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Best Campgrounds near Waterford, WI

677 Reviews

Camping areas surrounding Waterford, Wisconsin include several state parks and recreation areas with a range of accommodation options. Richard Bong State Recreation Area, located just south of Waterford, features both Sunset and Sunrise Campgrounds with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin options. The Kettle Moraine State Forest's Southern Unit, approximately 20 miles northwest, offers multiple developed campgrounds including Ottawa Lake and Pinewoods, which provide a mix of primitive tent sites and electric RV sites. Big Foot Beach State Park near Lake Geneva and Cliffside Park in Caledonia round out the public camping options with additional amenities for various camping styles.

Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping experiences in the region, with most campgrounds operating from April through October. Winter camping is limited, though some areas like Ottawa Lake in Kettle Moraine remain open year-round with reduced services. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer weekends and holidays when campgrounds frequently reach capacity. The terrain varies from lakeside settings to forested areas with hiking trails connecting many camping zones. Most campgrounds offer basic amenities including pit toilets or flush toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables, with shower facilities available at larger developed sites. "The campsites are large with lots of foliage for privacy. It's so pretty in the fall. Red Trail, Paradise Trail, Rice Lake are all great hikes," noted one visitor about Kettle Moraine.

Campers consistently highlight the region's lakes and trails as primary attractions. Ottawa Lake Campground receives positive reviews for its spacious sites and proximity to hiking trails, while Big Foot Beach State Park offers convenient access to Lake Geneva. The Kettle Moraine State Forest campgrounds are particularly praised for their privacy and natural settings. "Pinewoods Campground is secluded and most sites are private and shaded. The tree cover is thick so expect shade throughout most of the day. Many trees make for good hammock camping," according to one review. Several visitors mention the 24-hour quiet sites at Pinewoods (sites 1-36) where no music is allowed, making it ideal for those seeking a peaceful camping experience. Richard Bong State Recreation Area stands out for its diverse recreational opportunities, including fishing, wildlife watching, and dedicated ATV areas.

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Best Camping Sites Near Waterford, Wisconsin (78)

    1. Sunset Campground — Richard Bong State Recreation Area

    23 Reviews
    Burlington, WI
    10 miles
    Website

    "I would recommend this for anyone for starting to step out of the comfort zone for the outdoors. very simple, many paths to walk, jog, or ride a bike. a small lake is near the further parking lot. dogs"

    "Had some cool amenities like the off road park and multiple fishing spots. Has a winery and cool dive bars all within 10 min. Only downside is all the noise from the road and the drag strip near by."

    2. Sunrise Campground — Richard Bong State Recreation Area

    21 Reviews
    Burlington, WI
    10 miles
    Website

    "Rocket launch (bring your own,) atv (no rentals-bring your own), water fowl hunting (during season), fishing, wildlife watching, swimming at the beach, playground for kids, and my favorite- nice trails"

    "the property is HUGE and most things are about a 10 to 15 min walk from the campsites. lots of hiking, boating, swimming fishing and more! a great place for anyone!"

    3. Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    39 Reviews
    North Prairie, WI
    18 miles
    Website
    +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."

    "Made my first visit to Ottawa Lake on a mid-March weekend. The facilities were still under their winter setup (only vault toilet, no shower available, pay in an envelope)."

    4. Big Foot Beach State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Lake Geneva, WI
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 248-2528

    "We stayed at site 98- just barely big enough to fit our travel trailer in and right next to the showers and bathrooms. Not a great location, but fine."

    "This is one of the most popular State Parks in Wisconsin because it's on Lake Geneva. In fact, it's the only state park within town's limits."

    5. Pinewoods Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    22 Reviews
    North Prairie, WI
    18 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."

    6. Muskego Park by Waukesha County Parks

    8 Reviews
    Muskego, WI
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 548-7801

    $25 - $80 / night

    "Trails that took you through woods and then prairie and then up a decent elevation for an amazing view of the surrounding area."

    "I did not stay at this park, but did drive and walk through it to get a feel for it. There are a number of sites I'd love to tent camp in.

