Southern Unit Horseriders Campground in Kettle Moraine State Forest is located approximately 30 miles west of Racine, Wisconsin, near the town of Palmyra. The campground sits within the glacial terrain of the Kettle Moraine region, characterized by rolling hills and depressions formed during the last ice age. Equestrian campsites are situated at around 900 feet elevation, providing a temperate climate for horse camping from April through November. Winter temperatures typically drop below freezing, while summer months average in the mid-70s.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: The Horseriders Campground connects directly to the bridle trail system without needing to trailer horses. "There's easy access to horse trails throughout the state forest," notes Josh F. from a visit to Southern Unit Horseriders Campground.
Swimming at Ottawa Lake: Located 4 miles from the Horseriders Campground, Ottawa Lake offers summer swimming for non-riding days. "The lake is nice and there is a very nice beach as well as a fishing pier," according to Glenn S., who visited Kettle Moraine South Camping.
Winter activities: While most equestrians visit from spring through fall, the state forest offers year-round recreation. "You can camp year around in this campground. Most recent 2 times were winter camping... Nice place for solitude. No rowdies in winter," reports Tim H. about the Ottawa Lake section of Kettle Moraine Southern Unit.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: The Horseriders Campground offers privacy between sites. "There are several sites along one side of the park that are a little more secluded and in a pine forest. They have picnic tables and fire pits like the others, they include 409, 410, 411, 412, 413," says Josh F. about Southern Unit Horseriders Campground.
Group facilities: The campground includes spaces designed specifically for group camping. "This campground is clearly built for large groups to hang out together. There is a large shelter with picnic tables and very convenient roll-up sides that can be used to protect people during inclement weather," according to Josh F.
Varied terrain for riding: The surrounding forest offers diverse riding conditions. "The trails are well-maintained with great views for easy hikes," notes Chuck W. from Kettle Moraine State Forest Southern Unit.
What you should know
Campsite selection: Pull-through sites are available for those with horse trailers. "There's also 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," advises Josh F.
Site amenities: Sites include basic camping necessities and horse facilities. "The campsite was very clean and the fire pit and table were in good condition. Our site was very shaded and quiet at night. The bath house was very clean," reports Michelle M. about nearby Fox Den Campground.
Shared corrals: The campground has communal corrals rather than individual ones. "There are ample places to bridle horses and shared corrals every four or five campsites. There are also animal waste collection areas throughout the campground," notes Josh F.
Tips for camping with families
Quiet camping options: For families who prefer quieter settings, some loops restrict noise. "We liked this site because it was on the 'quiet loop.' No radios or pets allowed. I'm not sure about children! The sites are fairly close together and the trees are sparse, but it was a beautiful site and wonderfully quiet for the long weekend over the 4th of July," writes Wendy Z. about Kettle Moraine Southern Unit.
Child-friendly activities: The state forest offers activities beyond horseback riding. "There's swimming, access to almost all of the hiking trails available in kettle Moraine, and all within walking distance of where you park your tent or vehicle," shares Kelsey H. about Kettle Moraine South Camping.
Educational opportunities: The forest provides learning experiences for children. "Pick up the activity book for kids it is a great adventure lots to do at the lake!!!" recommends Jill G. from Kettle Moraine South Camping.
Tips from RVers
Electric site availability: Electric hookups are available in specific areas of the Horseriders Campground. "There are electric and non-electric campsites, all seem to have a picnic table and fireplace," reports Josh F.
Nearby amenities: The surrounding area offers supplies and services. "Within 5 miles of the campground, you have the amenities that you need in case you forgot something along the way," shares Christopher R. about Fox Den Campground.
Alternative horse camping options: For those seeking different equestrian camping experiences near Racine, consider the fairground camping. "Simple campground in the Walworth County fairgrounds. Not many frills but quiet and within walking distance to downtown Elkhorn, EAHS, and the horse areana," notes Charles S. about Elkhorn Campgrounds.