Glamping options near South Milwaukee provide rustic-luxury accommodations within 30 miles of the city. The area features diverse terrain with kettle formations created by glacial activity, offering a mix of lakes, forests, and prairie environments. Winter glamping temperatures average 20-30°F while summer months typically range from 70-85°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Kayaking on Chain O' Lakes: At Ottawa Lake Campground, visitors access connected waterways perfect for paddling. "We've stayed here twice. Nice, clean, well-run campground with some electric sites and several bathroom/shower buildings if needed. Nice little lake to swim or paddle on," notes a camper. The lake system supports various skill levels.
Winter glamping activities: Big Foot Beach State Park Campground maintains year-round appeal with seasonal activities. "Clean bathrooms. Quiet," reports one visitor. The park offers winter hiking trails and snowshoeing opportunities when other glamping sites close for the season.
Hiking Ice Age Trail segments: Several glamping locations provide direct access to portions of this 1,200-mile footpath. "If your in Wisconsin this is a must stay! Beautiful campground (Ottawa Lake campsites) Great Lake, hiking to see the natural springs which is the coolest!! Drank fresh spring water," shares an outdoor enthusiast. The trail system connects various glamping sites throughout the region.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Fox Den Campground offers secluded glamping options with natural separation. "Fox Den is superior to Honeysuckle Hollows because each site has an individual electric post. Fox Den also has more space between sites, more level pads and each site is tucked away with trees," mentions a frequent visitor. Sites generally measure 25-35 feet in width.
Clean facilities: The shower houses at Menomonee Park receive consistent praise. "There are pit toilets by the sites but a nice shower house with flush toilets about a 1/4 mile walk away. We have camped there several times and plan on coming back," says one reviewer. Most glamping sites maintain bathroom facilities within walking distance.
Lake access: Many glamping locations feature water activities. "The lake is very clean and the site are a good size. Gets very busy on the weekends!" notes a camper at Turner Lake South. Water temperatures reach the mid-70s during summer months, making swimming comfortable from June through early September.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping accommodations fill quickly during peak season. "We chose a nonelectric site and transfer to an electric site when one cancelled last minute," explains a visitor at Turner Lake South. Reservations typically open 6 months in advance for premium glamping options.
Price considerations: Luxury accommodations command higher rates. "Yogi Bear campground is a nice, clean campground. Rental options and the big pool are wonderful. I can't afford to go there often though because it is pricey," shares one glamper. Standard glamping cabins average $80-150 per night depending on amenities and season.
Wildlife awareness: Raccoons frequently visit campsites in the region. "The raccoons at night here are no joke. The second it's dusky, they come scavenging for absolutely anything food has touched," warns a camper. Most glamping sites provide secure storage options or guidelines for food management.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for children: Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort offers family-centered amenities. "The beach is large enough and there are clean bathrooms right there. The camp store sells treats and pizza, very convenient and makes for a more relaxing camping experience when traveling with young kids!" reports a parent. Most beach areas have lifeguards on duty from 10am-5pm during summer.
Playground access: Several glamping locations feature multiple play areas. "Very nice campground, lots of trails for hiking, a nice beach, pavilions to rent, horse riding trails, archery range and I'm sure I'm missing more," mentions a visitor to Menomonee Park. Play structures typically accommodate children ages 2-12.
Seasonal activities: Holiday-themed weekends provide structured entertainment. "Camped here the past few years for my son's birthday. Last year we heard out their fall package and got 3 weekends for a very much discounted price," shares one parent. Most special events require advance registration due to limited space.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup locations: RV glampers should check power post placements before booking. "Sites in Honeysuckle have electric posts to far from parking pad. Fox Den also has more space between sites, more level pads and each site is tucked away with trees," advises an experienced RVer. Extension cords of 25-50 feet may be necessary at some locations.
Water access points: Limited full-hookup sites means planning for water needs. "There are a ton of activities here to include two bouncy pillows, three play grounds, a pool, water slides, a kids water activity area, beach, water obstacle course, inflatable slide, RC car track, laser tag, mini golf, and I'm sure I'm missing something," notes a visitor describing amenities that balance limited hookups. Most glamping areas provide central water spigots within 100-200 feet of sites.
