Camping options near Saukville include several state parks and private campgrounds within a 30-minute drive. Situated in southeastern Wisconsin's glacial terrain, the region features kettle lakes formed by melting ice chunks from retreating glaciers. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, while spring and fall camping often sees 40-60°F temperature swings between day and night.
What to do
Explore Ice Age Trail segments: The Ice Age Trail runs through several campgrounds including Pike Lake. "There are three backpacking sites off the IAT - one prairie, two wooded. B2 and B3 are large," notes a camper at Pike Lake Campground.
Visit observation towers: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Saukville feature scenic overlooks. At Pike Lake, "be sure to check out the interpretive astronomy trail and take the walk up Powder Hill to the tower!" A camper at Long Lake Campground mentions "huge biking trail that's about 7 miles long one way, good beaches and great lake."
Kayaking on quarry lakes: Multiple parks feature unique swimming quarries. "The quarry and the beach area were great, and there were a ton of picnic spots overlooking the lake," reports a visitor to Harrington Beach State Park.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: At Mauthe Lake Campground, "sites are well separated for privacy. Also, the shower house is perfect for an end of the day washing. The lake itself is great for canoeing or kayaking."
Sandy beaches: Lake Michigan access is a major draw. A camper at Kohler-Andrae State Park reported "Beautiful state park right on Lake Michigan. Sunrises so, so beautiful. This campground has everything! Trails, dunes, marshes, forests, and Lake Michigan."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many sites offer nature observation. "We had a nice private campsite that was completely wooded all around it. The campsite had a fire pit and picnic table that were both in great condition," shared a visitor about the tent non-electric campsites.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Choose sites based on specific needs. At Pike Lake, "it's small and has relatively little privacy so you'll make quick friends with your neighbors - unexpected from a state park."
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds report water issues. One visitor to Lake Lenwood noted "the water smelled like rotten eggs. After getting home and taking two of the children to the doctor for an illness that was caught while in the campground, we found that the smell from the hot water in the showers was actually from bacteria in the water."
Seasonal conditions affect swimming: Water quality testing can impact beach access. "If you stay here do not swim. They have 2 beaches, they test one for ecoli and close it but leave the other one open because they don't have to test both. It's 50 feet away," warned a camper at Long Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly campgrounds: Families appreciate parks with diverse activities. At Menomonee Park, "The park has a lot of trails for hiking, biking and some horse trails. The quarry is good for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing. There is a beach with life guards."
Bicycle-friendly camping: Many campgrounds feature dedicated cycling paths. "Nice clean swimming and lots of hiking and biking options," notes a visitor to Mauthe Lake. Another camper adds, "We loved the nice paved roads for bikes and rollerblading and the beaches were really clean."
Look for playgrounds: Several campgrounds include play areas. "Nice beach/swimming area, bike path, and playground for the kids. Also the most beautiful sunset over the lake and pines in July," shares a Mauthe Lake visitor.
Tips from RVers
Electric site options: For RVers needing hookups, check availability carefully. In Long Lake Campground, one camper noted "Sites are decent sized for tenting or small camper. Almost all the sites are surround by trees and small brush so it gives a private feel."
Campground layout challenges: Some parks have tight turns for larger RVs. At Pike Lake "there is a TIGHT turn in the campground loop near site #17 to be aware of with longer trailers. Generally, the inner ring is electric (except #23) and the outer ring is non-electric."
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "Campground facilities are clean, 30 amp at the electrical site worked perfectly," shared a visitor to Mauthe Lake.
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