Camping options near Richfield, Wisconsin span across glacially formed landscapes characterized by kettles, moraines, and over 30 small lakes within a 20-mile radius. The region sits at approximately 950 feet elevation with temperatures ranging from summer highs in the 80s to winter lows below freezing. Most campgrounds operate from April through October, though several offer year-round access with seasonal amenities and trail conditions.
What to do
Lake activities at Naga-Waukee Park: The park offers swimming at a well-maintained beach from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with fishing access year-round. According to a camper, "The campground area is nice and wooded, providing ample privacy from other campers while still being close to beach and lake access."
Winter camping at Ottawa Lake: For off-season adventures, Ottawa Lake Campground remains open during winter months when crowds thin out. "No showers in winter but awesome," notes one winter visitor, while another states, "Great for winter camping" - making it ideal for campers seeking solitude and snow-based recreation.
Hiking the Ice Age Trail: Multiple access points connect campers to this National Scenic Trail running through the region. The trail system follows prehistoric glacier formations with interpretive signage. A visitor at Menomonee Park notes, "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."
What campers like
Budget-friendly camping options: State parks and county parks offer camping at lower price points than private campgrounds. A visitor to Naga-Waukee Park shared, "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."
Natural spring access: Several campgrounds feature natural springs where visitors can observe pristine water sources. As one camper described their experience at Ottawa Lake, "Beautiful campground (Ottawa Lake campsites) Great Lake, hiking to see the natural springs which is the coolest!! Drank fresh spring water!"
Diverse water recreation: From swimming beaches to fishing ponds, the area offers multiple water-based activities. A Menomonee Park visitor commented, "The quarry is good for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing. There is a beach with life guards."
What you should know
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience road noise from nearby highways. At Kohler-Andrae State Park, a visitor noted, "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."
Shower facilities vary widely: While most campgrounds offer shower facilities, quality and availability differ significantly. "Shower house #2 was clean although a bit older (paint was peeling off the walls due to humidity) but the water pressure was fine and as hot as I needed it to be," reported one Ottawa Lake camper.
Reservation timing: Popular sites fill quickly, especially for summer weekends and holidays. "Gets very busy on the weekends!" warns a camper about Ottawa Lake Campground, suggesting weekday visits when possible or reservations made months in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options for children: Look for beaches with designated swimming areas and lifeguards for safety. A visitor to Menomonee Park shared, "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."
Backpacking with kids: For families ready to try backpacking, Kettle Moraine State Forest offers beginner-friendly backpacking shelters. "Great backpack camp site. Decent walk and terrain to get to the site. There is an open shelter to put your tent if you prefer to outside," noted one visitor to Shelter 1.
Activity-focused options: Some private campgrounds offer structured activities for children. At Jellystone Park, a visitor mentioned, "Great campground for families! Tons to do! Bathrooms/showers are good. Comfortable stay," while another noted, "You can pay $6 to have Yogi, Boo Boo or cindy come visit your site and bring juice and a cookie."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Many campgrounds offer varied site types with different hookup options. A reviewer at Ottawa Lake Campground pointed out, "Pay attention to reservation online or call...they have multiple types of sites. We accidentally got one without sewer, but they have dump tank on property so no issue."
Seasonal site considerations: Year-round RVers recommend specific sites based on seasonal conditions. "We have visited the Campground 5 times this year already, we love hiking all the trails in the Kettle Moraine Southern Unit," shared an Ottawa Lake visitor who camps regularly in different seasons.
Local services: RVers appreciate nearby towns for supplies and dining options. "We were able to grab a nonelectric site and transfer to an electric site when one cancelled last minute," noted an Ottawa Lake camper, highlighting the importance of flexibility and staying connected with campground staff for last-minute changes.
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