The Kettle Moraine State Forest near Saukville sits on glacial deposits from the last ice age, creating a unique landscape of rolling hills and kettle lakes. The forest spreads across southeastern Wisconsin with elevations ranging from 700-1,000 feet above sea level. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, while summer camping season typically runs May through October with average highs in the 70s and 80s.
What to do
Trail exploration on horseback: Kettle Moraine State Forest offers extensive trail systems specifically for equestrians. At Mauthe Lake Campground, you can access connecting trails. "There is a crushed gravel trail running from here to Long Lake that is great for running/walking/biking," notes Sarah L., highlighting the versatility of the paths.
Swimming in natural lakes: Cool off in the forest's kettle lakes during summer months. "Nice clean swimming and lots of hiking and biking options," shares Noreen T. about Mauthe Lake, while Kaylyn C. adds, "Nice beach/swimming area, bike path, and playground for the kids."
Scenic winter camping: The Kettle Moraine Southern Unit remains open year-round with special winter opportunities. "You can camp year around in this campground. Most recent 2 times were winter camping. No host so buying wood is an issue, but pick a site on the edge and there is more than enough free. Bring a saw," advises Tim H.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer good separation between camping areas. At Pinewoods Campground, "There is plenty of greenery between sites giving privacy. We could hear children playing but only saw them when they rode their bikes around the loop," notes Art S.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently mention clean facilities throughout the region's campgrounds. "Campground facilities are clean, 30 amp at the electrical site worked perfectly," reports Elizabeth S. about Mauthe Lake, while Christie Z. notes, "The facilities were well maintained" at Kettle Moraine Southern Unit.
Secluded sites for tent campers: Many campgrounds offer wooded sites ideal for tent camping. "The site was actually really lovely and I appreciated the thick brush creating some real seclusion," shares Kendal R. about Pinewoods Campground's quiet loop.
What you should know
Busy summer weekends: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Please reserve especially on weekends," advises GA J. about Kettle Moraine Southern Unit.
Varying site quality: Site layouts differ significantly within each campground. At Menomonee Park, Kim notes, "I'd stay here again because the park overall is great, but I would try to choose a better site. #9 looked alright, and in the 20#s looked a bit more tree lined and bigger."
Weather considerations: Wisconsin's weather can change rapidly. "We got rained out and having a five year old little girl, a 14wk old puppy, and a newbie camper almost four others we could only take so much rain," shares Nina T. about her experience at Pinewoods Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with recreational facilities for children. "Great clean sites and fishing. Many hiking trails. Historical attractions. Wisconsin does their parks and forests right," says GA J. about Mauthe Lake.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature programs for children. Harnischfeger County Park provides family-friendly activities. "Cute peaceful campground. Only 9 sites. Has a 9 hole mini golf course that cost $1 a person. Has trails, disc golf, and rock river for kayaking," reports Brittany R.
Designated quiet areas: Some campgrounds have specific loops for families seeking peace. At Pinewoods Campground, Abbe W. notes, "Stayed one night (Friday) and really enjoyed the location. We were in the quiet loop, Loop 1, which actually was very quiet. Everyone was respectful of the rules."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: When planning equestrian camping near Saukville, Wisconsin with an RV, carefully check site dimensions. At Sundance Farm Campground, one camper warns, "We were reserved, but unable to stay due to having a trailer with a car in it and not being able to unhitch to back into a site. Yea, we made that clear when we reserved."
Hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer varying levels of electric service. "The 30 amp at the electrical site worked perfectly," reports Elizabeth S. about Mauthe Lake, while the Southern Unit Horseriders Campground offers 50-amp service for larger RVs with horse trailers.
Pull-through site locations: For RVers bringing horses, some campgrounds offer easier-access sites. Josh F. notes about Southern Unit Horseriders Campground, "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."