    This park is bounded by a lake with a nice beach."

    7. Happy Acres Kampground

    12 Reviews
    Bristol, WI
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 857-7373

    "we’ve been RV camping here for 2 months now and love it. the bathrooms are older but still nice and cleaned daily. the pool is fantastic, lots of fun playgrounds around, and there’s a neat walking trail"

    "Petting zoo, camp store, pool, lake/pond for swimming and fishing. Cell signal for ATT just one bar. No internet. Lots of full time residents. Lots of activities for kids. Pet friendly."

    8. Mukwonago Park by Waukesha County Parks

    6 Reviews
    Mukwonago, WI
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 548-7801

    $25 - $80 / night

    "The rangers drive through regularly and will deliver wood to your site if requested."

    "Swim or fish in the lake, archery or huge picnic sites."

    9. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort at Caledonia

    12 Reviews
    Oak Creek, WI
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 835-2565

    "This location did not dissapoint. We have not gone to this location during the warmer months but looks to be a great campground"

    10. Cliffside Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Caledonia, WI
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (262) 886-8440

    $32 - $35 / night

    "We were also pleasantly surprise when found out about the close by trail - short trail beginner friendly ravine geography. Very beautiful view of the lake from the top of the cliff."

    "Month Stayed: September Site: gravel and level Spacing: very close to others Cleanliness: very clean Surrounding: trees throughout, playgrounds, nice bathrooms Noise: some noise due to closeness Access"

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Recent Camping Photos near Waterford, WI

238 Photos of 78 Waterford Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Waterford, WI

677 Reviews of 78 Waterford Campgrounds

  • Mark D.
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    We had such an enjoyable time at Ottawa Lake Campground.

    Escape the everyday and immerse yourself in nature at Ottawa Lake Campground. Nestled in the heart of the Kettle Moraine State Forest, this welcoming retreat offers lakeside fun, scenic hiking trails, the quiet beauty of a true Northwoods experience, all without a long drive.

    We have visited the Campground 5 times this year already, we love hiking all the trails in the Kettle Moraine Southern Unit.

    https://youtu.be/xl4uAtNWclM

  • Maria Mercedes M.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Pettits Lakeview Campground & Bar

    Family Friendly Lakeside Campground

    Pettit’s Lakeview Campground & Bar is the kind of place where family camping meets lakeside fun with a lively twist, sitting right on Lake Koshkonong with beautiful sunset views and easy boat access. My kids loved the playground while the adults enjoyed Friday fish fries, live music and the laid-back bar that doubles as a social hub, creating a strong community vibe with theme weekends and plenty of laughter. That said, it’s definitely more “festival” than “quiet forest” with sites being closing together, weekends can get noisy with karaoke and bar traffic, and shade is limited, so if you’re looking for peace and birdwatching, this isn’t it, but for families who don’t mind a little bustle, it’s a fun and memorable spot.

  • Maria Mercedes M.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Pilgrims Campground

    Simple Campground

    With a small family to mind, while out enjoying a short weekend of camping, I appreciated Pilgrim’s Campground in Wisconsin for its quiet, family-oriented atmosphere that made our stay both relaxing and memorable. The sites were clean, level and easy to settle into, with plenty of shade and enough space for the kids to play safely nearby. While the campground doesn’t have the flashy resort-style amenities of some bigger parks, it makes up for it with well-kept facilities, a friendly, welcoming staff, and a slower pace that let us truly enjoy time together outdoors. My kids loved riding their bikes around the loops, roasting marshmallows at night and spotting wildlife along the nature trails, while I valued the sense of safety and the community feel among fellow campers. Conveniently located near local attractions yet peaceful enough to feel tucked away, Pilgrim’s offered the perfect balance of simplicity, comfort, and wholesome family camping.

