Tent camping near Shorewood, Wisconsin ranges from smaller county parks to larger state forest sites across southeastern Wisconsin. The campgrounds are situated in the terminal moraine landform region with rolling hills created by glacial activity during the last ice age. Most tent campsites are available from spring through fall, with sites closing during winter months due to seasonal weather conditions.
What to do
Hiking access: Kettle Moraine State Forest-Northern Unit Greenbush Group Camp offers multiple walking trails directly from the campground. "We booked this for a coronavirus-safe camping trip, and it did not disappoint. Water is usually available, but more limited during the pandemic," reports camper Hilary S.
Biking options: The Wild Goose City Park connects to regional bike paths. "Wild Goose bike trail leads to this park in Juneau. It's a good place to stop and have a break. There's a playground and public bathroom, drinking fountain," notes Kim L.
Water activities: Canoe and kayak access to rivers is available at Cappie's Landing, which offers primitive tent sites. The boat-in campsites provide a less crowded camping experience with basic facilities limited to pit toilets.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: KMSF Shelter 1 Backpack Site receives praise for its seclusion. "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," writes Erin Z., who rated the site 5 stars.
Affordable pricing: Waubedonia County Park offers budget-friendly tent sites. "The campsites are inexpensive and comfortable, though there aren't as many amenities that a larger campground would have," according to Kevin S.
Proximity to water: Several tent campgrounds feature waterfront locations, including Little Turtle Lake with its five tent-only campsites situated on the lakeshore. The smaller lake size means less motorboat traffic, creating a quieter tent camping experience.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most tent campgrounds require advance reservations, especially during peak summer weekends. Many state forest sites book up 3-6 months in advance.
Site sizing variations: Greenbush Group Campground offers larger sites for group camping. "Large sites great for groups. Sites 2 and 9 are the largest. Those can each fit over 20 backpacking tents at the same time," notes Amber R.
Limited facilities: Many tent-focused campgrounds have minimal amenities. At Purplehaze Acres, the nine tent sites have drinking water and toilets but no showers or electrical hookups.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Wild Goose City Park features playground equipment adjacent to camping areas, making it suitable for families with younger children.
Noise considerations: Some group campgrounds can become noisy. At Greenbush Group Camp, one camper noted, "The nine sites are visually separated, but not far enough away from each other to block louder noise - we could hear loud music from the site 4 late into the night."
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