The camping spots near Slinger, Wisconsin sit within the geologically distinct Kettle Moraine region, formed by glacial deposits during the last ice age. This unique landscape features kettles (depressions), moraines (ridges), and numerous small lakes. Most campgrounds in this area operate from May through October, with winter camping available at select locations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Pike Lake Campground offers good fishing for various species including bluegill and bass. "My 5 year old hooked me in the leg while fishing on Pike Lake and a trip to the ER was needed along with a tetanus shot," shares Lisa S., highlighting how accessible fishing is for families.
Beach swimming: Harrington Beach State Park provides a lengthy sandy beach along Lake Michigan. "The beach has some nice sand to put your toes in and the waves were great when we were there. Water is pretty clear and clean," notes Erica H.
Hiking variety: The region offers diverse trail options, from prairie paths to wooded routes. "Hiking is great beginner trails within the park and connects to the IAT (Ice Age Trail)," mentions Sugar Maple S. about Pike Lake. At Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit, you can explore Scuppernong Springs, which one camper called "a treat for the kiddos."
Dog-friendly areas: Many campgrounds accommodate pets, though facilities vary. "Pike Lake has lake swimming, dog swimming area, many trails and tons of wildlife," says Kristine M. However, at Harrington Beach, one camper noted the pet beach "is just really slippery rock which is very dangerous for the pet owners and pets alike."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Kettle Moraine North Mauthe Lake gets high marks for site separation. "The sites are well separated for privacy. Also, the shower house is perfect for an end of the day washing," writes Charles M.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region maintain good bathroom facilities. At Harrington Beach State Park, campers enjoy "ULTRA clean bathrooms" and "The restroom and showers were very well maintained," according to Jessica F.
Diverse site options: Campgrounds offer varied site types for different preferences. At Long Lake Campground, "The sites are spacious and clean. Each site comes with a fire pit, grate and picnic table," says Denise N., adding that "This campground has nice large sites, some in the sun, some in the shade and some have a mixture."
Accessibility to water: Many sites offer close proximity to lakes. "Mauthe has several great wooded sites. You can't go wrong with how close the park is to Milwaukee," shares Caroline K., while at Pike Lake "sites are pretty secluded too if u get the right one," according to Kristine M.
What you should know
Reservations timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. At Ottawa Lake, one camper noted: "This was our first visit to Kettle Moraine and this site was completely booked. We were able to grab a nonelectric site and transfer to an electric site when one cancelled last minute."
Road noise concerns: Some campgrounds have traffic noise issues. At Ottawa Lake, "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," reports Linda N.
Seasonal challenges: Ledge County Park and other locations can have weather-related issues. One camper at Blue Mounds mentioned leaving due to flooding before finding Ledge Park. Bugs also become problematic in summer months.
Private vs. public options: While state parks offer consistent quality, private campgrounds vary widely. One camper at Lazy Days described it as looking "like a camper graveyard," while another found it "extremely friendly, affordable and clean."
Tips for camping with families
Backpacking with kids: Pike Lake offers accessible backpacking for beginners. "For my five-year-old son's first backpacking experience, we hiked about 3 miles on the Ice Age Trail, into Pike Lake campground," shares Jimmy P., noting "Our campsite was very large, fully shaded, and included a picnic table and a fire ring."
Swimming areas: Menomonee Park provides family-friendly water options. "The quarry is good for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing. There is a beach with life guards," reports Matt N., while another camper mentions the "fun little park" with a "great beach for kids."
Recreation amenities: Several campgrounds offer additional activities. "Pike Lake has lake swimming, dog swimming area, many trails and tons of wildlife," notes Kristine M., while Lazy Days has "Swimming lake was very warm and clean. Fishing was available. Very affordable canoe kayak rentals."
Medical facilities: Consider proximity to healthcare for family trips. "Campground is close to medical facilities if needed. Unfortunately I know this from experience," mentions Lisa S. about Pike Lake, which is only 20 minutes from her home.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: At Ottawa Lake, experienced RVers recommend: "You can't go wrong with how close the park is to Milwaukee. We've been full time RVers for 4 years and this is a beautiful campground close to 'home'," says Steve K.
Electric hookups: Campgrounds offer varying levels of service. "30 amp at the electrical site worked perfectly," notes Elizabeth S. about Mauthe Lake, while at Long Lake "Generally, the inner ring is electric (except #23) and the outer ring is non-electric."
Tight turns: Some campgrounds have difficult navigation points. At Pike Lake, Sugar Maple S. warns "There is a TIGHT turn in the campground loop near site #17 to be aware of with longer trailers."
Dump station access: Most state parks provide dump stations, but private campgrounds may have inconsistent service. At Lazy Days, a camper complained about tanks not being cleared on schedule, noting "Can't count on your tanks being cleared by their in-house 'service' allegedly on Monday and Thursday or maybe Tues or maybe Friday."