  • Maria Mercedes M.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Milton-Madison SE KOA

    KOA Close to Lake Koshkonong

    With 2 kids to mind, I found the Milton-Madison SE KOA to be one of the most family-friendly campgrounds we’ve visited, with something for everyone to enjoy. With over 200 sites, the campground is clearly geared toward RVs and fifth wheels, but it also offers a few cabins and tent sites, giving families different ways to stay. The kids were thrilled with the heated pool that even has a waterfall, the playgrounds, gaga ball, arcade, and weekend rides like the barrel train and hayrack.  In short, there was always something to keep them entertained while I could actually relax. I appreciated the practical touches like clean restrooms and showers, laundry facilities, a well-stocked market and a clubhouse with plenty of space to gather. My husband loved that Lake Koshkonong was right nearby for fishing and paddling, and we all enjoyed exploring Milton’s small-town restaurants with Mary’s Café for biscuits and gravy that was a huge hit and Frederick’s Supper Club, both of which made for a special night out. The Riggio family, who run the campground, were some of the kindest hosts we’ve met, which made the whole experience feel extra welcoming. While I do think the tent sites and cabins are a bit pricey for what you get, the number of activities, amenities, and nearby conveniences made it worth it for the memories we created together. For families looking for a lively, activity-packed camping trip, this KOA is a great choice.

  • Maria Mercedes M.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Lakeland Camping Resort

    Lakefront Fun

    As a mom, I found Lakeland RV Campground in Milton to be the kind of place where the whole family can truly unwind and have fun together. Set along Lake Koshkonong this place was bursting with energy and feels more like a summer resort than a traditional campground with over 270 full-hookup sites and cozy cabins for families who don’t have an RV. The kids had endless options to keep them busy from 2 swimming pools, a sandy beach, playgrounds, mini golf, sports courts, and even planned activities and themed weekends and I loved the convenience of the camp store, laundry, fitness center and clean facilities. In the evenings, we enjoyed gathering around the campfire under the stars, and during the day we ventured onto the lake for kayaking and fishing, which felt like a little adventure just steps from our site. It was also nice knowing that if we wanted a change of pace, Milton and Janesville offered small-town charm and great dining and Madison wasn’t far for a day trip. My mom tips? Book a site away from the pools if you want peace and quiet, treat yourself to dinner at Fredrick’s Supper Club, sneak out early for a serene paddle on the lake, and don’t worry if you forgot gear as nearby shops have you covered. Lakeland made it easy for me to relax while my kids had a blast, and that combination is what makes it such a special family getaway.

  • Maria Mercedes M.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Fort Atkinson

    Nostalgic Campground

    As a mom, I can honestly say that Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Fort Atkinson is one of those rare campgrounds where the kids are entertained from morning till night and parents can actually relax a little too. The whole place feels designed with families in mind: colorful playgrounds, themed weekends, wagon rides, character visits from Yogi and Boo Boo, and a pool with splash zones that keep little ones happy for hours. Our campsite was clean and level, with options for full hookups or cozy cabins if you’d rather skip the RV, and the bathhouses were spotless, which is something I always look for. What I appreciated most was the balance: the kids could run from the jumping pillow to the mini golf course to the craft barn without ever getting bored, while my husband and I enjoyed sitting by the campfire or joining in on family activities like outdoor 'movies under the stars.' The campground store was well-stocked with snacks, s’mores supplies, and those 'oops, we forgot it' supplies, which saved us more than once. And while there’s plenty to do onsite, being near Lake Koshkonong and Fort Atkinson means you can easily slip away for a day of fishing, boating, or exploring. For me, the best part was watching my kids’ faces light up during the evening hayride, sticky with marshmallow, waving at Yogi like he was a celebrity that felt like the kind of wholesome, memory-making trip I hope they’ll look back on for years.

