Denise B.
Traveler
TravelerSanders Park Campground
Sanders park
Love this quaint smaller campground, close to home although you feel like you're way up north! Clean restrooms showers! Walking trails with preservation.
Best Campgrounds near Thiensville, WI
Campgrounds surrounding Thiensville, Wisconsin provide a mix of state park, county park, and private camping facilities within a short drive. Notable options include Harrington Beach State Park Campground, offering tent, RV, and cabin sites along Lake Michigan about 20 miles northeast of Thiensville, and Menomonee Park by Waukesha County Parks, located 15 miles southwest with tent and RV camping in a wooded setting. The Kettle Moraine State Forest, with multiple campground units including Pike Lake and Ottawa Lake, provides additional camping within 30 miles, featuring both tent and RV sites in glacial terrain.
Many campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from April through October, with a few remaining open year-round. Reservations are recommended, particularly for weekend stays during summer months when sites fill quickly. Pike Lake Campground typically operates from early April to the third weekend in October, while Harrington Beach State Park is available from the first Wednesday in May until the last weekend in October. Amenities vary significantly between locations, with most offering drinking water, fire rings, and picnic tables, while electric hookups are available at select sites. "Great park with swimming beach, trails, dog park, and archery range. Campsites were ok, not much separation or privacy at all," noted one visitor about Menomonee Park.
Several visitors highlight recreational opportunities as a key factor when selecting campgrounds in the area. Menomonee Park receives positive reviews for its hiking trails, swimming beach, and bicycle rentals. According to campers, "The park has a lot of trails for hiking, biking and some horse trails. The quarry is good for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing." Site privacy varies considerably across the region, with some campgrounds offering more separation between sites than others. Campground atmosphere also differs significantly - Wisconsin State Fair RV Park provides convenient urban access but is described by visitors as "basically a large parking lot with a band of grass," while state parks like Kohler-Andrae and the Kettle Moraine units offer more natural settings with greater tree cover and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Best Camping Sites Near Thiensville, Wisconsin (64)
1. Pike Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Pike Lake Unit
18 ReviewsSlinger, WI18 milesWebsite+1 (262) 670-3400"North Kettle Moraine, Pike Lake Unit was an easy choice given it's proximity to the city- about 40 minutes."
"A last minute decision to camp for a night led my son and I to the often visited Pike Lake unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. Its a beautiful park and within 30 minutes of our home."
2. Menomonee Park by Waukesha County Parks
8 ReviewsMenomonee Falls, WI12 milesWebsite+1 (262) 548-7801$25 - $80 / night
"Live nearby. We go there a lot over the summer. Fun park to ride bikes through. Many trails to walk or hike. The pond has a great beach for kids."
"There are miles of nice hiking trails, a nice beach, pavilions to rent, horse riding trails, archery range and I’m sure I’m missing more."
3. Harrington Beach State Park Campground
20 ReviewsBelgium, WI20 milesWebsite+1 (262) 285-3015"This was our first time camping in Wisconsin and we got to say we absolutely love this park. Most of the sites are pretty secluded so if you enjoy your privacy I will love this place."
"There is something deeply calming about waking up just steps from Lake Michigan at the Harrington Beach State Park Family Campground, where our little crew found the perfect balance of nature and comfort"
4. Mauthe Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit
45 ReviewsCampbellsport, WI27 milesWebsite+1 (262) 626-2116$18 - $28 / night
"Mauthe Lake Campground is located in the Northern Kettle Moraine Forest in East/Centreal Wisconsin."
"Wonderful trail around the lake and a variety of different campsites. Plenty of space, very rural. Very wisconsin!"
5. Wisconsin State Fair RV Park
9 ReviewsWauwatosa, WI15 milesWebsite+1 (414) 266-7035$55 / night
"So we just use that because no one was there. 1.7 miles on bike path to Brewer Baseball field. It was raining to we used Uber to the game and walked back for an afternoon game."
"Very close to downtown, right off of interstate. Clean facilities. We were visiting family downtown and it was very convenient."
6. Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit
52 ReviewsNorth Prairie, WI32 milesWebsite+1 (262) 594-6200"Site was spacious but very close to your neighbors. Lots to do in the area. Bathrooms and showers were clean. The beach was not clean and very hard to walk on, very rocky."
"Red Trail, Paradise Trail,Rice Lake are all great hikes. Great views of Lake Ottawa. The close by town of Oconomowoc has a nice place to eat, Burkes Lakeside."
7. Kohler-Andrae State Park
47 ReviewsOostburg, WI33 milesWebsite+1 (920) 451-4080"We were in route to visiting Green Bay Wisconsin and found this campground on Lake Michigan."
"About 20 minutes from Sheboygan, WI and 2 hours from Chicago, IL, Kohler-Andrae State Park Campground, is a few minutes drive or walk from Lake Michigan."
8. Lazy Days
5 ReviewsWest Bend, WI17 milesWebsite+1 (262) 675-6511$31 - $43 / night
"Swimming lake was very warm and clean. Fishing was available. Very affordable canoe kayak rentals. Mini golf and a little store where if you need it they have it."
9. Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit
26 ReviewsNorth Prairie, WI30 miles+1 (262) 626-2116$18 - $30 / night
"It is close to the Ice Age trail and the Scuppernong trail, and a short drive from Ottawa Lake. Nearby is some excellent mountain biking in hilly terrain at the Emma Carlin and John Muir trails. "
"Pinewoods Campground is part of the southern Kettle Morraine State Forest in Wisconsin. The campground is secluded and most sites are private and shaded."
10. Lake Lenwood Beach and Campground
5 ReviewsWest Bend, WI17 milesWebsite+1 (262) 334-1335
Recent Camping Photos near Thiensville, WI
193 Photos of 64 Thiensville Campgrounds
Matt N.
Menomonee Park by Waukesha County Parks
justin
Lazy Days
Kevin S.
Waubedonia County Park
Aaron W.
Lake Lenwood Beach and Campground
Lisa S.
Pike Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Pike Lake Unit
Melissa B.
Harrington Beach State Park Campground
Mel C.
Timber Trail Campground
Corbin P.
Naga-Waukee Park by Waukesha County Parks
Jay W.
Mauthe Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit
Carol W.
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort at Caledonia
Taylor C.
Harnischfeger County Park
Jessie H.
Cliffside Park Campground
Recent Reviews near Thiensville, WI
488 Reviews of 64 Thiensville Campgrounds
- Denise B.Traveler
Sunset Campground — Richard Bong State Recreation Area
Happy Akers
Very enjoyable campground.
I don't remember the site number but the kids had a great time. Lots of things to do. 
Maria Mercedes M.
LegendHarrington Beach State Park - Group Campground
A Spacious Setting Near Lake Michigan
The Group Campground at Harrington Beach State Park brings a completely different energy, offering an expansive, open setting that feels made for large family reunions, scout troops, family birthday party overnighters and lively gatherings that stretch long into the evening. Unlike the more intimate family sites, this area is designed for scale, with wide communal spaces, larger fire rings and plenty of room for picnic tables, shared meals and kid-filled games of tag and flag football. We passed through and couldn’t help but smile watching a group roast marshmallows together while another set of kids played flashlight hide-and-seek across the open field. While it is less private and more bustling, this locale creates a joyful sense of togetherness that feels perfect for celebrations and group bonding. While the restroom and shower facilities were mediocre (at best), they were functional and clean. But the real star here is the close proximity to Lake Michigan. I’d recommend this Group Campground for larger parties who want space to spread out, EZ beach access and the freedom to make memories together in a beautiful lakeside setting.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Harrington Beach State Park Campground
Lake Michigan Sunsets & Firefly Evenings
There is something deeply calming about waking up just steps from Lake Michigan at the Harrington Beach State Park Family Campground, where our little crew found the perfect balance of nature and comfort in a setting that feels both scenic and safe. The campground is well-organized with clearly defined family-sized sites, clean restrooms and EZ access to walking trails and the beach, making it especially friendly for parents juggling gear and excited boys. One of our favorite moments was sitting around the campfire as we tried to stay warm from an early first wave of the winter to come while the sun melted into the lake in soft pink streaks. We loved that everything felt thoughtfully laid out without feeling crowded or chaotic. I would absolutely recommend this campground for families looking for a peaceful getaway with just enough adventure, thanks to its natural beauty, clean facilities, lakefront access and gentle, welcoming atmosphere.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Kohler-Andrae State Park
