offering options for campers seeking a more peaceful experience away from speakers and pets.

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Best Camping Sites Near Pewaukee, Wisconsin (89)

    1. Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    39 Reviews
    North Prairie, WI
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 594-6200

    "Site was spacious but very close to your neighbors. Lots to do in the area. Bathrooms and showers were clean. The beach was not clean and very hard to walk on, very rocky."

    "Made my first visit to Ottawa Lake on a mid-March weekend. The facilities were still under their winter setup (only vault toilet, no shower available, pay in an envelope)."

    2. Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    22 Reviews
    North Prairie, WI
    13 miles
    +1 (262) 626-2116

    $18 - $30 / night

    "It is close to the Ice Age trail and the Scuppernong trail, and a short drive from Ottawa Lake.  Nearby is some excellent mountain biking in hilly terrain at the Emma Carlin and John Muir trails. "

    "Pinewoods Campground is part of the southern Kettle Morraine State Forest in Wisconsin. The campground is secluded and most sites are private and shaded."

    3. Naga-Waukee Park by Waukesha County Parks

    9 Reviews
    Delafield, WI
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 548-7801

    $25 - $80 / night

    "Nestled in the heart of lake country (Waukesha County) and accessible from the Lake Country Trail and Ice Age Trail, this county park is perfect for those just passing through or families looking for a"

    "Very windy weekend but I imagine during the summer it’s a great spot to camp near their big beach and lake access."

    4. Pike Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Pike Lake Unit

    18 Reviews
    Slinger, WI
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 670-3400

    "North Kettle Moraine, Pike Lake Unit was an easy choice given it's proximity to the city- about 40 minutes."

    "A last minute decision to camp for a night led my son and I to the often visited Pike Lake unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. Its a beautiful park and within 30 minutes of our home."

    5. Menomonee Park by Waukesha County Parks

    7 Reviews
    Menomonee Falls, WI
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 548-7801

    $25 - $80 / night

    "Live nearby. We go there a lot over the summer. Fun park to ride bikes through. Many trails to walk or hike. The pond has a great beach for kids."

    "There are miles of nice hiking trails, a nice beach, pavilions to rent, horse riding trails, archery range and I’m sure I’m missing more."

    6. Kettle Moraine Southern Unit — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    10 Reviews
    North Prairie, WI
    13 miles
    Website

    $28 / night

    "You can walk over to an area that has hiking trails right out of the campsite. State park mountain biking trails are also close by, but you would need to drive to them."

    "Reservable backpacking sites about 45-60min away from nearest parking. Fire pit, shelter, and picnic table at site.

    Really enjoyed the hike through forest to get to this site."

    7. Wisconsin State Fair RV Park

    7 Reviews
    Wauwatosa, WI
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (414) 266-7035

    $55 / night

    "So we just use that because no one was there. 1.7 miles on bike path to Brewer Baseball field. It was raining to we used Uber to the game and walked back for an afternoon game."

    "Very close to downtown, right off of interstate. Clean facilities. We were visiting family downtown and it was very convenient."

    8. Muskego Park by Waukesha County Parks

    8 Reviews
    Muskego, WI
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 548-7801

    $25 - $80 / night

    "Trails that took you through woods and then prairie and then up a decent elevation for an amazing view of the surrounding area."

    "I did not stay at this park, but did drive and walk through it to get a feel for it. There are a number of sites I'd love to tent camp in. This park is bounded by a lake with a nice beach."

    9. Kettle Moraine South Camping — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    12 Reviews
    Eagle, WI
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 594-6220

    "Red Trail, Paradise Trail,Rice Lake are all great hikes. Great views of Lake Ottawa. The close by town of Oconomowoc has a nice place to eat, Burkes Lakeside."

    "Whether you're in a tent or in a camper you can find just as much comfort as you're looking for. there's a lake with a swimming area if that's what you're looking for, not to mention a dock with great"

    10. Mukwonago Park by Waukesha County Parks

    6 Reviews
    Mukwonago, WI
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 548-7801

    $25 - $80 / night

    "The rangers drive through regularly and will deliver wood to your site if requested."

    "Swim or fish in the lake, archery or huge picnic sites."