  • Maria Mercedes M.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Milton-Madison SE KOA

    Solid KOA Experience

    The Milton-Madison KOA is one of the larger campgrounds in the KOA network, offering over 200 sites with a mix of full hookups and water/electric-only hookups, along with a selection of pull-through and back-in options, gravel or concrete pads, and some upgraded patio sites. While primarily catering to RVs and fifth wheels, the campground also has about a dozen tent sites and half a dozen cabins. Amenities are extensive, ranging from an in-ground heated pool with a waterfall and two-story patio deck, hot tub, clubhouse, market store, snack shack, arcade, meeting and TV rooms, multiple restroom and shower facilities, laundromat and Wi-Fi, to a wide variety of recreation such as basketball, volleyball, shuffleboard, horseshoes, baseball, disc golf, playgrounds, gaga ball, hayrack rides, barrel rides, train rides, and nature trails. Guests will also find a Kamp K9 dog area, golf cart and bike rentals, propane refill station, firewood, and plenty of seating throughout the grounds. Just minutes away, Lake Koshkonong offers excellent kayaking, canoeing and fishing. For dining, nearby Milton serves up hearty Midwestern fare, from Mary’s Café’s biscuits and gravy to Paul Revere’s homemade pies and the upscale Frederick’s Supper Club, known for its prime rib bites and Diablo pasta. Insider tips include enjoying the warm hospitality of the Riggio family hosts, taking a short drive to Madison for big-city attractions, noting that tent sites - though equipped with water and electric - feel basic and pricey, and being aware that cabin rentals also run higher than average. Thankfully, Milton’s local shops, grocery stores, and hardware options make resupplying convenient, rounding out a destination that’s both activity-packed and well-situated for Wisconsin adventures.  Overall, my family and I really enjoyed this place and would definitely come back!

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Ottawa Lake Campground — Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit

    Close to "home" beautiful sites

    We've been full time RVers for 4 years and this is a beautiful campground close to "home". We stay here a couple of times each year for doctor and dentist appointments, visiting family and friends, and general relaxation.

  • K
    Aug. 28, 2025

    Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort

    Not communicable, fraud administration

    I reserved 5 nights, paid in full. After just one night, management cancelled my stay because my service dogs(Maltese) supposedly barked. I was fully cooperative, kept them quiet, and even documented this in emails. There was a stray cat near my RV that caused the issue, but instead of solving it, they forced me to leave. No refund for 4 nights. This is unfair, discriminatory, and against ADA law.

Guide to Waterford

Camping near Waterford, Wisconsin, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor lovers. From scenic trails to family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful area.

What to do

  • Hiking and Trails: Explore the many trails available in the area. Campers have enjoyed the scenic hikes, with one reviewer mentioning, "There are plenty of scenic photo opportunities especially during the fall season" at Rock Cut State Park Campground.
  • Fishing: If you love fishing, you’re in luck! Many campers have had great experiences fishing at local lakes. One camper noted, "Great fishing and day-camping experiences too" at Mauthe Lake Campground.
  • Swimming: Enjoy a refreshing swim at nearby beaches. A visitor at Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park shared, "Staff were very friendly and helpful. Would stay again!"

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One reviewer mentioned, "Bathrooms and showers are very clean" at Ottawa Lake Campground.
  • Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A camper at Lake Kegonsa State Park Campground said, "Sites feel decently secluded from each other."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds often cater to families. A visitor at Big Foot Beach State Park Campground noted, "Nice playground for kids. Volleyball nets."

What you should know

  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A camper at Harrington Beach State Park Campground advised, "Make online reservations."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A visitor at Sunrise Campground mentioned, "The bathroom was about what one would expect at a campground."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife sightings. One camper at Pinewoods Campground shared, "We did not experience that, just chipmunks and birds."

Tips for camping with families

Tips from RVers

  • Check Electrical Hookups: Make sure your site has the right electrical hookups. A camper at Mauthe Lake Campground said, "Showers were nice."
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Sunset Campground mentioned, "Lots of people during the weekend didn’t abide by the 'Quiet Hours.'"
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Take advantage of local attractions. A camper at Harrington Beach State Park Campground suggested, "Gorgeous magnificent trails and right on Lake Michigan."

Camping near Waterford, Wisconsin, provides a mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or just enjoying time with family, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Waterford, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Waterford, WI is Sunset Campground — Richard Bong State Recreation Area with a 4.1-star rating from 23 reviews.

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