Dunes, Driftwood & Barefoot Bliss
There is something wonderfully grounding about settling into the Family Campground at Kohler-Andrae State Park, where our little crew felt instantly wrapped in the gentle rhythm of Lake Michigan and the whispering grasses of the sandy dunes that our boys loved to explore. The campground is very well laid out with 137 clearly defined family-sized sites (52 of which have electrical hookups), exceptionally clean restrooms and perfectly manicured pathways leading to the boardwalk and shoreline, making every moment of exploration feeling manageable and peaceful. One of our favorite moments was walking down the wooden boardwalk as the boys raced ahead to spot driftwood treasures and tiny shore birds along the beach. Everything here feels calm, safe and naturally beautiful without being overly rugged. And while you can bring everything you will need to enjoy camping here, in case you forget anything, nearby Sheboygan has you covered for just about any supply you could think of (except for firewood, which you can buy either at the park office or from one of the campground hosts). I would absolutely recommend this campground for families seeking a soothing lakeside escape with a perfect mix of nature, comfort, and gentle adventure.
- AAnnMarie K.
ScoutMenomonee Park by Waukesha County Parks
Great county park
This is a nice getaway for camping, picnics, hiking, fishing and in the summer swimming! They only offer swimming with lifeguards in the summer months. They have great open spaces for group camping.
Athan D.TravelerKohler-Andrae State Park
Very nearly the perfect state park.
This park is pretty much the perfect blend of forest, marsh, beach, dunes, and hills. It's got breathtaking views year round. Not all sites are created equal- there's functionally three different types of campsite. The southernmost are wooded and fairly private. There's a longer walk to the showers. Feels more primitive, although the roads are well maintained and bathrooms clean. The campsites in the middle of the park have few trees and little privacy. These are more like crash pads if you want to spend the day swimming, hiking, or fishing. The north end of the park offers denser woods and more established sites. These are close to the water and the park exit. Winter camping is peaceful and quiet. Spring is exciting, but can be wet. Summer is cool near the lake and usually busier. Fall is crisp and colorful.
- Kris K.Scout
Wisconsin State Fair RV Park
A warning for RV owners needing winter storage
If you are looking for winter storage, look elsewhere. The Wisconsin State Fair RV Park storage is run with zero flexibility and rude service.
The Access Issues: They have extremely limited hours(10 AM- 3 PM Monday to Saturday), are closed on every minor holiday, and require you to give 24-hour notice so someone can unlock the lot. If you work a normal job or have a busy schedule, good luck getting your rig ready to leave.
The 'Money Grab': I planned to leave on 1/21, but my truck was hit, and I physically couldn't move the camper. I admitted I missed the 11 AM checkout deadline, but when they called me at 1:12 PM, I returned the call 3 minutes later to extend my storage for another 23 days. Instead of waiving the late fee since I was paying for nearly another month of storage, the rude receptionist just quoted'rules and regulations' and charged me an extra $25.
It’s completely unreasonable to charge a late checkout fee to a customer who is actively extending their stay due to an emergency. It feels like a terrible money grab. Save yourself the headache and store somewhere else.
- Kissie R.Scout
Wisconsin State Fair RV Park
Winterized all year easy to book
We had a weather change and had to pivot and camp. Found last minute and booked. In freezing temp full service cluding water hookup. Its a parking lot with laundry? Showers, vending and restrooms.
Guide to Thiensville
Camping options near Thiensville, Wisconsin range from lakeside sites to forested retreats within a 30-mile radius. Most campgrounds in this area sit at elevations between 700-900 feet above sea level, creating varied terrain from rolling hills to marshy lowlands. Winter temperatures can drop below 0°F, while summer camping season brings average highs of 80°F with occasional humidity spikes.