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Recent Camping Photos near Pewaukee, WI

252 Photos of 89 Pewaukee Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Pewaukee, WI

657 Reviews of 89 Pewaukee Campgrounds

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Derge County Park

    Beautiful mature oaks

    The campground is near Beaver Dam lake and you get a pass to the boat landing with the camping fee. The sites are clearly marked and level. Some have more shade than others, the descriptions at reservation are accurate. Site 4 has nice grass and plenty of trees along the back. The site sizes are adequate but there isn’t much room between sites. Overall the campground was quiet, except for a few RVs running things all night. It was not dark, the RVs keep their lights on all night and there isn’t enough foliage to block it. We are the only pop up here, there are no tents. The space certainly allows grass for tents, I think the culture is just a little different. The shower house is clean, but showers only have a curtain and a central drain in the building means the toilet stall floors get wet too. There is a small playground and a GaGa ball pit. Overall, this is a well kept campground and perfect for spending a night on the way to somewhere. There isn’t much draw for a longer stay.

  • Tim H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Naga-Waukee Park by Waukesha County Parks

    Nagawaukee County Park

    Site was clean and flat enough for my two person tent. Restrooms were porta-johns, but very clean. Plenty of free wood available for the fire.

  • MarkDaShark99
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Long Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Northern Unit-Iansr

    Beach test positive for ecoli 2x this year.

    If you stay here do not swim.  They have 2 beaches, they test one for ecoli and close it but leave the other one open because they don't have to test both. It's 50 feet away.  If you don't test, it can't be bad.  How stupid.  They rake goose dumplings into the sand.  Who is managing this place? Camping is fine.  Stay off the beach it's not safe.

  • Jessica T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Pilgrims Campground

    Nice enough grounds, poorly maintained electric panels

    To be honest I thought this stay was going to be easy and the first couple days were. 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. Our EMS protected the rig but ultimately we couldn’t use the power. Even with only running the fridge it continued to trip. We tried the one next to us and it gave us the reverse polarity code so we decided it would be best to just leave the following day. The grounds are well maintained and the owners are friendly… they mentioned some of their 30 amp sites will get converted to 50 next year so hopefully that helps but definitely frustrating to need to book another site and forfeit money on this one.

  • Mark D.
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    We had such an enjoyable time at Ottawa Lake Campground.

    Escape the everyday and immerse yourself in nature at Ottawa Lake Campground. 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.

    We have visited the Campground 5 times this year already, we love hiking all the trails in the Kettle Moraine Southern Unit.

    https://youtu.be/xl4uAtNWclM

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Fon du Lac County Waupun Park

    Oak/hickory forest

    The campground is in a beautiful oak/hickory forest with many birds, chipmunks and skeeters(pack protection). We stayed on site 22 which was a nine minute walk from the toilet and had a street light. There are water spigots throughout. Site 21 or 23 would be better. The sites are large and the ones on the outside of the loop are very private. The campground was quiet, especially after dark! There is a train horn occasionally, but it’s distant. The showers were hot and clean. The playground was fun. There is a pickle ball court, so bring paddles. There is also a walking trail.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Pettits Lakeview Campground & Bar

    Family Friendly Lakeside Campground

    Pettit’s Lakeview Campground & Bar is the kind of place where family camping meets lakeside fun with a lively twist, sitting right on Lake Koshkonong with beautiful sunset views and easy boat access. My kids loved the playground while the adults enjoyed Friday fish fries, live music and the laid-back bar that doubles as a social hub, creating a strong community vibe with theme weekends and plenty of laughter. That said, it’s definitely more “festival” than “quiet forest” with sites being closing together, weekends can get noisy with karaoke and bar traffic, and shade is limited, so if you’re looking for peace and birdwatching, this isn’t it, but for families who don’t mind a little bustle, it’s a fun and memorable spot.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Pilgrims Campground

    Simple Campground

    With a small family to mind, while out enjoying a short weekend of camping, I appreciated Pilgrim’s Campground in Wisconsin for its quiet, family-oriented atmosphere that made our stay both relaxing and memorable. The sites were clean, level and easy to settle into, with plenty of shade and enough space for the kids to play safely nearby. 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. My kids loved riding their bikes around the loops, roasting marshmallows at night and spotting wildlife along the nature trails, while I valued the sense of safety and the community feel among fellow campers. Conveniently located near local attractions yet peaceful enough to feel tucked away, Pilgrim’s offered the perfect balance of simplicity, comfort, and wholesome family camping.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Milton-Madison SE KOA

