Tent campsites near Two Rivers, Wisconsin provide access to the distinctive glacial landscapes of the Kettle Moraine region. The area features a mix of hardwood forests, open meadows, and kettle lakes formed during the last ice age. Seasonal temperatures range from summer highs averaging 80°F to winter lows well below freezing, creating distinct camping conditions throughout the camping season.
What to do
Hiking on Ice Age Trail: The Ice Age National Scenic Trail runs through Kettle Moraine State Forest, offering distinctive glacial terrain. At Greenbush Group Campground, campers appreciate the proximity to trails. "Large sites great for groups. Sites 2 and 9 are the largest," notes camper Amber R., highlighting the spaciousness that makes this location ideal for hiking groups.
Water activities: Many tent campsites near Two Rivers, Wisconsin provide access to lakes and rivers for kayaking and swimming. Northern Unit Greenbush Group Camp serves as a convenient base for water recreation. The campground remains "easily accessible from Milwaukee," according to Hilary S., making it practical for weekend water adventures.
Wildlife viewing: The forest areas surrounding Two Rivers camping locations support diverse wildlife including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and numerous bird species. Many sites feature open meadows bordered by forest edges, creating prime wildlife observation opportunities at dawn and dusk.
What campers like
Spacious group sites: The tent camping areas in Kettle Moraine State Forest-Northern Unit feature exceptionally large sites. At Greenbush Group Campground, Amber R. points out that the largest sites "can each fit over 20 backpacking tents at the same time," making them ideal for group gatherings and family reunions.
Hammock-friendly trees: The mixed forest environment creates ideal conditions for hammock campers. According to Amber R., the "grassy sites surrounded by trees" at Greenbush Group Campground provide "plenty for hammocks too," making this area appealing for campers preferring suspended sleeping arrangements.
Accessible amenities: Basic facilities remain available even during challenging periods. Hilary S. mentioned that at Northern Unit Greenbush Group Camp, "Water is usually available, but more limited during the pandemic (spigot turned off by our campsite, but available near the parking lot at the entrance - a longer walk)," demonstrating the campground's commitment to maintaining essential services.
What you should know
Site separation considerations: While campsites appear visually distinct, sound travels between sites. Hilary S. observed at Northern Unit Greenbush Group Camp that "The nine sites are visually separated, but not far enough away from each other to block louder noise," which affects the camping experience during busy periods.
Water access varies: Drinking water availability changes seasonally and by campground section. Some areas require walking to central water stations rather than having at-site access, particularly during shoulder seasons or facility maintenance periods.
Reservation requirements: All group camping areas in Kettle Moraine State Forest-Northern Unit require advance reservations through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Particularly for summer weekends, reservations should be made months in advance due to high demand from nearby metropolitan areas.
Tips for camping with families
Bring multiple tents: The expansive group sites accommodate various tent configurations. Hilary S. noted her group "had six tents, but the site could easily have accommodated more" at Northern Unit Greenbush Group Camp, making the location practical for multi-family camping trips.
Plan for pit toilets only: Families with young children should prepare for rustic bathroom facilities. The Greenbush camping areas feature "pit toilets and drinking water" within a "short walk" from sites according to Amber R., but lack shower facilities or flush toilets.
Pack for variable weather: The Wisconsin climate brings unpredictable conditions even in summer months. Temperature swings of 30+ degrees can occur within 24 hours, requiring layered clothing and rain gear regardless of season.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accommodations: The tent campsites near Two Rivers primarily accommodate tent camping rather than RVs. Most group sites lack the hookups, turning radius, and pad dimensions necessary for larger recreational vehicles.
Nearby alternatives: RVers seeking proximity to Two Rivers should consider commercial campgrounds along the Lake Michigan shore that offer full hookup sites with amenities not available at the state forest locations.