What to do
Hiking the Ice Age Trail: Multiple access points to this historic trail exist within 30 minutes of Thiensville. At Pike Lake Campground, the trail runs directly through backpacking sites. "A last minute decision to camp for a night led my son and I to the often visited Pike Lake unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. We picked one of the three backpacking sites that are along the Ice Age Trail and away from the other traditional sites close to the lake," notes one visitor.
Kayaking and swimming: The quarry lake at Menomonee Park offers both activities without motorboat traffic. "We stayed with a group of people here with no electricity but was able to use my generator during the day while camping in my pop-up. Hot shower, public lake to go kayaking in. Also they had bicycle rentals," reports a camper.
Wildlife viewing and astronomy: Several campgrounds offer night sky viewing opportunities. "Be sure to check out the interpretive astronomy trail and take the walk up Powder Hill to the tower!" advises a Pike Lake camper. The less developed areas of the region are home to deer, foxes, and numerous bird species.
What campers like
Private campsites: Many campers appreciate the secluded feel of certain sites. At Harrington Beach State Park, "Most of the sites are pretty secluded so if you enjoy your privacy I will love this place. Everything was clean and updated including the bathrooms." Another visitor noted they had "a nice private campsite that was completely wooded all around it."
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness ranks high in camper satisfaction. "Bathrooms were super clean and showers are free. Very impressed and satisfied," reports a visitor to Cliffside Park Campground. Another mentions the park was "really well-maintained with a camp host on site."
Lake access: Water activities are a major draw. "Mauthe Lake-Kettle Moraine is a joy for campers. Located right on Mauthe Lake the campsites are separated by lush trees and bushes," shares one visitor about the lake experience. Another notes, "The lake is nice and the sites are good."
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: Reserve early for summer weekends as sites fill quickly. "We don't know how we got a last minute reservation to this campground, but I'm glad we did. Nice size site: 118," reports a Harrington Beach visitor, suggesting the rarity of spontaneous availability during peak season.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby roads or attractions. At Ottawa Lake Campground, "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."
Water quality issues: Be aware of seasonal water conditions. One visitor noted, "The lake is great for swimming, though they do have e coli warnings frequently in the heat of summer." At another location, a visitor mentioned "warnings of swimmers itch" at the swimming area.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for kids: Choose sites with natural play features. "Kids had a great time exploring climbing on a little rock wall that was back there," reports a Pike Lake visitor about their backpacking site experience.
Activities for multiple age groups: Mauthe Lake Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "Nice beach/swimming area, bike path, and playground for the kids. Also the most beautiful sunset over the lake and pines in July," shares one visitor. Another adds, "Great clean sites and fishing. Many hiking trails."
Day trip options: Several cultural sites within driving distance provide alternative activities during inclement weather. "The campground is on the opposite side of the park from the lake, so driving or biking are the options to get from the campground to the water," notes one camper about navigation logistics with children.
Tips from RVers
Site specifics for larger rigs: Know which sites accommodate your vehicle size. At Cliffside Park, "All sites are spacious with their own power and water. Sites 1-41 are available for first come if not previously reserved." Another visitor adds, "Each of the 32 sites is unique in their own way. Some are large and flat perfect for a class A (#2 #4, #29 #31 is okay, but smaller)."
Urban access options: For those wanting to explore Milwaukee, the Wisconsin State Fair RV Park offers convenience despite limited amenities. "Perfect campground for what it is! Big paved parking lot with full hookups. Very close to downtown, right off of interstate. Clean facilities. We were visiting family downtown and it was very convenient."
Hookup considerations: Water access varies between campgrounds. At Cliffside Park, "Each site has water but in order to reach some of the spigots you would need more than a 50' water hose so choose your site with that in mind."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Thiensville, WI?
Which is the most popular campground near Thiensville, WI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Thiensville, WI is Pike Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest - Pike Lake Unit with a 4.3-star rating from 18 reviews.
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