Southern Unit Horseriders Campground provides electric hookups, trailer parking, and specialized facilities for equestrians. The trails connect directly to the campground with varied terrain throughout Kettle Moraine State Forest. Water is available for horses near the sites, though portable buckets are recommended. The campground operates from April through November, with spring and fall offering moderate temperatures and fewer insects. Reservations are advised, especially during peak times, as the campground frequently reaches capacity. Wisconsin state park admission stickers are required in addition to camping fees.
What to do
Hiking forest trails: The Kettle Moraine South Camping area offers extensive hiking options through varied terrain. "There are plenty of camp sites here! All different types. Electric, non-electric, primitive, walk-in, etc. Also, there's a small beach on a lake within the park near camping areas," notes Jessica Jazz B. The Ice Age Trail passes through several campgrounds, providing connectivity for longer treks.
Mountain biking: Dedicated single-track trails can be found throughout the forest's southern unit. Bruce G. describes the area as having "awesome single-track mountain bike trails" with "something for everyone" across the "huge expanse of land." Trail difficulty ranges from beginner-friendly routes to more technical sections for experienced riders.
Swimming and boating: Several lakes in the region offer swimming beaches and boat launches. At Menomonee Park, campers enjoy "a nice beach with life guards" where the quarry is "good for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing," according to Matt N. Many lakes prohibit motorized boats, creating quiet environments for paddlers.
What campers like
Secluded wooded sites: Campsites throughout the Kettle Moraine system offer good separation and privacy. At Pinewoods Campground, Abbe W. found that "sites in Loop 1 are varied as far as tree coverage, seclusion, and terrain. Our site (22) was relatively flat, felt secluded, had good tree coverage with some filtered sunlight." The natural buffers between sites create personal space even during busy periods.
Seasonal beauty: Fall foliage draws many visitors to the area. Cathy L. notes that Kettle Moraine is "so pretty in the fall. Red Trail, Paradise Trail, Rice Lake are all great hikes." Winter camping options exist at several parks for cold-weather enthusiasts. Tim H. mentions that at Ottawa Lake Campground "you can camp year around" and finds winter offers "solitude" with "no rowdies."
Proximity to urban areas: The region provides natural settings within easy driving distance from Milwaukee and surrounding suburbs. GA J. describes the area as "within an hour of major suburbs of Milwaukee but out of the way," making it ideal for weekend getaways without extensive travel time.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the area require advance booking. "Please reserve especially on weekends," advises GA J. about Kettle Moraine Southern Unit. Popular sites and electric hookups are often booked months in advance, especially during summer and fall color season.
Vehicle permits: Wisconsin State Park admission stickers are required for entry to state properties in addition to camping fees. These can be purchased online or at entrance stations, with annual and daily options available.
Wildlife considerations: While generally mild, wildlife encounters do occur. Abbe W. notes "There was a posting about black bear sightings in the area. We did not experience that, just chipmunks and birds." Proper food storage is advised even in established campgrounds.
Insects: Bug protection is essential, particularly during warmer months. Amanda F. emphasizes to "definitely make sure to bring your bug spray for this location!" Some areas experience heavy mosquito activity during summer evenings.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. Matt N. mentions that Harnischfeger County Park "has a 9 hole mini golf course that cost $1 a person" along with "trails, disc golf, and rock river for kayaking." These activities provide entertainment beyond standard campsite activities.
Quiet camping sections: For families seeking peaceful settings, designated quiet areas exist in certain campgrounds. Wendy Z. appreciated that at Pinewoods Campground, they "liked this site because it was on the 'quiet loop.' No radios or pets allowed." These areas enforce stricter noise regulations.
Activity programs: Many parks offer ranger-led programs during peak season. Art S. recommends: "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."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: When booking RV sites, pay attention to specific features and limitations. At Lake Kegonsa State Park, Ted W. cautions that "the sites we were in were a little narrow to back in a 30ft camper. The pictures of the site did not show this." Checking campground maps and reading reviews can help identify suitable locations.
Electric service details: Most electric sites in the area offer 30-amp service, with some providing 50-amp connections. Glenn S. notes that campsites are "roomy" but warns that after rain "most of the site was mud" due to limited grassy areas at some locations.
Pull-through availability: Several campgrounds offer pull-through sites for easier access. Josh F. recommends the equestrian campground has "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. These include electric sites 405, 404, 403, 402, and 401."