Camping spots near Richfield, Wisconsin benefit from the area's proximity to the Niagara Escarpment, a geological formation extending through the region. The landscape features ancient dolomite bedrock that creates distinctive ridge formations and natural springs throughout the camping areas. Most campgrounds in the region sit between 900-1,100 feet elevation, contributing to cooler evening temperatures even during summer months.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: The quarry at Menomonee Park offers calm waters for beginners. "The quarry is good for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing. There is a beach with life guards," notes Matt N., adding that the park has "a lot of trails for hiking, biking and some horse trails."
Winter camping adventures: Unlike many Wisconsin campgrounds, Ottawa Lake Campground remains open year-round for cold-weather enthusiasts. David H. states that although there are "no showers in winter," the experience is still "awesome." Winter camping allows access to cross-country ski trails throughout the Kettle Moraine system.
Observation tower views: Several campgrounds feature elevated viewpoints. At Pike Lake Campground, "take the walk up Powder Hill to the tower!" suggests Susan S., which provides panoramic views of the surrounding forest and Holy Hill in the distance.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Campers appreciate the seclusion at Pinewoods Campground. "The site was actually really lovely and I appreciated the thick brush creating some real seclusion," reports Kendal R. Jack D. adds that his site was "well wooded and very spacious! It had a decent clearing for some sun and the driveway was longer setting it back from the loop road."
Lakefront camping options: Several lakes in the region offer water-adjacent camping. At Mauthe Lake Campground, Kaylyn C. describes "the most beautiful sunset over the lake and pines in July." Charles M. adds that "the lake itself is great for canoeing or kayaking."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain better-than-average bathrooms and showers. According to Kim from Menomonee Park, "pit toilets and metros desperately need to be cleaned more often," but most reviews indicate regular maintenance. The facilities at Pinewoods include "pit and flush toilets, showers," according to Teresa D.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer weekends. Ottawa Lake Campground gets "completely booked" according to Linda N., who notes they "were able to grab a nonelectric site and transfer to an electric site when one cancelled last minute."
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. Linda N. observes at Ottawa Lake that "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."
Campground rules: Enforcement of quiet hours varies by location. At Menomonee Park, Kim reported "very noisy neighbors that did not respect the quiet hours rule and park staff did nothing to intervene." Jon similarly mentioned that "the people across from us were playing music and being loud well past 1:00 am."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and beaches: Several campgrounds feature family-friendly amenities. "Pike Lake offers three remote sites as well as plentiful regular campsites for those that are less-inclined to hoof it," says Eric S., adding that amenities include "dog beach, kayak launch, fishing pier, general campground, observation tower."
Mini-golf opportunities: Harnischfeger County Park features unique recreational options. "The campground has a lot of great amenities. There's a mini golf course that we had a lot of fun with," says Taylor C., with Brittany R. specifying that it "costs $1 a person."
Educational trails: The geology of the region creates learning opportunities. At Ottawa Lake, Linda N. mentions, "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."
Tips from RVers
Electric site selection: Availability of power varies by campground. At Pinewoods Campground, Teresa D. notes that "generally, the inner ring is electric (except #23) and the outer ring is non-electric." She also warns of "a TIGHT turn in the campground loop near site #17 to be aware of with longer trailers."
Urban camping option: For those needing full hookups and city access, there's Wisconsin State Fair RV Park. Paul Y. describes it as "basically a large parking lot with a band of grass on the far right as you enter" and says it's "not a place for recreation, but good as a base for Milwaukee attractions."
Winter RV camping: Year-round options exist for cold-weather RV enthusiasts. Steve K. from Ottawa Lake notes, "We've been full time RVers for 4 years and this is a beautiful campground close to 'home'. We stay here a couple of times each year for doctor and dentist appointments, visiting family and friends, and general relaxation."