    KOA Close to Lake Koshkonong

    With 2 kids to mind, I found the Milton-Madison SE KOA to be one of the most family-friendly campgrounds we’ve visited, with something for everyone to enjoy. With over 200 sites, the campground is clearly geared toward RVs and fifth wheels, but it also offers a few cabins and tent sites, giving families different ways to stay. The kids were thrilled with the heated pool that even has a waterfall, the playgrounds, gaga ball, arcade, and weekend rides like the barrel train and hayrack.  In short, there was always something to keep them entertained while I could actually relax. I appreciated the practical touches like clean restrooms and showers, laundry facilities, a well-stocked market and a clubhouse with plenty of space to gather. My husband loved that Lake Koshkonong was right nearby for fishing and paddling, and we all enjoyed exploring Milton’s small-town restaurants with Mary’s Café for biscuits and gravy that was a huge hit and Frederick’s Supper Club, both of which made for a special night out. The Riggio family, who run the campground, were some of the kindest hosts we’ve met, which made the whole experience feel extra welcoming. While I do think the tent sites and cabins are a bit pricey for what you get, the number of activities, amenities, and nearby conveniences made it worth it for the memories we created together. For families looking for a lively, activity-packed camping trip, this KOA is a great choice.

Guide to Pewaukee

Camping near Pewaukee, Wisconsin, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor lovers. From scenic trails to family-friendly amenities, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful area.

What to do:

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. One reviewer at Kohler-Andrae State Park said, "The amenities were very clean and well taken care of."
  • Secluded Campsites: Many enjoy the privacy offered by the sites. A camper at Mauthe Lake Campground mentioned, "The sites are spread out. Facilities were in good condition for a state park in July."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Ottawa Lake Campground are great for families. One reviewer noted, "Great trails close by. Bathrooms and showers were clean."

What you should know:

  • Limited Water Access: Some campgrounds, like Rock Cut State Park Campground, do not have drinkable water available. A visitor pointed out, "The only negative is no drinkable water."
  • Noise Levels: Expect some noise, especially on weekends. A camper at Big Foot Beach State Park Campground mentioned, "Always full on weekends. Lots of noise. Lots of kids."
  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A reviewer at Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground advised, "The way to get a site is through their website or calling."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park, which has a beach and playground. One family shared, "Great environment for undisturbed relaxation."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities, like hiking and fishing, to keep everyone entertained. A camper at Kohler-Andrae State Park said, "There are nice trails around the campground."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can make a big difference. A visitor at Mauthe Lake Campground mentioned, "Make sure to get fresh cinnamon rolls delivered to your site!"

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Electrical Hookups: Ensure your site has the right electrical hookups. A reviewer at Kohler-Andrae State Park noted, "We paid $40/night for an electric (30amp) site."
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially during holidays. A camper at Ottawa Lake Campground said, "It’s good for family with kids or beginner campers, but not if you’re looking for a relaxing or adventurous time."
  • Bring a Good Adapter: If you’re using a 30 amp site, consider bringing an adapter. A visitor at Rock Cut State Park Campground mentioned having to get an adapter to use the 50 amp.

Camping near Pewaukee, Wisconsin, has its perks and quirks. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a fantastic outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

What campgrounds are available near Pewaukee, WI?

Pewaukee has several excellent camping options within a reasonable drive. Naga-Waukee Park in nearby Delafield offers convenient camping with water access and basic amenities. For those willing to drive a bit further, the Kettle Moraine State Forest area provides multiple camping opportunities, including Pike Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Pike Lake Unit, which features beautiful hiking trails through glacial terrain. Additional options include Menomonee Park, Muskego Park, and Mukwonago Park in Waukesha County, all within approximately 30 minutes of Pewaukee. These parks typically require reservations, especially during peak summer months when availability becomes limited.

What are the costs for camping near Pewaukee, Wisconsin?

Camping costs near Pewaukee vary by location and amenities. At Waupun Park Campground, you'll find reasonable rates for sites with fire rings, tables, bathrooms, showers, a dump station, and fresh water. The Playful Goose Campground offers large lots backing up to forested areas at mid-range prices. Waukesha County parks like Muskego and Mukwonago typically charge $20-30 per night for residents and slightly more for non-residents. Wisconsin State Parks generally require a vehicle admission sticker ($8-13 daily or $28-38 annual) in addition to camping fees that range from $15-40 depending on amenities and residency status. Most campgrounds offer discounted rates during off-peak seasons (late fall through early spring).

Are there family-friendly camping parks around Pewaukee with amenities?

Several family-friendly campgrounds with excellent amenities are available near Pewaukee. Big Foot Beach State Park Campground offers spacious sites, modern bathrooms, and beach access on Lake Geneva, making it perfect for families. The park gets busy during summer, so advance reservations are recommended. Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit provides clean facilities and access to swimming, hiking trails, and fishing. Many Waukesha County parks feature playground equipment, picnic areas, and recreational fields. Most family-friendly campgrounds in the area provide clean restrooms, potable water, designated swimming areas, and well-maintained hiking trails, creating ideal environments for memorable family camping experiences.

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